Welcome 2015!

Hoping you have enjoyed a wonderful first week of winter, and that the holidays you celebrated were wonderful, and meaningful and full of memories for you and your children. Hard to believe that another year has passed, and that we usher in 2015 on Thursday. My wish for all of you is a new year filled with good news, healthy family and friends, and more memories than you can count. Thanks for making 2014 another GREAT year for The Queen City Buzz!

Blessings,
The Buzz

Monday, December 29

• Winter Break Camps are back at Discovery Place for students in grades K-3. More info...
• The Kannapolis Celebration of Lights & Winterland Express continues through tomorrow. More info...
• Today through Friday, head to Discovery Place to celebrate Jurassic New Year with activities throughout the day! More info... 
• Holidays at the Garden continues at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Through December 31. More info...
• The Christmas Wonderland of Lights at Zootastic Park continues evenings through December 31st. More info...
• Head to BB&T Ballpark this afternoon, 5-7pm, for the Belk Bowl Pep Rally. More info...
• The Belk Bowl Fan Central also happens this evening beginning at 7pm at The Epicentre. More info...

Tuesday, December 30

• Toddler Tuesdays has been extended through December 30th at Sea Life Aquarium. 1 FREE child (3-12) with an adult ticket (other children $5). More info...
• Beginning at 12pm, don't miss the Belk Bowl FanFest happening outside of Bank of America Stadium. More info...
• Enjoy Season of Light at the planetarium at the Schiele Museum. Tuesdays-Fridays at 3:30, and various times through tomorrow. More info...
• Speedway Christmas wraps up this evening at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. More info...
• The Belk Bowl kicks off this evening at 6:30pm at Bank of America Stadium. More info...

Wednesday, December 31 - New Years Eve

• Ages 3 and under are invited to Wee Wednesday this morning at 10:30 at the Main Street Children's Museum. More info...
• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday - New Years at Noon!  More info...
• Head to Pocket Park in Uptown for FREE Music on Wednesdays, 11:30am-1:30pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Nature Museum hosts Wild Wednesday: When Winter Comes today at 12:30. More info..
• Ages 6 and up are invited to the Reedy Creek Nature Center for a Winter Scavenger Hunt at 2pm. More info...
• Both locations of the MINT Museum (Uptown & Randolph) offer FREE Admission today and every Wednesday, 5-9pm. More info...
• Charlotte Mecklenburg libraries close at 5pm today, and are closed tomorrow. More info...
• Don't miss CLT New Year's Eve this evening beginning at 7pm at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Lots of fun for the whole family. More info...

Thursday, January 1 - Happy New Year!

• The Latta Plantation Nature Center hosts First Day Hikes today at 9am and 2pm. More info...
• Don't miss the fun of First Footin' 2015 beginning at 10am at Historic Rural Hill. More info...
• Head to the Schiele Museum today at 11am to learn all about Tools of Stone. More info...

Friday, January 2

• The Latta Plantation Nature Center hosts a Friday Morning Hike this morning at 9am for all ages. More info...
• Holiday on Ice winter ice skating continues through January 4th. More info...
• The Schiele Museum has a new planetarium show. Enjoy The Planets: A Voyage Across the Solar System through February. More info...
• Ride The Polar Express at The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad now through January 4th. More info...

Saturday, January 3

• See Dinosaurs in Motion at Discovery Place in uptown Charlotte. On display through January 16th. More info...
• Families with children in grades PreK to 2 can head to Discovery Place for Scrambled Eggs Super at 10:30am. Please register. More info..., and families with children in grades 3 to 5 are invited to You Are What You Eat at 10:30am. More info...
• Lots of fun with Healthy Winter Treats today at Discovery Place Kids at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Lakeshore Learning hosts their Free Crafts For Kids today 11am-3pm. Today the children will make Beary Warm Earmuffs. More info...
• The Latta Plantation Nature Center hosts Woodland Wildlife this morning at 11:30am for all ages. More info...
• Experience Civil War Winter Quarters today and tomorrow at Latta Plantation. More info...
• Ages 4 and up are invited to the Latta Plantation Nature Center for their (almost) Full Moon Hike this evening at 7pm. More info...

Sunday, January 4

• Head to the Charlotte Nature Museum this afternoon at 12:30pm for Build it Like a Beaver. More info...
• The Latta Plantation Nature Center hosts Reptile Encounters this afternoon at 1:30, 2:30 & 3:30pm. More info...
• Imaginon hosts Paws to Read this afternoon, 2-4pm. More info...
• Don't miss Discovery Place Kids' Healthy Winter Treats this afternoon at 2pm. More info...

Monday, January 5 - Back to School!!!

• Ages 3 and up are invited to the Reedy Creek Nature Center this morning at 10am for Nature Story Corner. More info...
• Storytimes return at the Charlotte Mecklenburg libraries after their holiday hiatus. More info...

Save The Date:
January 9-10, 2015: Monster Jam More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.

Merry Christmas!!

School's out, shopping's done (thank goodness...have you seen the mall parking lots?!?!), and now it's time to enjoy family, friends, and holiday fun. I wish for you a week filled with laughter, joy and memory making with those you love. If you forgot something, forget it...if your house is a mess, don't clean it...if the kids are coloring and having snacks in church on Christmas Eve, let it go! It's Christmas, and it doesn't have to be perfect. Pause, reflect, and be thankful for those forgetful, messy and imperfect moments! Be real, and be merry!! Merry Christmas to you and yours!

Blessings,
The Buzz

Monday, December 22

• Learn all about Scales & Slime this morning at 10am at the McDowell Nature Center. More info...
• Head to Barnes & Noble - Carolina Place for their Hanukkah Storytime this morning at 10:30am. More info...
• The Ballantyne Jewish Center presents Chanukah Wonderland today and tomorrow 11am-3pm. More info...
• You can SCHEDULE an appointment with SANTA at Southpark Mall!! More info..
• Winter Break Camps are back at Discovery Place for students in grades K-3. More info...
• The bears are back! Don't miss the Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra at Founders Hall through December 26th. More info...
• Christmas at the Library runs through tomorrow at the Billy Graham Library. More info...
• The Lights of McAdenville are on tonight, and will be nightly through December 26th. More info...

Tuesday, December 23

• Toddler Tuesdays has been extended through December 30th at Sea Life Aquarium. 1 FREE child (3-12) with an adult ticket (other children $5). More info...
• Head to the Harvey B. Gantt Center for Getting Ready for Kwanzaa today, 11am-2pm. More info...
• Don't miss Scuba Claus at Sea Life Aquarium, today and tomorrow, 11am-1pm. More info...
• Enjoy Season of Light at the planetarium at the Schiele Museum. Tuesdays-Fridays at 3:30, and various times through the weekend. More info...
• Speedway Christmas continues through December 30th (closed Christmas Day) at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. More info...

Wednesday, December 24

• Discovery Place Kids is CLOSED today and tomorrow.  More info...
• Head to Pocket Park in Uptown for FREE Music on Wednesdays, 11:30am-1:30pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Nature Museum is closed today and tomorrow. More info..
• Both locations of the MINT Museum (Uptown & Randolph) offer FREE Admission today and every Wednesday, 5-9pm. More info...
• Charlotte Mecklenburg libraries close at 5pm today, and are closed tomorrow and Friday. More info...
• Looking for a place to worship this Christmas Eve? Charlotte has many services to choose from. More info...

Thursday, December 25 - Merry Christmas!

• Gingerbread Lane at Ballantyne Hotel is on display through December 28th. More info...
• Don't want to cook this Christmas? The Ballantyne Hotel hosts Christmas Brunch & Dinner with a fantastic menu. More info...
• Holidays at the Garden continues at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Through December 31. More info...
• Looking for a Christmas movie for the family? Check out ABC Family's 25 Days of Christmas. More info...

Friday, December 26

• Holiday on Ice winter ice skating continues through January 4th. More info...
• Head to Schiele Museum today for their Which Way? scavenger hunt. 11am-2pm. More info...
• Ride The Polar Express at The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad weekends now through January 4th. More info...
• Barnes & Noble - Carolina Place hosts their Fabulous Friday Pajamarama Storytime this evening at 7pm. More info...
• The Christmas Wonderland of Lights at Zootastic Park continues evenings through December 31st. More info...

Saturday, December 27

• See Dinosaurs in Motion at Discovery Place in uptown Charlotte. On display through January 16th. More info...
• The McDowell Nature Center hosts Recycled Wrapping Paper Crafts this morning 9:30-11:30am. More info...
• Ages 5 to 11 are invited to read to a dog during Paws to Read this morning at the Morrison library beginning at 10:30am. Please register. More info...
• Lots of fun celebrating Kwanzaa today at Discovery Place Kids at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Lakeshore Learning hosts their Free Crafts For Kids today 11am-3pm. Today the children will make a Celebration Noise Maker. More info...
• Head to Imaginon this afternoon at 2pm for Story Explorers: Dino Story! More info...
• The Kannapolis Celebration of Lights & Winterland Express continues through December 30th. More info...

Sunday, December 28

• Head to the Charlotte Nature Museum this afternoon at 12:30pm for their Nature Trading Project. More info...
• Imaginon hosts Paws to Read this afternoon, 2-4pm. More info...
• Don't miss Discovery Place Kids' Kwanzaa this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• Ages 8 and up are invited to a Fitness Hike this afternoon at 3pm at the McDowell Nature Center. More info...

Monday, December 29

• Imaginon is the place to be this morning at 10:30am for Family Storytime. More info...
• The Mountain Island library hosts From Page to Screen: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone this afternoon at 1pm. More info...
• Head to the Main Library this evening at 7pm for a special community presentation about Kwanzaa. More info...

Save The Date:
January 9-10, 2015: Monster Jam More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.

(Christmas) Lights over Charlotte...

A Very Miller Christmas - 2014

I love, and I mean LOVE Christmas lights. I don't like to put a lot on my house (no time for that), but I absolutely love to get in the car at dusk with the Christmas music playing and head out to see "the lights". The professional displays are awesome for sure, but I really love going to individual homes, streets or neighborhoods, where individuals have poured their heart, soul and time into creating something for us all to enjoy this season. These are a few of my favorites:

      Lake Park Lights (Indian Trail) - More info...
      A Very Miller Christmas (off Colony Road) - More info...
      Hillside Hunger Holiday Drive Through - More info...

For more great local light displays, follow Rose's Christmas Light Tour Stops on Facebook...she knows them all!! More info...

Have a wonderful, happy and BRIGHT week!!

Blessings,
The Buzz

Monday, December 15

• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center this morning at 10am for Nature Story Corner. More info...
• Time to write your Letters to Santa, and you can drop them off to be delivered at Imaginon now through December 20th. More info...
• You can also send Letters to Soldiers at Imaginon through December 20th. More info...
• Don't miss SchieleVille this evening, 6-8pm at the Schiele Museum. More info...
• The bears are back! Don't miss the Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra at Founders Hall through December 26th. More info...
• Christmas at the Library runs through December 23rd at the Billy Graham Library. More info...
• The Lights of McAdenville are on tonight, and will be nightly through December 26th. More info...

Tuesday, December 16

• Don't miss Toddler Tuesdays for the last time today at Sea Life Aquarium. 1 FREE child (3-12) with an adult ticket (other children $5). More info...
• Enjoy Season of Light at the planetarium at the Schiele Museum. Tuesdays-Fridays at 3:30, and various times through the weekend. More info...
• Head to Southpark Mall's Circle Court for the annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony this afternoon, 4:30-6:30pm. More info...
• The Scaleybark library hosts Rookie Science this afternoon at 5pm for elementary ages. More info...
• Don't miss Carmel Presbyterian Church's Drive Through Christmas this evening, 6-8pm.  A QCB holiday favorite!! More info...

Wednesday, December 17

• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday: Hanukkah Traditions  at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Head to Pocket Park in Uptown for FREE Music on Wednesdays, 11:30am-1:30pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Nature Museum hosts Wild Wednesdays: Nature Trading Project today at 12:30pm. More info..
• Don't miss Homeschool Day - A Fossil Frenzy! this afternoon, 1-3pm, at the Museum of York County. Please register. More info...
• Both locations of the MINT Museum (Uptown & Randolph) offer FREE Admission today and every Wednesday, 5-9pm. More info...
• Stonecrest Shopping Center hosts the Grand Menorah Lighting Ceremony this evening at 5:30pm. More info...
• Or head to Polk Park for Chanukah @ Uptown Charlotte also this evening at 5:30pm. More info...

Thursday, December 18

• Head to Imaginon this morning at 10:30am for Family Storytime: The Polar Express. More info...
• Gingerbread Lane at Ballantyne Hotel is on display through December 28th. More info...
• You can SCHEDULE an appointment with SANTA at Southpark Mall!! More info...
• Holidays at the Garden continues at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Through December 31. More info...
• Looking to get a little more into the holiday spirit? Check out ABC Family's 25 Days of Christmas. More info...

Friday, December 19

• Holiday on Ice winter ice skating continues through January 4th. More info...
• The annual Yule Log Ceremony takes place in McAdenville this evening at 5:30, with the Christmas Town Festival following, 6-9pm. More info...
• Ride The Polar Express at The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad weekends now through January 4th. More info...
• The Christmas Wonderland of Lights at Zootastic Park continues evenings through December 31st. More info...

Saturday, December 20

• See Dinosaurs in Motion at Discovery Place in uptown Charlotte. On display through January 16th. More info...
• Lots of fun making Reindeer Food today at Discovery Place Kids at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Holiday Gift Wrapping is being offered at Southpark Mall with all proceeds benefiting the Girl Scouts Hornets Nest Council. More info...
• Lakeshore Learning hosts their Free Crafts For Kids today 11am-3pm. Today the children will make a Festive Card Holder. More info...
• The Energy Explorium presents "A Visit from Santa" this afternoon, 1-3pm. Please register. More info...
• Head to Christ Central Church for their Cinematic Christmas beginning at 3pm. FREE movies and popcorn! More info...
• Speedway Christmas continues through December 30th. More info...
• The Kannapolis Celebration of Lights & Winterland Express continues through December 30th. More info...

Sunday, December 21

• Celebrate Winter Solstice 2014  at sunrise this morning at the Schiele Museum. More info...
• The Ballantyne Jewish Center presents Chanukah Wonderland today, tomorrow and Tuesday, 11am-3pm. More info...
• Head to the Charlotte Nature Museum this afternoon at 12:30pm to learn about Active Animals. More info...
• Don't miss Discovery Place Kids' Reindeer Food this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Bronze Handbell Ensemble presents Welcome Yule! concert this afternoon at 4:30pm at Morningstar Lutheran Church. More info...

Monday, December 22

• The bears are back! Don't miss the Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra at Founders Hall through December 26th. More info...
• Christmas at the Library runs through tomorrow at the Billy Graham Library. More info...
• The Lights of McAdenville are on tonight, and will be nightly through December 26th. More info...
• The Charlotte Bronze Handbell Ensemble presents Welcome Yule! concert this afternoon at 7pm at First United Methodist Church. More info...

Save The Date:
January 9-10, 2015: Monster Jam More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.

Holiday Countdown...Make some memories at the Duke Mansion

Looking for a special holiday girlfriend gathering, mother-daughter or grandmother-granddaughter outing? The Duke Mansion has just the thing on Sunday, December 14th at 2pm. Join the fun of Holiday Tea and Shopping at the Duke Mansion. Shopping begins at 2:00 and the tea begins at 3:00. Stroll the public areas and grounds of the mansion, all decked out for the holidays. Reservations are requested by Thursday. So much fun to celebrate in style in the Queen City!

Blessings,
The Buzz

Monday, December 8

• The bears are back! Don't miss the Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra at Founders Hall through December 26th. More info...
• Christmas at the Library runs through December 23rd at the Billy Graham Library. More info...
• The Lights of McAdenville are on tonight, and will be nightly through December 26th. More info...

Tuesday, December 9

• Don't miss Toddler Tuesdays today (and Tuesdays through December 16) at Sea Life Aquarium. 1 FREE child (3-12) with an adult ticket (other children $5). More info...
• The Independence library hosts a Playdate: Community Learning Time this morning at 10:30am. More info...
• This afternoon is a FREE Tuesday at the Schiele Museum. 4:00-8:00pm. More info...
• The Scaleybark library hosts a screening of Frozen this afternoon at 5pm. More info...

Wednesday, December 10

• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday: Holiday Pet Treats at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Head to Pocket Park in Uptown for FREE Music on Wednesdays, 11:30am-1:30pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Nature Museum hosts Wild Wednesdays: Winter Sleep today at 12:30pm. More info..
• Jump Bunch comes to the University City library this afternoon at 2pm. Please register. More info...
• Both locations of the MINT Museum (Uptown & Randolph) offer FREE Admission today and every Wednesday, 5-9pm. More info...

Thursday, December 11

• Gingerbread Lane opens today at Ballantyne Hotel and is on display through December 28th. More info...
• Holidays at the Garden continues at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Through December 31. More info...
• Looking to get a little more into the holiday spirit? Check out ABC Family's 25 Days of Christmas. More info...

Friday, December 12

• Today is Day of the Dozens at Krispy Kreme. Buy one dozen original glazed, get one free with the coupon in the link. More info...
• Don't miss the 5th Annual Latke Festival at Atherton Market today. More info...
• Holiday on Ice winter ice skating continues through January 4th. More info...
• Head to the Gaston County Museum for their Holiday Open House this afternoon, 3-7pm. More info...
• Ride The Polar Express at The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad weekends now through January 4th. More info...
• The Christmas Wonderland of Lights at Zootastic Park continues evenings through December 31st. More info...

Saturday, December 13

• See Dinosaurs in Motion at Discovery Place in uptown Charlotte. On display through January 16th. More info...
• The Singing Christmas Tree for KIDS is today at 11am and 3pm at Ovens Auditorium. More info...
• Lots of fun at Healthy Holiday Snacks today at Discovery Place Kids at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Lakeshore Learning hosts their Free Crafts For Kids today 11am-3pm. Today the children will make a Welcome Winter Wreath. More info...
• Today is Geology Rocks! Family Day at the York County Museum. 12-2pm. More info...
• The Schiele Museum hosts Colonial Christmas & Candlelighting this afternoon, 2-6pm. More info...
• Head to Lowell, NC for Light Up Lowell beginning this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• Historic Brattonsville hosts Christmas Candlelight Tours this afternoon and evening, 3-9pm. More info...
• Speedway Christmas continues through December 30th. More info...
• The Kannapolis Christmas Parade steps off this evening at 6pm. More info...
• The Kannapolis Celebration of Lights & Winterland Express continues through December 30th. More info...

Sunday, December 14

• Head to the Charlotte Nature Museum this afternoon at 12:30pm for a special Teddy Bear Party. More info...
• Don't miss Discovery Place Kids' Healthy Holiday Snacks this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• The Waxhaw Christmas Parade steps off in Downtown Waxhaw this afternoon at 3pm. More info...
• Head over to the Johnson YMCA for Christmas Celebration in NoDa at 6pm. More info...

Monday, December 15

• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center this morning at 10am for Nature Story Corner. More info...
• Time to write your Letters to Santa, and you can drop them off to be delivered at Imaginon now through December 20th. More info...
• You can also send Letters to Soldiers at Imaginon through December 20th. More info...
• Don't miss SchieleVille this evening, 6-8pm at the Schiele Museum. More info...

Save The Date:
December 19: Yule Log Parade More info...
January 9-10, 2015: Monster Jam More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.

Happy December...Keep Calm, You Have 25 Days!!!

Yes ma'am...December is here! All the fun of the holidays is in full swing, and that means busy, busy, busy at my house. Maybe you started your holiday shopping in July like my Granny used to do (honestly, she probably started December 26th), or maybe you're just making your list, or maybe you just have a few hostess gifts to find, or ornaments to have for the exchange. If you have ANY shopping left to do (or even if you don't), be sure to head to Christ Church on Saturday for their Annual Christmas Bazaar. Don't miss "wonderful vendors, fantastic handcrafted gifts, fabulous holiday greenery, Christmas decorations and delicious homemade foods to get you in the Christmas spirit." The Christmas Bazaar is Saturday, December 6th, 9:30am-1:00pm. 

Blessings,
The Buzz


Monday, December 1

• The bears are back! Don't miss the Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra at Founders Hall, today through December 26th. More info...
• Head to the McDowell Nature Center this morning at 11am for their Creature Feature. More info...
• Christmas at the Library begins today and runs through December 23rd at the Billy Graham Library. More info...
• Don't miss the Annual McAdenville Tree Lighting today beginning at 4:30pm. The Lights of McAdenville are also turned on tonight, and will be nightly through December 26th. More info...

Tuesday, December 2

• Don't miss Toddler Tuesdays today (and Tuesdays through December 16) at Sea Life Aquarium. 1 FREE child (3-12) with an adult ticket (other children $5). More info...
• Founders Holiday Ice Rink is open in Rock Hill this afternoon at 3pm and until 9pm. Don't miss the fun! More info...
• Head to downtown Belmont this afternoon at 4pm for their Christmas Parade. More info...
• And also in Rock Hill, Santa Arrives to kick of ChristmasVille week! More info...

Wednesday, December 3

• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday: Gingerbread Workshop at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Head to Pocket Park in Uptown for FREE Music on Wednesdays, 11:30am-1:30pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Nature Museum hosts Wild Wednesdays: Migration Madness today at 12:30pm. More info...
• The Mount Holly Christmas Parade steps off this afternoon at 4pm. More info...
• Both locations of the MINT Museum (Uptown & Randolph) offer FREE Admission today and every Wednesday, 5-9pm. More info...

Thursday, December 4

• Christmas in Cramerton kicks things off this afternoon, followed by the parade at 4pm and the tree lighting at 5:15pm. More info...
• The York County library hosts Elves on the Shelves this afternoon, 4-6pm with FREE activities and crafts. More info...
• The Metropolitan hosts Light Up at Metropolitan today at 5:30pm and FREE! More info...
• Don't miss the lighting of the Christmas Tree at the Square in Uptown at Lights on the Square tonight, 5:30-8pm. More info...
• Head to Rock Hill for The Lighting of the Village & Opening Ceremonies for ChristmasVille that continues through Sunday. More info...
• Christmas in Davidson begins its 3 night run tonight...don't miss the fun, 6-9pm. More info...
• The 61st Annual Downtown Monroe Christmas Parade steps off this evening at 6:30pm. More info...
• The Matthews Playhouse presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever with shows tonight through Sunday night. More info...

Friday, December 5

• Holidays at the Garden continues at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Through December 31. More info...
• Holiday on Ice winter ice skating is open today and continues through January 4th. More info...
• Ride The Polar Express at The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad weekends now through January 4th. More info...
• The Christmas Wonderland of Lights at Zootastic Park continues evenings through December 31st. More info...
• The Rock Hill Christmas Parade will step off this evening at 6:30pm. More info...
• The First Friday Food Truck & Movie Night happens at 6:30 in Matthews with a screening of Elf. More info...

Saturday, December 6

• Lace up your shoes for theACC Fan 5K, More info... Reindeer Romp 5K this morning in Rock Hill. More info..., or the Girls on the Run of Gaston County 5K, More info...
• Breakfast with Santa is happening this morning at 8am at Carolina Place Mall! More info...
• Don't miss the Schiele Museum's Sounds of the Season: Student Music Festival today, 9am-4pm. More info...
• Don't miss the ChristmasVille Winter Carnival in Rock Hill today (9-4:30) and tommorow (12:30-4:30). More info...
• Shop til you drop this morning at the Christ Church Christmas Bazaar beginning at 9:30am. More info...
• See Dinosaurs in Motion at Discovery Place in uptown Charlotte. On display through January 16th. More info...
• The ACC Football Championship Game is tonight at Bank of America Stadium, with lots of fun events throughout the day! More info...
• Lots of fun at Elf on the Shelf today at Discovery Place Kids at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Lakeshore Learning hosts their Free Crafts For Kids today 11am-3pm. Today the children will make a Chilly Snowman. More info...
• Head to Phillips Place for their Winter Wonderland this afternoon, 1:00-4:00pm. More info...
• The 32nd Annual North Mecklenburg Christmas Parade steps off in Davidson this afternoon at 1pm. More info...
• Don't miss Historic Brattonsville's Christmas Candlelight Tours today, 3:00-9:00pm. More info...
• Downtown Matthews hosts their Hometown Holiday Festival beginning this afternoon at 3pm. More info...
• Speedway Christmas continues through December 30th. More info...
• The Kannapolis Celebration of Lights & Winterland Express continues through December 30th. More info...
• Head to downtown Monroe for their Christmas Tree Lighting beginning at 6pm. More info...

Sunday, December 7

• Head to the Charlotte Nature Museum this afternoon at 12:30pm for a special program about Migratory Challenges. More info...
• Don't miss Discovery Place Kids' Elf on the Shelf this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• The 67th Annual Gastonia Christmas Parade begins this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• Rock Hill hosts the ChristmasVille Grand Finale today beginning at 4pm and ending with fireworks! More info...

Monday, December 8

• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center this morning at 10am for Nature Story Corner. More info...
• Time to write your Letters to Santa, and you can drop them off to be delivered at Imaginon now through December 20th. More info...
• You can also send Letters to Soldiers at Imaginon through December 20th. More info...

Save The Date:
December 13: The Singing Christmas Tree for Kids More info...
December 15: SchieleVille More info...
January 9-10, 2015: Monster Jam More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.More info..

Happy Thanksgiving Week!

It's Thanksgiving week!! Hope you get to spend some super fun, low stress time with family friends. I also hope you'll take some time to pause during the hustle and bustle and remember all the things we have to be thankful for. The Queen City has lots to offer to all of us, and I'm so thankful for that!! And, just for fun, I'm sharing a newly discovered cocktail recipe that might be perfect for your festivities (see below)! Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Blessings,
The Buzz

Monday, November 24

• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center this morning at 10am for their Nature Story Corner. More info...
• Imaginon hosts Family Storytime this morning at 10:30am. More info...

Tuesday, November 25

• Don't miss Toddler Tuesdays today (and Tuesdays through December 16) at Sea Life Aquarium. 1 FREE child (3-12) with an adult ticket (other children $5). More info...
• Boys in grades 2 to 5 are invited to the Cornelius library at 4:30pm for Boys Will Be Boys. More info...
• Head to the Scaleybark library this afternoon at 5pm for Now Showing: A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. More info...

Wednesday, November 26

• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday: Turkey Treats at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Head to Pocket Park in Uptown for FREE Music on Wednesdays, 11:30am-1:30pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Nature Museum hosts Wild Wednesdays: Mountains & Caves today at 12:30pm. More info...
• Both locations of the MINT Museum (Uptown & Randolph) offer FREE Admission today and every Wednesday, 5-9pm. More info...
• Don't miss the Inaugural Carolina Panthers Tree Lighting outside of Bank of America Stadium. 6:00-7:30pm. More info...

Thursday, November 27 - Happy Thanksgiving!

• The Novant Health Thanksgiving Day Parade steps off this morning in downtown Charlotte at 9:30am. More info...
• If you burn the turkey (or just don't feel like cooking in the first place), there are lots of Charlotte Restaurants open today for your dining pleasure! More info...

Friday, November 28

• Today and tomorrow experience Plantation Christmas at Latta Plantation. 10am-4pm both days. More info...
• Ages 6 and up are invited for a Gratitude Hike at the Reedy Creek Nature Center, this morning at 10am (More info...) and this afternoon at 2:30pm (More info...) 
• Holidays at the Garden continues at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Through December 31. More info...
• Historic Brattonsville hosts Cotton Picking Days today and tomorrow, 10am-4pm. More info...
• Head to the Schiele Museum today at 11am and 2pm for their Giving Thanks to Animals program. More info...
• Holiday on Ice winter ice skating is open today and continues through January 4th. More info...
• Ride The Polar Express at The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad weekends now through January 4th. More info...
• The Christmas Wonderland of Lights at Zootastic Park continues evenings through December 31st. More info...
• Head to downtown Waxhaw for their Holiday Festival of Lights this evening, 6-9pm. More info...

Saturday, November 29

• Head to your local Home Depot today for their Kids Workshop: How To Build a Give and Save Bank. 9am-12pm. More info...
• See Dinosaurs in Motion at Discovery Place in uptown Charlotte. On display through January 16th. More info...
• Lots of fun at I Can Create Healthy Art today at Discovery Place Kids at 10:45am and 1:45pm. More info...
• Lakeshore Learning hosts their Free Crafts For Kids today 11am-3pm. Today the children will make a Cool Catch Penguin. More info...
• Don't miss Light Up Cornelius this afternoon and evening, 4-6pm with fun for the whole family. More info...
• Head to Kannapolis this evening for their Annual Tree Lighting beginning at 6pm. More info...
• Lace up your shoes for the Christmastown 5K through the heart of McAdenville (and all the lights) this evening at 6pm. More info...
• Speedway Christmas continues through December 30th. More info...
• The Kannapolis Celebration of Lights & Winterland Express begins this evening and runs through December 30th. More info...

Sunday, November 30

• Head to the Charlotte Nature Museum this afternoon at 12:30pm for a special program about Biome Mix Up. More info...
• Don't miss Discovery Place Kids' I Can Create Healthy Art this afternoon at 1:45pm. More info...

Monday, December 1

• The bears are back! Don't miss the Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra at Founders Hall, today through December 26th. More info...
• Head to the McDowell Nature Center this morning at 11am for their Creature Feature. More info...
• Christmas at the Library begins today and runs through December 23rd at the Billy Graham Library. More info...
• Don't miss the Annual McAdenville Tree Lighting today beginning at 4:30pm. The Lights of McAdenville are also turned on tonight, and will be nightly through December 26th. More info...

Save The Date:
December 6: Breakfast with Santa More info...
December 6: Christ Church Christmas Bazaar More info...
December 13: The Singing Christmas Tree for Kids More info...
January 9-10, 2015: Monster Jam More info...

APPLE CIDER SANGRIA

1 1/2 cups cinnamon simple syrup*

1 box Black Box white wine (I used Pinot Grigio.)

2 cups Apple Pie Moonshine (the legal kind from the ABC store)

1 1/2 cups ginger liqueur

4 cups apple cider

1 cup grapes, sliced in half

4 apples, cubed

4 pears, cubed

8 – 10 cinnamon sticks

Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher or beverage server, cover, and refrigerate for 2 hours or up to 2 days. Serve over ice and garnish with fruit if desired.

*Bring 1 cup sugar, 2 cups water, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon to a simmer over medium-high heat until sugar is completely dissolved. Allow syrup to cool completely.

Adapted from THIS Inspired by Charm recipe.

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.More info..

Ready or Not...The Holidays are HERE!

Whether you like it or not, the holidays have arrived in Charlotte. Santa has set up shop at the area malls, all the big stores are decorated to the nines, and the Christmas tree lots are putting up their fences and lights as we speak. Thanksgiving is NEXT Thursday, and Christmas is a mere 39 days away! Black Friday ads are on TV, and you can find all of the sale circulars online. I feel like it comes earlier every year!! On a positive note, all of the fun holiday family events and traditions are about to start...lots of fun holiday events happening this week. Merry, merry, y'all!!

Blessings,
The Buzz

Monday, November 17

• Leftover Luxuries' "pop up" warehouse sale is open today...continues through the 22nd. More info...
• The Mint Hill library offers Sensory Storytime this morning at 11:15am. More info...
• Elementary ages are invited to the Sugar Creek library this afternoon at 3:45pm for Afternoon Adventures. More info...
• Don't miss Native American History & Culture this evening at 6pm at the Scaleybark library. More info...

Tuesday, November 18

• Barnes & Noble Morrison hosts Love Monster & the Perfect Present Storytime this morning at 11am. More info..., also at the Carolina Place location. More info...
• Head to Imaginon this morning at 11:30 to see a Puppet Show. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a morning downtown. More info...
• Don't miss Toddler Tuesdays today (and Tuesdays through December 16) at Sea Life Aquarium. 1 FREE child (3-12) with an adult ticket (other children $5). More info...
• The Library Foundation Friends Council is hosting a Book Drive this evening at Chick-Fil-a Southend from 6 to 8pm. More info...

Wednesday, November 19

• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday: Toddler Movement at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Head to Pocket Park in Uptown for FREE Music on Wednesdays, 11:30am-1:30pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Nature Museum hosts Wild Wednesdays: Ocean Adventure today at 12:30pm. More info...
• If you homeschool, head to the Museum of York County today at 1pm for Homeschool Day: Predator or Prey. Please register. More info...
• The South County library hosts an American Girl Book Club this afternoon at 4:15pm. Please register. More info...
• Both locations of the MINT Museum (Uptown & Randolph) offer FREE Admission today and every Wednesday, 5-9pm. More info...

Thursday, November 20

• Ages 7 to 12 are invited on a Muddy Boots Fieldtrip today, 9am-4pm...perfect for homeschool families. Please register. More info... 
• The Museum of York County opens a new exhibit today. Check out On Holiday With Santa. More info...
• Head to the West Blvd. library this afternoon at 4pm for a Community Service Project benefiting the Charlotte Rescue Mission. More info... 
• Chick-Fil-a at Cotswold hosts Family Game Night today, 5-7pm. Don't miss the fun! More info...
• Kids eat FREE tonight at Earth Fare locations!!More info...

Friday, November 21

• St. Nick's Sack Toy Sale begins this morning in Huntersville!! More info...
• Bundle up and head to the Latta Plantation Nature Center for their Friday Morning Hike. More info...
• Holidays at the Garden begins today at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Through December 31. More info...
• Head to Southpark's Symphony Park beginning at 5pm for their Annual Tree Lighting at Symphony Park. More info...
• Holiday on Ice winter ice skating kicks off today and continues through January 4th. More info...
• Ride The Polar Express at The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad weekends now through January 4th. More info...
• Don't miss Downtown Concord's Annual Tree Lighting this evening, 5:30-7:30pm. More info...
• Beginning at 6pm this evening, enjoy the 6th Annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Piedmont Town Center. More info...
• The Christmas Wonderland of Lights begins tonight at Zootastic Park, and continues evenings through December 31st. More info...
• Lace up shoes for a nighttime run at the 2nd Annual Eggnog Jog 5K at Charlotte Motor Speedway. More info...

Saturday, November 22

• See Dinosaurs in Motion at Discovery Place in uptown Charlotte. On display through January 16th. More info...
• Looking for a unique holiday gift for the kids? Head to Barnes & Noble - Arboretum this morning at 10am for the ABC Charlotte Author Signing Event. More info... 
• Don't miss Harvest Day today at the Schiele Museum, 10am-4pm. More info...
• The Scaleybark library hosts Poetry & Pancakes this morning at 10:30am. More info...
• The Carolina Renaissance Festival  continues Saturdays and Sundays through tomorrow. More info...
• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center today at 11am for Feathers and Friends. More info...
• Lots of fun activities including a Thanksgiving Snack today at Discovery Place Kids at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Learn to Draw like Mo Willems today at 11am at Barnes & Noble - Morrison. More info..., and the Arboretum location, More info...
• Lakeshore Learning hosts their Free Crafts For Kids today 11am-3pm. Today the children will make a Giving Thanks Centerpiece. More info...
• Barnes & Noble - Morrison hosts Puppet Making & Holiday Sing-Along this afternoon at 1pm for ages 4 and up. More info..., also at the Arboretum location. More info...
• Imaginon hosts Story Explorers: We're Talking Turkey this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• The 85th Annual Concord Christmas Parade steps off this afternoon at 2:30pm. More info...
• Speedway Christmas opens this evening and continues through December 30th. More info...

Sunday, November 23

• Don't miss The Nutcracker Ballet at Barnes & Noble this afternoon at the Arboretum location at 12:30pm. 
• Head to the Charlotte Nature Museum this afternoon at 12:30pm for a special program about Great Grasslands. More info...
• Ages 4 and up are invited to Barnes & Noble - Morrison at 1pm for their Snowmen at Night Storytime. More info..., also at the Arboretum location. More info...
• Don't miss Discovery Place Kids' Thanksgiving Snack this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• The Reedy Creek Nature Center hosts their Feeding Frenzy this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• Barnes & Noble - Carolina Place hosts LEGO Storytime this afternoon at 3pm. More info...

Monday, November 24

• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center this morning at 10am for their Nature Story Corner. More info...
• Imaginon hosts Family Storytime this morning at 10:30am. More info...

Save The Date:
November 27: Novant Thanksgiving Day Parade More info...
December 6: Breakfast with Santa More info...
December 6: Christ Church Christmas Bazaar More info...
December 13: The Singing Christmas Tree for Kids More info...
January 9-10, 2015: Monster Jam More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.More info..

Giveaways Galore!!

The Charlotte Warehouse Sale returns to Charlotte again this week. Don't miss your chance to shop for NEW women's clothing, shoes and accessories. One lucky QCB reader will win a $50 gift certificate!! Head over to our Facebook Page for details...enter by Tuesday at 11:59pm.

Also on our Facebook Page Monday morning, we'll be doing a giveaway for the Charlotte Leftover Luxuries Sale we told you about last week. The sale opens to the public on Friday morning, but 5 lucky QCB readers will win a pass to the Private Pre-Sale on Thursday evening! Enter by 9pm Wednesday.

What a fun shopping week!!

Blessings,
The Buzz

Monday, November 10

• Ages 3 and up are invited to the Reedy Creek Nature Center for Nature Story Corner this morning at 10am. More info...
• Head to the Sugar Creek Library today at 3:45pm for their Afternoon Adventures. More info...
• Elementary ages are invited to the West Boulevard library this afternoon at 4pm for Comic Creations. More info...

Tuesday, November 11 - Veteran's Day

• NO SCHOOL for CMS!
• School's out and elementary ages are invited to Play The Day Away at the Tom Sykes Rec Center. More info...
• Discovery Place Kids hosts Veteran's Appreciation with FREE admission for military and veterans, and discounted admission for family members. More info.... The same applies at the Charlotte Nature Museum as well. More info...
• Don't miss Toddler Tuesdays today (and Tuesdays through December 16) at Sea Life Aquarium. 1 FREE child (3-12) with an adult ticket (other children $5). More info...
• Head to Mooresville today for their Veteran's Day Parade & Celebration beginning at 11am. More info...
• The Myers Park library hosts Veteran's Day Scavenger Hunts for Kids beginning at 11:30am. More info...
• Today is a FREE Tuesday at the Schiele Museum with FREE admission this afternoon, 4-8pm. More info...
• The Steele Creek library hosts their Tween Art Club this afternoon at 4pm for ages 8 to 11. More info...

Wednesday, November 12

• Today is Homeschool Living History Day at the Gaston County Museum, 9:30am-12pm. More info...
• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday: Healthy Art at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Head to Pocket Park in Uptown for FREE Music on Wednesdays, 11:30am-1:30pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Nature Museum hosts Wild Wednesdays: Polar Plunge today at 12:30pm. More info...
• Both locations of the MINT Museum (Uptown & Randolph) offer FREE Admission today and every Wednesday, 5-9pm. More info...
• Elementary ages are invited to the University City library this evening at 6:30pm for Rookie Science. More info...

Thursday, November 13

• The Morrison library hosts Creating with Books: Foxes this afternoon at 4pm for elementary ages. More info...
• Head to the South County library this afternoon at 4:15pm for Reader's Theater: Drama Rama. Please register. More info...
• Preschool and elementary ages are invited to the Beatties Ford library this evening at 6:30pm for Story Explorers. More info...
• Kids eat FREE tonight at Earth Fare locations!!More info...

Friday, November 14

• Leftover Luxuries opens their "pop up" warehouse sale today...continues through the 22nd. More info...
• Head to the Mint Hill library this afternoon at 3:30 for Story Explorers. Please register. More info...
• Ride The Polar Express at The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad weekends now through January 4th. More info...
• Ages 5 and up are invited to a Campfire Roast this evening at 5:30pm at the Reedy Creek Nature Center. More info...
• Or head to the McDowell Nature Center at 6pm for their Friday Night Campfire. More info...
• The Charlotte Folk Society offers a FREE concert this evening at 7:30pm at The Great Aunt Stella Center. More info...
• Marvel Universe LIVE opens today with shows through Sunday. More info...

Saturday, November 15

• Lace up your shoes for the AIM at Melanoma Walk this morning at Freedom Park. More info...
• Head to the Charlotte Nature Museum for their Fall Fest today, 10am-1pm. More info...
• See Dinosaurs in Motion at Discovery Place in uptown Charlotte. On display through January 16th. More info...
• The James K. Polk Historic Site celebrates their Grand Re-Opening today, 10am-4pm. More info...
• Don't miss Thanksgiving Storytime this morning at 11am at Barnes & Noble - Morrison. More info..., also at the Carolina Place location at 11am. More info..., and Birkdale at 11am. More info...
• The Carolina Renaissance Festival  continues Saturdays and Sundays through November 23rd. More info...
• Lots of fun activities with Huntersville Animal Care Hospital today at Discovery Place Kids at 11am. More info...
• Lakeshore Learning hosts their Free Crafts For Kids today 11am-3pm. Today the children will make a Family Picture Tree. More info...
• Don't miss the Fireside Chat this afternoon at 2pm at the Reedy Creek Nature Center. More info...
• Santa Arrives at Bass Pro Shop at Concord Mills this evening...the fun begins at 5pm. More info...

Sunday, November 16

• Head to the Charlotte Nature Museum this afternoon at 12:30pm for a special program about Freshwater Wonders. More info...
• Celebrate America Recycles Day today at the Museum of York County with FREE activities, 1-4pm. More info...
• The Reedy Creek Nature Center hosts Turbo Turtles this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• Don't miss the McDowell Nature Center's Animal Encounter Show this afternoon at 2pm. More info...

Monday, November 17

• Don't miss Native American History & Culture this evening at 6pm at the Scaleybark library. More info...

Save The Date:
December 6: Christ Church Christmas Bazaar More info...
December 13: The Singing Christmas Tree for Kids More info...
January 9-10, 2015: Monster Jam More info...

Have an event or happening that The Queen City Buzz should know about? Email queencitybuzz@gmail.com with details.More info..