Going out in Charlotte doesn't have to be expensive. In fact, to prove that statement, we've compiled a list of cheap things to do in the Q.C. this weekend. These events may vary, but they're all entertaining and they won't break your bank (piggy banks excluded).
Mint to Move: Cultural Dance Night at Mint Museum Uptown: This is a time to test your feet. The evening will feature salsa, merengue, bachata, and more. There's music from DJ Pepito and salsa lessons by Rumboa Latin Dance Company. Come ready to work up a sweat. Dance lesson starts at 8:30 p.m. Free for members; $10 general admission; $15 for couples. Feb. 21, 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 704-337-2000. www.mintmuseum.org.
Anniversary Party at Strike City: It's Strike City's five-year anniversary and the venue is thanking its patrons by throwing a party. Kids bowl free all day long until 6 p.m. and adults can enjoy bowling specials, drink specials, live DJs, guest bartenders and giveaways starting at 9 p.m. Feb. 21, 8 p.m. Strike City, 210 E. Trade St. www.strikecitycharlotte.com.
5th Annual Brazilian Festival: A Night in Rio You can expect the Latin American Coalition's annual Brazilian Carnaval to be filled with dancing, live music (batucada, samba, tropicalia and other Brazilian beats), food, drinks and an indoor marketplace. It's a cultural celebration that has a tendency to sell out, so get your tickets in advance or risk having to salsa alone at home. Doors open at 7 p.m. and there's a free samba lesson - informative for folks who struggle from "two left feet" syndrome - at 7:30 p.m. Show starts at 8 p.m. $12. Feb. 22, 7 p.m. Grady Cole Center, 310 N. Kings Drive. www.latinamericancoalition.org.
Showcase of Woodcarvings at Marion Diehl Park and Rec Center: The Charlotte Woodcarvers Club of Charlotte is hosting its 31st Showcase of Woodcarvings and expected to feature more than 700 carvings in competition and on display. This year's theme is "cartoon caricatures." Features an array of vendors, mini-seminars and raffles. Free admission. Feb. 22, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 23, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Marion Diehl Park and Rec Center, 2219 Tyvola Road. www.charlottewoodcarvers.com.