Smarty Scoop is proudly sponsored by Discovery Place, Discovery Place KIDS – Huntersville and The Charlotte Nature Museum.
If you’re not familiar with the Send a Kid to Camp program I encourage you to join us at the legendary Belle Acres Country Club on October 18. Hosted by the YMCA Camp Harrison MOMs on the Mountain, this night is guaranteed to be a blast but more importantly we will be raising money to send kids to camp. Tickets must be purchased in advance – deadline is tomorrow (Thursday). Click here to purchase your tix!
Mark your calendar for October 24 & 25 because this is one 5K that you don’t want to miss. The Brookhaven 5k for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is in it’s 7th year and has been a local favorite since it’s inception. Friday night is packed with family fun including a family-friendly movie under the stars, courtesy of Kids R Kids of Matthews. Hungry Howie’s pizza will be available for purchase, free popcorn from Primrose School at Austin Village and an incredible silent auction featuring Yankees tickets, sports memorabilia and a weekend stay at Charleston Place. You can even top off your evening with some delicious frozen yogurt from our Silver Sponsor – TCBY. Click here to learn more!
FRIDAY, October 17
Carolina Balloon Fest
Statesville Regional Airport
260 Hangar Drive, Statesville, North Carolina
October 17-19, See website for times, All ages, $15, free for children 12 and under
Summary: Carolina BalloonFest is a fun-filled weekend of outstanding entertainment, attractions and family activities. Bring cameras, lawn chairs and blankets to bask in the beautiful Carolina autumn weather as the backdrop to all the sights & sounds of over 50 colorful hot air balloons. (pets & coolers are not permitted).
Charlotte Christian School Presents Disney’s Aladdin, Jr.
Charlotte Christian School – Lamb/Johnson Gymnasium
7301 Sardis Road, Charlotte, NC (704) 366-5657
October 16-18, see website for schedule, All ages, $7-$12
Summary: A wish-granting genie in a lamp, a princess being forced by her father to marry , a street beggar who falls for her, and the magic carpet they ride on – everything from the movie and Tony Award-winning Broadway show comes to life again in Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. The Charlotte Christian middle school presents this beloved story of adventure, love, and hilarious comedy, a family favorite appropriate for any age!
Pineville Fall Festival
Pineville Lake Park
1000 Johnston Drive, Pineville, NC (704) 889-2400
October 17-18, see website for schedule, All ages, Free
Summary: Live music, pie eating contest, kids activities, carnival rides, and plenty of food vendors.
Scarrigan Farms
Carrigan Farms
1261 Oak Ridge Farm Hwy, Mooresville, NC (704) 664-1450
The month of October, See website for times, Ages 12+, $20
Summary: On select October nights our 130 acre farm is transformed into the scariest haunted trail in the region. If you are looking for a new and out of the ordinary way to get your heart pumping and adrenaline rushing this October, Scarrigan Farms is the place for you. This is not a trail for kids. If you’re under 12 come back when you’re old enough. We’ll be waiting. If someone hasn’t peed in their pants by the end of the night we know we haven’t done our job. (cash only accepted for all ticket payments)
SCarowinds Halloween Haunt
Carowinds
14523 Carowinds Blvd. (704) 588-2600
September 19 – November 1, See link for schedule, Ages 13+ recommended, $26+
Summary: This event needs no explanation. but there are a few details that you need to know. A separate ticket is required for admittance to SCarowinds’ Halloween Haunt. This event is rated PG-13 and may be too intense for young children.
Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze
Rural Hill
4431 Neck Road, Huntersville, NC (704) 875-3113
September 12 – November 2, See link for schedule, All ages, $7 – $15
Summary: This Fall starting September 12th and lasting until November 2nd! There’s more than enough fun and confusion for all! Get lost in our giant seven acre corn maze featuring over two miles of interconnecting paths. One of the largest in the Southeast, our maze is sure to please! Looking for an even bigger challenge? Traverse the maze in the dark during one of our famous Family Friendly Friday Night Mazes!
Foodtruck Friday
Southend
1613 Camden Road Charlotte, NC
Every Friday, 5:00pm – 9:00pm, All ages, Free
Summary: Every Friday night, Charlotte’s favorite food trucks gather on the lot at the corner of Park and Camden in the Historic South End. These aren’t the roach coaches of yesteryear! The nationwide revolution of the food truck industry has hit Charlotte, and we’ve got an ever-growing community of trucks that cater to your every taste. From burgers to tacos to soul food to cupcakes to ice cream and everything in between…there’s something for everyone. Meeting every Friday night since February 2012, Food Truck Fridays have taken the city by storm. Periodically featuring entertainment as well, the crowds have swelled to over 1,000 each week. We’re family and dog-friendly, too! So bring a chair, bring a blanket, BYOB, bring the kids, take the dog…it’s a neighborhood night out in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Most of the trucks accept credit cards as well as cash. Accessible by public transportation…take the light rail to Bland Station. A good time and great food are guaranteed!
Discovery Place
301 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Step into a world where science is brought to life through interactive exhibits and explosive experiments during daily programs. Connect with the past and visit the future with groundbreaking exhibitions, larger-than-life IMAX Dome films and hands on activities that let you explore more. Plan your visit today. Click on the links below for detailed information on special events, featured exhibitions, featured shows and IMAX.
Featured Exhibitions: For information on all exhibitions click here.
Featured Shows: For information on all featured shows click here.
IMAX: For information on all featured movies and showtimes click here.
Discovery Place Kids – Huntersville
105 Gilead Road, Huntersville, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Explore the theme of I CAN at Discovery Place KIDS-Huntersville. The children’s museum features developmentally-appropriate experiences that encourage imagination and offer the opportunity to build confidence while testing skills by trying new things. The exhibits, themed around a small town, allow children to learn through play.
Theme Areas: For a complete description of all nine theme areas click here.
Featured Shows: For a complete listing of all featured shows click here.
Current and Upcoming Events: For all current and upcoming events click here.
Charlotte Nature Museum
1658 Sterling Road, Charlotte, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Bring little ones for just an hour or the whole day and experience wildlife through live animal exhibits and interactive education programs. The Museum is easy to navigate with fun surprises around every corner. Kids can roam The Great Hall and visit Beginnings, an area filled with young animals and information on their lifecycles.
Featured Exhibitions: For complete details on exhibitions and exhibits click here.
Featured Shows: For a complete schedule of show times click here.
Children’s Theatre of Charlotte
located @ Imaginon
300 E. 7th Street, Charlotte, NC (704) 973-2800
To see the complete 2013-2014 schedule, special pricing and ways to save click here
Summary: Children’s Theatre of Charlotte has grown to become one of the top theatre and education organizations for young people in the United States. Nationally recognized for the breadth and strength of its programs, the Theatre serves 300,000 children and families a year with technically imaginative productions and wide-ranging education programs for young people.
Nothing is more valuable than the time you spend with your family. We are committed to providing your family with unforgettable memories that only live theatre can offer. On stage and in our classrooms, we will inspire wonder and excitement, nurture confidence and ignite imaginations.
Carolina Raptor Center
6000 Sample Road, Huntersville, NC (704) 875-6521
Summary: Carolina Raptor Center is dedicated to environmental stewardship and the conservation of birds of prey through education, research, and the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned raptors. As a charitable 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, CRC relies on public financial support to fulfill our mission. Supporters can release a raptor, adopt a bird, make a charitable donation, purchase a membership or sponsor a capital improvement project. CRC’s environmental education programs reach approximately 40,000 students each year. Our Raptor Trail hosts more than 35,000 visitors a year. Visit our calendar page for event times or just come and enjoy our nicely maintained trails and see all the amazing birds of prey.
SATURDAY, October 18
Carolina Balloon Fest
Statesville Regional Airport
260 Hangar Drive, Statesville, North Carolina
October 17-19, See website for times, All ages, $15, free for children 12 and under
Summary: Carolina BalloonFest is a fun-filled weekend of outstanding entertainment, attractions and family activities. Bring cameras, lawn chairs and blankets to bask in the beautiful Carolina autumn weather as the backdrop to all the sights & sounds of over 50 colorful hot air balloons. (pets & coolers are not permitted).
Blakeney Boo Bash
Blakeney Shopping Center
Rea Road and Ardrey Kell Road, Charlotte, NC
October 18, 9:00am – 4:00pm, All ages, $5
Summary: Pumpkin painting, sand art, wax hands, slides, moon bounce, swing, train rides, live DJ and a dog costume contest.
Carolina Voices Halloween Concert
Spirit Square, McGlohon Theater
345 N. College St., Charlotte, NC (704) 372-1000
October 18, 8:00pm, All ages, $12-$20
Summary: Carolina Voices’ Impromptu ensemble gets you in the spirit of all things ghoulish and scary at its annual Halloween concert, Things that Go Bump in the Night! Whispered tales of ghosts and goblins await you with brilliantly twisted music like I Don’t Like Spiders and Snakes, Demons, Burn, Pompeii, Madness, Bottom of the River, Spiders and Snakes, Walking on Broken Glass and more! Arrive early for Zombie Camp hosted by GregoryFX and get made up by experts who will make you look your frightful best for the holiday!
Charlotte Christian School Presents Disney’s Aladdin, Jr.
Charlotte Christian School – Lamb/Johnson Gymnasium
7301 Sardis Road, Charlotte, NC (704) 366-5657
October 16-18, see website for schedule, All ages, $7-$12
Summary: A wish-granting genie in a lamp, a princess being forced by her father to marry , a street beggar who falls for her, and the magic carpet they ride on – everything from the movie and Tony Award-winning Broadway show comes to life again in Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. The Charlotte Christian middle school presents this beloved story of adventure, love, and hilarious comedy, a family favorite appropriate for any age!
Pineville Fall Festival
Pineville Lake Park
1000 Johnston Drive, Pineville, NC (704) 889-2400
October 17-18, see website for schedule, All ages, Free
Summary: Live music, pie eating contest, kids activities, carnival rides, and plenty of food vendors.
Lost Hollow Children’s Garden Opening
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont, NC (704) 825-4490
October 18, 12:00pm – 5:00pm, All ages, $6-$12 includes admission to the garden
Summary: On October 18th a long lost land will be rediscovered. Nestled in the heart of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, this forgotten is being unearthed between manicured gardens and old forest, offering a journey of fascination and adventure. Lost Hollow is a magical place for the young and the young at heart. It’s part new garden and part old world, but its places are there for all to explore. Here your imagination is the key to discovering all of its beauty. Pass over the all seeing eye of protection to enter the kingdom of Lost Hollow. Explore the banks of Sunken Pond. Sing like a bird in The Aviary. Survey the land from Moon Keep. Explore the mysterious Fireplace Cave and more.
SEA-LIFE Spookfest
SEA-LIFE Charlotte-Concord
8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord, NC (866) 229-1573
October 18, 12:30pm, All ages, $14
Summary: You’re in for frightful fishy fun at SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord! Enjoy a few tricks and fishy treats that include scary fish facts, trick-or-treating and underwater pumpkin carving. Be sure to stop by on select weekends throughout October to watch highly trained divers compete to see who can carve the best jack-o-lantern . . . UNDERWATER! Costumes encouraged!
Fall Frolic Weekends on the Greenway
Anne Spring Close Greenway
1604 U.S. Highway 21, Fort Mill, SC (803) 548-7252
October 4 – 26, See website for times, All ages, $10-$12
Summary: Each weekend includes wagon wides, pick your own pumpkin, corn maze, and music.
Carolina Renaissance Festival
16445 Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville, NC (704) 896-5544
October 4 – November 23, Saturdays and Sundays, All ages, $10 – $25, free for ages, 5 and younger
Summary: It is not recommended that you use any internet mapping programs to find the Festival. There seems to occasionally be some discrepancy between the existing streets and the directions provided by such services.
The Renaissance Festival is a 16th century European style art and entertainment festival combining outdoor theater, circus entertainment, arts and crafts marketplace, a jousting tournament, a feast fit for royalty, and much much more. The 21st annual season opens in the fall Saturdays and Sundays, from October 4th to November 23rd, 2014.
The Carolina Renaissance Festival was introduced in 1994 with six acres of exhibits, attractions and entertainment. The event has grown into a twenty acre theme park filled with charming cottages and castles, kitchens and pubs, and a most unusual collection of people powered rides and games of skill – all nestled in 325 acres of pristine woodlands just north of Charlotte, NC.
Scarrigan Farms
Carrigan Farms
1261 Oak Ridge Farm Hwy, Mooresville, NC (704) 664-1450
The month of October, See website for times, Ages 12+, $20
Summary: On select October nights our 130 acre farm is transformed into the scariest haunted trail in the region. If you are looking for a new and out of the ordinary way to get your heart pumping and adrenaline rushing this October, Scarrigan Farms is the place for you.
This is not a trail for kids. If you’re under 12 come back when you’re old enough. We’ll be waiting. If someone hasn’t peed in their pants by the end of the night we know we haven’t done our job. (cash only accepted for all ticket payments)
The Great Pumpkin Fest
Carowinds
14523 Carowinds Blvd. (704) 588-2600
Every Saturday and Sunday from October 4 – November 2, noon – 5:00pm, see website for activities, Free with park admission.
Summary: Carowinds has brewed up some spooktacular family fun this Halloween with the Great Pumpkin Fest this October! During the daytime, Planet Snoopy is transformed in to a street party of frightful fun for kids and their families. Complete with activities that are fun-scary, not scary-scary, the Great Pumpking Fest is an exciting compilation of shows, attractions, and interactive activities throughout the day.
SCarowinds Halloween Haunt
Carowinds
14523 Carowinds Blvd. (704) 588-2600
September 19 – November 1, See link for schedule, Ages 13+ recommended, $26+
Summary: This event needs no explanation. but there are a few details that you need to know. A separate ticket is required for admittance to SCarowinds’ Halloween Haunt. This event is rated PG-13 and may be too intense for young children.
Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze
Rural Hill
4431 Neck Road, Huntersville, NC (704) 875-3113
September 12 – November 2, See link for schedule, All ages, $7 – $15
Summary: This Fall starting September 12th and lasting until November 2nd! There’s more than enough fun and confusion for all! Get lost in our giant seven acre corn maze featuring over two miles of interconnecting paths. One of the largest in the Southeast, our maze is sure to please! Looking for an even bigger challenge? Traverse the maze in the dark during one of our famous Family Friendly Friday Night Mazes!
Carolina Raptor Center
6000 Sample Road, Huntersville, NC (704) 875-6521
Summary: Carolina Raptor Center is dedicated to environmental stewardship and the conservation of birds of prey through education, research, and the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned raptors. As a charitable 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, CRC relies on public financial support to fulfill our mission. Supporters can release a raptor, adopt a bird, make a charitable donation, purchase a membership or sponsor a capital improvement project. CRC’s environmental education programs reach approximately 40,000 students each year. Our Raptor Trail hosts more than 35,000 visitors a year. Visit our calendar page for event times or just come and enjoy our nicely maintained trails and see all the amazing birds of prey.
Discovery Place
301 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Step into a world where science is brought to life through interactive exhibits and explosive experiments during daily programs. Connect with the past and visit the future with groundbreaking exhibitions, larger-than-life IMAX Dome films and hands on activities that let you explore more. Plan your visit today. Click on the links below for detailed information on special events, featured exhibitions, featured shows and IMAX.
Featured Exhibitions: For information on all exhibitions click here.
Featured Shows: For information on all featured shows click here.
IMAX: For information on all featured movies and showtimes click here.
Discovery Place Kids – Huntersville
105 Gilead Road, Huntersville, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Explore the theme of I CAN at Discovery Place KIDS-Huntersville. The children’s museum features developmentally-appropriate experiences that encourage imagination and offer the opportunity to build confidence while testing skills by trying new things. The exhibits, themed around a small town, allow children to learn through play.
Theme Areas: For a complete description of all nine theme areas click here.
Featured Shows: For a complete listing of all featured shows click here.
Current and Upcoming Events: For all current and upcoming events click here.
Charlotte Nature Museum
1658 Sterling Road, Charlotte, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Bring little ones for just an hour or the whole day and experience wildlife through live animal exhibits and interactive education programs. The Museum is easy to navigate with fun surprises around every corner. Kids can roam The Great Hall and visit Beginnings, an area filled with young animals and information on their lifecycles.
Featured Exhibitions: For complete details on exhibitions and exhibits click here.
Featured Shows: For a complete schedule of show times click here.
Children’s Theatre of Charlotte
located @ Imaginon
300 E. 7th Street, Charlotte, NC (704) 973-2800
To see the complete 2013-2014 schedule, special pricing and ways to save click here
Summary: Children’s Theatre of Charlotte has grown to become one of the top theatre and education organizations for young people in the United States. Nationally recognized for the breadth and strength of its programs, the Theatre serves 300,000 children and families a year with technically imaginative productions and wide-ranging education programs for young people.
Nothing is more valuable than the time you spend with your family. We are committed to providing your family with unforgettable memories that only live theatre can offer. On stage and in our classrooms, we will inspire wonder and excitement, nurture confidence and ignite imaginations.
Nothing is more valuable than the time you spend with your family. We are committed to providing your family with unforgettable memories that only live theatre can offer. On stage and in our classrooms, we will inspire wonder and excitement, nurture confidence and ignite imaginations.
SUNDAY, October 19
Charlotte Prep Open House
Charlotte Prep
212 Boyce Rd, Charlotte, NC (704) 366-5994
October 19, 2:00pm, Free, Registration required
Summary: We invite you to register to join us at Charlotte Preparatory School for an Admissions Open House event. Please include your name and contact information; your children’s names, ages, and intended grade levels; and how you learned about Open House.
Carolina Balloon Fest
Statesville Regional Airport
260 Hangar Drive, Statesville, North Carolina
October 17-19, See website for schedule, All ages, $15, free for children 12 and under
Summary: Carolina BalloonFest is a fun-filled weekend of outstanding entertainment, attractions and family activities. Bring cameras, lawn chairs and blankets to bask in the beautiful Carolina autumn weather as the backdrop to all the sights & sounds of over 50 colorful hot air balloons. (pets & coolers are not permitted).
Sunday Fun Day: Art Rebels and Cool Crafters
Mint Museum Uptown
500 S. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC (704) 337-2000
October 19, 1:00pm – 4:00pm, All ages, $6 for adults, kids free
Summary: It’s family time at the Mint! Enjoy family-friendly art projects, gallery visits, artist demos, and Let’s Move! yoga sessions once a month.
This month, learn about artists who challenge the idea of beauty in their art, view the exhibition
Beyond Craft: Decorative Arts from the Leatrice S. and Melvin B. Eagle Collection, and break the rules with fun and funky crafts.
The Great Pumpkin Fest
Carowinds
14523 Carowinds Blvd. (704) 588-2600
Every Saturday and Sunday from October 4 – November 2, noon – 5:00pm, see website for activities, Free with park admission.
Summary: Carowinds has brewed up some spooktacular family fun this Halloween with the Great Pumpkin Fest this October! During the daytime, Planet Snoopy is transformed in to a street party of frightful fun for kids and their families. Complete with activities that are fun-scary, not scary-scary, the Great Pumpking Fest is an exciting compilation of shows, attractions, and interactive activities throughout the day.
SCarowinds Halloween Haunt
Carowinds
14523 Carowinds Blvd. (704) 588-2600
September 19 – November 1, See link for schedule, Ages 13+ recommended, $26+
Summary: This event needs no explanation. but there are a few details that you need to know. A separate ticket is required for admittance to SCarowinds’ Halloween Haunt. This event is rated PG-13 and may be too intense for young children.
Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze
Rural Hill
4431 Neck Road, Huntersville, NC (704) 875-3113
September 12 – November 2, See link for schedule, All ages, $7 – $15
Summary: This Fall starting September 12th and lasting until November 2nd! There’s more than enough fun and confusion for all! Get lost in our giant seven acre corn maze featuring over two miles of interconnecting paths. One of the largest in the Southeast, our maze is sure to please! Looking for an even bigger challenge? Traverse the maze in the dark during one of our famous Family Friendly Friday Night Mazes!
Carolina Raptor Center
6000 Sample Road, Huntersville, NC (704) 875-6521
Summary: Carolina Raptor Center is dedicated to environmental stewardship and the conservation of birds of prey through education, research, and the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned raptors. As a charitable 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, CRC relies on public financial support to fulfill our mission. Supporters can release a raptor, adopt a bird, make a charitable donation, purchase a membership or sponsor a capital improvement project. CRC’s environmental education programs reach approximately 40,000 students each year. Our Raptor Trail hosts more than 35,000 visitors a year. Visit our calendar page for event times or just come and enjoy our nicely maintained trails and see all the amazing birds of prey.
Discovery Place
301 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Step into a world where science is brought to life through interactive exhibits and explosive experiments during daily programs. Connect with the past and visit the future with groundbreaking exhibitions, larger-than-life IMAX Dome films and hands on activities that let you explore more. Plan your visit today. Click on the links below for detailed information on special events, featured exhibitions, featured shows and IMAX.
Featured Exhibitions: For information on all exhibitions click here.
Featured Shows: For information on all featured shows click here.
IMAX: For information on all featured movies and showtimes click here.
Discovery Place Kids – Huntersville
105 Gilead Road, Huntersville, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Explore the theme of I CAN at Discovery Place KIDS-Huntersville. The children’s museum features developmentally-appropriate experiences that encourage imagination and offer the opportunity to build confidence while testing skills by trying new things. The exhibits, themed around a small town, allow children to learn through play.
Theme Areas: For a complete description of all nine theme areas click here.
Featured Shows: For a complete listing of all featured shows click here.
Current and Upcoming Events: For all current and upcoming events click here.
Charlotte Nature Museum
1658 Sterling Road, Charlotte, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Bring little ones for just an hour or the whole day and experience wildlife through live animal exhibits and interactive education programs. The Museum is easy to navigate with fun surprises around every corner. Kids can roam The Great Hall and visit Beginnings, an area filled with young animals and information on their lifecycles.
Featured Exhibitions: For complete details on exhibitions and exhibits click here.
Featured Shows: For a complete schedule of show times click here.
Children’s Theatre of Charlotte
located @ Imaginon
300 E. 7th Street, Charlotte, NC (704) 973-2800
To see the complete 2013-2014 schedule, special pricing and ways to save click here
Summary: Children’s Theatre of Charlotte has grown to become one of the top theatre and education organizations for young people in the United States. Nationally recognized for the breadth and strength of its programs, the Theatre serves 300,000 children and families a year with technically imaginative productions and wide-ranging education programs for young people.
Nothing is more valuable than the time you spend with your family. We are committed to providing your family with unforgettable memories that only live theatre can offer. On stage and in our classrooms, we will inspire wonder and excitement, nurture confidence and ignite imaginations.
