01-05-2025
Popular day party series brings Sunday funday vibes to Charlotte
DopeBrunch is a monthly pop-up party that is so popular, it always sells out.
Why it matters: It satisfies a craving that Charlotte has for day parties and bottomless brunch, founder TJ Leak tells Axios.
Background: Leak first started hosting DopeBrunch in the Triangle area in 2017, after noticing that North Carolina lacked Sunday funday events similar to those he experienced in cities like D.C. or Houston.
"After traveling to all these cities, one of my mentors told me not to complain about where I live but to instead think about how I can change it," Leak said.
In 2019 he brought the parties to Charlotte.
Between the lines: Bottomless mimosas and happy hour drink specials are illegal in North Carolina. But brunch buffets, like the ones you'll get at a DopeBrunch event, aren't.
The vibe: DopeBrunch parties are about six hours and are held at rotating venues around Charlotte, like Pinhouse, Alibi and Queen Park Social, to name a few.
Expect a range of music, from Hip-Hop to R&B. Former Wild'n Out comedian Darren Brand often hosts.
How it works: Sign up for alerts to be notified about free entry.
Tickets range from $0-$20. They're free if you grab them early, but the price increases to $20 if you wait until the last minute.
Brunch tickets start at $30 and include the brunch buffet and drink specials.
Dig in: Menu items include French toast, chicken and waffles, steak and eggs, shrimp and grits, fruit, plus some vegan options.
The next DopeBrunch event is May 18 at STATS from 12-9pm.
There's another DopeBrunch on May 25 at Slingshot from 3-9pm. VIP tables for up to six guests range from $100 to $200 and include unlimited duckpin bowling or brunch.
Plus: Leak also partners with Charlotte-based event company Tru Vibez to host events not centered around brunch called "DopeVibez."
