More things to do this fall 

COMEDY

Ongoing

CHARLOTTE COMEDY THEATER Celebrating seven years of high-energy comedy. Shows Fri.-Sat. at 8 p.m. $10. Rated R. Friday, 10 p.m. Mitosis Live, 1308 The Plaza. 866-improv1. www.charlottecomedy.com.

August

JOHN REEP Hickory native and 2007 winner of NBC's Last Comic Standing, Reep makes his way to Charlotte for a night of laughs. $20-$25. Aug. 28, 7:30 p.m. McGlohon Theatre, 345 N. College St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

MATTHEWS COMEDY ZONE Matthews Maddness. Showcases comedians in the Southeastern region. First and third Thursday of every month. 8:15 p.m.; Scotty K with Jason Benci. Aug. 22, 23; Carolina Improv Jam. A night of improv games, sketches and laughter. Second Thursday of every month. 8:15 p.m.; David L's Comedy Showcase. David L selects eight comedians to showcase their talents. 8:15 p.m. Aug. 28; Kurt Green with Andy Peters. Aug. 29, 30. 11329 E. Independence Blvd. (Matthews). 704-845-2211. www.matthewscomedyzone.com.

LKN COMEDY ZONE Kurt Green with Derrick Tennant. 8 p.m. Aug. 26. 17044 Kenton Drive. (Cornelius). 704-895-1782. www.lkncomedyzone.com.

September

CARLOS MENCIA The Mind of Mencia star will bring his At Close Range tour, featuring lots of political and cultural comedy. $42.50. 8 p.m. Sept. 5. Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. 704-372-1000. www.ovensauditorium.com.

BOB AND TOM COMEDY ALL-STARS Featuring Bob Zany, Drew Hastings, Greg Warren, Nick Griffin, Paul Mecurio, Dwayne Perkins and Chick McGee. $30.50. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 27. Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. 704-372-1000. www.ovensauditorium.com.

NBC'S LAST COMIC STANDING LIVE TOUR Season 6 of Last Comic Standing premiered May 22 on NBC. The Emmy-nominated laugh fest returns with an all new group of the world's funniest comics. Watch the series this summer on NBC, then see the finalists perform live at the Last Comic Standing Live Tour. $21-$49. 7 p.m. Sept. 28. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

LKN COMEDY ZONE Michael Mack with Greg Lausch. 8 p.m. Sept. 9; Dan Swartout. 8 p.m. Sept. 16; Mark Klein. 8 p.m. Sept. 23 17044 Kenton Drive. (Cornelius). 704-895-1782. www.lkncomedyzone.com.

October

THE CHUCKLEHEADS The Happy Birthday to Us Comedy Improv Variety Extravaganza. $5. Oct. 18, 8 p.m. Actor's Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Morehead St. 704-342-2251. www.thechuckleheads.com.

TERRY FATOR WITH JAMES GREGORY Winner of NBC's America's Got Talent, Fator, a ventriloquist gives his puppets the know-how on humorously imitating national recording artists. $45.50-$55.50. 7 p.m. Oct. 10. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

THE SECOND CITY: DEFACE THE NATION Featuring all-political customized comedy with scenes and songs that poke fun at political parties and more. $29.50-$34.50. Oct. 14-19. Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Lake norman COMEDY ZONE Julie Scoggins. 8 p.m. Oct. 7; Hypnotist Rich Guzzi. 8 p.m. Oct. 14. 17044 Kenton Drive. (Cornelius). 704-895-1782. www.lkncomedyzone.com.

DANCE

August

RAGGS LIVE! DANCE PARTY The family-friendly event features dance, music, educational concepts and dogs from the public television series Raggs. $12-$25. 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Aug. 23. Halton Theatre (CPCC), 1206 Elizabeth Ave. 704-330-6534. http://halton.cpcc.edu.

September

TIMELESS BALLETS BY BALANCHINE The Charlotte Symphony performs the scores of three works by the legendary George Balanchine. Former New York City Ballet stars and Balanchine protégés, Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux and Patricia McBride keep the Balanchine tradition alive with this presentation of La Sonnambula, Raymonda Variations and The Four Temperaments. $60-$290. Sept. 18-20. Sept. 18, 7:30 p.m.; Sept. 19, 20, 8 p.m. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

PETER & THE WOLF AND CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS Experience a delightful afternoon of story ballet and classical music with Mark Diamond's Peter & The Wolf and Carnival Of The Animals. Watch as two young boys set out on exciting adventures, one in his village and the other in a magical museum. $60-$150. Sept. 20-21, 2 p.m. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

October

INNOVATIVE WORKS Presented by the North Carolina Dance Theatre, this show celebrates 10 years of dance and shows the new works by Mark Diamond, Sasha Janes and Dwight Rhoden. Oct. 30-Nov. 8. Oct. 30, Nov. 6, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 31, Nov. 1, Nov. 7 and Nov. 8, 8 p.m. Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

November

JOSE PORCEL: BALLET FLAMENCO From folkloric dances in Valencia to sold out performances at the Opera de Paris, Jose Porcel is a world renowned dancer. 8 p.m. Nov. 3. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

WINTHROP DANCE THEATRE This concert features works choreographed by faculty and guest artists, who offer a variety of dance styles. Nov. 5-8, 8 p.m.; Nov. 9, 2 p.m. Johnson Theatre, Winthrop University, 115 Johnson Hall, Rock Hill, S.C. 803-323-4014. www.winthrop.edu.

CALO FLAMENCO: BALLET DE MARTIN GAXIOLA A professional flamenco company with over 15 talented dancers creating audio and visual audience experiences. $20. 8 p.m. Nov. 19. Duke Family Performance Hall (Davidson College), 207 Faculty Drive. 704-894-2361. www3.davidson.edu.

December

SENIOR CHOREOGRAPHY SHOWCASE Features dance works choreographed by senior dance majors that include a variety of styles such as modern, jazz, hip-hop, ballet and more. Dec. 5, 8 p.m.; Dec. 6, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Dec. 7, 2 p.m. Johnson Theatre, Winthrop University, 115 Johnson Hall, Rock Hill, S.C. 803-323-4014. www.winthrop.edu.

NUTCRACKER N.C. Dance Theatre for Charlotte presents this timeless holiday classic, featuring the Charlotte Symphony, a cast of more than 100 dancers, including students from around the community. Dec. 12-21. $60-290. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

MUSEUMS

CHARLOTTE MUSEUM of history Family Fun Night: Treasures. Come for a pizza dinner, discuss a stunning gift donated to the Museum of Musea History by the Princess Simone Simplicita of Musea, and assist with the process of research and documentation of a new gift. Next is the Priceless Treasures Tour where children will join the White Glove Brigade in investigating artifacts from the museum's collection and learning how to preserve them so that future generations can enjoy them. The evening of fun will conclude with popcorn and a free showing of the movie National Treasure. Aug. 21, 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m. $5-$10. Distinguished Speakers Series: John Burns. Lecture to be given by Mr. Burns, followed by a wine and hor d'oeuvres reception. Sept. 11, 8 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Free for members. Revolutionary Charlotte. Visitors will learn about what happened in the Queen City during the war, visit encampments of both American and British troops, and learn about the Native American tribes that also called the Carolinas home. Sept. 20, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $5-7. Haunted Homesite. Oct. 24, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. $5-7. Civil War Lantern Tour. Take a walk back in time and relive the Civil War; see the campfires, smell the cooking, and listen to the stories from the period. Nov. 22, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. $6-8. Reservations required for most events. The Charlotte Museum of History & Hezekiah Alexander Homesite, 3500 Shamrock Drive. 704-568-1774. www.charlottemuseum.org.

LEVINE MUSEUM OF THE NEW SOUTH Gospel Shout! Tuesday. Free concert showcasing local gospel music. Sept. 9 at 7:30 p.m. at the United House of Prayer for All People, 2321 Beatties Ford Road. New South BBQ bus tour. Sample various BBQ with historian Dr. Tom Hanchett. Sept. 12, 6 p.m. Dinner and program is $30-$35. Reservations required, 704-333-1887. Free for All Day. The Levine Museum is open with free admission all day. Sept. 13, 10 a.m.--5 p.m. Elderhostel's Day of Discovery/Discover Charlotte: History in the "New South" Includes guided tour of exhibits, walking tour of Uptown, and a slide talk with Dr. Tom Hanchett. Sept. 18, 20, 26. $79. More information and reservations at www.elderhostel.com. Culture and Cookies: Storytelling through Quilts. A free guided tour through the Corapeake exhibit and information about quilts. Part 1, Sept. 21, 2 p.m.; Part 2, Oct. 19, 2 p.m. Culture and Cookies: Creating an Oral History of Your Family. Learn to document your family's history in this workshop. Nov. 16, 2 p.m. Film Critic Lawrence Toppman talks about Charlotte and the Carolinas in movies. $5. Oct. 9, 7 p.m. Tate Hall (UNC-Charlotte); Oct. 16, 5:30 p.m. Levine Museum. Grown Deep Like the Rivers. A Black Poetry Homecoming. Free. Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. Wachovia Playhouse at ImaginOn. Day of the Dead Festival. Experience the traditional Mexican celebration when families remember their dead and continuity of life. Enjoy authentic food, music, and dance. Free. Nov. 2, 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Global Dish: Real Country Cooking. Eat, share and discuss old Carolina cooking and folk traditions with Dan Huntley and Dori Sanders. Nov. 6, 6 p.m. $30-$35, includes dinner and program. Reservations required, call 704-333-1887 x 501. Charlotte in America's Wars. Discuss Charlotte's role in American wars with David Erdman, and view a restored Korean War-era Jeep and six-wheel Gamma Goat. Nov. 9, 3 p.m. at Duke Mansion, 400 Hermitage Road. Southern Book Fair. Nearly two dozen authors will be on hand for meetings and signings with books focusing on the post-Civil War South. Free with paid museum admission. Dec. 6, 10 a.m.--4 p.m. From Morning to Night: Domestic Service in the Gilded Age South. Examines the role of African-Americans in domestic services in the South. Dec. 8--Feb. 28. Levine Museum of the New South, 200 E. 7th St. 704-333-1887. www.museumofthenewsouth.org.

THE LIGHT FACTORY The Light Factory First Juried Annuale. Juried by Julian Cox. Showcases work from emerging artists around the county. On exhibit through Sept. 9. Free. The Light Factory Knight Gallery. The Light Factory's 36th Annual Members Show. All work is submitted by the members of the Light Factory. Free. On exhibit through Sept. 14 at the Light Factory Middleton/McMillian Gallery. Into the Mystic. Exhibit focusing on light. Free. Sept. 14- Jan. 4. Opening reception Oct. 16 at Knight Gallery. The Day of Small Things: Photographs by Michael Wilson. A mid-career retrospective of Michael Wilson's works. Free. Opening reception Oct. 16. Sept. 18--Jan. 4. Middleton/McMillan Gallery. American Zombie: George A. Romero's Film Revolution. Romero will answer questions and lead a presentation. Sept. 19-21. For screening times and other info log onto www.zombiestakecharlotte.com. Devil Music Ensemble performs Red Heroine. The 3-person band has composed a score from the traditions of Chinese classical and folk for the story of the rise of a woman warrior. Visulite Theatre. Oct. 7, 7 p.m. The Light Factory, 345 North College St. 704-333-9755. www.lightfactory.org.

McCELVEY CENTER Shady Grove Band. $10-20. Sept. 20, 8 p.m. Arts in Education Series: The Boy Who Cried Wolf. Porkchop Productions presents an uproarious adaptation of the popular tale for kids ages 3-11. $5. Sept. 25, 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 3:30 p.m. Make reservations at 803-684-3948 ext. 27. War Bonds, The Songs and Letters of World War II. Described as a "living cabaret," the production is interspersed with personal letters written on the battlefield and headline news of the day. Oct. 26, 3 p.m. Arts in Education Series: Three Little Pigs. Opera Express engages children and families as the Three Little Pigs visit the library to learn how to build their houses and the Big Bad Wolf attempts to blow down their homes. $7. Oct. 30, 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Make reservations at 803-684-3948 ext. 27. The Annie Moses Band. Robin and Bill Wolaver and their six children, ages 10-24, are leading the way in the pop-classical revolution sweeping the world. Nov. 15, 8 p.m. McCelvey Center, 212 E. Jefferson St., York, S.C. 803-684-3948. www.chmuseums.org.

THE SCHIELE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY Swamp Things! Learn about swamps and walk through a primeval world of live alligators, a baby bobcat, a baby skunk, a 15-foot python, screech owls, snakes and more. Alligator and snake feedings on Thursdays. Scottish Heritage Day. Learn about the Scots and celebrate with Scottish traditions – bagpipes, kilts, dancing, sheep herding and more. $7-$10. Oct. 26, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Backcountry Farm. Gemstone Mining. Visit the gemstone mine and search for mineral treasures. Take home what you find. $4 in addition to museum admission. Through Nov. 23. Sat.-Sun. Indians and Pioneers. Explore the life of Catawba Indians and the settlers that came first to the area. $7-$10. Sept. 28, 1 p.m.--5 p.m. Reptile Expo. Private collectors, pet store owners, and reptile dealers may bring nonvenomous snakes, turtles, lizards, salamanders and other reptiles to the event. Aug. 24, 1 p.m.--5 p.m. Fall At The Backcountry Farm. Visit the farm to learn how plants, animals, and the earth sustained the European settlers of the Piedmont. Sept.-Oct. Saturday, 10 a.m.--4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.-- 4 p.m. The Catawba Village. Travel through the history of the Catawba Indians and learn about their environment. Sept.-Oct. Saturday, 10 a.m.--4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.--4 p.m. The Swamp Fox Remembers. General Francis Marion, the Swamp Fox, was a lieutenant in the Continental Army. Seating limited. Sept. 25, 7 p.m. $5 per person. Call 704-854-6676 for a reservation. Swamp Fest. Enjoy presentations about swamps, wildlife and conservation efforts. Nov. 16, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Harvest Day. Celebrate the harvest as 18th century Carolinians might have done. Nov. 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Colonial Christmas. Bring your family and celebrate Christmas in 18th century style. Dec. 14, 2 p.m.-6 p.m. The Schiele Museum of Natural History, 1500 East Garrison Blvd. Gastonia, N.C. 704-866-6900. www.schielemuseum.org.

MUSEUM OF YORK COUNTY 15th Anniversary Wine Tasting. Celebrate with special guest Stuart Roy, director of wine and spirits at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas. Exclusive Vintner tasting begins at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 23, 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. $50/CHM member, $60/non-member and $90/couple for CHM members. Habitat Stewards' Training. Become a certified Habitat Steward and learn how to improve your home and work by creating wildlife habitats in our communities. Sept. 12-13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Register by Sept. 5. River Ramblers: Worth Mountain Park & Pinckneyville. Geologist Irene Boland, naturalist Steve Fields and historian Michael Scoggins will introduce participants to the natural and cultural history of the area. Must be 18 or older. Sept. 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $20-25. Create a Green, Healthy Home. Robyn Griggs Lawrence, editor-in-chief of Natural Home magazine, and Wanda Urbanska, host of Simple Living with Wanda Urbanska, will explore ways we can make our homes more environmentally friendly. Sept. 16, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. $10-15. Register by Sept. 9. River Sweep. Help clean up the Catawba River and receive a free ticket to the River Docs exhibit at the Museum of York County. Sept. 20, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.. Register by Sept. 12. River Ramblers: Fish Dam Ford. Geologist Irene Boland, naturalist Steve Fields and historian Michael Scoggins will introduce participants to the natural and cultural history of the area. Must be 18 or older. Oct. 11., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $20-25. Featured exhibits: On the River: Journeys & Discoveries by Bill Stokes opens Sept. 20. Vernon Grant's Wit and Whimsy: Making Folks Smile for over 75 Years. River Docs: A Catawba River Narrative. Landscapes and Lifeways: The Carolina Piedmont 600 years ago and Today. Building Legacies: Connecting People, Places and Communities. Museum of York County, 4621 Mt. Gallant Road, Rock Hill, S.C. 803-329-2121. www.chmuseums.org.

HISTORIC BRATTONSVILLE Living History Saturdays. Every Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Heart and Soul: Portraits of Kessie by Kaye Cloniger. Exhibition of poem and 14 portraits created by Cloniger of interpreter Kitty Wilson Evans bringing Kessie, a historically-documented Bratton plantation slave to life. Ongoing. By The Sweat of Our Brows. Learn about the lives of Africans from their homeland to Brattonsville through storytelling, songs and more. Sept. 13, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $4-8. Piedmont Pottery Festival. Demonstrations, talks and pottery for sale. Local barbecue also for sale. $5-10. Sept. 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Black Hope, White Fear. Explore slave revolts through the eyes of enslaved African-Americans, plantation owners and members of the surrounding community. Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Civil War Reenactment. Event brings to life the war that ravaged America. Activities include battle reenactments at 2 p.m., camp life activities, firearms presentations and children's military drills. $5-10. Oct. 18, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 19, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Thanksgiving Living History Day. See how different people prepared and consumed their foods from the earliest colonists in the 1760's to the slaves and wealthy planters of the 1840's. Regular admission. Nov. 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Christmas Candlelight Tours. Walk candlelit paths and experience theatrical presentations from yesteryear. Costumed interpreters will depict how Christmas celebrations evolved in the Carolinas from the 1780's to just before the Civil War. Gunners "shoot in" the holiday, a minister discusses Colonial Christmas customs, the Brattons host a "wassailing" party, enslaved African-Americans discuss their Christmas customs and a German family lights a Christmas tree. Dec. 6 and 7, 3 p.m.-9 p.m. Historic Brattonsville, 1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells, S.C. 803-684-2327. www.chmuseums.org.

HISTORIC LATTA PLANTATION Civil War Infantry. Dressed as Civil War Soldiers, experts will demonstrate and talk about camp life. Free for ages five and under; $5-$6. Aug. 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Revolutionary War Reenactment. Watch reenactments of the Battle of Charlotte and the Battle of McIntyre Farm, as well as demonstrations, soldier camps and more. Free for ages five and under. $7. Sept. 6-7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Ghost Tales in the Dark. Walk the grounds of Latta Plantation with a lantern light guided tour that features ghost stories by staff members, volunteers and more. $12. Oct. 17-18, 8 p.m. A Plantation Christmas. Celebrate Christmas in the 1800s as you tour the plantation house, kitchen and slave cabin. Free for ages five and under. $5-$6. Nov. 28-29. Historic Latta Plantation, 5225 Sample Road. 704-875-2312. www.lattaplantation.org.

CHARLOTTE NATURE MUSEUM Rat Tales. From rabbits to squirrels, spend a day learning why not all rodents are rats. Sept. 13, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Spooky Spiders and Creepy Crawlers. Enjoy Halloween treats and learn about nocturnal animals. Kids are encouraged to wear costumes. Oct. 25, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Turkey Talk. Get up close to a wild turkey and learn why Ben Franklin thought the turkey would make a great national symbol. Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Wonders of Winter. Learn about the winter-loving animals and their wild counterparts during their active time in the year. Dec. 20, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Charlotte Nature Museum, 1658 Sterling Road. 704-372-6261. www.discoveryplace.org.

DISCOVERY PLACE A Day in Pompeii. This ancient Roman city is brought up from the ashes for an exploration of the day in 79 A.D. when the city was buried under the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Open through Jan. 4. $20 for adults, $17 for children, free for children under 2, and $18 for college students with ID, seniors ages 60 and older and military with ID. Greece: Secrets of the Past. This film uncovers the buried secrets of ancient Greece with modern archeology and shows off the beautiful landscapes of Greece. Open through Jan. 4. Discovery Place, 301 N. Tryon St. 704-372-6261. www.discoveryplace.org.

MINT MUSEUM OF CRAFT + DESIGN Curator’s Lecture: Ornament as Art. In conjunction with the contemporary jewelry exhibition Ornament as Art, curator Cindi Strauss from The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston will discusses the exhibition and jewelry. Free with museum admission. Aug. 24, 3 p.m. College Night. A special night for college students, which features year-round educational offerings, free gifts and a viewing of the Ornament at Art exhibition. There will also be light snacks and live jazz with Calvin Edwards from 6:30 p.m.- 7:30 p.m., as part of Third Thursdays: Live Jazz! No registration required. For more information, call 704-337-2032. Oct. 16, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.  Possibilities: Rising Stars of Contemporary Craft in North Carolina. Exhibition showcases the work of six young North Carolina studio craft artists and features metal, glass, ceramics, paper and furniture. On exhibition through Nov. 30. Ornament As Art: Avant-Garde Jewelry from the Helen Williams Drutt Collection. Exhibition that explores contemporary jewelry from around the world. On exhibition through Jan. 4, 2009. Mint Museum of Craft + Design, 220 N. Tryon St. 704-337-2000. www.mintmuseum.org.

MINT MUSEUM OF ART Potters Market Invitational. Forty North Carolina potters will display and sell their works, which range from dinnerware to art vases. $8. Sept. 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mint Museum Groundbreaking Ceremony. Scheduled to open in 2010, the public is invited to a groundbreaking ceremony to honor the new Mint Museum in Center City. Art-making activities and refreshments will be provided. Free. Sept. 7, 2 p.m.-4 p.m. on The Green. The Factory Party. The Mint Museum will celebrate Andy Warhol’s iconic works with this artsy party featuring cocktails, auctions and entertainment. Oct. 4, 7 p.m.-11 p.m. For more information, call 704-337-2029. Lecture on Andy Warhol. Dr. Tom Sokolowski, director of The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, Penn., will discuss the life and art of Andy Warhol. Free with museum admission. Oct. 5, 3 p.m.  Artist’s Forum with Bob Ebendorf. Internationally renowned metalsmith and jeweler Bob Ebendorf will discuss his works and issues pertaining to contemporary jewelry. Free. Dec. 2, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. The Art of Affluence: Haute Couture and Luxury Fashions 1947-2007. Features haute couture and luxury garments that reflect the works of top fashion designers between 1947 and 2007. On exhibition through spring of 2010. Jaguar: Power in the Ancient Americas. Exhibition explores and displays the diverse works of jaguar representations throughout the ancient Americas. On exhibition through Dec. 14. The Craven Family of North Carolina Potters. This exhibition will feature around 30 examples of pots from the Mint’s permanent collection, thrown by various members of the Craven family. Aug. 30 – Feb. 22, 2009. Women in American Art Pottery. This exhibition displays more than 60 examples of ceramics, decorated by American female artist during the first half of the twentieth century. Aug. 30 – Feb. 22, 2009. Andy Warhol Portfolios: Life & Legends. One of the most influential artists of the 20th century, Warhol’s art will be on display. Oct. 4 – Feb. 15, 2009. Mint Museum of Art, 2730 Randolph Road. 704-337-2000. www.mintmuseum.org.

 

READINGS AND SIGNINGS

August

JOSEPH-BETH BOOKSELLERS Aug. 23: Phillip Cargile signs Clone Chronicles. 1 p.m. 4345 Barclay Downs Drive, 704-602-9800. www.josephbeth.com.

PARK ROAD BOOKS Aug. 22: Hollis Gillespie signs Trailer Trashed. 7 p.m. Aug. 23: Charles F. Price signs Nor Battle For the Strong. 2 p.m. Aug. 30: Stephen Healey signs Restaurant Personality. 4139 Park Road, 704-525-9239. www.parkroadbooks.com.

September

BARNES AND NOBLE AT THE ARBORETUM Sept. 9: Kathy Reichs. Local forensic novel author will sign her newest novel, Devil Bones. 7 p.m. 3327 Pineville Matthews Road, 704-341-9365. www.barnesandnoble.com.

JOSEPH-BETH BOOKSELLERS Sept. 9: Leighton Ford signs The Attentative Life: Discerning God's Presence in All Things. 1 p.m. Sept. 21: Robert Morgan signs Boone. 2 p.m. Sept. 22: Wendy Johnson signs Gardening at the Dragon's Gate. 7 p.m. Sept. 27: Charles Price signs Nor the Battle Too Strong. 1 p.m. 4345 Barclay Downs Drive, 704-602-9800. www.josephbeth.com.

PARK ROAD BOOKS Sept. 2: EllynAnne Geisel signs The Apron Book. 6:30 p.m. Sept. 4: Celia Rivenbark signs Belle Weather. 6:30 p.m. Sept. 6: Fred Ernst signs Truth, Lies, and the OR. 1 p.m. Sept. 11: Judith Geary signs Getorix: The Eagle and the Bull. 6:30 p.m. Sept. 13: Henry Bull signs Love, Pain, and the Rain. 2 p.m. Sept. 14: Mur Lafferty signs Playing for Keeps. Sept. 18: Larry Rogers signs Against the Grain. 7 p.m. Sept. 20: J.D. Rhoades signs Breaking Cover. 2 p.m. Sept. 23: Paul Austin signs Something for the Pain. 6:30 p.m. Sept. 27: Martha Cheves signs Stir, Laugh, Repeat. 2 p.m. 4139 Park Road, 704-525-9239. www.parkroadbooks.com.

October

JOSEPH-BETH BOOKSELLERS Oct. 3: Dan Barefoot signs Hark the Sound of Tar Heel Voices. 7 p.m. Oct. 15: Stephen Hunter signs Night of Thunder. 7 p.m. 4345 Barclay Downs Drive, 704-602-9800. www.josephbeth.com.

PARK ROAD BOOKS Oct. 4: L. Diane Wolfe signs Mike. 11 a.m. Oct. 5: Diane Wilson signs Holy Roller. 1 p.m. Oct. 14: Anna Hayes signs Without Precedent. 6:30 p.m. Oct. 22: Ron Rash signs Serena. 7 p.m. Oct. 24: Laurel Snyder signs Up and Down the Scratchy Mountains. 4139 Park Road, 704-525-9239. www.parkroadbooks.com.

November

JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY. Nov. 5: Poetry reading with Al Young (California State Poet Laureate and Woodrow Wilson Fellow). 7:30 p.m. Free. Sarah Belk Gambrell Auditorium, 100 Beatties Ford Road, 704-378-1000. www.jcsu.edu.

PARK ROAD BOOKS Nov. 1: Annette Laing signs Don't Know Where, Don't Know When. Nov. 15: Mignon Ballard signs Hark the Herald Angel Screamed. 2 p.m. 4139 Park Road, 704-525-9239. www.parkroadbooks.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

August

HUMMINGBIRD FESTIVAL Festival includes games, crafts, vendors, and a celebration with ruby-throated hummingbirds. Free. Aug. 23, 10 a.m.--4:30 p.m. Reedy Creek Park and Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road.

GREAT GATSBY GALA The annual Great Gatsby Party celebrates its 20th year in Charlotte. This event raises money for the National MS Society through a "Gatsby era" party complete with costumes and swing dancing. Guests also enjoy big band music, bidding on silent auction items and tasting a variety of food and drinks from local restaurants. Aug. 23, 8 p.m. at The Atrium at Two Wachovia. http://ncp.nationalmssociety.org.

BATTLE SLAM JAM A celebration of urban art, dance, music, athleticism, and cars. $10 registration fee to compete. Free. Aug. 23, 10 a.m. Grayson SkatePark, 750 Beal St., 704-365-1265. www.battleslamjam.com.

DOWNTOWN DAVIDSON CONCERT ON THE GREEN In celebration of 10 years of the popular concert series, each concert will feature a themed picnic contest with prizes awarded to winners. Aug. 24: The Bad Daddies. Picnic theme is funkiest picnic. Free. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Davidson's Town Green (at Main St. and Davidson/Concord Road.) www.downtowndavidson.org.

CELEBRATE GOSPEL The free, outdoor family event will feature vendors, food, and national gospel artists. Aug. 30, 2 p.m. Smithville Park, 19710 S. Ferry St.

2008 NEW RIVER BLUES FESTIVAL Headliners include Johnny Rawls, Wallace Coleman, Shrimp City Slim, Miss Wanda Johnson, The King Bees and more. Aug. 31, 1 p.m.-7 p.m. Jefferson Landing, Jefferson. www.newriverbluesfestival.info.

September

ROMAN ARMY FESTIVAL. Experience Ancient Rome with gladiators and soldiers. Free. Sept. 4-7. Fourth Ward Park, 301 N. Poplar St. www.castraromana-pompeii.com.

SOUTHERN IDEAL HOME SHOW AND SOUTHERN KITCHEN AND BATH SHOW A home and garden show that gives ideas on remodeling, decoration, as well as advice on projects and services on the interiors and exteriors of homes and landscaping and gardening projects. Sept. 5-7. $7-$9. Fri., 12 p.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Charlotte Merchandise Mart, 2500 E. Independence Blvd. 704-376-6594. www.southernidealhomeshow.com.

CHARLOTTE LITERARY FESTIVAL Sept. 6 at the Charlotte Convention Center. Featuring authors, speakers, and bands – Susan Jeffers, Terry Brooks, Dale Henry and more. Tickets $10. www.charlotteliteraryfestival.com.

BLUES BREWS & BBQ Charlotte’s barbecue contest and festival brings a whole lot of barbecue vendors, which means there will be some good eats. In addition, there will be beer, entertainment, bluesy vibes from Bill Wharton aka Sauce Boss and more. Free admission. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sept. 12-13. N. Tryon St. (between 6th St. & 11th St.) 704-332-2227. www.charlotteshout.com. 

DOWNTOWN DAVIDSON CONCERT ON THE GREEN In celebration of 10 years of the popular concert series, each concert will feature a themed picnic contest with prizes awarded to winners. Sept. 7: Davidson Express. Picnic theme is most colorful picnic. Free. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Sept. 21: Davidson College Symphony and Jazz Ensemble. Picnic theme is most collegiate. Free. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Davidson's Town Green (at Main St. and Davidson/Concord Road.) www.downtowndavidson.org.

SIZE MATTERS: A REALLY BIG ART KRAWL Over 20 music acts, two open jam sessions, drum circles, belly dancers, 60 artists, street performers and The Krawl's Open Air Arts and Craft Market. Special Performance by Snagglepuss at Snug Harbor. Sept. 13. Charlotte's Plaza Central Business District. www.thekrawl.org.

3RD ANNUAL WHITEWATER FESTIVAL Food, live music, activities and more. Sept. 13, 9 a.m. U.S. National Whitewater Center, 820 Hawfield Road, 704-391-3900. www.usnwc.org.

SUNSET JAZZ FESTIVAL This festival features outdoor jazz performances by bassist Ron Brendle of Freebop Funk-tet and flutist Michael Porter of Porterhouse and more. Sept. 13, 2:30 p.m. Symphony Park at SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road. www.charlottesunsetjazzfestival.com.

SOUTHERN WOMEN'S SHOW Show features fashion, shopping, food, and prizes. Sept. 18-21. $5-$9. Charlotte Merchandise Mart, 2500 E. Independence Blvd. 704-376-6594. www.southernwomensshow.com.

FESTIVAL IN THE PARK Celebrating its 44th anniversary, this festival offers a variety of food, music, and arts native to the southeast. Sept. 18-21. Freedom Park, 1900 East Blvd. www.festivalinthepark.org.

NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD, WITH GEORGE ROMERo The Light Factory presents the 40th anniversary of the horror film classic that revolutionized the genre with special guest, Director George A. Romero. $20 in advance. Sept. 19, 7 p.m. McGlohon Theatre, 345 N. College St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

SECOND ANNUAL HOPPIN' JOHN OLD-TIME & BLUEGRASS FIDDLERS' CONVENTION Featuring music, contests and cook-off activities. Sept. 19-20. $8-$10. Shakori Hills Farm 1439 Henderson Tanyard Road, Silk Hope, N.C. 919-542-1746. www.hoppinjohn.org.

CHARLOTTE FILM FESTIVAL In its third year, this festival aims to bring exposure to the filmmakers whose films showcase. Sept. 25-28. www.charlottefilmfestival.org.

CHARLOTTE SHOUT CULINARY ARTS EXPERIENCE 2008 This two-day celebration offers art, music and, of course, food. This year’s event features 14 restaurants and celebrity guests such as Cat Cora, Curtis Stone, Lorena Garcia, Billy Strynkowski and Martin Yan. In addition, there will be lots of samples and interactive experiences. Sept. 26-27. Johnson & Wales Campus, 801 W. Trade St. 704-332-2227. www.charlotteshout.com. 

ARTFEST OF MATTHEWS 23rd annual juried fine arts and crafts show. Also features children's activities, live music and more. Sept. 27-28. Gallery on The Green, 210 Matthews Station St., Matthews. 704-847-3649. www.matthewschamber.com.

CHARLOTTE OKTOBERFEST BEER FESTIVAL 2008 Unlimited samples of over 300 beers. Sept. 27. Memorial Stadium, 310 N. Kings Drive., 704-336-2884. www.charlotteoktoberfest.com

October

DOWNTOWN BLUES FESTIVAL Festival will feature a variety of blues' artists to perform in downtown shops and restaurants. Oct. 2-4. Main St., Downtown Rock Hill, S.C. 803-328-2787. www.rockhillarts.org.

GREAT GRAPES WINE, ARTS AND FOOD FESTIVAL Uncork the fun by celebrating the tastes of over 100 diverse wines. There will also be wine seminars, Gourmet Live cooking demonstrations and other arts and crafts. $10-$20; Free for kids 12 and under. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Oct. 4. Symphony Park at SouthPark Mall, 440 Sharon Road, 1-800-830-3976. www.uncorkthefun.com.

THE CAROLINA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL This festival is a medieval amusement park with 22 acres full of entertainment. There are 10 stages, jousting tournaments, arts and crafts, food and more. Oct. 4-Nov. 16. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $7-$18. 16445 Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville. 877-896-5544. www.royalfaires.com.

AN EVENING WITH TIERNEY CAHILL Presented by The Learning Society of Queens. "Ms. Cahill for Congress: Living Without Fear," speech. $15-$20. Oct. 9, 7 p.m. Dana Auditorium, Queens University of Charlotte, 1900 Selwyn Ave., 704-337-2213. www.queens.edu/learningsociety.

SHAKORI HILLS GRASSROOTS FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND DANCE Featuring a bunch of bands and performers, crafts and food. Oct. 9-12. $11-$85. 1439 Henderson Tanyard Road, Silk Hope, N.C. www.shakorihills.org.

FESTIVAL LATINO AMERICANO Celebrate the 18th anniversary of Charlotte's Latin America Festival, which features nationally and internationally known bands and musicians, traditional dances, children's activities and more. Oct. 12. 12 p.m.-7 p.m. Symphony Park at SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road, 704-531-3848. www.festivallatinoamericano.org.

15 SHORT FILM FESTIVAL There will be 15 films from 15 countries including on Oscar nominated documentary. $7-$10. Oct. 19, 7:30 p.m. The Evening Muse, 3227 N. Davidson St., 704-376-3737. www.15filmfest.com.

THE AMERICAN CRAFT SHOW IN CHARLOTTE Artists offer their finest crafts in home décor, furniture, ceramics, metal, wood, glass, jewelry and fashion. $8. Oct. 31, Nov. 1-2 , 10 a.m. Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St., 800-836-3470. www.craftcouncil.org/charlotte.

November

SOUTHERN CHRISTMAS SHOW Six acres of holiday crafts, gifts, decorations and more. Nov. 13--23. $3-$15. Charlotte Merchandise Mart, 2500 E. Independence Blvd., 704-376-6594. www.southernshows.com.