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..

Leftover Luxuries

Leftover Luxuries returns to Charlotte later this month. If you haven't been before, you do not want to miss this "Pop Up" Warehouse Sale, November 14-22. This sale will be located in South End at the Acquisitions Warehouse. If you have items you'd like to consign, please contact the Charlotte sale representative, Heather Griffith at heather@leftoverluxuries.com. Definitely mark your calendar and follow them on Facebook for updates!

Blessings,

The Buzz 

Monday, November 3

• Ages 5 and under are invited to Ray's Splash Planet for a Parent & Tot Meet and Greet, 10am-3pm. More info...
• Homeschoolers ages 9 to 13 are invited to the Latta Plantation Nature Center for Catawba Studies this afternoon, 1-4pm. More info...

Tuesday, November 4 - Election Day - VOTE!

• 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 Gaston County Museum hosts Terrific Toddler Tuesday: Turkey Time this morning at 10am, and designed for ages 2 to 5. More info...
• Elementary ages are invited to the American Girl Book Club: Josefina this afternoon at 4pm at the Mint Hill library. More info...
• Ages 3 to 11 are invited to the Matthews library at 4:30pm for Excerpts from Suessical, The Musical. Please register. More info...

Wednesday, November 5

• Family Storytime in Midwood Park happens this morning at 10:30am. More info...
• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday: Fitness Fun 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: Jungle Madness today at 12:30pm. More info...
• The University City library hosts Sensory Storytime this afternoon at 2pm. More info...
• Both locations of the MINT Museum (Uptown & Randolph) offer FREE Admission today and every Wednesday, 5-9pm. More info...

Thursday, November 6

• Ages 10 to 13 are invited to the Latta Plantation Nature Center for their Muddy Boots Club this afternoon at 1pm. More Info...
• Celebrate National Wildlife Day this afternoon at 3:30pm at the McDowell Nature Center. More info...
• For girls ages 8 to 12, the Hickory Grove library hosts Girls, Let's Journal this afternoon at 4pm. More info...
• Don't miss the LEGO Program this afternoon at 4pm at the Matthews library for ages 5 to 11. Please register. More info...
• Head to the Morrison library this evening at 7pm for their Family Storytime: Pajama Party. More info...

Friday, November 7

• Imaginon hosts Family Storytime  this morning at 10:30am. Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic downtown. More info...
• Don't miss First Friday Fort Mill beginning this afternoon at 4pm. Fun for the whole family. More info...
• The McDowell Nature Center hosts a Friday Night Campfire this evening at 6pm. More info...
• Barnes & Noble at Carolina Place hosts Fabulous Friday Pajamarama Storytime this evening at 7pm. More info...

Saturday, November 8

• Ages 6 and up are invited to the Reedy Creek Nature Center at 10am for Leaf Art. More info...
• The US Airways Salute to Veterans Parade steps off in Uptown Charlotte today at 11am. More info...
• Head to Barnes & Noble - Morrison this morning at 11am for their Paddington Bear Storytime. More info..., also at the Carolina Place location at 11am. More info...
• See Dinosaurs in Motion at Discovery Place in uptown Charlotte. On display through January 16th. More info...
• The Schiele Museum hosts The Power of Water today at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• The Carolina Renaissance Festival  continues Saturdays and Sundays through November 23rd. More info...
• Lots of fun activities at Apple Tasting 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 Harvest Headdress. More info...
• Don't miss Dinosaur Day today 12-2pm at the Museum of York County. More info...
• Ages 4 and up are invited to CSI: Critter Scene Investigations at the Latta Plantation Nature Center at 3pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Museum of History hosts the Backcountry Beer Fest this afternoon at 5pm. More info...
  

Sunday, November 9

• Today is Family Day at the Bechtler this afternoon from noon to 4:30pm with FREE admission for kids. More info...
• Head to the Charlotte Nature Museum this afternoon at 12:30pm for a special program about Deserts. More info...
• Ages 9 to 13 are invited to the McDowell Nature Center for Fall Colors at 2pm. More info...
• Ages 6 and up are invited to make Natural Bird Feeders this afternoon at 2pm at the Reedy Creek Nature Center. More info...
• Yo Gabba Gabba LIVE comes to Ovens Auditorium with shows today at 2pm and 5pm. More info...
  

Monday, November 10

• Elementary ages are invited to the West Boulevard library this afternoon at 4pm for Comic Creations. More info...

Save The Date:
November 12: Homeschool Living History Day More info...
November 14-16: Marvel Universe LIVE More info...
November 14-22: Leftover Luxuries Sale 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..

Teal Pumpkin Project this Halloween

My "Teal Pumpkin Project" in progress.

Happy Halloween week to all. Time for carving the pumpkins (or the second one if your first one already rotted), buying the candy (or restocking after you've eaten it all), and setting out the costumes for the kids (where in the world did that Ironman glove go missing?).

Halloween is such a fun time of year for kids of all ages. A lot of the focus is on the candy, and for some kids, that's tough. Two of my three kids have life-threatening food allergies, so we trick or treat without eating any treats along the way (unless I bring something from home), go home, sort through the stash, and keep the "safe" candies. This year, FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) started the "Teal Pumpkin Project" in an effort to spread awareness, and make the holiday a little less stressful for allergy kids and allergy moms. Check out the info HERE, and consider taking part if it works for you...you don't have to give up handing out candy, but you might consider adding something to your treat bowl this year! Hope you have a very happy and SAFE Halloween.

Blessings,
The Buzz

Monday, October 27

• It's FREE Coffee Monday at Chick-Fil-A. More info...
• Head to the Reedy Creek Nature Center this morning at 10am for Nature Story Corner. More info...
• It's Pajama Movie Night tonight at 6pm at the Myers Park library with a screening of Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. More info...

Tuesday, October 28

• 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 Plaza Midwood library presents Family Storytime in Midwood Park this morning at 10:30am. More info...
• Elementary ages are invited to the Mountain Island library this afternoon at 4:30pm for Afternoon Adventures: Ready Animator. More info...
• Boys in grades 2 to 5 are invited to the Cornelius library at 4:30pm for Boys Will be Boys. More info...
• The University City library is hosting a Fall Festival this afternoon, 4:30-6pm. More info... 

Wednesday, October 29

• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday: Science Lab 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: Crabby Crustaceans 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...

Thursday, October 30

• The South County library hosts their Fall Festival for ages 5 and under this morning, 10am-12pm. More info...
• Imaginon also hosts their Fall Festival this morning at 11am. More info...
• Head to the Morrison library this afternoon at 2pm for their Fall Festival. Costumes welcome. More info...
• Ages 8 to 11 are invited to the Mountain Island library today at 4:30pm for Internet Basics for Kids. Please register. More info...
• The Shoppes at University Place continue their Fall Concert Series this evening, 6-9pm with music from Trial By Fire (Journey Tribute). More info...

Friday, October 31 - Happy Halloween!

• Wear your costume to Krispy Kreme today and get a FREE doughnut. More info...
• Don't miss getting your FREE Scary Face Pancakes for kids 12 and under today! More info...
• Test your directional skills at the Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze...now open weekends through November 2. More info...
• Hall Family Farm is now open for their fall season...pumpkins, hayrides, corn maze, and some AMAZING apple cider donuts!! More info...
• Lots of fun activities for Halloween today at Discovery Place Kids at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• FREE Halloween Activities wrap up today at Bass Pro Shops. More info...
• Don't miss Trick-or-Treat on the Square in downtown Dallas this evening, 5-7pm. More info...
• Head to Northlake Mall this evening for Mall-o-Ween, 5-7pm. More info...
• Wear your costume to Chipotle this evening, 5pm to close and grab some $3 menu specials for their Boorito celebration. More info...
• Definitely best for older kids and adults, Scarowinds is now open weekends. More info...

Saturday, November 1

• Piedmont Progressive Preschool presents the Enchanted Fall Festival today 11am-3pm with fun for the whole family. More info...
• See Dinosaurs in Motion at Discovery Place in uptown Charlotte. On display through January 16th. More info...
• The Carolina Renaissance Festival  continues Saturdays and Sundays through November 23rd. More info...
• Head to Discovery Place Kids for Community Yoga at 11am. More info...
• Lakeshore Learning hosts their Free Crafts For Kids today 11am-3pm. Today the children will make a Scarecrow Puppet. More info...
• Memorial Stadium is the place to be this afternoon for the Classroom Central Field Day, 1-4pm. More info...
• Opera Carolina hosts an Open House at their new homestead in Elizabeth. 2-5pm. More info...
• Hike off some of that candy this afternoon at the Reedy Creek Nature Center's Fall Harvest Hike at 2:30pm. More info...
• Ages 5 and up are invited to McDowell's Crafty Corner this afternoon at the McDowell Nature Center at 3pm. More info...

Sunday, November 2

• Enjoy FREE admission this afternoon at the Levine Museum of the New South's Day of the Dead Festival of Souls. 12-4pm. More info...
• The Charlotte Nature Museum hosts Temperate Forests today at 12:30pm. More info...
• Ages 6 and up are invited to the Reedy Creek Nature Center today at 2pm for Outrageous Owls. More info...
• Ages 5 and up are invited to Spider Hunting this afternoon at 2pm at the Latta Plantation Nature Center. More info...
• Head to the Main Street Children's Museum this afternoon at 3pm for their OWL Book Club featuring author Caroline Combs. More info...

Monday, November 3

• Homeschoolers ages 9 to 13 are invited to the Latta Plantation Nature Center for Catawba Studies this afternoon, 1-4pm. More info...

Save The Date:
November 9: Yo Gabba Gabba LIVE More info...
November 14-16: Marvel Universe LIVE 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..

Green Jeans Sale in LKN

The Green Jeans Consignment Sale for Women and Teens returns to Lake Norman this week. Don't miss your chance to score great deals on clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories. Everything to outfit yourself for Fall and Winter under one roof. The sale opens to the public on Wednesday, but you can shop early at the Charity Pre-Sale on Tuesday night. The shopping continues through Sunday afternoon. Don't miss the shopping fun!

Blessings,

The Buzz

Monday, October 20

• It's FREE Coffee Monday at Chick-Fil-A. More info...
• The Mint Hill library hosts a Sensory Storytime this morning at 11:15am for children with special needs. More info...
• Ages 3 to 5 are invited to Creating with Books this afternoon at 2pm at the University library. More info...
• Don't miss Learn, Connect, Play: Board Games this afternoon at Imaginon at 3pm. For elementary ages. More info...
  

Tuesday, October 21

• 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...
• Ages 8 to 11 are invited to the Matthews library for their Preteen Book Club this afternoon at 4:30pm. More info...
• Head to the Scaleybark library this afternoon at 5pm for a screening of It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. More info...
  

Wednesday, October 22

• Discovery Place Kids hosts Wonderful Wednesday: Halloween Sensory 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: Miss Spider's Tea Party 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...

Thursday, October 23

• Happy Birthday, Discovery Place Kids-Huntersville! Celebrate with special activities today beginning at 11am. More info...
• The Shoppes at University Place continue their Fall Concert Series this evening, 6-9pm with music from Too Much Sylvia. More info...
• Ages 2 to 5 are invited to the Morrison library for Family Storytime: Pajama Party  this evening at 7pm. More info...

Friday, October 24

• Test your directional skills at the Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze...now open weekends through November 2. More info...
• Hall Family Farm is now open for their fall season...pumpkins, hayrides, corn maze, and some AMAZING apple cider donuts!! More info...
• Head to the Schiele Museum this evening to experience their Schiele Trail-O-Treats. 6-8pm. More info...
• FREE Halloween Activities begin today at Bass Pro Shops and continue through Halloween. More info...
• Head to Davidson for their annual Halloween March beginning at 5pm. More info...
• Promenade on Providence hosts Movies on the Green this evening with trick-or-treating and a screening of Monsters University. More info...
• Ages 8 and up are invited to the Reedy Creek Nature Center for Creepy Crawly Critter-ween this evening, 6-9pm. More info...
• Definitely best for older kids and adults, Scarowinds is now open weekends. More info...

Saturday, October 25

• Lace up your shoes for the Brookhaven Family Fun Run today. More info...
• Don't miss the Civil War Reenactment this weekend at Historic Brattonsville. More info...
• The Turkish Festival of Charlotte happens today 11am-5pm. More info...
• See Dinosaurs in Motion at Discovery Place in uptown Charlotte. On display through January 16th. More info...
• The Carolina Renaissance Festival  continues Saturdays and Sundays through November 23rd. More info...
• Don't miss the Kaleidoscope Cultural Arts Festival today in downtown Kannapolis. More info...
• Rivergate Shopping Center hosts Trick Or Treating with their retailers today, 11am-1pm. More info...
• Head to Discovery Place Kids for Science Potion at 11am and 2pm. More info...
• Lakeshore Learning hosts their Free Crafts For Kids today 11am-3pm. Today the children will make a Spooky Sweets Holder. More info...
• Head to Rural Hill to check out Halloween Fun this afternoon, 12-3pm. More info...
• Don't miss the South End Fall Festival this afternoon 4-7pm. Lots of fun for the whole family. More info...
• The McDowell Nature Center hosts Nature at Night this evening with activities for all ages. More info...
  

Sunday, October 26

• The Charlotte Nature Museum hosts Get Wormy today at 12:30pm. More info...
• Ages 6 and up are invited to the Latta Plantation Nature Center for a Paddling Tour of Mountain Island Lake this afternoon at 1pm. More info...
• Ages 4 to 8 are invited to the McMillan Greenhouse at UNCC for Plant Costumes this afternoon at 1:30pm. Please register. More info...
• Head to Discovery Place Kids for Science Potion, today at 2pm. More info...
• The Reedy Creek Nature Center provides activities during their Open Classroom session today, 2-4pm. More info...
• Don;t miss Look, Listen & Learn in the Garden this afternoon at 3pm at Freedom Park. Please register. More info...

Monday, October 27

• It's FREE Coffee Monday at Chick-Fil-A. More info...

Save The Date:
November 1: Enchanted Fall Festival More info...
November 9: Yo Gabba Gabba LIVE More info...
November 14-16: Marvel Universe LIVE 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..