With the summer months coming into full swing, the Lake Norman area becomes jam-packed with events you don’t want to miss. Cornelius, Davidson, and Huntersville all provide a variety of events that are fun for all ages. From farmers' markets and outdoor music to performing arts and Fourth of July celebrations, make sure to free your plans and enjoy these great events in Lake Norman this summer!
Farmers’ Markets
Farmers’ Markets provide a direct connection to local vendors in the Lake Norman and Charlotte area including nurseries, bakeries, farms, specialty food producers and more. They offer locals and visitors the opportunity to purchase fresh goods throughout the summer. Two markets located in the area include the Huntersville Growers’ Market and the Davidson Farmers’ Market. Both markets are open every Saturday throughout the summer, Davidson Farmers’ Market is open from 9 am-12 pm and the Growers’ Market runs from 8 am-12 pm. The Growers' Market is also open on Tuesdays from 9 am-1 pm.
After you’re finished shopping at the Huntersville Growers’ Market you can visit Discovery Place Kids, grab lunch at one of the downtown restaurants, or enjoy a cold drink at Crafty Beer Guys. Both markets welcome and encourage children to come along!
Performing Arts
If you’re interested in the Arts, Lake Norman has a great theater offering shows this summer.
The Davidson Community Players produce a five play-season including two summer shows at Davidson College. Also, DCP offers youth classes and workshops for theater arts and performance opportunities. This summer, they are presenting the show “Mary Poppins”, which will be recurring weekly from June 22nd-July 2nd. Following will be the show “The Explorer's Club” from July 20th-July 30th.
Fourth of July Celebrations
One of the most popular days for summer celebrations, the Fourth of July, brings some family-friendly events to attend! Birkdale Village is holding their July 4th Celebration which will include bike decorating, a bike parade, and a Block Party in the Grove with magicians, special performers, face painting, and more!
Downtown Davidson will also be holding their 4th of July parade that will feature a color guard, fire engine, and lots of patriotic residents. Bring your family dressed in red, white, and blue, to watch the parade or join in with decorated bikes, wagons, and pets to march down Main Street!
For more details, make sure to check out our July 4th Events page.
Outdoor Movies
Instead of binging a Netflix series indoors, take advantage of these summer nights and enjoy a movie under the stars!
Cornelius’ “Outdoor Cinema Series” show their movies on an inflatable “blimp” screen, with concessions available to purchase. Movies begin at dusk, (approximately 8:30pm) at various locations. The lineup includes “Top Gun Maverick” (June 3rd, Adult Night Out 18+)) in Smithville Park, "Finding Nemo" (August 19th) in Wilhelm Park, and “TBD” (October 28th) in Bailey Road Park.
In Huntersville, “Movies in the Park” is held at Veterans Park. Upcoming film dates are June 6th, July 14th, August 11th, and October 28th. Film selections are coming soon. All movies start 5 to 15 minutes after sunset and you can purchase drinks, candy, and popcorn.
All of the movies are free to attend so bring your family and friends as you step up your movie experience!
Festivals
In Old Town Cornelius, “2nd Friday Street Festival” promises an action-packed lineup of live music, activities, food trucks, craft breweries, special performances, local artists & craftsmen, and much more! This event is rain or shine from 6-10 pm at Oak Street Mill. Mark your calendar to go to this festival series you don’t want to miss! This event will be continuing on the 2nd Friday of every month until October.
Second Saturdays @ the Square are free concerts that take place on the second Saturday of the month until October, from 6-9 pm, at South Main Square on the Deck of The Crazy Pig in Davidson. Bring your friends, family, chairs or blankets, and a picnic to comfortably enjoy your night. This summer's lineup is to be announced.
You also don’t want to miss Second Saturdays @ D9 Brewing Lake Norman. Join them all summer long for beer, food, and free music from 3-8pm.
Lake Norman is a great place for family and friends to come together. As always, don’t forget to share your experience and tag us in your posts on Facebook or Instagram @VisitLakeNorman