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Fall Festival at Almond Farm

Occurs Every Week

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World of Outlaws World Finals

Nov 6 – 9, 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.

gem theatre exterior

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.

curb museum

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

Oct 31, 2024

Halloween Bash & Costume Contest at The Swanee Theatre
The Swanee Theatre
Kannapolis

Join us for a spooktacular night at The Swanee Theatre with DJ Soden spinning tracks from every decade! This 21+ event features a costume contest and specialty cocktails, ensuring a hauntingly good time.

Nov 1, 2024

Tupelo Honey Concert
The Swanee Theatre
Kannapolis

Experience the music of Van Morrison live at The Swanee Theatre in downtown Kannapolis with Tupelo Honey, a tribute to “The Man” himself. Don’t miss this celebration of a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legend!

Nov 2, 2024

Fantasy Romance Author Book Signing
Editions Coffee & Bookstore
Kannapolis

On November 2nd, indie author Jessica Leigh will be at Editions Bookstore in downtown Kannapolis signing copies of her fantasy romance novels!

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

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