Events for the Weekend: December 11-13

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. This isn’t intended to be a complete list of everything that's going on, but instead are the events GPT recommends.

Friday, December 11

Party for NEXTAID
This charity event is in recognition of World Aids Day and all proceeds will go toward the creation of an ecological multipurpose facility for the Kawangware Street Children and Youth Project in Nairobi, Kenya. Sounds by house music DJ Mr. V. 9 p.m. $10 donation suggested. Dharma Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St., Suite 105 (entrance faces W. Summit Ave). www.dharmacharlotte.com.

5th Annual Red and Black Affair
Your best red and black attire is requested at this annual holiday party that draws hundreds of young professionals each year. VIP and bottle service will be available. Presented by CharlotteVibe and Six Figure Entertainment. 10 p.m. $10 in advance; more at the door. The Sunset Club, 1820 South Blvd. www.charlottevibe.com.

Kickin It on the Southside (weekly event)
Digital Divas presents this weekly Friday night event for those who live or want to party in south Charlotte. Enjoy a great crowd, drink specials, and a DJ spinning hip-hop and R&B. 10 p.m. Free. On the Roxx, 14021 Conlan Circle (Ballantyne). www.ontheroxx.com.

Saturday, December 12

3rd Annual Queen City Awards
This year’s ceremony will present 26 awards in a variety of music and entertainment categories including: R&B group/band of the year, rock group/band of the year, country group/band of the year, and even a Poetry in Motion award. Hosted by Big Pat and Melinda Medina. QCA will also honor the life of the late Nate Quick, and will donate a portion of proceeds to Amped 4-A-Cure. Doors open 5:30 p.m.; show starts 6:30 p.m. Cost varies. Skandolos, 5317 Independence Blvd. www.queencityawards.com.

One Love Fest: Unity of Art and Music
This event will feature a performance by reggae act Middle Passage X, as well as spoken word via open mike, arts and crafts, and art on display by local and visiting artists. A portion of the proceeds will go to Toys for Tots and domestic violence victims. Presented by The Art House; sponsored by Pynk Chocolate Events, JazzUndaground, and The W.E. Foundation, Inc. 8 p.m.-12 a.m. $15-$20. The Art House, 3103 Cullman Ave. www.pynkchocolateevents.com.

Swank!
Talk of the Town is promising a stylish night out, featuring live music by Uptown Swagga, DJ Shogun on the turntables, and a 2010 fashion preview with styles by Frederick LaMont. The attire is swanky. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to 25 Dreams Foundation, a suicide prevention organization. 9:30 p.m.-2:30 a.m. $15. Grand Central, 1000 Central Avenue. www.talkofthetownent.com.

Holiday Nouveau
It’s a party at Ballantyne’s posh movie theater. Complimentary wine and champagne served in VIP. Music by DJ Paradime. Suggested dress code is “cosmopolitan.” Presented by The A List. 10 p.m.-3 a.m. $15 and up. Ballantyne Village Theater, 14825 Ballantyne Village Way. www.alistnextevent.com.

Sunday, December 13

Special Blend (weekly event)
Special Blend presents genres of artistry, music, visual, and humor. Experience it while relaxing in a trendy lounge. Music by DJ Justice. 7 p.m.-12 a.m. Free. PJ’s Coffee & Lounge, 210 E. Trade St. (inside the EpiCentre). www.pjscharlotte.com.

8-Track Flash Back 70s Party
Celebrate this phenomenal era with music and themes from yesteryear. Come dressed in your best 70s ensembles and get down with the get down. 9:30 p.m. $10. Allure Lounge, 1508 S. Mint St. www.allurerestaurant.com.