A Blue moon and a new cocktail tour

This Blue Moon thing is going to be huge. You read it here first. So, the blue moon is the second full moon in a calendar month. That’s tonight. There’s only one party celebrating this event, but watch out the Blue Moon is going to be a bar event in coming years. So celebrate now! Let’s get this party started. See you in the streets….

Cocktail Tour - Enjoy a curated tour of the summer cocktail menus of select restaurants and bars in the Cheers to the Queen City Summer Cocktail Tour. $5 hand-crafted cocktails from more than 20 participating establishments. 10 a.m. Various locations. Details. 

Don't Forget
Hometown Hero - Join community activist, Bree Newsome, Columbia rally speaker Michaela Pilar Brown, literary scholar Qiana Whitted of UNC and artists as they discuss current events in Columbia at The Confederate Flag: A Symbol Divided Featuring Activist Bree Newsome. They will also examine history of the Confederate flag, and community responses to the on-going debate. 6 p.m. Gantt Center, 551 South Tryon St. $10 non-members, free for members (cost includes museum admission). Tickets.

New Carowinds Series - Carowinds continues to offer more than roller coaster rides and kids activities. Starting Friday, the amusement park will launch its end of summer party featuring bands, beer and BBQ. Bands, Brews and BBQs will be held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from July 31 through August 16.  Food booths will be open beginning at 11 a.m.
• Guests will be able to visit various booths that will serve smoked beef, pork and poultry. Two smokers were custom built just for this event.
• A dedicated booth featuring regional BBQ sauces will offer 24 different flavors.
• The craft beers selection features approximately 10 brands.

Friday’s live music is: Natty Boh Duo (12 p.m. to 4 p.m.) and Tony Barnes (5 p.m. to 9 p.m.)
www.carowinds.com.

Free Bar Crawl - Head uptown for The Blue Moon Walk to celebrate the Lunar Blue Moon. Crawl start at Fitzgerald’s, then Connolly’s, TILT, and BlackFinn before ending at Rooftop 210. The official Lunar Blue Moon Toast will be at midnight. RSVP for a chance to win a ski trip.

Editor's note: In an earlier edition, the Japanese Bon Odori festival was listed under the incorrect date. It is Saturday, Aug. 1.

Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com

"I will cut you!" Bon Qui Qui's sold out show

I will be the first to admit that I am not a Bon Qui Qui fan. I've only seen a few clips of the rude Burger King worker popularized on MadTV and YouTube. Naturally, I had no interest in seeing Bon Qi Qi's live Charlotte performance at McGlohon Theater on Tuesday.




Sip and Play occasional contributor Gray Baby, however, was all about going to the show. Her description of the performance surprised me. The audience was predominately made up of white women, which I didn't expect. Plus, the show really had a theme of women's empowerment. I totatlly didn't expect that. I might go see her next time she comes to Charlotte. Maybe.

Anyway, here's Gray Baby's review of Bon Qui Qui:

Comedian/Actress Anjelah Johnson came to the Knight Theater on Tuesday for a sold out performance of her "Bon Qui Qui Tour." Johnson who was an actress on the popular television show, MADtv gave the audience of mostly women, a mix of comedy, music and hilarity.

Bon Qui Qui is well-known for her Vietnamese nail technician skit and rude fast food worker. Johnson isn’t known for holding back on making fun of cultural differences. 

The 2-1/2 hour show, which included a live band, began with Johnson performing standup. During her set, the peitite actress shared her funny experiences on the challenges of marriage to the inappropriate ways men from different races try to pick up women. 

Surprisingly, one of the best parts of her routine was her message to women on following their dreams. Johnson shared her struggle and how through perseverance she was able to live her dreams and achieve success. She also encouraged women to love and accept themselves for who they are.

The second half of the performance showcased her husband's band, Group 1 Crew for a hyped mix of original songs and cover tunes. The group reminded me of The Black Eye Peas. Johnson's husband Manwell Reyes, who sang lead, gave lots of shout-outs and love to his wife and her accomplishments. He shared that initially, he was afraid to go on their tour journey, but he was happy they were having this experience. I could tell from his words that this tour was a family effort built of love. 

For the last half of the show, Bon Qui Qui performed eight songs from her Warner Brother released CD, "Gold Plated Dreams." Audiences members danced to songs such as “Sacurrity,”  “I Will Cut You” and “Oh No He Didn’t.”

Bon Qui Qui  – wearing tight white pants, long finger nails, and wig - gave the screaming audience a full concert experience. She sounded better at times than some of the mainstream singers topping the charts. Bon Qui Qui paid homage to Charlotte by rocking a Charlotte baseball cap during one of her routines while her dances wore Charlotte Hornets jackets.

Overall, the show was a well-planned, energetic mix of Johnson the comedian and Bon Qui Qui the outlandish rapper. The evening felt like a labor of love sprinkled with fun over-the-top clichés and positive messages. 


Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com

Weekend Preview: Two tribute parties and arts market in NoDa

This is shaping up to be another busy weekend. The party starts tonight for beer lovers and it doesn't stop. Let's get this party started. See you in the streets!

Wednesday
Brew News - Learn about pending legislation that could impact the craft brew industry at Strange News and Strange Brews. 5:30 p.m. Carolina Cinemas, 9630 Monroe Rd. $10 includes a 16 oz beer, a warm soft pretzel from Local Loaf, and a free screening of “Strange Brew” at 7 p.m.

Thursday
Get Wet - SHIPROCKED! presents the monthly Drag Cabaret LIPGLOSS with a special twist. It’s a Drag Pool Party and benefit for Joe Borruso. The party features Bethann Phetamine, special guest Shirley Sweet and the debut performance of Anna Yacht and more. No set cover, but cash donations will be accepted for Borruso. All performers and dancers are donating their tips. There’s also a raffle featuring items and gift cards from local businesses for Barruso. Get the details. 10 p.m., Snug Harbor, 1228 Gordon St. Details.

Friday
Hometown Hero - Join community activist, Bree Newsome, Columbia rally speaker Michaela Pilar Brown, literary scholar Qiana Whitted of UNC and artists as they discuss current events in Columbia at The Confederate Flag: A Symbol Divided Featuring Activist Bree Newsome. They will also examine history of the Confederate flag, and community responses to the on-going debate. 6 p.m. Gantt Center, 551 South Tryon St. $10 non-members, free for members (cost includes museum admission). Tickets.

New Carowinds Series - Carowinds continues to offer more than roller coaster rides and kids activities. Starting Friday, the amusement park will launch its end of summer party featuring bands, beer and BBQ. Bands, Brews and BBQs will be held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from July 31 through August 16.  Food booths will be open beginning at 11 a.m.
• Guests will be able to visit various booths that will serve smoked beef, pork and poultry. Two smokers were custom built just for this event.
• A dedicated booth featuring regional BBQ sauces will offer 24 different flavors.
• The craft beers selection features approximately 10 brands.

Friday’s live music is: Natty Boh Duo (12 p.m. to 4 p.m.) and Tony Barnes (5 p.m. to 9 p.m.)
www.carowinds.com.

Free Bar Crawl - Head uptown for The Blue Moon Walk to celebrate the Lunar Blue Moon. Crawl start at Fitzgerald’s, then Connolly’s, TILT, and BlackFinn before ending at Rooftop 210. The official Lunar Blue Moon Toast will be at midnight. RSVP for a chance to win a ski trip.

Saturday
Special Release - This is a special tribute at RELEASE! Classic & Soulful House Party. The DJs to celebrate the life of friend and International DJ/producer Jason Brooks who is in hospice care. Brooks will be DJing and so will Andy K. Come out and help the Release crew celebrate Brooks. 7 p.m. Petra’s, 1919 Commonwealth Ave.

Get Wet - The 5th Annual Charlotte Pride Splash Day moves to Carowinds. 14523 Carowinds Blvd.  Details for discount tickets.

Charity Soccer - The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department play the Charlotte Fire Department in a charity soccer match after the Charlotte Independence USL soccer match. 7 p.m. Ramblewood Soccer Complex, 10200 Nations Ford Rd. Tickets.


NoDa Arts Market - More than 60 artists will everything from pottery to paintings. 2 p.m. – 11 p.m., Neighborhood Theatre, 511 East 36th St. Details.

Gospel Concert - Erica Campbell, of MaryMary fame, brings her solo tour to Charlotte. Her new single is “I Luh God.” Other performers include Janice Gaines, Brian Courtney Wilson, 7 p.m. The Fillmore, 820 Hamilton St.



Sunday

Jazz Cruise - The Sunset Jazz Cruise on Lake Norman features The Saxtress, Pamela Williams. The cruise will leave from Queens Landing on the "Lady Of The Lakes Yacht.”  The cruise is limited to 125 people.  Pamela will perform for about an hour and participate in a meet and greet. A Cash Bar will be available. 6-9 p.m. Queens Landing, 1459 River Highway, Mooresville.
$60 sold out, but there is a wait list. Wait List.

Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com

Weekend winddown: gay brunch or jazz brunch

Sunday
Working At The Carwash! - Get your car washed and enjoy brunch at Charlotte Pride Brunch & Wash. Proceeds benefit Charlotte Pride. 1-4 p.m., The Bar at 316 Renssalaer Ave.


Jazz Festival Finale - Guitarist Chris Standing headlines the Summerfest Jazz Brunch. 11 a.m. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 206 N College St.

Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com

Car show, live jazz and a flash mob

So many different things to do today. Get out early and shop, dance or do both. Then head out for a car show and live jazz. Great day to get out and about. See you in the streets. 

Vintage Shopping - More than 80 local vintage and artisans will show their goods at VTG CLT for the fourth annual Summer Market, The Warehouse, 2205 N Tryon St.
Beer from by Sycamore Brewing, coffee from The Daily Press CLT and food from Juan Taco Truck, Bleu Barn Bistro and King of Pops. Admission is FREE from 11am-6pm! Pay $5 and get a head start at 10 a.m. Details.

Book Sale - Have you been eyeing an artsy coffee shop book at the Mint Museum’s gift shop. Now is the time to pick it up at the Mint Museum Library Book Sale. Plus it’s also Make Me An Offer day. Great buys from 1-5 p.m. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Rd. Details.

Dance! Dance! Dance! - Celebrate National Dance Day. Nigel Lythgoe of “So You Think You Can Dance” created the event to promote health and self-esteem through dance. The Blumenthal Performing Arts Center hosts a party at Wells Fargo Plaza, 301 South Tryon St. Details.

Plaza-Midwood celebrates National Dance Day with a flash mob performance at Thomas Avenue and Central Avenue. Then festivities continue at Pizza Peel, The Workman’s Friend and Peculiar Rabbit. Details.

International Soccer - Charlotte continues to build its reputation as a city that supports soccer. Today, Paris Saint-Germain FC v. Chelsea FC in the International Champions Cup at Bank of America Stadium, 800 S. Mint St. Hang out uptown for the tailgating and then watch the game at Draught.

Don't Forget

Car/Bike Show & Concert - Rapper Lil’ Boosie headlines the King of the Streets Concert & Car/Bike Show. Metrolina Expo, 7100 Statesville Road. Details.

Viewing Party - Watch the 2015 Special Olympics World Games and support NC athletes: Cheer on the participating athletes Charlotte’s Katie Degnan, Lexington’s Allison Douglas, Concord’s Starr Kluttz and Greensboro’s Randy Rogers. Kickstand Bar and Grill, 1101 Central Ave. 8 p.m. and opening ceremony starts at 9 p.m. 



Jazz Festival - This is a multi-day jazz festival in various venues at the QC SummerFest uptown. Performances by saxophonist Najee, pianist Keiko Matsui, guitarist Chris Standing and others. Guitarist Nick Colionne will host. Venues include McGlohon Theater and Belk Theater. Details.

Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com

DJ Jazzy Jeff and vintage Charlotte preview tonight!

Dance the night away with DJ Jazzy Jeff, give kids a head start on back to school or go vintage shopping. The party starts now! See you in the streets. Let's get this party started.


VIP Vintage - Get a headstart on enjoying VTG CLT Summer Market. Tonight is is a preview event for VIP shoppers to peruse more than 80 vendors. Non-profit partner, Green Teacher Network Charlotte, will have a silent auction with packages highlighting local food, drink, vintage and handmade goods. Ticket includes a tote bag from Enemy To Fashion, a complimentary pint from Sycamore Brewing and samples from Fit You Meals and Heirloom. 6-8 p.m., The Warehouse, 2205 N Tryon St. Buy a VIP shop ticket here. Details.

Lingerie Fashion Show - See the latest fashions in lingerie, evening wear and sleep wear in the Adam & Eve Lingerie Fashion Show. 9:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m., Scores Gentlmen's Club & Steakhouse, 123 Executive Center Place in Mooresville. $10.

Don't Forget
Holiday Fun - Get a headstart on holiday fun at Christmas in July Cocktail Party. Enjoy live music, light apps, cocktails, and more. The dress code is cocktail attire. The event is a back-to-school fundraiser for Classroom Central. Rooftop 210, The EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. $40 with backpack, $60 w/o backpack. Details.

Magnificent DJ - Enjoy DJ Jazzy Jeff. He’s almost like a Charlotte native so you know the music will be incredible. Suite, 210 E. Trade St.  $20 and up.  Tickets.



Sore Bottoms, Big Fun - It’s that time of year for 24 hours of booty. The fun starts tonight and ends with biking Saturday. The event includes live bands, an expo, kid’s zone food and more. Opening ceremony 7 p.m., Myers Park Traditional School, 2132 Radcliffe Ave. There’s an afterparty on Sunday at Sycamore Brewing. A portion of the proceeds from the selected Booty Brew will be donated back to 24 Hours of Booty. Details.

Fighting Angels

Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com

Hey bartender! Learn to make two signature cocktails (Video)

I'm not sure what's better, the cocktails or listening to Domhnall Minogue explain how to make two signature drinks at The Workman's Friend. It's the most popular drink at the new Irish pub on Central Ave.

The Evelyn - The most popular drink at the Irish pub on Central Avenue.





 The Workman's Friend - The pub's signature drink.

 

Weekend Preview: Jazz festival uptown, DJ Jazzy Jeff and booty!!!

So much happening this weekend from an uptown jazz festival to big fundraising events, there's something for the family and the partier. Let's get this party started. See you in the streets...

Wednesday

Young Professionals - Young Affiliates of the Mint are hanging out at Romare Bearden Park's Party in the Park Series. Beach-rock band The Holiday Band will provide the grooves. 5:30 to 9 p.m. Romare Beardon Park, 300 S. Church St. Details.

Thursday
After Work Mixer - Enjoy the sounds of DJ Rowshay and DJ Edward Shouse at Therapy Thursday. 6 p.m. The Vault, 210 E. Trade St.

NewArt & Culture - Enjoy an evening of art and culture with performances by Quentin Talley and The Harvey Cummings Project at Gantt After Dark Summer Sounds.. 6 p.m. - 11 p.m.  Free for members  $10 for non-members.   

Friday
Holiday Fun - Get a headstart on holiday fun at Christmas in July Cocktail Party. Enjoy live music, light apps, cocktails, and more. The dress code is cocktail attire. The event is a back-to-school fundraiser for Classroom Central. Rooftop 210, The EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. $40 with backpack, $60 w/o backpack. Details.

Magnificent DJ - Enjoy DJ Jazzy Jeff. He’s almost like a Charlotte native so you know the music will be incredible. Suite, 210 E. Trade St.  $20 and up.  Tickets.


Sore Bottoms, Big Fun - It’s that time of year for 24 hours of booty. The fun starts tonight and ends with biking Saturday. The event includes live bands, an expo, kid’s zone food and more. Opening ceremony 7 p.m., Myers Park Traditional School, 2132 Radcliffe Ave. There’s an afterparty on Sunday at Sycamore Brewing. A portion of the proceeds from the selected Booty Brew will be donated back to 24 Hours of Booty. Details.

Fighting Angels

Saturday

Car/Bike Show & Concert - Rapper Lil’ Boosie headlines the King of the Streets Concert & Car/Bike Show. Metrolina Expo, 7100 Statesville Road. Details.

Viewing Party - Watch the 2015 Special Olympics World Games and support NC athletes: Cheer on the participating athletes Charlotte’s Katie Degnan, Lexington’s Allison Douglas, Concord’s Starr Kluttz and Greensboro’s Randy Rogers. Kickstand Bar and Grill, 1101 Central Ave. 8 p.m. and opening ceremony starts at 9 p.m. 



Jazz Festival - This is a multi-day jazz festival in various venues at the QC SummerFest uptown. Performances by saxophonist Najee, pianist Keiko Matsui, guitarist Chris Standing and others. Guitarist Nick Colionne will host. Venues include McGlohon Theater and Belk Theater. Details.

Sunday
Working At The Carwash! - Get your car washed and enjoy brunch at Charlotte Pride Brunch & Wash. Proceeds benefit Charlotte Pride. 1-4 p.m., The Bar at 316 Renssalaer Ave.


Jazz Festival Finale - Guitarist Chris Standing headlines the Summerfest Jazz Brunch. 11 a.m. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 206 N College St.

Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com

Southern Soiree previews blues restaurant concept (Video)

Southern Soiree organizers: Yameen Thomas, Chrysten Crockett, Oscar Frazier, Ryan Howell. 

Young men and women dressed dapperly smoked cigars and sampled jambalaya, crawfish rolls and pasta salad on rooftop 210. The band Sonny Skyyz played a range of blues tunes. The event was Southern Soiree, and it was preview event for a new blues club slated to open in the University area later this year. The organizers of Southern Soiree wouldn't reveal the name of the new restaurant, but they said it will be in the old Midtown Sundries on W.T. Harris Boulevard.

The restaurant will feature live blues and jazz bands in a creole themed restaurant. Organizers are working with the Charlotte Blue Society they should land some good acts and consistent support. Guests at Saturday's Southern Soiree tasted samples of the cuisine, and most gave it a thumbs up. I sampled the jambalaya and crawfish rolls. The jambalaya was fine, but the crawfish rolls were a little soft. Tasting dishes warmed on burners probably isn't the best way to judge the food so I'll reserve judgement for now.

I hope the concept makes it. We need a good blues bar, but its such a niche audience anywhere and the location isn't a nightlife hotspot.

 


  Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com

Two museums offer family fun today

It's Sunday and a day for the family. Here are a couple of family events.

Music & Dance - Explore Latin culture through music and dance with tango and samba. The event also kicks off NUEVOlution! Latinos and the New South exhibit. 2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Levine Museum of the New South, 200 E. 7th St. Free. 

Don't Miss
For The Family - The Mint Museum celebrates its newest exhibit America The Beautiful with this edition of Sunday Funday. Enjoy family-friendly art projects, gallery visits, artist demos, and Let's Move! yoga sessions once a month. America the Beautiful: Works on Paper from the Mint Museum features drawings and prints by talented American artists spanning 150 years of American history. Today is Special Exhibition Discount Day!  Additional fees for the special exhibitions are waived today. 1-4 p.m. Mint Museum Uptown, 500 South Tryon St. Details.

Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com

Red Clay Ciderworks opens, southern soiree and black gay pride (Photos)

A fun Saturday in Charlotte.


 

Craft cidery grand opening, arts events and a music festival

Rise and shine! The fun has already begun and crescendos this afternoon, yet this afternoon. It's a full day of fun and an evening of even more shenanigans. Let's get this party started. See you in the streets...



Grand Opening - Red Clay Cidery joins Charlotte’s brewing explosion, and it’s our first cidery. Celebrate Red Clay Ciderworks Grand Opening, and try craft ciders. 1:30 p.m., Red Clay Ciderworks, 245 Clanton Road. Admission free. $5 drink tickets. Details.

Family Fun - The Harvey B. Gantt Center unveils three exhibitions today: AfriCOBRA Now: An Aesthetic Reflection, Charlotte Collects Elizabeth Catlett: A Centennial Celebration, and special project Intergalactic Soul. The theme is activism and community. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Gantt Center. Free for members, $5 non-members. Details.

Charlotte Black Gay Pride - Come out for a day of music, workshops and fun

at the Charlotte Black Gay Pride’s 2015 Pride Extravaganza. More than 50 vendor more. 

12 p.m. Carole A. Hoefener, 610 E 7th St. Details.

Family Fun II 12 p.m., Mosaic Village, 1601 West Trade St. Seversville. Bring the family out for an afternoon of music and art at Art & Soul. Event includes an art auction and exhibit, food trucks and food from local restaurants. Live music ranges from gospel to funk. Details.

Saturday
Adult Games - Watch co-ed teams compete in crazy games at the Social Olympics XI. It’ll be fun times whether you’re playing or watching. 12 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., VBGB Beer Hall and Garden, 920 Hamilton St.

Jazz In the Park - The Freedom Summer Series of Jazz in Freedom Park returns this week. Featured artists are saxophonist Jessy J and the jazz group Cino Castillo. 6 - 9 p.m. Freedom Park, 1900 East Boulevard.

Finale Party - The Gray Classic weekend wraps up with the finale Party with a Purpose. Vapiano, 201 South Tryon St.

Cigars and Creole Food - Sample cigars and cocktails at Southern Soirée. There will also be live music and a DJ. Dress code: Seersucker Suits/Jackets, Sundresses, Bowties, Stilettos & Stripes are requested, but not required. Men are asked to wear collared shirts.  4 - 9 p.m., Rooftop 210, 210 East Trade St. Tickets.

BYOB Music Festival - Enjoy a multi-genre three stage festival experience featuring live music and DJs at Barnstock. Bands include: indie-rockers Stop Light Observations; electronic music act Buku; reggae-tinged
rock band Simplified; hip-hop punk act Shinobi Ninja; funk band The Fritz. The event benefits a variety of local and national charities. 4 p.m. - 11 p.m., 15305 Black Farms Rd. Huntersville, $30 and up.

Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com

Restaurant week starts today and arts groups unite for Charleston

This is the week that you've been waiting for to try that new restaurant that you heard about. Yep, Charlotte restaurant week is here. Get out and eat someplace new.

Geek Fun - Discovery Place celebrates one-year with an all-star tribute to Science in the Rocks. The fun includes: liquid nitrogen wine slashes, green screen and Oculus Rift. 5 p.m. Discovery Place, 301 N Tryon St. $10. Details.





Jazz Tribute - Pianist Ernest Turner pays tribute to another NC-native Thelonius Monk in the monthly Jazz Room concert series. 6 and 8:15 p.m., Stage Door Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., $12, www.blumenthalarts.org



Roots Reggae - Morgan Heritage is riding the top of the reggae charts today. Friday 9 p.m., Chop Shop, 399 E. 35th St., $30 and up. Tickets.

Read Courtney Devores Soundbites for live music. 

Don't Miss

Arts Groups Unite - Five Charlotte-based performing arts organizations will present On the Hook, the first of a planned series of collaborative performances calling for action on issues of justice and inequality in the community and the nation. This week’s performance is in remembrance of the Emanuel Nine.  Participating organizations are On Q Productions, One Voice Chorus, the Possibility Project, A Sign of the Times and XOXO. 6 – 7:30 pm, Little Rock A.M.E. Zion Church, 401 N. McDowell St. Free.

Good Eats - Queen’s Feast, aka Charlotte restaurant week, starts today and ends July 26. More than 120 restaurants throughout the region are participating. Helen Schwab reports there’s a new pricing structure. Get the latest.





Holla: Sipandplayclt@gmail.com

Weekend Preview: restaurant week, black gay pride, music festival

Oh yeah! I'm back from Buenos Aires and ready to party American style. Let's get this party started. See you in the streets...

Thursday
Afterwork Happy Hour - The Kappas return with their after-work happy hour Cufflinks and Cocktails. The gathering moves to Evoke restaurant inside Le Meridien hotel, 555 South McDowell St. 6 p.m.

Beer Sampling - Cary-based Fortnight Brewing Company specializes in traditional English Ale brewed with English-grown ingredients. A brewery rep will provide beer samples and answer questions. The brewery offers English Ale, porter and ESB. The brewery also has a blonde ale, coffee amber and an IPA that is a fusion of English and American IPA styles. An English IPA and seasonal releases will be available in the near future. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Jackalope Jack’s, 1936 E. 7th St.

Friday

Arts Groups Unite - Five Charlotte-based performing arts organizations will present On the Hook, the first of a planned series of collaborative performances calling for action on issues of justice and inequality in the community and the nation. This week’s performance is in remembrance of the Emanuel Nine.  Participating organizations are On Q Productions, One Voice Chorus, the Possibility Project, A Sign of the Times and XOXO. 6 – 7:30 pm, Little Rock A.M.E. Zion Church, 401 N. McDowell St. Free.

Good Eats - Queen’s Feast, aka Charlotte restaurant week, starts today and ends July 26. More than 120 restaurants throughout the region are participating. Helen Schwab reports there’s a new pricing structure. Get the latest.



Saturday
Adult Games - Watch co-ed teams compete in crazy games at the Social Olympics XI. It’ll be fun times whether you’re playing or watching. 12 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., VBGB Beer Hall and Garden, 920 Hamilton St.

Jazz In the Park - The Freedom Summer Series of Jazz in Freedom Park returns this week. Featured artists are saxophonist Jessy J and the jazz group Cino Castillo. 6 - 9 p.m. Freedom Park, 1900 East Boulevard.

Finale Party - The Gray Classic weekend wraps up with the finale Party with a Purpose. Vapiano, 201 South Tryon St.

Cigars and Creole Food - Sample cigars and cocktails at Southern Soirée. There will also be live music and a DJ. Dress code: Seersucker Suits/Jackets, Sundresses, Bowties, Stilettos & Stripes are requested, but not required. Men are asked to wear collared shirts.  4 - 9 p.m., Rooftop 210, 210 East Trade St. Tickets.

BYOB Music Festival - Enjoy a multi-genre three stage festival experience featuring live music and DJs at Barnstock. Bands include: indie-rockers Stop Light Observations; electronic music act Buku; reggae-tinged
rock band Simplified; hip-hop punk act Shinobi Ninja; funk band The Fritz. The event benefits a variety of local and national charities. 4 p.m. - 11 p.m., 15305 Black Farms Rd. Huntersville, $30 and up.

Sunday
For The Family - The Mint Museum celebrates its newest exhibit America The Beautiful with this edition of Sunday Funday. Enjoy family-friendly art projects, gallery visits, artist demos, and Let's Move! yoga sessions once a month.America the Beautiful: Works on Paper from the Mint Museum features drawings and prints by talented American artists spanning 150 years of American history. Today is Special Exhibition Discount Day!  Additional fees for the special exhibitions are waived today. 1-4 p.m. Mint Museum Uptown, 500 South Tryon St. Details.

Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com