Kudos to Blumenthal Performing Arts and the Leon Levine foundation for presenting the Charlotte Jazz Festival. The weather was picture perfect, and I spent hours making new friends and grooving on a Saturday afternoon. Charlotte certainly surpassed my expectations with the music choices and venues. It was one of them most well-put-together events in the Queen City., and I’m already looking forward to next year.
I also was able to attend the Sunday screening of “LA 92,” a feature documentary looking back 25 years after the Rodney King beating and Los Angeles riots. The documentary touched on many factors that were gut-wrenching and appalling. “LA 92” airs Sunday (April 30) on the National Geographic Channel at 9 p.m.
For several months I’ve been trying to get the inside story on Fidelli Kitchen, an eatery on Camden Road. I’d never had a meatball in a cone. Imagine warm bread, shaped like an ice cream cone, stuffed with meatballs, cheese, pasta, and spices. Thumbs up for this delicious creation. If you are not a fan of meatballs, no worries; Fidelli Kitchen has other items. This restaurant has only been around since December 2016, so add it to your list of things to do on the town.
Check out my weekend picks.
FRIDAY
Pop Up Picnic — Catawba Lands Conservancy invites you to celebrate the connection between local farms, local foods and the importance of conservation. Pack your own picnic basket or purchase from the Mayobirds food truck. Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Outside alcohol is not permitted in the park. Time: 6pm -9pm. Cost: Free. Location: Freedom Park (1900 East Blvd). More info
SATURDAY
Grand Opening Soiree — Enjoy an evening of art at the grand opening of the People’s Gallery (2106A Ayrsley Town Blvd). Meet artists Barbara Ellis, Ariana Dixon, Jonathan Rice, Bethany Leger and Monique Luck. The mission of the People’s Gallery is to promote local artists and cultural diversity. Cost: Free. Time: 7pm – 11pm More info
SUNDAY
Spring Community Cause Fest — Support local vendors, businesses, and nonprofits for community support day. Good eats and fun treats. The Life Space, formerly The Free Store Charlotte (420 E. 15th St.) Time: 12:30 pm – 4 p.m. Cost: Free. More info
To see a larger listing of local events, visit the Qcitymetro events page at www.qcity2021.flywheelstaging.com/events.
Toni Baker-Tyson is a social butterfly. Her entertainment picks are published each Thursday on Qcitymetro.com. Email Toni at toni@qcity2021.flywheelstaging.com, or join her Chocolate Social Network, a group for the mature (40-plus) but young at heart.
