More fall events 

12TH ANNUAL CHARLOTTE OKTOBERFEST Sample from more than 350 of the craft brewed beers in the Southeast and from around the world. There will also be live entertainment, games (table tennis, foosball, corn hole and many others in the Creative Loafing Beerlympic Village), food and more. Proceeds go to The National Kidney Foundation of North Carolina and The Autism Society of North Carolina. For more information, visit www.charlotteoktoberfest.com. Sat., Sept. 25. $20-$50. Metrolina Expo Trade Center, 7100 Statesville Road.

2010 INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL This festival celebrates cultures of all kinds with displays of information, dancing, music, vendors with arts and crafts, food and more. Don't miss the parade of nations, where you can see traditional attire from around the world. For more information, visit http://ifest.uncc.edu/. Sat., Sept. 25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free admission. UNC-Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte.

2010 NPC MID-ATLANTIC CLASSIC National qualifying, bodybuilding, figure, fitness and bikini competition, featuring Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler. Presented by Main Stage Muscle. Sat., Oct. 9, 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. $10-$30. Halton Theater, CPCC, 1206 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte.

2010 SUNSET JAZZ FESTIVAL For more information, visit www.charlottesunsetjazzfestival.com. Sat., Sept. 25, 2 p.m. Free. Marshall Park, Charlotte.

20TH ANNUAL LATIN AMERICAN FESTIVAL Showcases the traditions of the Caribbean, Central and South America. Featuring activities for children, dance and music (including performances by Plena Libre, Locos por Juana, Elastic Bond, Orquesta Gardel, Rhythm +, Bakalao Stars and SoulBrasil). For more information, visit www.festivallatinoamericano.org. Sun., Oct. 10, 12-7 p.m. $3-$5; Free for children under 8 years old and Mint Museum members. Symphony Park at SouthPark Mall, Charlotte.

24-HOUR GRAND OPENING FOR THE MINT MUSEUM UPTOWN The grand opening festivities kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5 p.m., followed by a variety of activities for all ages during the next 24 hours. Activities include First Look Friday, tours of the new facility, a dance party sponsored by Takeover Friday, films, sunrise yoga, hands-on art activities and artist demonstrations. For more information, visit www.mintmuseum.org/grand-opening.html. Oct. 1-2, 5:30 p.m. $10; Free for members on Friday; Free for general public on Saturday. The Mint Museum Uptown, 500 South Tryon St., Charlotte.

6TH ANNUAL POTTERS MARKET INVITATIONAL Featuring a variety of traditional utilitarian pots to studio ceramics, including jewelry by 40 N.C. potters. The pottery sale benefits The Mint Museum's decorative arts collection. Sat., Sept. 11, 10 a.m. $5 for children; $10 for adults. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Rd., Charlotte. 704-337-2009. www.mintmuseum.org.

7TH ANNUAL SCANFEST OF THE CAROLINAS The festival honors the cultures of Scandinavia (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden) with music, dancing, cultural displays, food and more. For more information, visit www.scandinavianconnection.org. Sat., Nov. 6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Atrium, Uptown, Two Wachovia Center, Tryon Street, Charlotte.

ALL ARTS MARKET Featuring affordable and original handmade art, including paintings, prints, sculptures, jewelry, pottery, stained glass, knits and more. For more information, visit www.nodarioty.org. Sept. 3, 6-10 p.m.; Sept. 4, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. Neighborhood Theatre, 511 E. 36th St., Charlotte. 704-358-9298.

AUTHOR/HISTORIAN RANDELL JONES Discusses Before They Were Heroes, the story behind the patriots' defeat of the British at the Revolutionary War's Battle of Kings Mountain. Book signing afterwards. Sat., Nov. 6, 2 p.m. Free. Gaston County Public Library, 1555 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-868-2167.

BIBLIOFEAST A gourmet feast for the mind and body, featuring a three course meal and conversation with Carolina based authors. Mon., Oct. 11, 6:30 p.m. $35. Sante, 165 N. Trade St., Matthews. 704-845-1899. www.santeofmatthews.com.

BLUES, BREWS & BBQ Approximately 60 teams compete for prizes for best barbecue. The festival features blues music, an array of beer samples and barbecue. Held in Uptown Charlotte. For more information, visit www.bluesbrewsandbbq.com. Sept. 10; Sept. 11.

CAN YOU DIG IT: CHARLOTTE COMMUNITY GARDEN TOUR Presented by The Mecklenburg County Fruit & Vegetable Coalition, in partnership with Slow Food Charlotte. Featuring educational gardening demonstrations on composting, vermiculture, rainwater harvesting, seed saving and how to make tea with dried herbs. Lunch will be provided by Harvest Moon Grille and a garden gathering with light hors d'oeuvres and beverages will follow the tour. Tour from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and gathering from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. For more information, call 704-432-3468 or visit www.canyoudigitcharlotte.org. Sat., Sept. 25. $15; $8 for children 4-12 years old.

CAROLINAS THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE In its 63rd year, this parade features finely decorated floats, as well as a variety of entertainers and participants. For more information, visit www.carolinasthanksgivingparade.org. Thu., Nov. 25.

CELEBRITY CHEF TOUR BENEFITING THE JAMES BEARD FOUNDATION Some of the Nation's top chefs are coming to Charlotte to create a fantastic multiple course dinner paired with premium wines, beers and spirits. Wed., Sept. 22, 6:30-10:30 p.m. $130-150. Blue Restaurant, 5th & College, Charlotte. www.celebritycheftour.com.

CHARLOTTE FILM FESTIVAL The fifth annual celebration returns for a full week with screenings at various sites including Regal Park Terrace Cinemas and Epicentre Theaters. For more information, visit www.charlottefilmfestival.org. Sept. 20-26. Locations vary, Charlotte.

CHARLOTTE FINE ART SHOW Juried art show featuring a variety of vendors with a mix of mediums, including sculptures, paintings, glass, wood, photography, jewelry and more. For more information, visit www.hotworks.org/charlottefineartshow. Oct. 9, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Oct. 10, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $5; Free for children 12 years old and under. The Park Expo & Conference Center (formerly The Charlotte Merchandise Mart), 2500 Independence Blvd., Charlotte.

CHARLOTTE GARDEN CONSERVANCY OPEN DAYS Charlotte Garden Conservancy is having two open days at six of Charlotte's beautiful gardens. Sept. 25, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sept. 26, 1-5 p.m. $5-25.

CHARLOTTE LABOR DAY PARADE The Annual Charlotte Labor Day Parade, "An old fashioned parade-union made". Mon., Sept. 6, 11 a.m. Free. Uptown Charlotte. charlottelabordayparade.shutterfly.com/.

CHARLOTTE LITERARY FESTIVAL & QUEEN CITY NEO SOUL MUSIC FESTIVAL KICKOFF Hosted by V101.9 Radio Personality CC Mitchell, comedian Dave Martin and Bluz of Slam Charlotte. Featuring music by Matt Kelley Band, N'dambi and Dwele. Readings and book signings by authors Mary Monroe and Susan Taylor. For more information, visit www.realeyesbookstore.com. Sat., Sept. 11.

CHARLOTTE WEDDING CONNECTION Bridal show where Charlotte's wedding professionals showcase their products and services. Sun., Oct. 10, 1 p.m. $7. Levine Museum of the New South, 200 E. 7th St., Charlotte. 704-333-1887. www.museumofthenewsouth.org.

CIAO, ITALIA! FESTIVAL Festival celebrates all things Italian with displays and exhibits, dancing, music, food and more. Sat., Oct. 9. $3-$5; free for children under 12 years old. The Atrium, Uptown, Two Wachovia Center, Tryon Street, Charlotte.

CLAYWORKS HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AND SALE Featuring original handmade sculpture and functional pottery by Clayworks faculty and studio artists. Fri., Dec. 3, 6 p.m. Free. edit event Clayworks Studio, 301 East 9th Street, Suite 150, Charlotte. 704-344-0795. www.clayworksinc.org.

COTSWOLD BLOCK PARTY Features activities for children, trucks brought out by CMPD and Station 14 fire department, face painters, games, food and more. Benefits the Second Harvest Animal Food Bank.Held at 4300 Water Oak Road (between the intersections of Hartness Avenue and Bertonley Avenue). Sat., Sept. 11, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

COUNTRY MUSIC IN THE PARK Family concert with concessions and children's activities. Performance by the David Michael Band and a special fireworks show to immediately follow. Sat., Sept. 18, 6-9 p.m. Free. Bailey Road Park, 11536 Bailey Road, Cornelius. www.corneliuspr.org.

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS: DAY OF THE DEAD Celebrate the Mexican Day of the Dead holiday with cultural displays and altars, Mexican cuisine, dancing, music, story-telling, activities and more. For more information, visit www.latinamericancoalition.org. Sun., Oct. 31, 12-4 p.m. Levine Museum of the New South, 200 E. 7th St., Charlotte. 704-333-1887. www.museumofthenewsouth.org.

DIRTY DANCING FESTIVAL Featuring original cast members and original artists from the soundtrack, as well as games, food, a beer garden, live music and entertainment, storytellers and more. For more information, visit www.dirtydancingfestival.com. Sat., Sept. 18, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Morse Park Meadows, 2926 Memorial Highway, Lake Lure.

ENCUENTRO BORICUA Picnic in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. Features authentic food, live music and more. For more information, visit www.prcscnc.com. Sun., Sept. 26, 2 p.m. Park Road Park Shelter #1, 6220 Park Road Park, Charlotte.

FALL ONE-ACT FESTIVAL Features a lively mixture of one-act plays directed by advanced theater students. Contains adult language and content. Held in Johnson Studio Theatre. Nov. 19, 8 p.m.; Nov. 20, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Nov. 21, 2 p.m. Winthrop University, 124 McLaurin Hall, Rock Hill. 803-323-2493. www2.winthrop.edu/vpa/galleries/10_Spr_season.htm.

FESTIVAL IN THE PARK In its 46th year, this four-day long event offers live music, art and more. For more information, visit www.festivalinthepark.org. Sept. 23, 6-9 p.m.; Sept. 24, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sept. 25, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sept. 26, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Freedom Park, 1900 East Blvd., Charlotte.

FESTIVAL OF INDIA The India Association of Charlotte showcases the cultural heritage of the Asian-Indian community with Indian cuisine, displays of arts and crafts, performances of old and new dance forms, authentic Indian music, henna, live yoga demonstrations and more. For more information, visit www.indiafestival.net. Sept. 4, 12-7 p.m.; Sept. 5, 12-6 p.m. $5. Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

INTERNATIONAL HOUSE GALA This years theme is "Japan - Celebrating Its Beauty and Culture." The event features Japanese cuisine, live and silent auctions, dancing and entertainment. Hosted by International House, a non-profit organization serving the Charlotte area's international population. Sat., Oct. 16, 6:30 p.m. Hilton Charlotte Center City, 222 East Third Street, Charlotte.

KOMEN CHARLOTTE RACE FOR THE CURE 5K run/walk raises funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer. For more information, visit www.komencharlotte.org. Sat., Oct. 2. $20-$35.

LIFE LYRICS AND LAUGHTER A benefit concert featuring some of today's hottest comedians and musical acts. Special appearance by the BJ Murphy show of 103.3 WGIV. Proceeds benefit local charities including Crisis Assistance Ministry and Give-N-Go. Thu., Sept. 23, 8 p.m. $10. Club Skandalos, 5317 East Independence Blvd, Charlotte. www.lifelyricsandlaughter.eventbrite.com.

THE LIGHT FACTORY 29TH ANNUAL AUCTION Featuring fine art and photography from a variety of artists. Sat., Nov. 20, 7 p.m. $75. Extravaganza Depot, 1610 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-331-5331.

LOOK AT HER POWER Presenting the Steps to Success awards to honor individuals who have done extraordinary work to move forward the mission of Dress for Success Charlotte and promote the economic independence of women. For more information or to register, visit http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e2x4keg9159b3e5c. Thu., Sept. 16, 6 p.m. $40. The Park Expo & Conference Center (formerly The Charlotte Merchandise Mart), 2500 Independence Blvd., Charlotte.

MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL Offers a glimpse of the future filmmakers and storytellers of tomorrow. Held in Knight Gallery. Thu., Sept. 30, 7 p.m. $5-$7. The Light Factory, 345 N. College St., Charlotte. 704-333-9755. www.lightfactory.org.

MATTHEWS ALIVE 2010 Annual four-day Labor Day weekend celebration that features 150 arts and crafts vendors, a quilt show, a parade, a 5k, food, music, games, rides and interactive activities for children and more. For more information, visit www.matthewsalive.org. Sept. 3, 6 p.m.; Sept. 4, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sept. 5, 12-9 p.m.; Sept. 6, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Stumptown Park, Matthews, 207 West John St., Matthews.

MILES OF IMPACT FASHION DESIGN Charity fashion show coordinated by Rita Miles of Miles Interiors. All proceeds go to 'Project Go,' an organization helping with poverty in the world. Sponsored by Bleu de Chanel. Thu., Oct. 14, 7 p.m. $20. Nikko's, 1300 South Blvd., Charlotte.

NHRA CAROLINAS NATIONALS The second of six races in NHRA's countdown to playoffs, will continue to be conducted using only two lanes at zMAX Dragway. For more information, visit www.charlottemotorspeedway.com. Sept. 16-19.

THE RIVER BOUND RACE SERIES The four-race series will take place on the 400 acres/14 mile trails at the Whitewater Center. This is a fundraising event for the N.C. Outward Bound Scholarships. For more information, visit the official race site at www.riverboundrace.com. Sat., Sept. 25. US National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway.

SOUTHERN WOMEN'S SHOW The events offers an array of vendors selling jewelry, clothes, children's toys, household items and more. In addition, the event includes samples and coupons, cooking ideas and lifestyle tips. There will also be fashion shows, celebrity guests and prizes. For more information, visit www.southernshows.com. Sept. 17, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sept. 18, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sept. 19, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $7-$9; $5 for ages 6-12 years old; Free for children ages 6 years old and under with a paying adult. The Park Expo & Conference Center (formerly The Charlotte Merchandise Mart), 2500 Independence Blvd., Charlotte.

SPLASH OF COLOR QUILT SHOW The Splash of Color Quilt Show will include 20,000 square feet of quilts, a variety of vendors, a raffle, silent auction and The White Elephant Sale. For more information visit www.cabarrusquiltersguild.org. Fri., Sept. 24, 10 a.m. $4. Cabarrus Arena and Events Center, Concord.

TIES AND TAILS GALA The Humane Society of Charlotte's second annual fundraising gala will feature live music, dance, cocktails, food, an auction, a keynote speaker, some canine attendees and more. Proceeds raised go to support Humane Society of Charlotte's efforts to provide for animal needs, as well as adoption and education services. For more information, visit www.humanesocietyofcharlotte.org. Sat., Oct. 23. Westin Hotel, 601 S. College St., Charlotte.

WHO GOT SERVED? BREAKDANCE & POPPIN BATTLE Competitions for Breakdance Crews: 3 on 3 battle ($400 cash prize) and Poppin Singles ($200 cash prize). Contest starts at 10 p.m. The event, hosted by MC Bluez, will also feature DJs Mike Sodden, Aswell and SK, as well as a performance by Remote Kontrol Dance Crew. (featured on the Fox hit So You Think You Can Dance). Sun., Sept. 5, 8 p.m.-2 a.m. $7-$10. Breakfast Club, 225 N. Caldwell St. 704-374-1982. www.that80sclub.com.

YIASOU GREEK FESTIVAL The festival features music and dancing native to Greece, Greek cuisine, displays and exhibits on Greece, tours of the cathedral, a lecture series on Greek culture, a "marketplace" with numerous vendors and more. For more information, visit www.yiasoufestival.org. Sept. 9, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sept. 10, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sept. 11, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sept. 12, 12-8 p.m. $2 admission; Free for children 12 years old and under, accompanied by a parent or guardian. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 600 East Boulevard, Charlotte.