A Free Festival Built Entirely
Around Kids.
Charlotte Kids Fest 2026 happens Saturday, October 3, from 11 AM to 4 PM at The Boardwalk at University City in northeast Charlotte, and admission is free for everyone. Six activity zones, performances, and a brand-new sensory-friendly space make it one of the best free family days of the fall. Here is what to expect, zone by zone, plus the easiest way to park.
The essentials, fast.
What makes this festival special?
Run by University City Partners, the festival turns the open-air Boardwalk into a kids' wonderland with free activities in every corner. It is geared mostly to children under 10, but the whole family will find something.
Create & Learn Zones
Craft tables, hands-on science, and workshops fill two of the six zones with take-home projects.
Dance & Discover Zones
Professional-led dance workshops and interactive performing arts keep the music moving all afternoon.
Go Zone
Big construction and emergency vehicles park for climbing and honking, the perennial crowd favorite.
Play Zone & Sensory Space
Outdoor active play plus a new-for-2026 sensory-friendly zone for autistic and neurodivergent children.
How much does it cost?
Admission is free, and all activities inside the zones are free too, funded by sponsors including UNC Charlotte and University City Partners. Food vendors are on site if you want lunch. The easiest parking is the nearby JW Clay LYNX station, a short walk away, and you can also ride the Blue Line and skip parking entirely.
Official Festival WebsiteGood to know.
Arrive right at 11 AM to hit the big vehicles before the lines grow.
Bring a change of clothes for messy art projects, because they are the best kind.
Combine it with a Blue Line ride, a shopping stroll, or nearby lunch in University City for a full day out.
Curious about the neighborhood?
University City is the northeast Charlotte corridor anchored by UNC Charlotte, with transit access, growing neighborhoods, and family-priced housing. A festival here is a great way to feel out the area with the kids in tow.
More fall festivals.
Fall Festivals Guide 2026
Every festival post in one place, from the Renaissance Fair to the Thanksgiving Eve Parade.
Tricks and Treats at Carowinds
Concord International Festival
Sources: Charlotte Kids Fest official site, University City Partners, QCity Metro. Dates and details were verified against official event pages in September 2026; always double-check the official site before you go, since event details can change.
Festival season is my favorite
time to show off Charlotte.
If you are thinking about moving to the Charlotte area, or just wondering which neighborhood fits you best, I would love to help. Reach out any time, and I will bring the neighborhood cheat sheet.