This little Yelp profile deserves an upgraded, & a recent review. This is one of the best beer…read morefestivals that Charlotte has to offer. The weather this year was perfect. Not terribly hot, but blue skies and plenty of beer. No, I don't think that beer is usually included in a weather forecast - but maybe it should be! Blue skies and 100% chance of local beer and swag. This festival seems to be very well organized and attended. You're able to camp, if that's your preference, all weekend! I did not, as I am very spoiled and like camping at home, in my house, with the A/C on - but I know that some people like it. TONS of local breweries come out for this festival and offer unlimited samples on Saturday, and you can vote for your favorite brewery! Food trucks were just up the hill, I don't know if this is the norm as this was my first time attending. A little out of the way, but not a pain. There are booths with local crafts and goodies too, if that's more your pace. Bring lots of sunscreen, as the festival takes place in an open field on Rural Hill grounds, and there's some (but not much shade). Or you can hide from the sun under one of the beer tents. Rural Hill is gorgeous, I'm glad this festival went so well this year as I know that they've been struggling with keeping events on track in the last year. This is definitely something to put on your calendar - local beers, friendly beer reps, food trucks, live music, local crafts and beautiful scenery! Win win win win win win.

Myself, some friends and several other thousands of people stopped by the 2nd annual North Carolina…read moreBrewers and Music Festival and it was a very well attended event for certain. The location of Rural Hill was a great selection for them because of all the open space it provided for people to move around. It's remote location and many acres let people pretty much have the run of the property and you didn't get that somewhat kettle'd in feeling that the Octoberfest can bring on. The food vendors they had were pretty limited with there only being a hot dog stand, hamburger stand and I believe a BBQ stand but amazingly enough they didn't seem to run out of food (while we were there) so if you wanted to grab a bite to eat there was at least food to be had. There was also the music/bands on the main stage but I'd say about 80% of the attendees were only there for the beer tasting. They seemed to do a very good job of representing a lot of North Carolina Brewers and there were probably about 12-14 tents up handing out the samples of sweet hoppy deliciousness. I gotta get on to the reason I only gave this event 3 stars though and that is because of the poor event planning that seemed to go into this with regards to being able to accommodate the large crowd they had. My friends had prepaid tickets and I decided I would just eat the additional 5$ charge and get my ticket at the gate for the beer tasting. We probably showed up at around 130 and the line for tickets was at least 150 people deep. They seemed to do a pretty good job of moving the line along but mid way through a woman came out and announced that they were no longer selling tickets for the beer sampling because they were afraid the beer vendors would run out of beer. Right then and there many people just peeled out of the line and went on their merry way to other probably anywhere else the could get a cold draft. With my friends already inside I was pretty much committed to the event or else I would have up and left myself but I figured what the hell. I'll just pay the 20$ and claim designated driver rights so my friends can have a good time. Once inside it was amazing to see the lines at the beer tents. They were probably at least 100 people in each line and moving rather slowly. I tagged along with my friends as they hit each of the tents in succession. The vendors would give you a small plastic cup and for your sample you'd have probably 4 ounces. Nothing unreasonable there or anything you wouldn't expect for a beer sampling but after you had hit one vendor you would have to immediately go to the next line and begin your wait all over again. From what I could tell they probably needed at least double the number of beer tents to support the number of people they had in attendance. We ended up leaving after the last of the free tastings came and went and by that time most of the beer vendors had packed up and left because they ran out of product to hand out. Oh yeah, and the first keg was kicked probably around 3pm and that just added to the other lines becoming longer. Overall, it is a great idea for a event (weather permitting as always) for people who like to get out for a beer tasting. I'm sure the promoters will rave about it being a roaring success but when you have people being turned away at the gate or having to spend 30$-35$ just to stand in line all day it comes off as kind of "ehh". Until they get a better handle on how many people will be in attendance and scale the event to suit everyone I'd say it's a flip of the coin on whether or not you should check it out. Lastly, mad props to the Lonerider folks. They seemed to have a endless supply of beer and their staff was keeping the cups topped off and line moving as fast as they possibly could.

WHY DID I WAIT SO MANY YEARS TO COME HERE!!!!…read more Wow, I had TOO much fun this year at the Carolina Renaissance Festival with a group of friends. We went on a Saturday around 11am and there was light traffic getting in, but it moved quickly and flowed smoothly. The parking situation was very organized and quick. The lot is massive but they have staff every step of the way so it was seamless. We walked a little ways to the entrance but everyone is in costume so the people watching started immediately and that was so fun! Before you even enter the gates to the festival they have some cool vendors out front. There was even the Tardis from Doctor Who and I lost my mind with excitement!!! I couldn't believe it!!! That encounter really set the pace for the rest of the day because I was on cloud 9 before we even entered the park!!!! Once we entered it was really like stepping back in time. The festival grounds were clean and the buildings looked in great shape. All the staff I encountered were kind and helpful. There's so much to see and eat. I thoroughly enjoyed a turkey leg, loaded baked potato, roasted pecans and pumpkin ale! Honestly, this was such a great time!!!! I cannot wait to go back next year. We left about 2:30 pm because we really had so much fun in such a short time. This worked out too because we completely avoided the traffic leaving. It was really a perfect trip! Soooooooooo much fun!!!!

This was my first ever time making it to the Ren Fest and I was very pleased with the experience!…read more Be warned, it's extremely busy and they will sell out so buy your tickets in advance. The car line to get in and out was quite long, but overall it's a smooth experience. Free parking, but you will end up walking about a mile to the entrance so comfortable shoes are a MUST. The main thing I wanted to experience was a turkey leg, and they did not disappoint! The price is definitely steep at $16 each, but they are huge and delicious. Cash only but ATMS are all around. Expect to wait in line for anything and everything and arrive early to any shows you want to see because seats fill up fast. I enjoyed the Witch Trial comedy show where they actually chose one of my friends as a volunteer and it was hilarious! The Joust was fun and had some unexpected twists, but the bleacher seats are sooooo uncomfortable. The Falconry show was my favorite. We got to interact with the Raven and give him tips. The birds fly super close to you and might even touch your head when going over. I'd recommend anyone visiting at least once! It's a worthwhile experience. Expect to spend a chunk of change, and you should definitely dress up! Of course, you won't stand out if you don't, so don't worry about that. Anyone will fit in here and feel welcomed by the environment.

This festival just continues to grow each year! I genuinely love checking out Festival in the Park…read moreevery single year, because there's always something new to see. There's probably hundreds of vendors at this point, from food, drinks, desserts, artists, charities, jewelry. I mean there's SO much to see at this festival! My favorite part about it is the live music. My friends and I always bring a blanket and just come lay out there and enjoy the live band. This year it was actually the same singer as last year and she was great!!! Love her voice and she always sings upbeat songs everyone knows. It's always a whole vibe. We grab food and bring our own cooler and just pick a spot up on the hill and enjoy. That's exactly what we did this year too. For food I couldn't decide what I wanted so I kinda settled for a gyro and it was pretty good, all things considered. The fries we great though! Nice to have so many food options available though. I'll continue to come to this festival year after year!! Definitely a lifetime fan.

I enjoy FITP every year. The variety of vendors lets me purchase items I can't find in my weekly…read morejourneys. It's great to find something I've never seen before. I stopped by a cookie vendor, deliciousness! However, the food lines are typically ridiculously long. Not my speed. There should be a vendor who sells water only for one price. Parking is a task and requires a lot of patience. It may help to catch a ride and skip parking altogether.

How I managed to live in North Carolina this long and not know we had a Cheerwine Festival is mind…read moreboggling to me. This was my first year attending the event. It was advertised that you could take a train to Salisbury, NC and then the festival was in walking distance. If you drove, you'd have to look for parking in the area and walk to the event. My friend and I arrived around noon. This. Was a good time, but in the fire I'd ago In my opinion they spaced out the different vendors well so it wasn't too crowded. You were able to move through the areas easily. At times, you would have to wait for people to move, but this is expected with any festival. I liked that their website listed the vendor participating and if the vendor created a Cheerwine themed item/dish. I believe it would've ben helpful it their website also included a map of where each vendor was so you could head to the vendor you wanted immediately. There was a main location at the festival that sold Cheerwine merchandise such as: beach towels, stickers, hats, t-shirts, and displays. They had a cash and card line. Some vendors took cash, but not all so it is good to have both on you. There were live performances occurring in their center city park. I was not prepared well for the event as I literally decided to go day of. In the future I'll make sure to pack a lawn towel or small chair to sit in the park and come earlier in the day when the event first starts so it's not as hot outside.

Bottom line: The Cheerwine Festival in Salisbury is a busy and popular street festival to celebrate…read morethe regional soft drink favorite. Saw lots of Cheerwine merch/logos everywhere but not Cheerwine itself. This festival is extremely crowded and there are long lines for absolutely everything, do know that going into this one. Bring cash, you'll need it. The Deets: My friends and I made plans to hit the The Cheerwine Festival in Salisbury, NC this year. Cheerwine is a local/regional soft drink favorite, a black cherry flavored soda. Cheerwine has been made since 1917 and has been produced by the same family in North Carolina for all those years (big accomplishment in the food/beverage industry). I've been a Cheerwine fan since childhood so I was up for going to a festival bearing its name. We went down and back on Amtrak as there is a train station near to the downtown area the festival is held. I recommend going by train if possible as finding parking is not that easy for this event. Salisbury is not a huge town so you would expect that to be so. If you are not a fan of big crowds and long lines, then this festival is not for you. This festival is very "people-y" and there are long lines for EVERYTHING...food, beer/beverages, merchandise, craft/art/novelty items, cash machines (bring cash, most things here are not cheap)...everything. Of course the sound stage had a crowd around it as well. We even ducked into a local bottle shop to find some peace (see my prior review for this business) which we indeed found. My pics I took are from a pocket of peace I found outside of the crowded area. Of note, I did see that there were plenty of port-a-potties everywhere, even down alleys between buildings. While I saw Cheerwine logos and merchandise a-plenty at the festival, I really can't recall seeing any actual Cheerwine itself. Sad face. Lots of beer opportunities...not Cheerwine though. If you love those crowded street festivals, this event is your golden ticket. I found it was great to visit and experience but I'm not sure I would go out of my way to come back again.

Geeze, I can't remember the last time I've been to a county fair. They are still as awesome as I…read moreremember...plenty of games and rides to keep adults and children entertained for hours. I had a fabulous time! But I'm dedicating this review to what I consider to be the best part of the fair....Funnel Cakes. Yep. That's no a typo I meant that fried doughy goodness is one of the main reasons I went to the fair....don't judge me! I'm going to put it to you like this whoever created the funnel cake is a genius! I mean fried dough is already awesome but top it with powder sugar and it's nothing shy of a piece of heaven on a plate. Yum. My only regret...I should have gotten two...haha Yep. Totally coming back again! It's definitely worth a visit.

We love coming to this fair every year, and yes of course everything is overpriced but the…read morenostalgia of the fair and all that it entails excites my son. I must admit I love this particular fair for a totally different reason......the grilled corn on the cob, which is reason enough for me to attend:-)

Not worth it. Where do I start. Ad states the VIP will have 11 addition beers to taste. NOT TRUE…read more Only 3. Only Sam Adams had someone from there brewery there. The people pouring the beer could not answer one single question about the beer. Maybe 25 vendors were there. A lot less than the one I went to 3 years ago. And finally,when it came to food for the VIP. You received a coupon to use a a food truck. They told you your options. If you wanted to get something that cost $2 more and were willing to pay for it, they would not let you. Guess this is my last time going.

I went for two days. I parked on the street which was challenging with the meters. The final day…read morehad free parking which was great. It wasn't extremely busy when I went, on purpose. I loved exploring and trying to various foods. You can buy coins in person or on line. The coins are what you have to use. I do wish the drinks were not samples as it is usually hot. I understand food samples but drinks so be regular size and allow people to purchase them. Loved the food that I tried. I will be back again. I appreciate getting out and exploring my area and learning more about local businesses.

I honestly did not love the crowds and the long lines on a 90 degree day . However, the items I did…read moremanage to Taste were good, I regretted that I did not go around 11 am before it got hot. The walking and lack of seating was truly exhausting.

This was my first time here and it was super cute. I came with my fiance and we quickly realized…read morethis farm is a great place to bring kiddos so they can experience a fun fall festival environment. As for us adult kids it wasn't as exciting. There's lots of activities, photo opps and pumpkins to peruse. But in comparison to another spot we've been to we felt like there were some options missing for us personally. This isn't a knock to Hodges, just a personal preference. Now, if you have family in town and kiddos in tow this place is PERFECT! I would definitely recommend it for a fun fall time. Parking was easy, even on a super busy Saturday. There's plenty of signage so you know what's going on in all areas. The animals were pretty cool inside the barn too.

We went back this year around the same time but instead of a weekday we went on a Sunday. There was…read morea much bigger crowd but there lots of parking. Still lots of photo opps all around the farm. We were able to do participate in some new things since it was the weekend; like their Hayrides/Tractor Ride. The line was never not long but it was something to do. The ride itself is about 15 minutes and takes you around the farm. We grabbed some popcorn before getting on it though. It's freshly popped and so delicious! We also go to visit the petting area and feed some of the goats, sheep, cows and rabbits. Our toddlers had a blast! Good family fun for the fall season. && I got a funnel cake before we left (topping choices powder sugar, Carmel, chocolate, and strawberry syrup). The wind made it colder on the pumpkin side of the farm and unfortunately they didn't have warm apple cider. I expected them to have something warm that kids could drink (non coffee). Tips: Bring a blanket for inside the wagon. Don't wear your nice shoes. Bring a tripod or stand for photos.

Great fun for the entire family. Lots of different…read moreactivities for all ages I am looking forward to next year when my grandchildren are a bit older and can do more.

Ad a star if you're a family near UNC Charlotte. We drove 45 minutes for this event. Be ready to…read morewalk around UNCC's campus. For us traffic wasn't an issue and parking was a breeze in the free parking ramp. There were lots of attractions, ranging from food trucks, to live music, to arts & science vendors. Everything was kid friendly, our kids had a good time. Definitely recommend this even for those with children big & small!

I've been going to this Christmas market since its first year. It used to be a lot better, but it's…read moregone down hill. It used to be at Romare Bearden Park and I think that's the when it was at its best. After that, it moved to a random parking lot and then most recently to BB&T Ballpark. The number of vendors has gone down significantly. They added a lights display last year which was kind of cool. They also started charging an entrance fee. I might go back if it goes back to being free, but I definitely don't think it's worth paying to get into.

I was very excited to visit the Christmas Village while visiting Charlotte during the holidays. I…read morethought it'd be a perfect thing to do! i was very disappointed and underwhelmed. The market was crowded in a small parking lot with very small stands for vendors. It was very crowded so it was hard to go in and check all the stands. Some were empty, they weren't too many to begin with. I even witnessed somebody breaking an ornament inside a stand, a first for me! Holiday craziness, I guess? More like lack of space. The decorations were minimal and subdued, Santa was crawling along to take his place in his house, guess he was on a break? Prices were high for the merchandise on sale. I got a cheese strudel, a parmesan pretzel and 2 hot apple ciders (small sizes) for $23? Seriously? They ran out of cherry and apple strudels and I settled for cheese, left with no choices. It was the worst I ever had, I couldn't taste the marzipan, the cheese was barely any, no raisins or anything, pretty bland. The market is free and for what they have to offer, they better not charge admission. Worst Christmas market I ever visited! And the smallest!