Things To Do in Charlotte This Weekend: November 7-November 9
From festive art shows to heartwarming community celebrations, there are plenty of things to do in Charlotte this weekend.
Step aboard “The Polar Express” at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer, where the beloved holiday tale comes to life with delicious hot chocolate and cookies and a festive train ride to the North Pole.
Image Courtesy North Carolina Transportation MuseumFrom festive art shows to heartwarming community celebrations, there are plenty of things to do in Charlotte this weekend. Enjoy pet-friendly fun at Pawsitively Matthews or discover handcrafted items by local artists at the Charlotte Art Collective Holiday Art Show. Charlotte's weekend events promise excitement, creativity, and holiday spirit.
Pawsitively Matthews
- What: Dog-friendly festival celebrating community and fun
- When: Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Where: Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews
- Cost: Free admission; vendors will have items available for purchase
Pawsitively Matthews is a tail-wagging celebration for dogs and their humans that will transform Stumptown Park into a pet lover's paradise. Browse pet-friendly vendors, enjoy local food trucks, and sip craft beer in the fall sunshine while live bands set the soundtrack. Highlights include thrilling shows by the Dare Devil Frisbee Dogs, police dog demos, and the Canine Companions showcase. It's the ultimate community event for four-legged friends and their families.
Charlotte Art Collective Holiday Art Show
- What: A celebration of local artistry with handcrafted holiday gifts
- When: Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: Avondale Presbyterian Church Family Life Center, 2921 Park Road, Charlotte
- Cost: Free admission; vendors will have items available for purchase
The Charlotte Art Collective Holiday Art Show will have over 25 juried artisans presenting their jewelry, paintings, sculptures, basketry, wooden bowls, glassware, photography, pottery, clothing, and more. Set in a welcoming indoor venue with free admission and parking, the event offers a relaxed way to shop for unique gifts or discover original art.
"The Polar Express" Train Ride — Opening Weekend
- What: Magical holiday train ride to the North Pole
- When: Friday, Nov. 7, 2025, through Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, with varying departures starting at 4 p.m. (additional dates/times available through Dec. 23, 2025)
- Where: North Carolina Transportation Museum, 1 Samuel Spencer Drive, Spencer
- Cost: Tickets start at $49.69 for adults and $42.77 for children
Step aboard "The Polar Express" at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer, where the beloved holiday tale comes to life with delicious hot chocolate and cookies and a festive train ride to the North Pole. Guests of all ages are invited to wear pajamas, sing carols, and receive a silver sleigh bell from Santa, making this immersive 70-minute experience one to remember.
Other Events
Charlotte's activities this weekend foster meaningful connections, reflections, and the joy of the season by honoring veterans and awakening young minds through storytelling:
- Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony in Huntersville: Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at Veterans Park, 201 Huntersville-Concord Road, Huntersville
- Warbirds Over Monroe Air Show: Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, and Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (flying starts at noon) at Charlotte Monroe Executive Airport, 3900 Paul J Helms Drive, Monroe
- EpicFest Literary Festival For Kids: Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, 300 E. Seventh St., Charlotte
