Cheers to the 'hood where everybody knows your name

72. Strive to be ping-pong champion under the stars at Thomas Street Tavern.

Once voted one of the best neighborhood bars in the country by Esquire magazine, Thomas Street Tavern offers one of the area's coolest year-round patios. From the covered bar to the cornhole area, the fire pits to the outdoor ping-pong tables, this is where you want to be whenever it's not raining. 1218 Thomas Ave. 704-376-1622.

73. Party like a pirate at Snug Harbor.

Designed to give off the vibe of a pirate ship, Snug Harbor is the neighborhood's "something for everyone" location. Each night presents itself as a Best of, from Monday night hip-hop party Knocturnal, Country Tuesdays and a solid booking of national and regional bands and local showcases like the Snug 600 and the Me Myself and I Fest. It's also home to one of the area's longest-running weekly events, Shiprocked. Now in its seventh year, Shiprocked sums up the vibe of Snug with its broad appeal, thanks to its combination of musical variety, drag queens and burlesque. 1228 Gordon St. www.snugrock.com.

74. Become a fire-twirling god/goddess at The Happening.

Thursday nights are mesmerizing at The Happening (8 p.m. at Petra's Piano Bar), when the fire dancers come out to play. » Continue

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