Finally Feels Like Fall

I don't know about you guys, but I've been waiting for this weather.

After what felt like an endless stretch of heat and humidity, we finally got a little taste of fall this week. And this weekend has been about as good as it gets around Lake Norman.

Cool mornings, warm afternoons, windows open, and you can actually sit outside without feeling like you need another shower five minutes later.

I love summer, but this might be my favorite time of year here. The humidity disappears, football is back, the leaves are getting ready to change, and suddenly sitting outside at a restaurant or walking around downtown sounds like a good idea again.

It also feels like the time of year when there's something going on every weekend. Festivals, live music, farmers markets, fall events and probably more pumpkin-flavored things than any of us actually need.

So this week I thought we'd give you a few good excuses to get out of the house and enjoy it.

Hopefully this weather sticks around for a while.

Here's what's happening around Lake Norman this week...

🍗 Nana Morrison’s brings soul food to Huntersville

The Gist: Nana Morrison’s Soul Food is set to open its fifth location at 9810 Gilead Road in Huntersville by December 2026. Shawn and Kiana Morrison first opened the doors in 2011 after moving from New York, and today their children help run the daily operations. The new spot joins popular existing locations across North Charlotte, Eagle Lake, Indian Land, and Cary.

Why It Matters: Fresh off being voted the city’s best soul food in a May reader poll, this opening brings time-honored family recipes right to Lake Norman. We won't have to travel far to get our hands on Nana's famous fried chicken, collard greens, yams, and mac & cheese.

🏆 Davidson seeks Jack Burney Award nominees

The Gist: Davidson is accepting nominations for the 2026 Jack Burney Community Service Award through October 2. The annual honor recognizes people who have made a lasting impact on the community through years of selfless service. Nominations can be submitted online, with forms also available at Davidson Town Hall.

Why It Matters: Named for longtime Davidson community leader G. Jackson Burney, the award is a chance to recognize the people who quietly spend years making the town a better place. Burney himself was deeply involved in Davidson civic life and also led economic development work for the Charlotte Chamber.

🍪 Gourmet treats for your afternoon coffee run

548 N Main St Unit a, Mooresville, NC

Red’s Scratch Made is a Mooresville favorite for scratch-made cookies, baked treats and a rotating menu that changes daily. You’ll find everything from classic chocolate chip to fun seasonal flavors, along with gluten-free options and plenty of treats worth pairing with an afternoon coffee.

And if you’re craving something cold, they also serve soft-serve ice cream, with flavors that rotate regularly.

💪 24/7 fitness with a community feel

14212 Statesville Rd Ste D, Huntersville, NC

Activ Fitness in Huntersville offers 24/7 gym access along with personal training, semi-personal coaching, assisted stretch and mobility sessions, and nutrition coaching. Members can choose from open-gym access or more structured coaching programs built around their goals and schedule.

There’s a community side too. Activ Run Club hosts weekly group runs and social events for runners and walkers in the Huntersville and Cornelius area.