Looking for things to do around the Queen City this month? Here are the five essential dates to mark in your calendar this October.

October 5 

Beethoven’s Fifth begins with the four of the most recognized notes in musical history. Presented by The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, enjoy this classical piece of music at Belk Theater, 130 N.Tryon St. The first performance of the weekend starts at 7:30 p.m., with another show on Oct. 6 at the same time and a final concert on Oct. 7 at 3 p.m. Tickets start at $19. blumenthalarts.org

October 5-6

Bring your family, friends, and boat-building skills to this year’s Fall Festival at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. In addition to the BYOB (Build Your Own Boat) Competition, you can also enjoy cider sampling, an outdoor yoga practice, The Scrambler Obstacle Trail Race, live music, and more. Pre-registration for the BYOB Competition is $40. Registration for other events is listed on the website. The festival begins Oct. 5 at 4 p.m. at 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway. usnwc.org/relax/festivals/fall-festival

October 6

Show your support for breast cancer awareness at this year’s Race for the Cure. Race through beautiful Uptown Charlotte for $35 per individual. Choose either the 5K or the one-mile course and join a team for extra fun. This event benefits the Susan G. Komen foundation and their mission to screen, treat, research, and educate the public about breast cancer. Packet pick-up is from 6 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. at BB&T Ballpark, 324 S. Mint St. komencharlotte.org

October 20

There’s nothing better than live music, food, and unlimited wine tasting. The South End Wine Fest runs from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and benefits Classroom Central and their effort to equip students living in poverty with the tools they need for effective learning. For $35, you’ll be able to taste wines from 25 different vineyards. Not drinking? Buy the designated driver ticket for $10 so you don’t miss out on the fun. 308 W. Carson Blvd. southendwinefest.org

October 26

Support Atrium Health’s Levine Children’s Hospital at the 2018 Pumpkin Charity Ball. Hosted by the Isabella Santos Foundation, this event helps raise money for better treatment options for children at the hospital. Individual tickets for this black-and-white themed formal event are $150. The ball starts at 7 p.m. at The Ballantyne Resort, 10000 Ballantyne Commons Parkway. pumpkincharityball.org

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