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Editor’s Pick
Tickets are going fast to watch the fireworks in Uptown’s Truist Field. | Photo via Charlotte Knights
We are just days away from one of the biggest fireworks displays taking over the Queen City. Tickets are selling fast for the SkyShow Fireworks Spectacular happening Thursday, July 3, at Truist Field.
What time do you stake your spot for the best view of fireworks?
A. The morning of — I want to get a good spot. B. The afternoon of — no way I’m waking up early. C. As soon as the event starts — that’s plenty of time. D. A few minutes before the show — I like to live on the edge. E. Other
FC Internazionale Milano v. Fluminense FC | 3 p.m. | Bank of America Stadium | $67+ | It’s game time at the stadium as two international powerhouses compete to advance in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Summer French Macarons | 6 p.m. | Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen | $75 | Learn to make a variety of these delicate pastries that are sure to wow any dinner guest.
Tuesday, July 1
“Rosedale: Can You Dig It?” | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Historic Rosedale | $5+ | Visit the historic site to see artifacts and learn about the owners and enslaved families who lived on the property.
Tosco Music Open Mic | 6:30-9 p.m. | The Evening Muse | $8+ | Share your love of music during this monthly family-friendly showcase.
Wednesday, July 2
North End Farmers Market | 4-8 p.m. | Ford Green | Free | Browse local vendors slinging Queen City produce and culinary excellence at this weekly market.
Fresh Air Hour at Anne Springs Close Greenway | 5:30-8 p.m. | Lake Haigler Entrance, Fort Mill, SC | Free | Connect with the trail before treating yourself to food and drinks at the Canteen — that part’s not free.
That’s Novel Books Silent Book Club | 6-8 p.m. | That’s Novel Books | Free | Spend time meeting other bookworms before an hour of silent reading.
Crossroads Cinema: “Legally Blonde 2" | 8:30-10:30 p.m. | Ford Green | Free | This Reese Witherspoon classic will make you “want a hot dog real bad.”
Jetset Pilates is opening this winter at Linea in South End. The studio coming to Hawkins Street will offer 50-minute, high-intensity, full-body workout classes. An exact opening date remains TBA, but if you can’t wait, visit the location in Huntersville. (Charlotte Business Journal)
Development
Atlanta-based developer Castlebridge Residential Development is poised to build more than 250 single-family homes in North Charlotte. Construction on 40 homes near Beatties Ford Road on Miranda Road is complete, phase two is underway. (Charlotte Business Journal)
Transit
NCDOT is planning to extend I-85 in Gaston County to four lanes. The project is anticipated to improve traffic and is expected to wrap in 2028. The department is requesting land for the extension + is hosting a free virtual seminar on July 10 to provide legal guidance and answer questions. (WCNC)
Mansion Monday
How would you like forest views in Myers Park? This newly-constructed home boasts five bedrooms, five-and-a-half bathrooms, and an entire second living space — perfect for entertaining family and friends. Did we mention there’s plenty of natural light?
Ready for a twist on a classic? Good Housekeeping named the spicy pina colada the drink of the summer, which heats up the cocktail’s recipe by adding a spicy ingredient like chile-infused rum. If you’d rather drink something else, we think local happy hours are always on trend.
According to recent surveys, Gen Zers (primarily teen boys) are spending more on personal fragrances — and not just Axe body spray. If you’re looking for a personalized fragrance, we recommend checking out Note and Accord, where you can craft a custom scent. (CO)
State
It looks like North Carolinians believe in the power of sweet potatoes. That’s the most popular superfood in the state, based on Google search data compiled by Eachnight. If you want to buy some or see what other goodies are growing in the Queen City, head to a local farmers market.
Sports
The Hornets welcomed their draft picks in style. Now it’s time to get practicing. Go beyond the playbook for the biggest stories on the Charlotte Hornetswith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Health
Your heart health doesn’t wait — neither should you. New research shows aging spurts hit in your 40s and 60s, but how you care for your health matters more than your age. Get proactive and protect your heart.*
Cause
It’s Freedom Week, so now’s a great time to give back and make a powerful impact in Charlotte. Now through Saturday, July 5, donate blood with The Blood Connection to help meet the urgent needs of local hospitals facing summer trauma surges. Sign up, save lives, and earn rewards.*
Holiday
Kick off your Fourth of July festivities at The Village Green’s annual Fireworks Extravaganza in Jackson County, NC. On Thursday, July 3, from 6:30 to 10 p.m., enjoy live music on the lawn followed by a dazzling fireworks show at this free event. Pro tip: Bring a lawn chair + blanket.*
Community
Uh-oh, short-staffed again? Don’t sweat it — the CLTtoday Job Board has your back. Post your job, reach awesome local talent, and get that role filled fast. Oh, and did we mention it’s totally free? Yep, like zero dollars.
Looking to hire? Post jobs online for free & upgrade for newsletter promotion!
Live
City Guide
🛫 Holiday travel
You can’t help but smile when the skyline comes into focus while arriving at CLT. | Photo via @cltairport
Starting Thursday, July 3, through Tuesday, July 8, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is expecting 925,000 passengers to travel through the airport. The busiest days? Thursday, July 3, Sunday, July 6, and Monday, July 7.
If you’re one of the thousands of people traveling for the Fourth of July, we want your time at CLT to go as smoothly as possible. Before heading to the airport, use this guide, which covers everything from terminals and parking to where to grab the best food.
What to know
TSA | According to the CLT’s website, it takes ~15 minutes to get through security during off-peak hours and 30+ minutes during peak hours. Check live wait times.
Map it out | If you’re like us and need to completely visualize a place before you step foot inside, these maps of the entire airport will be your saving grace.
Reminder | As of May 7, 2025, flyers now need a REAL ID to board commercial flights in the US.
We’ve got all the Fourth of July essentials you need and won’t immediately throw away after the holiday. (Think: Family-friend games you can play all summer long, a reusable + safe alternative to fireworks, and grill accessories that last). Buy these items today for the chance for them to arrive before the holiday.
🍖 Get the grill ready with this scouring stone that cleans better and faster than a brush.
🔥 Speaking of the grill, trade your old pocket lighter for this windproof one.
🎆 This light up bubble blower serves as a safe, kid-friendly replacement for fireworks.
🇺🇸 This red, white, and blue reusable tablecloth is stain-resistant and waterproof.
☀️ No summer holiday is complete without a fun backyard game like Spikeball or lifesize Jenga.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Speaking of Fourth of July travel, I’ll be heading to Las Vegas with my best friend to see Kelly Clarkson’s residency at Caesars Palace. While I have a reservation for Hell’s Kitchen one night for dinner, I’m always open to recommendations, so send them my way! And if you’re at CLT and spot me, please say hello.
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