31-03-2025
Ballantyne events guide 2025: Concerts, festivals and things to do
Ballantyne, once a corporate office park in south Charlotte, is quickly becoming a destination for outdoor concerts, seasonal festivals and a growing lineup of new restaurants.
What's happening: We've rounded up the biggest events coming to Ballantyne this year — from live music to food fests — plus a few favorite spots to hit while you're in the area.
Zoom in: At the center of it all is The Bowl at Ballantyne, a recently developed walkable town center with shops, restaurants, fitness studios and events.
Most events are at The Bowl or in Ballantyne's Backyard, a nearby 100-acre community park full of green space and walking trails.
Festivals and markets
From BBQ tastings to holiday light shows, here are four major festivals and open-air markets happening in Ballantyne between now and the end of the year.
🛍 Shop local vendors at the Bowl Street Pop-Up Market on April 5, 10am–3pm.
The outdoor market will take place on the first Saturday of the month from April to November.
🍖 Try over 60 beers, 40 bourbons and lots of BBQ at the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Fest in Ballantyne's Backyard on May 17, noon–6pm.
General admission is $45.
🥃 Find whiskey bars and open-fire cooking at the Whiskey, Wine and Fire Fest in Ballantyne's Backyard on Oct. 25, 5–9pm.
General admission is $59.
🎄 Feel the Christmas spirit at the Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular in Ballantyne's Backyard.
2025 dates haven't been announced, but the display typically runs most of December.
Concerts
The AMP is Ballantyne's 3,500-seat outdoor music venue, and the 2025 lineup is stacked. From country icons to reggae legends, here are some shows to put on your radar.
April 23: Chris Young
June 7: The Beach Boys
Aug 22: Ben Rector
Sept 21: Ziggy Marley & Burning Spear
Fitness/parks and rec
Ballantyne boasts more than 20 parks and ponds and over 20 miles of walking paths and bike lanes.
🏃🏻♂️Set a new personal record in the 21st annual Run! Ballantyne 8K, 5K & Fun Run on April 5 at 7:30am.
☀️ Soak up the spring sun with a picnic, walk or bike ride at parks like Stream Park, Brixham Park, or Ballantyne's Backyard.
So much to do, so little time
If you're just in Ballantyne for a short time, here are some suggestions to get a quick taste of the neighborhood.
☕ Start with a coffee from Fly Kid Fly.
🎯 Pretend you're on a TV game show with your friends at Game Show Battle Rooms.
