Charlotte’s arts scene is buzzing, and there’s no shortage of ways to soak it all in. Whether you’re into indie films, gallery openings, or outdoor festivals, the city is serving up something for everyone.

For starters, the 61st Annual Festival in the Park is taking place Friday, Sept. 19, through Sunday, Sept. 21, at Freedom Park. The annual event brings hundreds of people to the park, lined with vendor tents, local artists, live music, and food trucks.

At The Mint Museum Randolph, two exhibitions are opening through Jan. 4, 2026: "Central Impact: Skateboarding's Art and Influence" + "Future Now: Virtual Sneakers to Cutting Edge Kicks." "Central Impact" explores skateboarding through art, as decks become an artist's canvas, whereas "Future Now" shows a history of how sneakers and shoes have evolved through time. Both are open through Jan. 4, 2026. Cue the sneakers from "Back to the Future II" — spoiler alert: those shoes are on display.

If film is more your speed, starting Monday, Sept. 23, the Independent Picture House is hosting the Charlotte Film Festival, starting with the highly anticipated film, "Roofman," starring Channing Tatum. Through Sunday, Sept. 28,movie-lovers can experience documentaries, animated shorts, and post-screening Q&A sessions with the filmmakers. Tickets are on sale.