GO. PLAY. SEE.: 4 Fun Things to Experience in Charlotte This Month

CELEBRATE DIWALI AT OPTIMIST HALL

Come to Botiwalla on Friday, November 1 and celebrate Diwali, a festival of lights that marks India’s biggest and most important holiday of the year. The family-friendly evening includes food specials like a pani puri station, a henna artist, and celebratory décor with sparklers and glow sticks, plus a special raffle to raise money for relief efforts in WNC. The celebration takes place at Botiwalla’s restaurant inside Optimist Hall from 5 to 10 p.m., and seating is first come, first served. optimisthall.com/events

RUN FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Join hundreds of runners and walkers of all ages on Saturday, November 9 at Old Armor Beer Company in Kannapolis. The Old Armor 5K & Youth Fun Run benefits W.A.R. (Warriors Always Rise), a local nonprofit whose goal is to give back to Veterans and First Responders. Participants must register in advance and pick up packets at the brewery November 7 and 8. 

RING IN CHRISTMAS AT BIRKDALE VILLAGE

Visit Birkdale Village on Saturday, November 23 from 2 to 7 p.m. for Santa’s Arrival and Tree Lighting. Stroll through the Village to enjoy crafts, activities, and holiday performances by special guests; watch the parade at 4:30; see the lighting of the tree at 6:00; and stick around for live music until 7:00 p.m. The event is free and kids of all ages are welcome.

KICK OFF THE HOLIDAY SEASON AT TRUIST FIELD

Bring the family to Truist Field for Light the Knights on Wednesday, November 27 and see thousands of lights, trees, and displays. Shop for Christmas ornaments, jewelry, and local artwork, and check out the ice rink and snow tubing hill. Treat the kids to hot cider, fudge, burgers, strudel, pretzels, and more. Tickets go on sale November 1; check the schedule to see when Santa will be at Christmas Village.