January 30, 2025
It’s never too early to plan, especially when it comes to travel.
The start of the new year is an ideal time to look at the months ahead and daydream about your next getaway. In Cabarrus County, year-round events cater to every interest and draw attendees from all over. Here are some of the area’s most noteworthy festivals and gatherings.
March
Burger aficionados should come hungry for Cabarrus Burger Madness, a monthlong party to honor this classic American staple and celebrate the community’s independent places to eat. Local chefs at restaurants throughout Cabarrus County show off creative takes on the burger — dressing it with toppings that have included ingredients like Mexican sweet corn or kimchi slaw — and invite diners to stop in and sample, all in an effort to claim “Best Burger” bragging rights.
April
The three-day NHRA 4-Wide Nationals kick off April 24 in Concord at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s zMAX Dragway. Hosted by the National Hot Rod Association, this is the final of two four-wide competitions where teams go head-to-head in events such as Top Fuel, Pro Stock and Funny Car. And since every ticket is a pit pass, guests enjoy front-row access to their favorite NHRA drivers.
Before the four-wide excitement at zMAX Dragway, AutoFair presented by Camping World runs April 9–11 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where thousands of car enthusiasts gather to buy and sell collector vehicles as well as restoration parts and supplies for almost any car ever made.
May
On May 24, rev your engines for the 67th annual NASCAR Cup Series Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The 600-mile chase is the longest race on NASCAR’s schedule and is considered one of the largest and most exciting events among motorsports fans. Don’t miss the pre-race festivities including military tribute and driver appearances.
June
Summer doesn’t slow down in Cabarrus. With baseball season already in full swing and live outdoor performances and concerts, families will find no shortage of fun throughout this season. Pair these events with the area’s outdoor trails, indoor waterpark and many ice cream shops for the ideal summer stay.
July
Look no further than Harrisburg for memorable ways to honor our nation’s independence. The town’s July Fourth festivities get going on July 3 with carnival rides and live music. The fun continues on July 4 with a morning parade, cornhole tournament, more live music, and a fireworks show to close out the night.
August
The Dirt Track at Charlotte hosts the coolest back-to-school party around during the annual Monster Track Bash! Get up close and personal with these amazing machines before the show and cheer on your favorite as these giants navigate the infield obstacle course.
September
September starts in style with the opening of the Cabarrus County Fair in Concord on September 11. Fairgoers get eight days of amusement park rides, livestock and equine exhibits, and live entertainment, plus games and great food.
October
Oval racing returns to Charlotte Motor Speedway in the fall for the first time in nearly a decade. What was once a time for the ROVAL road course now returns to the 1.5-mile OVAL. The NASCAR Cup Series Bank of America 400 takes place on October 11 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The drama of the NASCAR Chase returns!
Arrive early for pre-race concerts and driver appearances or step it up a notch with a pre-race track pass, which includes a chance to sign your name on the start/finish line.
November
November brings multiple days of all-star racing to The Dirt Track at Charlotte with the return of the World of Outlaws World Finals. This prestigious event decides the title for three series including the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series; the World of Outlaws Late Model Series; and the Super DIRTcar Big-Block Modifieds.
December
Conclude the year in fine fashion at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s Speedway Christmas event. From the end of November to early January, this drive-through, synchronized holiday lights-and-music show presents more than five million lights on a four-mile course that includes the speedway’s oval and infield road course. On select nights, visit the infield Christmas village post-drive to spend time visiting with Santa, shopping for gifts among vendors, strolling the illuminated walking trail, and enjoying a holiday classic movie drive-in style.
Build the Perfect Itinerary
In town for one of Cabarrus County’s exciting events? Make it a weekend! Find travel inspiration, local insights, itinerary suggestions and more on our Trip Ideas page.
