January 11, 2024
It’s never too early to plan, especially when it comes to travel.
The start of the new year is an ideal time to look at the months ahead and daydream about your next getaway. In Cabarrus County, year-round events cater to every interest and draw attendees from all over. Here are some of the area’s most noteworthy festivals and gatherings.
March
Burger aficionados should come hungry for Cabarrus Burger Madness, a monthlong party to honor this classic American staple and celebrate the community’s independent places to eat. Local chefs at restaurants throughout Cabarrus County show off creative takes on the burger — dressing it with toppings that have included ingredients like Mexican sweet corn or kimchi slaw — and invite diners to stop in and sample, all in an effort to claim “Best Burger” bragging rights.
April
The two-day NHRA 4-Wide Nationals kick off April 26 in Concord at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s zMAX Dragway. Hosted by the National Hot Rod Association, this is the final of two four-wide competitions where teams go head-to-head in events such as Top Fuel, Pro Stock and Funny Car. And since every ticket is a pit pass, guests enjoy front-row access to their favorite NHRA drivers.
Before the four-wide excitement at zMAX Dragway, the Charlotte AutoFair runs April 4–7 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where thousands of car enthusiasts gather to buy and sell collector vehicles as well as restoration parts and supplies for almost any car ever made.
May
More than 50 barbecue teams compete for the top prize at Jiggy with the Piggy Festival in Kannapolis, May 3–4. Celebrating a decade of all things ‘cue, this free festival — sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society — also offers a People’s Choice Pork Tasting Contest, live music, a 5K walk/run, arts and crafts vendors and a fireworks display.
On May 26, rev your engines for the 65th annual NASCAR Cup Series Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The 600-mile chase is the longest race on NASCAR’s schedule and is considered one of the largest and most exciting events among motorsports fans. Don’t miss the pre-race festivities including military tribute and driver appearances.
June
Summer doesn’t slow down in Cabarrus. With baseball season already in full swing, live outdoor performances and concerts, and the Summer Shootout series underway, families will find no shortage of fun throughout this season. Pair these events with the area’s outdoor trails, indoor waterpark and many ice cream shops for the ideal summer stay.
July
Look no further than Harrisburg for memorable ways to honor our nation’s independence. The town’s July Fourth festivities get going July 3 with carnival rides and live music. The fun continues July 4 with a morning parade, cornhole tournament, more live music and a fireworks show to close out the night.
August
The Dirt Track at Charlotte hosts the coolest back-to-school party around during the annual Monster Track Bash! Get up close and personal with these amazing machines before the show and cheer on your favorite as these giants navigate the infield obstacle course.
September
September starts in style with the opening of the Cabarrus County Fair in Concord on September 6. Fairgoers get nine days of amusement park rides, livestock and equine exhibits, and live entertainment, plus games and great food.
On September 20–24, the National Hot Rod Association showcases the best in 11,000-horsepower machines during the betway NHRA Carolina Nationals. Engines roar side by side down zMAX Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where all tickets are also up-close-and-personal pit passes.
October
The unique NASCAR Cup Series Bank of America ROVAL 400 takes place October 13 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, a heart-pounding playoff race that’s been thrilling fans since this innovative course was introduced in 2018. Arrive early for pre-race concerts and driver appearances or step it up a notch with a pre-race track pass, which includes a chance to sign your name on the start/finish line.
November
November brings multiple days of all-star racing to The Dirt Track at Charlotte with the return of the World of Outlaws World Finals. This prestigious event decides the title for three series including the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series; the World of Outlaws Late Model Series; and the Super DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds.
December
Conclude the year in fine fashion at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s Speedway Christmas event. From the end of November to early January, this drive-through, synchronized holiday lights-and-music show presents more than five million lights on a four-mile course that includes the speedway’s oval and infield road course. On select nights, visit the infield Christmas village post-drive to spend time visiting with Santa, shopping for gifts among vendors, strolling the illuminated walking trail, and enjoying a holiday classic movie drive-in style.
Build the Perfect Itinerary
In town for one of Cabarrus County’s exciting events? Make it a weekend! Find travel inspiration, local insights, itinerary suggestions and more on our Trip Ideas page.
