What's Happening in Matthews, NC…

Just after Labor Day and at the beginning of fall, the lighted lake in Freedom Park comes to life as the people of Charlotte celebrate the arts in grand style. The original art and crafts of 150 artists are displayed, and approximately 1,000 entertainers captivate and inspire the audience as they meander about the park. Every year, since 1964, this three-day tradition has continued bringing great music, wondrous art, and fun times to all who have chosen to attend the festivities.

This year, the 48th Festival in the Park will commence on Friday, September 21, 2012, and it will conclude the following Sunday. The hours of the celebration are different each day of the event. Though the event is free to the public, vendors seeking to display their wares must apply for space by July 16. Only select artists will be able to rent space and those chosen must also pay a fee close to $400 for the 10 x 10 space in which they will exhibit their work. They might also want to consider a small investment in business card printing and labels to advertise their services and label their wares.

For those who want a snack, the traditional concessions like elephant ears, popcorn, ice cream, hot dogs, cotton candy, hamburgers, and chicken pitas will be available. For those with heartier appetites, other foods, which vary from year to year, will be offered and may include such items as gyros, chicken teriyaki on a stick, crab cakes, jambalaya, seafood platters, hot dogs, and German bratwurst.

The festival has always had special activities for kids, so entire families are invited to come out and attend.