9 things to do in Charlotte weekend: Nov. 13-15, 2026

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - The Charlotte Marathon, Southern Christmas Show and John Summit take over the Queen City this weekend.

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Here’s a list of things to do the weekend of Nov. 13-15, 2026:

Southern Christmas Show (Park Expo & Conference Center), opening weekend: It’s that time again! Experience the largest Christmas show in the country at the Southern Christmas Show. Returning for its 59th year, the Southern Christmas Show will get you in the festive spirit where you can shop for holiday gifts, décor, art, food and more. Shop from more than 400 vendors, many who are local, and get inspired by the Christmas décor found all around the hall. Admission starts at $22 for adults and $12 for children 6 to 12, more at the door.

Leonardo v. Michelangelo: The Epic Battle of Genius (Blume Studios), opening weekend: Leonardo DaVinci or Michelangelo: who is the greatest artist? You decide. Transport 500 years back in time to when the two legendary visionaries went head-to-head in an immersive experience using virtual reality, 360-degree projection technology and interactive displays. As you travel around each room, learn about the accomplishments and history of each and vote on your favorite. Standard admission starts at $23 with bundles available.

Charlotte All Pro Dad (Bank of America Stadium), Friday 6 to 8:30 p.m.: Dads, this one is for you. The All Pro Dad is taking over Panthers stadium connecting fathers with head coach Dave Canales. Dads and their kids can enjoy a day of fun, bonding and connection right on the Bank of America Stadium field while taking home practical fatherhood tips. The event is currently sold out but a waitlist is available in case additional spots open up.

Charlotte Marathon (S Tryon St.), Saturday 7:20 a.m.: Get those laces tied for one of the Queen City’s largest races. The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon is back for its 22nd year for runners of all experiences. Whether it’s the Chick-Fil-A 5K, the half marathon or the full marathon, join thousands of fellow sprinters on a race that takes you all around Charlotte. Full marathons may qualify for the Boston marathon upon completing time requirements. Funds raised benefit Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital. All races are currently sold out but you can cheer on runners from all around the course.

Langtree Lake Norman Tree Lighting Celebration (401 Langtree Road, Moorseville), Saturday 5 p.m.: The holidays are here in Lake Norman with a special tree lighting ceremony. Get ready to light the 40-foot tree with a festive evening full of fun for the whole family. Meet Santa and drop off your list at the North Pole Post Office. Plus, you’ll find face painting, craft vendors, holiday food and drinks, plus a live DJ and a performance from the Langtree Charter Academy Band. Admission is free.

Celebration of Lights & Tree Lighting Ceremony (Village Park, Kannapolis), Saturday 6 p.m.: It’s Christmas in Kannapolis this weekend with the kickoff to the Celebration of Lights with a special tree lighting ceremony. Once the switch is flipped, fireworks will light up the sky. Then, head to the Celebration of Lights where thousands of twinkling lights create holiday cheer. Bring your wish list to Santa and take a picture with him, make holiday crafts or enjoy a delicious smore around the fire pit. Plus, get some holiday shopping in from local vendors and artisans. Admission is free.

John Summit (Spectrum Center), Saturday 7 p.m.: Everyone’s favorite accountant-turned-DJ is headlining his first arena show in support of his latest album. The “CTRL ESCAPE” tour, named after the new album, is Summit’s largest touring show yet featuring a 360-degree stage, special effects, dancers and tons of pyro. Tickets are currently sold out but resale may be available.

Rural Hill Sheepdog Trials & Dog Festival (4431 Neck Road, Huntersville), Saturday & Sunday: If you’ve ever wanted to watch sheepdogs in action, this is the festival for you. Get ready to watch as expert herding dogs do their thing in a series of challenges. You’ll also get to see other dogs perform exciting tricks and show off their training, as well as a chance to learn from the experts on how to train them. Bring your dogs for a fun afternoon of socializing with other dogs. Single day adult tickets start at $18.31 and kids 5-12 start at $9.91.

Buzz City Collectors Classic (Spectrum Center), Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.: This is unlike any card collecting show you’ve ever been to. Buzz City Collectors Classics puts the show floor inside the Hornets’ arena. Find all types of sports cards from graded slabs, rookies vintage and wax with over 300 tables to buy, sell and trade from. Best of all, each ticket includes a future ticket for a select Hornets game in December. Tickets start at $26.

Have an event you want to submit? I’m always looking for things to do around Charlotte. Send me your event to [email protected].