There’s something about this stretch of summer that always sneaks up on us. Are we all realizing school shopping isn't that far away?

Until then, we're making the most of these warm evenings, live music, and every excuse to spend a little more time outside.

This week's issue is full of concerts, community events, and a few local spots worth checking out while summer is still in full swing. Hope you find something fun to add to your calendar this week!

— Scott

The Gist: Davidson College announced a simplified pricing model for new students entering fall 2027. U.S. citizens and permanent residents from families earning $85,000 or less will have tuition, fees, housing and meals covered. Families earning up to $175,000 will attend tuition-free. Eligibility also depends on assets.

Why It Matters: Davidson’s estimated annual cost starts at $95,195. The college is one of fewer than two dozen nationwide that admits domestic students without considering ability to pay, meets 100% of demonstrated need and does not include loans in aid packages.

What’s Next: The new model begins with the fall 2027 class. Current students will remain under existing aid policies.

The Gist: North Carolina officially named the Moravian cookie its state cookie after an eight-year push that began with a fourth-grade class at Brooks Global Studies in Guilford County. The thin, crispy spice cookies trace back to Moravian settlers who founded Salem, now part of Winston-Salem, in the 1700s.

Why It Matters: It’s a sweet nod to a longtime North Carolina tradition and a proud moment for the students who first proposed the idea in 2018. Their classroom civics project ultimately helped create a new piece of state law.

The sun is dipping low over Lake Norman, and Mi Amiche is the perfect spot to wind down a summer day. Upstate New York roots run deep here, especially in the signature Utica chicken riggies with its scratch-made rosa sauce.

Wednesday nights bring half-off wine bottles and glasses, making it easy to linger over a plate of pasta. Sunday brunch runs all day long, so you can enjoy the weekend vibe at your own pace.

Cornelius native Adam Wilson and his wife Rachael are expanding your access to Learn Music just in time for a final summer celebration. They’re hosting a patio Open Mic Night on Friday, July 31st, followed by a new campus Open House on Saturday, August 15th from 3 to 6 p.m. Catch youth rock bands, meet new instructors, and take advantage of free trial lessons through August 31st!

🎶 LaLaCaboosa: Shag Night | Veterans Park | Huntersville | 07/16 | More
Upbeat Carolina beach music and swing dancing under the open night sky.

🎤 Live: U-Phonik | LangTree LKN | Mooresville | 07/16 | More
Alternative and hard rock anthems paired with lakeside food truck dining.

🎸 Live Under the Oaks | The Plaza at Birkdale Village | Huntersville | 07/17 | More
Soulful, groove-heavy indie rock tunes perfect for a relaxing family blanket picnic.

⛺ Parents Night Out | Kids Camp Lake Norman | Cornelius | 07/18 | More
Indoor fort building, active campfire games, and s'mores!

🦛 Normie's Birthday Celebration | The Harbor | Huntersville | 07/18 | More
Summer baseball coupled with mascot festivities, sweet treats, and local vendors.

🎵 Concerts @ the Circles: Buffett & Beyond | Jetton Street near Clean Juice | Davidson | 07/18 | More
Tribute night on a closed-off Jetton Street. Acoustic 5 p.m., headliner 7 p.m. Free.

⛳ Summer Bash | Elevate Golf Performance Center | Cornelius | 07/18 | More
Interactive facility tours, putting practice, coach meet-and-greets, and local food.

🌺 Luau Dinner Celebration | Cadence | Huntersville | 07/23 | More
Island-inspired dinner featuring tropical drinks and lively music.

🎤 24K Magic & Krak'd Vinyl | BoatYard Lake Norman | Cornelius | 07/17 | More
Pop hooks and funk grooves under neon stage lights near the water.

🚌 Party Bus Night | board at The Kilted Buffalo | Huntersville | 07/18 | More
A multi-location pub crawl charter featuring vibrant DJ sets and drink specials.

🎸 On The Border: The Ultimate Eagles Tribute | BoatYard Lake Norman | Cornelius | 07/18 | More
Sunset classic country-rock anthems honoring timeless California acoustic hits.

🚗 Chrome for a Cause | Langtree Charter Academy | Mooresville | 07/18 | More
Classic car showcase plus summer games and safety resources.

⚽ Live Soccer Watch Parties | The Serve Pickleball + Kitchen | Cornelius | until 07/19 | More
Global tournament viewings paired with stadium-style platters and cold drafts.

🎺 Big Band & Dinner | New Victory Lanes | Mooresville | 07/20 | More
Swinging brass melodies and timeless dance rhythms plus a classic dinner.

🎯 Dart League | Primal Brewery | Huntersville | 07/21 | More
Pub competition welcoming all skill levels over award-winning craft drafts.

Thanks for reading our newsletter! We’ll have more updates for you next week!

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