Events for the Weekend: April 9-11

Your best weekend 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. Use contact/website info listed to verify event details.

Friday, April 9

Speed Networking / Privy
First part of the event is a networking social. Complimentary appetizers by McHealthy Café. 6-9 p.m. $5. Then it’s followed by an after-party. Drink specials include $5 cosmos, apple martinis, and peach martinis. Music by DJ Shogun. Presented by Mingleberry.com. Free until 11 p.m.; cover charge after. 9:30 p.m.-2 a.m. Luna Lounge, 521 N. College St. www.mingleberry.com.

Blush Fridays
This weekly ladies night series continues at the EpiCentre’s new VIP lounge. Elements Diet and Fitness is the sponsor this week and will be giving away a free membership. Music by DJ RWONZ. Half-price martinis. 8 p.m. Ladies free. www.kazbacharlotte.com.


Saturday, April 10

Charlotte Middle East Festival
Enjoy authentic Middle Eastern music, dancing, food, and arts and crafts at this third annual festival. Presented by the Middle East Council of the Carolinas. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Evening concert follows; $10. Trexler Student Center, Queens University of Charlotte, 1900 Selwyn Ave. www.middleeastcouncilnc.org.

Malik Yoba: One Night Stand
The co-star of Why Did I Get Married Too? hosts this intimate evening filled with creative conversations about sex, love, and relationships; comedy, music, film, and theater. 5 p.m. VIP reception; 6 p.m. main event. $15-$25. Booth Theater, Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, 130 N. Tryon St. www.carolinatix.org.

Sunday, April 11

The Big Give Back
Several Charlotte promoters have assembled to present this fundraising event. Hosted by radio’s Fly Ty and music by DJ Chase. Proceeds to benefit Regional HIV/AIDS Consortium. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $10. House of Jazz, 8630 University Executive Park Dr. www.pinkdiamondpromo.com.