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Out & About
There's always something fun to do in Union County; arts groups, civic clubs and other organizations keep the schedule full of interesting and lively activities. We've listed a few highlights here. For a comprehensive community calendar that lists festivals, fund-raisers and other special events in Union County contact the Monroe Tourism and Visitors Bureau, 704-225-1085 or check out www.visitmonroenc.org. Also, you may visit the Union County Chamber of Commerce website at www.unioncountycoc.com for the community calendar and to look at Chamber member businesses.
Farmer's Market
Local vendors offer homegrown produce, plants, baked goods and more. Open Tues.- Sat. 805 Skyway Drive, Monroe; 704-283-3625. The Waxhaw Farmers Market is open Tuesdays & Saturdays.
Historic Union County Courthouse/Heritage Room
This 1888 Victorian Italianate building, featured in motion pictures, now houses county offices and the Heritage Room. If you are interested in county history or genealogical work, this is it. Heritage Room open 10-3, Mon.–Wed., 1-4 Thurs. Old Courthouse, Monroe; 704-289-6737.
Jesse Helms Center
The center highlights the life of retired Sen. Jesse Helms, a native of Monroe. Education, citizen awareness and historical documents await you.Mon.-Fri. 9-5. U.S. 74, Wingate; 704-233-1776; www.jessehelmscenter.org.
Mexico-Cardenas Museum
Located on the campus of JAARS, this museum celebrates the people of Mexico and Wycliffe Bible Translators, of which JAARS is the technical service arm. Open 9-noon and 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Davis Road, Waxhaw; 704-843-6066; www.jaars.org.
Museum of the Alphabet
Man's languages are the focus, with emphasis on ancient alphabets and the Wycliffe Bible Translators. Open 9-noon, 1:00 -4:00 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Davis Road, Waxhaw; 704-843-6066; www.jaars.org.
Museum of the Waxhaws
Experience regional history from 1650 to 1900, including Andrew Jackson's life.Open Friday and Saturday 10-5 and Sunday 2-5; admission charge $4 for adults and $2 for children ages 6 to 12, there is a picnic area. Waxhaw Amphitheater, Waxhaw; 704-843-1832; www.waxhaw.com.
Union County Community Arts Council Gallery
Downtown Monroe is enhanced by this gallery, which features exhibits/open houses of artists and their various mediums and entertainment. 120 N. Main St., Monroe; 704-283-2784; www.unionarts.org.
Union County Writers Club
This civic club sponsors an annual Literary Arts Festival to recognize area talent. 704-289-7000; www.unionarts.org.
Union Symphony Society, Inc.
This society provides administrative services and recruits financial support for the development of programs for classical music education and artistic excellence in symphonic orchestra and choral masterpiece performances to inspire and enrich the lives of an all inclusive diverse population. Call 704-283-2525 or visit www.theunionsymphony.com for more information.
Wingate University
The University presents arts exhibits, theatrical performances, concerts and recitals by students, faculty and visiting artists. Open to the public. 704-233-8300, www.wingate.edu.
Car Show
3rd Annual Car Show, Motorama Classic Cars, October 4, 2008. "Monroe's Finest Tourist Attraction." Non-judged and club show fields available. Car corral fields available. $250 Cash Prize per class – 12 judged classes. Food, vendors, kids fun areas, music, 704-226-9400, www.motoramaclassiccars.com
Charlotte Steeplechase/Queens Cup
The annual Queen's Cup steeplechasing event includes plenty of races, parties and people-watching. Admission fee (profits go to charity). Last Saturday in April; Charlotte Steeplechase Association track off N.C. 75 in Mineral Springs; 704-843-7070; www.queenscup.org.
JAARS Day
The technical service for Wycliffe Bible Translators and the Summer Institute of Linguistics opens its facility to visitors monthly. Activities include a tour of the facilities, visits to two museums, and plane and helicopter rides. Lunch is available. Reservations required for dining room. One Saturday of the month, except January. JAARS Center, Davis Road, Waxhaw; 704-843-6000; www.jaars.org.
Lake Park Fall Festival
Celebrating its l8th year in 2008, this festival, hosted by the residents of Lake Park, welcomes visitors. Features crafts, food, clothing and jewelry vendors, children's activities, hayrides, and more. Second Saturday in October. Village of Lake Park; 704-882-9616.
Main Street Live
Hosted by the Monroe Jaycees, Main Street Live is an annual summer concert series featuring primarily beach music.Main Street Live begins in May each year and is held from 6:00 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. on Main Street in downtown Monroe.Check Tourism & Bureau website for complete schedule; www.visitmonroenc.org.No charge for admission; adult beverages available.Call (704) 289-4671 for more details.
Mecklenburg Hounds
Fox hunting without the kill, plus horse shows and hunter paces. Various times. 704-843-3846.
Monroe Historic Home Tour
Magnificent architecture, creative home decor and splendid gardens await you in historic Monroe. The home tour is held in late spring. 704-292-1705.
Marshville Boll Weevil Jamboree
Spend the day enjoying vendors, music, amusement rides, food and games, then hit the evening street dance at this annual event, sponsored by Marshville Chamber of Commerce. Third Saturday in September; downtown Marshville.
704-624-3183.
Stallings Family Night in the Park
Join over 1,000 parents and children for music, food, children's rides and games.Sponsored by the Town of Stallings. First Saturday in September. 704-821-8557; www.stallingsnc.org.
Waxhaw Scottish Highland Games
A large gathering of clans get together for music, games and fun at this annual event, which includes bagpipes competition, Scottish games, country dancing, music and booths. Annual attendance is about 1,500. Last weekend in October; admission charge; Cane Creek Park. 704-283-0505; www.wshg.org.
Extreme Ice Center
This 87, 000 square foot facility includes 2 NHL-sized ice rinks, and a smaller rink. The facility includes a pro-shop, arcade, locker rooms, full-service snack bar and a fitness center. Lessons, league play, public skating and practice sessions for the Charlotte Checkers all take place at Extreme Ice Center, located at 4705 Indian Trail-Fairview Road. 704-882-1830; www.xicenter.com.
Annual Family Kite Festival
Lake Park residents host an annual family Kite Festival the first Saturday after the first day of spring.
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