The inaugural Charlotte Invitational brought four of the biggest names in tennis to the Queen City.
Photo by CLTtoday
Uptown is coming up aces. The second annual Charlotte Invitational returns to the Spectrum Center this Thursday, Dec. 4. Returning to the court following last year’s Invitational wins, tennis stars Madison Keys and Frances Tiafoe will go head-to-head against Venus Williams and Taylor Fritz. Tickets start at $53.
Members enjoy discounts on tickets and gift shop purchases, while supporting animal care and conservation efforts. | Photos by Nathan Bell with Richard Bell Photography
Guests can explore the exhibits after dark, surrounded by dazzling holiday lights, festive installations and immersive photo stations that are basically begging to be your next holiday card moment.
Expect delicious refreshments, seasonal surprises and even a visit from Scuba Claus. One insider tip: buy tickets online early — prices go up by $3 the day of each show.
Remember this hint about bringing a World Cup to Charlotte? Bank of America Stadium is in U.S. Soccer’s bid to host the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The joint bid is between the US, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Jamaica. FIFA is expected to select the host nation or nations on April 30. (Charlotte Business Journal)
Cause
Time is running out to donate to communities through the Light the World Giving Machine, which lets you donate items like laundry detergent, diapers, and school supplies. Find it at Carolina Place Mall through Sunday, Dec. 7.
Opening
Comal Taco Co. will have its grand opening tomorrow, Dec. 3 at Optimist Hall. The new eatery will serve Southwest and Mexican-inspired bites like tacos, fresh guacamole, nachos, churros, and its signature cheese crisp — an open-faced crispy quesadilla. We can’t wait to try it.
Job
JGA Space & Defense will expand its Huntersville operations early next year and create 40 new jobs with an anticipated investment of more than $25 million. The aerospace manufacturer acquired Joe Gibbs Manufacturing Solutions and plans to hire for machinist, quality control, and engineering roles. (Morningstar)
Development
Developer Northwood Ravin filed early-stage plans for a third tower between The Amp and the Bowl at Ballantyne. The proposal includes apartment and retail space and, while still early in the process, signals another potential expansion of the Ballantyne campus. (Charlotte Business Journal)
Drink
Stylus Soundlounge is now open next to Soul Gastrolounge in NoDa. The intimate lounge is an homage to music lovers — featuring owner Andy Kastanas’ vintage audio equipment and a selection of his 40,000-record vinyl collection. The music and cocktail lounge will be open nightly, starting at 5 p.m.
Try This
Speaking of cocktails... Belmont barbecue staple Sweet Lew’s has opened Lew’s Libations, a cocktail bar inside the restaurant. Thirsty diners can expect to find a whiskey/bourbon-focused list, plus build-your-own cocktails, beers, and Sweet Lew’s full menu.
Weather
See you later, fall. This past fall was the 19th warmest on record for the Queen City — and the 26th driest. Take a look at the records. (WCNC)
Real Estate
Charlotte home values have risen ~73% since 2019, according to a Realtor.com study. Thinking of moving? Here are five neighborhoods to watch in the new year, according to Realtor Kendric Best.
Number
6,151. That’s how many stuffed animals were thrown on the ice during the Charlotte Checkers’ annual teddy bear toss last Friday. The stuffed animals will be donated to six local nonprofit organizations, including Baby Bundles, Alliance Center For Education, and the Salvation Army.
Sports
Is Kon Knueppel hitting the rookie wall on the court? Go beyond the scoreboard for the biggest stories on the Charlotte Hornetswith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Post of the Day
Mr. Swicegood is known for wearing Vans every day.
Talk about spreading holiday cheer. Students at Providence High School surprised their teacher, Mr. Swicegood, with a pair of Christmas-themed Vans. In the video, the teacher is overcome with emotion before unwrapping the box. His reaction to receiving the gift and shoes? Priceless.
The perfect two-piece sweater set for winter. It features a long sleeve crew neck top paired with a split hem midi skirt. We love that it’s cute, comfy, and warm, and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Bonus: It’s available in some great seasonal colorways like almond white + red white.
Don’t forget — today is Giving Tuesday and SHARE Charlotte is hosting its annual event at The Pearl between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. This event is your chance to donate to local nonprofits, give goods, or register to volunteer.
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