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🐎 Derby days
The Kentucky Derby is an annual horse race run the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky since 1875. | Photo by CLTtoday
On Saturday, May 2, the country will tune in to see “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” The Kentucky Derby is a beloved annual tradition immersed in history, heritage, and pageantry, where the eyes of the world turn to Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.
Fortunately, our friends in Louisville, (Hey, LOUtoday) aren’t the only ones with “Derby Fever.”
A mint julep is a cocktail mixing bourbon, sugar, water, crushed or shaved ice, and fresh mint.
Photo by CLTtoday
Here are several events on Saturday, May 2, celebrating the derby in the Queen City:
Derby Days | 3-8 p.m. | Mint Museum Randolph | $60 | Enjoy live music, mint juleps, “Best Dressed” contests, and a large-screen viewing of the race.
Kentucky Derby Party | 4:30-7 p.m. | Supperland | $87 | Savor a Derby-themed dinner and drinks while watching the race.
Kentucky Derby Watch Party | 3-8 p.m. | Dunbar Social, The Ballantyne | Free+ | Sip cocktails, sample chef-curated bites, and cheer on your favorite horse.
Yes, it’s gorgeous. The azaleas bloom and dogwoods stretch toward the sun. But the real magic is in the rhythm of it all.
🎶 Tune into local sounds
From Dex Fest in June at the Cat’s Cradle to soaking up sounds with the North Carolina Symphony during free summer concerts, you’ll find live music nearly every evening if you know where to look.
Sip and stroll through Weaver Street Market with coffee and an almond croissant, or browse vintage and handmade goods in Carrboro’s shops and along Chapel Hill’s sidewalks.
If you were born to stand out, you’ll fit right in.
Want to live like a professional caddie? Jon Rahm’s caddie is selling his Iron Station estate, which boasts a gym, greenhouse, barn, and resort-style saltwater pool. (Charlotte Business Journal)
Development
Chicago firms Riverside Investment & Development and Singerman Real Estate closed on the former Two Wells Fargo Center in Uptown. The companies plan to redevelop the site for residential, retail, and hospitality, with work expected to start in 2027. (Charlotte Business Journal)
Biz
HealthTech Partners Global will open its headquarters and equipment showroom on June 1 at The Pearl. The healthcare consulting and services headquarters will serve as a central hub for education, training, and technology demonstrations. (Charlotte Business Journal)
Sports
How did the Checkers fare in the first round of the Calder Cup Playoffs? Check the score.
Try This
Vinyl, the music-themed cocktail bar and restaurant in South End, is celebrating its fourth birthday with a silent disco, rotating DJs, giveaways, and a new spring menu. Bonus: A portion of the week’s proceeds will go to local nonprofits The Bulb and Ben’s Friends Charlotte chapter.
Charlotteans
Blumenthal Arts announced this year’s nominees and finalists for the 2026 Blumey Awards. The awards program recognizes outstanding achievement in high school theater and provides a chance for students to perform in Uptown. The awards are scheduled for Sunday, May 17.
Tech
Charlotte is the No. 24 top tech market in the US and Canada, according to a recent CBRE analysis. The ranking looked across 13 metrics ranging from tech talent concentration to office rents.
Outdoors
It’s almost pool season, and if you don’t have one of your own, we’ve got a suggestion. Try using Resort Pass, a tool where you can find day passes to hotel pools across Charlotte. We’re eyeing a private cabana at The Sheraton Charlotte.
Number
27,400+. That’s how many active job listings you can find on our Job Board. Explore openings in manufacturing, sales, marketing, and beyond. Roles for all experience levels are hiring now. Find a new gig.
Shop
Every Arete Hemp order placed this month comes with a free 6-pack of pre-rolls and a flat $4.20 delivery fee. Shop gummies, flower, pre-rolls, and more, all delivered to your door in about an hour with Arete Express.*†
Editor’s Pick
There is one original and one contested Caravaggio on display, plus 40 other paintings.
I saw the exhibition before it opened over the weekend, and I had no idea how much the artist influenced film. Pro tip: The exhibition is $10, in addition to regular museum admission. The museum is also partnering with Independent Picture House to host a special film series.
The Buy
Quick, what battery percentage is your phone at? Make your phone happier and your life easier by getting a charger you’ll actually remember to use:
⌚ This pro three-in-one charger will charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously. Bonus: Fold it up and pop it into your purse or pocket.
🐶 Or, get the same three-in-one charging power, but in the shape of a puppy.
✨ Embrace your girly side with this novelty beaded charger cable — it makes a great gift, too.
🚗 Make sure your phone charges while you’re driving with a handy fast car charger.
📲 If you simply need more charging spots around the house, go for a two-pack of reliable fast chargers rated 4.7 stars.
Have you noticed the sunsets going past 8 p.m.? I have. Take advantage of these longer days by enjoying a stroll outdoors or dining al fresco. You’ll catch me on The Goodyear House’s patio.
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