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Featured
Kannapolis Celebration of Lights 

Nov 16 – Dec 30, 2024

Featured
96th Annual Concord Christmas Parade

Nov 23, 2024

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Kannapolis

Once home to the world’s largest manufacturer of household textiles, Kannapolis offers everything from a revitalized downtown district packed with local dining and boutique shopping to sporting events, motorsports attractions and music history.

In 1906 J.W. Cannon purchased the farmland that later became Kannapolis to open a new textile mill, Cannon Manufacturing. By 1914, Cannon Manufacturing was the world’s largest producer of sheets and towels. Today, the City thrives as home to the North Carolina Research Campus, motorsports history and innovative racing facilities, exciting small businesses, and so much more.

Discover Downtown

There’s so much fun to discover in Downtown Kannapolis. “Have a Blast” at a Kannapolis Cannon Ballers Minor League Baseball game at the beautiful Atrium Health Ballpark. If there’s no home game, feel free to stop by the ballpark to enjoy the concessions, splash pad and playground.

Or you can catch a movie at one of the oldest single-screen theaters still in operation at the Gem Theatre. Originally opened in 1936 then rebuilt in 1948, the Art Deco-style landmark is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Find Food & Drinks

Dine on classic steakhouse fare at Chophouse 101, enjoy barbecue, beer and bourbon right alongside the ballpark at Towel City Tavern, or stop in for a quick helping of authentic Latin street food at Sabor Latin Street Grill.

The West Avenue district allows visitors to stroll through the area while enjoying a drink from local establishments. Try locally made hard cider, sip a cocktail from the Irish Pub, or sip expertly crafted brews and pay it forward at veteran-owned hangouts Old Armor Beer Company and Local Patriot Roasting Co. where you can buy a drink in advance for veterans and first responders.

Music, Past and Present

Village Park is home to the city’s outdoor Summer Concert Series where music lover can enjoy live performances under the stars at the park’s amphitheater. Held at Veterans Park, Thursdays on Main is another popular event for live summertime tunes. At the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, exhibits showcase the legacies of artists like Thelonius Monk, Nina Simone, Roberta Flack and The Avett Brothers, among others. Less than a mile from downtown, the history of two of North Carolina’s favorite pastimes are housed in this one spectacular location.

Motorsports History

The Curb Museum for Music & Motorsports hosts the NC Music Hall of Fame on one end and a racing museum on the other. Take a peek at NASCAR, IndyCar and other race cars, including cars driven by Dale Earnhardt and Richard Petty. A trip to Kannapolis isn’t complete without an immersion into the life of hometown hero, Dale Earnhardt Sr. Kannapolis remembers the NASCAR legend at the Dale Earnhardt Tribute Plaza where the centerpiece is a nine-foot bronze statue. The plaza is one of many stops in Cabarrus County that tells the story of Earnhardt’s life and legacy.

Parking in Downtown

There are plenty of options for free public parking while visiting Downtown Kannapolis. Arrive prepared by browsing this information which includes maps and details on where to park during special events, Cannon Ballers game days and more.

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Upcoming Events in Kannapolis

Nov 15, 2024

The Swanee Theatre Presents: Spiderwebs – A Tribute to No Doubt & Gwen Stefani
The Swanee Theatre
Kannapolis

Don't miss this electrifying musical act at the Swanee Theatre! This talented ensemble delivers an unforgettable performance that captures the essence of both No Doubt and Gwen Stefani's solo career.

Nov 16 – Dec 30, 2024

Kannapolis Celebration of Lights 
Village Park
Kannapolis

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Celebration of Lights in Kannapolis, featuring over 250,000 dazzling lights and festive activities for the whole family!

Nov 16, 2024

Kannapolis Christmas Tree Lighting
Village Park
Kannapolis

Celebrate the start of the Christmas season in Kannapolis with the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Village Park. Enjoy an evening of holiday cheer including live music, fireworks and entertainment.

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Exciting experiences are waiting for you in each of Cabarrus County's five communities.

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