Upgrades to Symphony Park include a regrading of the park to make it flatter for events. | Rendering via SouthPark Community Partners
Ready for a crescendo of change at Symphony Park? Yesterday, SouthPark Community Partners (SCP) announced a $21 million project to renovate the 7.4-acre green space near SouthPark Mall — a key aspect of the SouthPark Forward 2035 Vision Plan. It’s all thanks to a public-private partnership paving the way for major upgrades to SouthPark’s public park.
“Symphony Park will become an extraordinary community destination home to frequent, high-quality programming that invites deeper connections among others,” said Adam Rhew, president and CEO of SCP. “The framework we announced today is the product of hard work by a big team over many years.”
SouthPark Community Partners aim to redevelop Symphony Park into a lively hub for live music, retail, fitness, and community gatherings.
Renderings via SouthPark Community Partners
Upcoming changes
Simon Property Group, which owns SouthPark Mall, will spearhead building two new restaurants at the park’s edge, driving foot traffic to new micro-retail space.
Other upgrades include:
New lighting or projection art on the bandshell
A trail segment along Carnegie Boulevard + two bridges to connect the SouthPark Loop directly to the park
The Business of Sports with Rick Schnall | 12 p.m. | Carolina Theatre | $15+ | Learn the ins and outs of the sports industry from the co-owner of the Charlotte Hornets.
Weekday Yoga Break at Sycamore | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Sycamore Brewing | Free | Bring your mat to a free yoga session, followed by a cold beer with new friends.
Introduction to the Pottery Wheel | 6-8:30 p.m. | 1003 Louise Ave. Ste. A, Charlotte | $259+ | Get crafty by learning to throw pottery in this guided course.
Experience Hendrix Tour | 7:30 p.m. | Ovens Auditorium | $45+ | Experience the “Purple Haze” at this tribute show celebrating the late rocker.
Thursday, April 10
Spring Plant Sale | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | Wing Haven | Cost of purchase | Shop a variety of local favorites and unusual plants, trees, and shrubs.
Hoppin’ on the YoCo Brew Trail Kickoff Party | 5-8 p.m. | Hoppin’ Rock Hill, Rock Hill, SC | Cost of purchase | Celebrate the breweries slinging craft beer in York County with live music, curated flights, and prizes.
Passover Cooking | 6-9 p.m. | Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen | $90 | Cook a mouthwatering meal perfect for celebrating Passover.
Opera Carolina Presents: La Bohème | 7:30 p.m. | Belk Theater | $31+ | Before “Rent,” Puccini’s masterpiece tells the tale of friends, love, and survival.
The City of Charlotte Planning, Design, and Development Departments released 14 drafts, outlining the city’s plans for growth. These plans are part of the Charlotte Future 2040 Comprehensive Plan + focus on land use, urban design, transportation, and infrastructure. A public hearing for community input is happening Monday, April 28.
Coming Soon
Do not pass go, do not collect $200. Starting Tuesday, May 6, Blume Studios will welcome Charlotteans to the US tour of MONOPOLY LIFESIZED: Travel Edition. Unlike the board game, players will compete in fast-paced, escape room-style challenges to collect property before time runs out. Tickets go on sale Friday, April 11.
Biz
Businesses across Uptown are seeing higher foot traffic, thanks to Charlotte SHOUT!. Running through Sunday, April 20, the annual event draws thousands of people to Center City to celebrate art, music, food, and ideas. (WCNC)
Featured
Rock the vote. Optimist Hall was nominated as one of the Best Food Halls in the country by USA Today. Voting is live for the Reader’s Choice Awards through 12 p.m. Monday, April 14.
Number
$80 million. That’s how much the 2027 CISM World Military Summer Games will likely cost to host in Charlotte. The expenses are expected to be covered by a combination of sponsorships, ticket sales, private contributions, and, potentially, state government incentives. (Charlotte Business Journal)
State
The North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles expanded office hours by one hour at 42 locations across the state, including Mecklenburg County. At least 80% of the 115 DMV locations will operate from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. (WCNC)
Cause
The David & Nicole Tepper Foundation donated $600,000 to support CPR and AED training and education across the Queen City. The funds will help prepare coaches, athletes, and youth sports officials to respond effectively during cardiac emergencies.
Sports
After Duke’s loss in the NCAA Tournament, could Cooper Flagg have his sights set on the Hornets’ roster? Go beyond the court for the biggest stories on the Charlotte Hornetswith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Shop
Put your business’s product or service in front of 35,000+ locals in our upcoming Parents’ Gift Guide. Don’t wait — secure your spot just in time for Mother’s Day + Father’s Day celebrations.
Try This
Frolicking through Biltmore Estate® this spring. From florals climbing the Walled Garden to crisp seasonal wines, the season of rebirth is in full swing at the iconic Asheville estate. Here’s how to score $90 off an Annual Pass for unlimited daytime visits all year.*
Tech
Ever wondered, “Why am I seeing this ad?” RAD Intel fixes that so brands get 3.5x better results and customers actually get seen (in a good way). Investors including Adobe, Fidelity, and insiders from Google and Meta. The company is pre-IPO and shares are $0.55. Invest before prices change Thursday, April 10.†*
Consider celebrating Taco Tuesday every day at any of Tacos 4 Life’s four Charlotte locations. | Photo by CLTtoday
Looking for a tasty, local lunch spot that doesn’t break the bank? We’re here for you, Charlotte. Check out this list of 15+ places where lunch for one costs $15 or less.
South End
The Common Market South End, 235 W. Tremont Ave., Charlotte
This is a convenience store, restaurant, and bar rolled into one. Hungry guests can take advantage of specials every day of the week.
Mac’s Speed Shop, Various locations
Savor a pulled pork sandwich, mac and cheese, wings, or a salad without breaking the bank.
A cap sleeve V-neck tee with a tasteful ruching design. Crafted from soft, breathable fabric and available in 10+ colors, this shirt will become your go-to for spring and summer outfits.
Over the weekend, I finally attended an Anthem RC match. The game was thrilling to watch, easy to understand, and a great way to spend the evening. A full video of what you can expect at a game is coming soon and I hope it gets you pumped for the two international matches coming this summer.
