CALENDAR
September Calendar
Although conscientious efforts are made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, all events are subject to change and errors can occur! Please call to verify times, costs, status and location before attending an event.
SEPTEMBER HAPPENINGS
September 3–20
DEEP-FRIED FUN
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh funnel cakes and sizzling turkey legs to signal that the Central Carolina Fair is back in town. Gather your friends, grab your tickets and follow your nose to food you can only find at a fair — and that you can see again if you venture onto any of the carnival rides. From classic games and rides to delicious fair food, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or simply just craving your favorite deep-fried treats. General Admission: $7. Greensboro Complex, 2409 W. Gate City Blvd., Greensboro. Info: gsocomplex.com/events.
September 5 & 6
SING THE BLUES
Hit all the right notes at the John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival, where the groove never misses a beat. Held, of course, in High Point, the city where legendary saxophonist John Coltrane first found his rhythm, this unforgettable celebration pays tribute to his lasting influence on jazz and the blues. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz aficionado or just raring to improvise your weekend plans, this festival is sure to strike a chord. See more information in this month’s Wandering Billy on page 43. Tickets: general admission, $94+; two-day tickets, $149. Oak Hollow Festival Park, 1841 Eastchester Drive, High Point. Info: coltranejazzfest.com.
September 10
START FROM SCRATCH, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m
New to Greensboro? Consider this your official welcome mat. Whether you’ve recently unpacked moving boxes, started a new chapter or simply found yourself navigating a different season of life, the Greensboro Newcomers Club’s annual Kickoff Luncheon is where meeting new friends and eating lunch are sandwiched together. After all, community starts with conversation — and maybe a shared dessert. Tickets: members $25; guests $30. Sedgefield Country Club, 3201 Forsyth Drive, Greensboro. Info: greensboroncnewcomersclub@gmail.com.
September 11
A STAR IS BORN, 7:30 p.m
If you’ve been experiencing those country music blues, buckle up, cowboys and cowgirls. The chart-topping Tennessee band Lonestar shoots into town with its signature crossover-country blend, delivering an evening filled with fan favorites and feel-good melodies that will leave you nothing short of “Amazed.” Don’t let this concert slip through your lasso-loving fingers. After all, isn’t it time “Mr. Mom” got a night out? Tickets: $48+. High Point Theatre, 220 E. Commerce Ave., High Point. Info:
highpointtheatre.com/events.
September 12
COLOR ME RAINBOW, 10 a.m.–7 p.m
Don your brightest rainbow attire and bring your loudest cheers. The Greensboro Pride Parade & Festival is painting the town with Roy G. Biv. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this beloved tradition marches down Elm Street with lively music, dazzling performers and a joyful display of love and community. At 11 a.m., when the parade wraps up, the celebration keeps rolling with show-stopping entertainment, local vendors, tempting eats, plus a booming crowd. Come for the parade and stay for the pride. Free. 208 N. Davie St., Greensboro. Info: impaqtgso.org/pride.
FUN IN THE PARK, Noon–4 p.m
Bring your appetite, your curiosity and your comfortable sneakers. The High Point Arts Council’s Annual Day in the Park Arts Festival turns the park into a celebration of art with an especially jazzy reason to party: the late John Coltrane’s 100th birthday. With two stages of live entertainment, food trucks keeping you fueled, folklife exhibits and more than 30 artists and crafters, there’s plenty to explore. Who knows? Maybe you’ll leave with a handmade craft you didn’t know you needed. Free, RSVP recommended. High Point City Lake Park, 602 W. Main St., Jamestown. Info: highpointarts.org/dayinthepark.
September 16–26
ART LIVES HERE
Art has a way of leaving a lasting impression, especially when it gives back. Browse a gallery of artist-donated works and place your bids on the pieces that catch your eye, all while supporting Hirsch Wellness Healing Arts, a nonprofit that brings creative programming and connection to cancer patients. Preview the collection and start bidding on Sept. 16, then raise a glass at the gala from 6–8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 26. Tickets: Free admission to exhibit; gala, $50. 1250 Gallery at Revolution Mill, 1250 Revolution Mill Drive, Suite 123, Greensboro. Info: hirschwellnessnetwork.org/art-lives-here.
September 15
TWO LEFT FEET WELCOME,
7:30–8:30 p.m
Got rhythm? Great. No rhythm? We can work with that. The Greensboro Scottish Country Dance Society invites you to hit the floor at its open house where you’ll learn the classical ballroom style Scottish dancing. Think of it as square dancing with a different accent. A night filled with friendly folks and, naturally, a bit of Scottish country dancing will leave you tuckered out — and with a smile. You may arrive as a beginner, but don’t be surprised if you leave ready for the next dance. Free. Guilford Grange, 4909 Guilford School Road, Greensboro. Info: gsoscds.org.
September 16
BIG TALK, 5:30–6:30 p.m
What can art teach us about nature and the natural world? Visit the “TERRA: A Landscape Survey” exhibition, then stick around for a conversation that sheds light on the matter. Featured artists will engage in an in-gallery, roundtable discussion inspired by the exhibition. Unearth thoughtful conversation, fresh perspectives and plenty to ponder about the places we inhabit and the wild, wonderful world around us. Free. GreenHill Center for NC Art, 200 N. Davie St., Greensboro. Info: greenhillnc.org/exhibitions.
September 17
IN THE LIMELIGHT, 7–9:30 p.m
A little deception has never been so entertaining. RhinoLeap serves up a theatrical feast with its sparkling production of Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest. This performance adds its own theatrical twist as eight actors arrive at the venue on the day of the performance armed with only the costumes on their backs and the props in their hands, transforming the stage into a shining kaleidoscope of clever twists, infectious laughs and a Wilde comedy worthy of an encore. Tickets: $32. The Back Table, 816 S. Elm St., Greensboro. Info: rhinoleap.com/live.
September 18–20
A FESTIVAL FOR THE FOLKS
Rarin’ to pick a good time? The North Carolina Folk Festival is tuning up for three days of indie sounds in the heart of Greensboro. From Grammy winners hip-hop band The Roots and American bluegrass artist Molly Tuttle to finger style guitarist Yasmin Williams and indie-group Bandits on the Run, this celebration will be the highlight of your weekend. Heck, it is your whole weekend. So dust off your dancing shoes, gather your crew and hit the festival that gets everyone to sing along. Free. Downtown Greensboro. Info: ncfolkfestival.com.
POW WOW
Step into a celebration where stories, traditions and community take center stage. The Guilford Native American Association’s Annual Pow Wow invites guests to experience the richness of Native American culture through vibrant music and traditional art. Discover the history and heritage that have shaped Native American communities and join in a gathering where every drumbeat, dance step and shared moment tells a tale. Tickets: $7+. Jaycee Park, 3802 Jaycee Park Drive, Greensboro. Info: guilfordnative.com/annual-pow-wow.
RIDE THE BULL
Saddle up for a weekend that’s sure to have you stomping and cheering from the stands. The Carolina Cowboys are riding back into town for their annual PBR Cowboy Days, bringing that Carolina grit and glory fans can’t get enough of. Fresh off their historic PBR Teams Championship win, the Cowboys are here to bring nothing less than their A-game — along with buckles and boots. Hold onto the reins for one wild ride. And if you don’t know what PBR stands for, you probably don’t own any fringy chaps. Tickets: Individual $22.65+; 3-day package $110.75+. First Horizon Coliseum, 1921 W. Gate City Blvd., Greensboro. Info: gsocomplex.com/events.
September 19
GLASSMAKIN’ & PUMPKIN PICKIN’,
9 a.m. –5 p.m
A glossy, shiny pumpkin, almost good enough to take a chomp out of. Starworks invites all pumpkin lovers and glass-blowing aficionados to pick a ripe, artisan-made pumpkin at its glass pumpkin patch opening day. Browse an array of colorful, sparkling glass pumpkins to bring home for your decor — no carving necessary. Shop to see if there’s one you take a particular shine to. Starworks, 100 Russell Drive, Star. Info: starworksnc.org/starworks-events.
September 22–27
PULL THE PLUG ON LOVE
What does it mean to be human? That’s a question best answered by someone — or something — that isn’t. Maybe Happy Ending, the six-time Tony Award-winning musical — can you say “Best Musical”? — takes audiences on a clever, imaginative journey that explores connection, identity and what truly makes us who we are. Sparked by a chance encounter, this delightfully unexpected story proves that humanity isn’t defined by appearances. Prepare for a musical experience that’s anything but ordinary. Tickets: $46.35+. Steven Tanger Center, 300 N. Elm St., Greensboro. Info: tangercenter.com/events.
September 23–27
LAUGH AROUND THE WORLD, 8:30 p.m
How about a five-day funny fest where the punchlines come fast and the laughs come even faster? The North Carolina Comedy Festival brings together a handpicked lineup of rising stars from across the state and beyond for an unforgettable and never regrettable time. Laugh responsibly. Tickets: $13.11+. The Idiot Box Comedy Club (plus other Triad venues), 503 N. Greene St., Greensboro. Info: idiotboxers.com.
IN THE LONG RUN, 4–7 p.m
Lace up your running shoes and leash up your pups! Whether you’re chasing a new personal best in the 5K, taking a leisurely stroll through the 1-mile course or simply looking for a fun way to burn off energy with your crew, the Downtown Greenway Run & Block Party is everyone’s speed. After crossing the finish line with your running buds — two legged and four-legged — stick around after the finish line for a full-blown block party. Refuel with yummy food, groovy live music and games. Block party, free; run, $30+. Morehead Park Trailhead, 475 Spring Garden St., Greensboro. Info: downtowngreenway.org/events.
HUSKING HISTORY, 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m
Step into the past and discover how Native Americans and early Quaker settlers made the most of what nature provided. Explore the art of transforming simple, natural materials into toys, ornaments and treasured creations. Then try your hand at crafting your own corn husk doll. Guided by costumed interpreters, this hands-on experience turns history into a tradition you can take home. Free. Historical Park at High Point Museum, 1859 E. Lexington Ave., High Point. Info: highpointmuseum.org.
September 25
A WHOLE LOT OF GROOVIN’, 7:30 p.m
The Dave Fox Group joins forces with Jessica Mashburn and Evan Olson — aka The Olsons — to celebrate the legendary sound of Steve Miller, resulting in one feel-good night of music. You’ll head to “Swingtown” with a mix of rock, blues, jazz and funk, all brought to life by The Olsons’ powerhouse vocals. From laid-back grooves to full-on rock ’n’ roll, this show promises plenty of reasons to tap your toes, sing along and leave with a smile on your face. Tickets: $20+. Carolina Theatre, 310 S. Greene St., Greensboro. Info: carolinatheatre.com/events.
September 26
FIFTEENTH FIESTA, 5:30–7:30 p.m
Casa Azul, a local nonprofit that promotes Latin American art and culture, is throwing the ultimate quinceañera fiesta to celebrate 15 years of culture, creativity and community. Explore the beauty and significance of the quince in Latino culture through fashion, art, music and dance while local Latino artists and art mavens honor their heritage and connection. Free. Greensboro History Museum, 130 Summit Ave., Greensboro. Info: greensborohistory.org/events.
ROCK ON, 7:30 p.m
A tribute to three legendary bands. One stage. And enough classic rock to keep your head bobbing all night. Magical Mystery Doors takes the music of The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and The Doors and gives it a wonderfully unexpected twist, weaving songs from all three catalogs into mashups and medleys. With lights and visuals adding to the experience, this isn’t your typical tribute show. Bring your love of classic rock and prepare to hear some old favorites in a whole new way. Who knows — perhaps “All You Need Is a Whole Lotta Love” or “Here Comes the Sun to Light My Fire” is on the set list. Tickets: $39+. Carolina Theatre, 310 S. Greene St., Greensboro. Info: carolinatheatre.com/events.
September 27
DOXIE DERBY, 12–3 p.m
Well, hot dog! Get ready for a paws-itively unforgettable day filled with your favorite lil’ hounds. The Doxie Derby is fighting breast cancer, one woof at a time. These pint-sized pups are ready to steal the spotlight as they race for bragging rights and strut their stuff in a show-stopping costume contest. With local vendors, family-friendly activities and plenty of four-legged — albeit short-legged — flair, this event is sure to be a barking good time. Every cheer, wag and wiener dog sprint helps fuel the fight against breast cancer. Tickets: $10+. First National Bank Field, 408 Bellemeade St., Greensboro. Info: earlier.org/event-details/doxie-derby-2026. OH
To submit an item for consideration, please email ohenrymagcalendar@gmail.com by the first of the month prior to the month of the event.
Submit your event
Submit your event by sending an email to ohenrymagcalendar@gmail.com. O.Henry’s calendar features local events in the categories of art and entertainment. To ensure your event makes it into the print edition, please make sure to submit by the first of the month prior to the event.