September 16, 2019
Previewing fall’s best festivals for food
September and October bring international celebrations
Hola Charlotte draws a large crowd to Uptown. Photo courtesy of Hola Charlotte
In the coming weeks, with the weather turning cooler, it’s a good time to get out and enjoy three of the city’s annual cultural festivals. A wide variety of food, music, and dance, as well as handmade crafts, abound during the Oktoberfest, Hola, and Indian festivals. You’ll be able to travel the world without ever having to leave the city. —Travis Mullis
Oktoberfest 2019
Sept. 20-21 and 27-28; Oct. 4-5 and 11-12
Waldhorn Restaurant
Dust off your lederhosen, grab your beer stein, and make your way to the festivities in the large tent on the Waldhorn grounds. Hours for the tent are 5 p.m. to midnight and if you aren’t eating at the restaurant beforehand, it’s $4 for admission to the tent. A different German musical group will be performing each weekend with a special beer and food menu. Seating is first come, first served inside the tent.
8th Annual Hola Charlotte Festival
Oct. 12
S. Tryon Street from E. Stonewall Street to 4th Street
The Hola Festival is the largest event celebrating Hispanic heritage in the Charlotte region. Street vendors will be offering up Latin America’s best known foods, and the diverse cultures of Central and South America will be on display in individual booths. Musical groups from across the country and Latin America will be performing on the event’s multiple stages. Admission to the event is free.
25th Annual Festival of India
Oct. 12-13
Belk Theater and North Tryon Street
$7 will get you full access to this festival, which celebrates the rich and diverse culture of India. The indoor portion of the two-day event includes exhibits that show off the history of the sari, Indian artwork, and the country’s many dance styles. In addition, Booth playhouse will play host to Charlotte Idol, where the city’s best Indian-inspired singer will be crowned. The outdoor portion of the festival is free and features a wide variety of Indian street food and artisan wares.
6th Annual Turkish Festival of Charlotte
Oct. 19
Oasis Shriners (604 Doug Mayes Pl.)
The Turkish-American community of Charlotte is holding this one-day family-friendly event from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and tickets will be $5 at the door. A blended beef and lamb doner pita wrap, chicken kebabs, stuffed grape leaves, and strong Turkish coffee are some of the edible highlights of the festival’s food selection. While you’re enjoying the culinary delights, be sure to check out the traditional Turkish dancers and musical groups.
