From big events, to local favorites, to new experiences, 2026 has it all around Lake Norman. This updated 2026 guide highlights some of the biggest festivals, live music nights, and family-friendly celebrations happening throughout the year, all in one place. Browse the event listings below and start planning your next trip with friends or family!

1. Earth Jam 

April 18 @ 4-7pm | Robbins Park

Earth Jam 2026 marks the Town of Cornelius' annual Earth Day celebration, featuring a full day of family-friendly activities focused on the environment and sustainability. Participants of all ages will enjoy free "green" activities, including arts & crafts, tree planting demonstrations, nature walks, live music, wildlife habitat improvements, and more!

Stroll around the booths to explore sustainable products on display and learn more about how local community members and businesses are working to preserve the area's ecosystem. With plenty of hands-on experiences and opportunities to explore eco-friendly ideas, Earth Jam brings the community together to celebrate Earth Day and highlight simple and easy ways to help protect the planet.

Earth Jam
Town of Cornelius

2. Loch Norman Highland Games 

April 18-19 | Rural Hill

Loch Norman Highland GamesThe Loch Norman Highland Games feature an annual two-day celebration full of fun and Scottish culture for the whole family. Watch world-ranked professional heavy athletes perform in seven traditional Scottish events that include throwing a battle axe, shooting long bows, and throwing weights for distance and height. There will be plenty of opportunities to experience all the festivities of Scottish culture like bagpipe bands, Highland dancing, and a variety of food and drink options like haggis and whiskey! Confirmed vendors include Celtic shops and Scottish food trucks. 

For the kids, make sure to pick up a passport that allows them to learn about Scottish heritage and traditions by going to tents representing different parts of Scotland. Music and dance performances will also be happening throughout the two-day event, making it an exciting weekend from start to finish. Tickets are now available, with options to camp overnight across from the main festival site. 

3. ‘Tawba Walk Arts & Music Festival 

April 25 | September date TBD @ 2-8pm | Oak Street Mill

'Tawba Walk is a free, multidimensional art crawl that snakes through the heart of Cornelius, featuring dozens of local vendors, live street performances, shopping, food, and more. Experience over 100 local artists showcasing their work while enjoying the lively atmosphere and discovering what Cornelius and the surrounding areas have to offer. New activities and attractions are added each year to keep things exciting and fresh. Past highlights have included unique experiences like cage soccer, a petting zoo, and a bungee trampoline, making it a fun outing for all ages that is worth checking out!

'Tawba Music Arts Festival
Town of Cornelius

4. April is for Arts Festival 

April 24-26 | Main Street, Davidson

April is For the Arts

Town of Davidson

• Gallery Crawl: Friday, April 24, 6-9pm

• Art on the Green Festival: Saturday, April 25, 10am-5pm and Sunday, April 26, 12-4pm

• Concert on the Green: Sunday, April 26, 6-8pm

April is for Arts brings a month-long celebration of the art and culture across North Mecklenburg, with Davidson hosting an annual three-day event dedicated to their town. Kicking off the weekend, the Gallery Crawl will transform Main Street and South Main Street into lively art galleries, giving visitors a chance to explore a variety of local artwork as they stroll through downtown.

Attracting thousands of people each year, Art on the Green is Davidson's largest annual arts festival. This popular event showcases pieces from over 50 artists along the East Coast in many different mediums, ranging from watercolor to ceramics to sculptures! Visitors can also enjoy local cuisine and live music performances during the festival.

hello huntersville
Town of Huntersville

5. Hello Huntersville Music & Arts Festival

May 3 @ 1-6pm | Veterans Park

Hello Huntersville Music & Arts Festival kicks off the month of May as an annual community event that celebrates local creativity, with original pieces on display from regional artists. Guests can also get involved with hands-on activities like weaving, mosaic art, and mural painting, making it a great experience for both kids and adults.

Live music performances from local artists will take place at the amphitheater, while the surrounding streets stay active with unique entertainment, vendors, and experiences for all ages to enjoy. With plenty to see, hear, and explore, the Hello Huntersville Music & Arts Festival is a can't-miss afternoon destination!

6. Charlotte Asian and Dragon Boat Festival 

May 16 @ 7:30am-5pm | Ramsey Creek

Charlotte Dragon Boat and Asian Festival celebrates the culture, traditions, and history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders through a fun, community-focused experience! Join the community and celebrate their heritage through many activities such as dancing, face painting, games, and traditional meals, while observing and appreciating their rich history. Take part in the competitive Dragon Boat race, whether you want to compete individually or as a group. Just sign up on their site.

Dragon Festival
Charlotte Asian and Dragonboat Festival

7. Cornelius Jazz Festival

May 16 @ 6-10pm | Smithville Park

Cornelius Jazz Festival invites the community to enjoy a free, family-friendly event with music and fun for everyone. Guests can enjoy performances from talented jazz bands while sipping on local craft beer and munching on some food truck foodie favorites. Activities for kids will also be available, making it an easy and enjoyable hangout for all ages!

Jazz Festival
Town of Cornelius

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! Tell us how we're doing on Tripadvisor too!