The Queen City is about to be the backdrop for a new television show. | Photo via Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority
Chances are your social media feeds are filled with Spotify Wrapped 2025, and no matter how victimized you may feel by the “listening age” it assigned you, we’re taking inspiration to recap Charlotte’s top stories of the year. Don’t worry, we’re not telling anyone they’re over 25.
Here’s what stood out in 2025 — plus your most read stories:
Taylor Fritz, Madison Keys, Venus Williams, and Francis Tiafoe shared their excitement before hitting the court.
Photo by CLTtoday
Trending
Last night, Uptown hosted a star-studded lineup of tennis heavy-hitters — Venus Williams, Francis Tiafoe, Madison Keys, and Taylor Fritz played in the second annual Charlotte Invitational at the Spectrum Center. Check out the highlights.
Transit
Roundabouts are coming to the West Catawba Avenue, Liverpool Parkway, and Torrence Chapel Road intersection — near the McDonald’s and Total Wine. The $21 million project off I-77 Exit 28 in Cornelius is expected to start next year and last through spring 2028.
Coming Soon
Bartender and mixologist Larry Scuggs will open All Purpose Bar in the former Protagonist space along North Davidson Street in NoDa. All Purpose Bar will aim to become a community hub and offer a selection of cocktails, beer, wine, and nonalcoholic drinks. An opening date is TBA. (Queen City Nerve)
Announced
Singer/songwriter Megan Moroney will return to the Spectrum Center for her Cloud 9 tour on July 14. Tickets go on sale next Friday, Dec. 12 at 10 a.m.
Family
Signing Santa is visiting Speedway Christmas tomorrow, Dec. 6, from 6 to 10 p.m. The jolly visitor aims to spread joy and inclusivity as he communicates through ASL (American Sign Language). Tickets to the event at Charlotte Motor Speedway start at $63.
Award
Carolina Panthers’ offensive lineman Austin Corbett is the team’s club winner for the 2025 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. All 32 club winners for the league’s most prestigious honor will be recognized during the week before Super Bowl LX, with the national winner announced during NFL Honors on Thursday, Feb. 5.
Civic
Oh, deer. Tega Cay City Council approved another round of culling 80 deer to prevent overpopulation, sparking mixed reactions from residents and wildlife experts. The city says it’s the most cost-effective way to manage the herd, with a March 1 deadline for the project. (Queen City News)
Try This
Mother of Dragons, a gaming cafe and wine bar, opened last week along Sardis Road in MoRa. Bring the family to play a multitude of board games, or sample their coffee omakase — just don’t drink coffee before visiting. (The Charlotte Observer)
Sports
What are the most anticipated match-ups this conference championship weekend? Go beyond the field for the biggest stories on the ACCwith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Pets
Cats are naturally mysterious — but their health doesn’t have to be. With Basepaws Cat DNA Test, you’ll uncover your cat’s breed mix, genetic traits, and potential health risks that other tests miss. Get 47% off for Cyber Week and gain science-backed insights into your feline’s health.*
If you’re a Costco shopper, you know about the $1.50 hot dog. But are you in on these other 10 lesser-known hacks all Costco shoppers should know about? Wait until you see number six.*
Category
Small Business
🎁 Time to shop
The Mistletoe Market at Camp North End boasts dozens of vendors and local shops. | Photo via Camp North End
Charlotte is glowing with holiday cheer. Whether you’re crossing names off your holiday gift list or treating yourself to something festive, here are 10 markets to shop small around the Queen City this season.
Mistletoe Market | Saturday, Dec. 6, Dec. 14, and Dec. 20 | 2-7 p.m. | Camp North End | Shop from local vendors stationed in huts before enjoying a fire and ice skating outdoors.
Uptown Holiday Market | Wednesday, Dec. 3-Saturday, Dec 6 | Hours vary | Legacy Union Plaza | The festive pop-up in Center City is the perfect stop for gifts, grabbing a bite, or enjoying the holiday atmosphere.
Plaza Midwood’s Merry Holiday Market | Sunday, Dec. 7 | 12-5 p.m. | Plaza Midwood | Celebrate a full day of community, shopping, and holiday cheer leading up to a tree lighting at Legion Brewing at 6 p.m.
International Holiday Bazaar | Sunday, Dec. 7 | 12-4 p.m. | Refugee Support Services | Shop from handmade goods like textiles, pottery, jewelry, and international foods.
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Writing today’s story on the top-clicked articles from 2025 made me smile. There are so many wonderful stories I’ve had the pleasure of writing and meeting kind and inspiring individuals along the way. I can’t wait to see what 2026 has in store!
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