Upcoming events
(We do our best to keep this page updated, but check our Instagram for up-to-the-minute listings!
2026 1st Annual VAPA Center’s Tenant Appreciation Event and Awards Ceremony
Join us for an exciting evening of celebration, creativity, and community at the 2026 1st Annual VAPA Center’s Tenant Appreciation Event & Awards as part of our 4th VAPAversary Celebration. This special event is all about you, our talented tenant artists. We invite you to enjoy a night of fun, food, and festivities as we honor the incredible contributions and achievements of our vibrant artistic community.
Event Highlights
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Date: March 5, 2026
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Time: 7 pm – 8:30 pm
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Location: Encore Room, VAPA Center
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Dress Code: Creative Chic
Categories and Nominees
Our awards ceremony will recognize the outstanding efforts of artists across a variety of categories. Each nominee has been selected by their fellow tenants, making this a truly special occasion to celebrate peer recognition.
Visual Artist of the Year
This award honors an artist whose visual work has made a significant impact on our community.
Performing Artist of the Year
Celebrating a performer whose talents have left a lasting impression on audiences and peers alike.
Volunteer of the Year
Recognizing a volunteer who has selflessly dedicated their time and energy to support the VAPA community.
Best Studio Space
Awarded to the tenant who has created an inspiring and functional studio environment.
Influencer of the Year
Honoring an artist who has used their online platforms to positively influence the art world and beyond.
Artistic Mentor of the Year
Celebrating a mentor who has guided and inspired their peers through generous sharing of knowledge and experience.
Tenants’ Choice for Creative of the Year
A special category where tenants vote for the most outstanding and innovative artist among them.
Trendsetter of the Year
Recognizing an artist who is at the forefront of new trends and styles in their field.
Best Exhibit
Awarded to the most compelling and memorable exhibit.
Best Tenant Takeover
Celebrating the most creative and engaging tenant takeover event or exhibit.
We look forward to celebrating each of you and your remarkable achievements. This event is not only a chance to honor our award winners but also an opportunity to strengthen the bonds within our community. Enjoy an evening filled with inspiration, camaraderie, food, and, of course, art!
*The general public is invited but the number of tickets are limited. RSVP by visiting Eventbrite to secure your spot at this unforgettable event. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Anniversary Celebration: March 7th
Date: Saturday, March 7th
Time: 12 pm – 6 pm
Celebrate with us through a variety of enriching and exciting activities:
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Guided Tours: Explore our vibrant space and discover the diverse artistic expressions it houses.
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Open Studios: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process of our resident artists.
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Gallery Exhibitions:
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Obra Collective’s Resist: An evocative exhibition challenging perspectives.
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Nine Eighteen Nine Studio Gallery’s Closing of Luis Ardilla’s Retrospective: A must-see showcase of exquisite works.
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Tenant Take Over Galleries: Immerse yourself in diverse artistic visions.
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Moderated Artist Talk: Engage in a lively discussion on local theater production with talented artists.
Night Market: March 14th
Date: Saturday, March 14th
Time: 6 pm – 10 pm
Come back for our Night Market, sponsored by TD Bank, and experience:
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Live Music by Guy Davidson: Enjoy enchanting melodies that set the perfect ambiance.
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Local Vendors: Discover unique crafts and products created by local artisans.
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Artists Studios: Visit and connect with artists in their creative spaces.
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Artists Led Classes and Activities: Participate in hands-on creative sessions.
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Gallery Exhibits & Dance Performance: Witness captivating performances by The KUUMBA Academy Fellows.
This is a celebration of community, creativity, and collaboration that you won’t want to miss. We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating together!
As always, admission and parking are free.
An Artist’s Block Party for SHOUT!
Join us for a vibrant celebration of creativity at the Artist’s Block Party during Charlotte Shout!
This lively event will take place on April 11th from 5 PM to 8 PM at the “The Creative Mile North End” in Uptown Charlotte.
Location and Atmosphere
Nestled under the colonnade of trees in the parking lot of the VAPA Center, this event offers the perfect backdrop for an evening of artistic inspiration and community. The serene environment will encourage creativity and collaboration among attendees.
Activities and Entertainment
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow creatives and artists. Share ideas, collaborate on projects, and foster new friendships within the artistic community.
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Delicious Eats: Savor a variety of meals from local food trucks, offering a selection of delectable dishes to satisfy your taste buds.
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Live Music: Groove to the beats spun by talented DJs from BackSpinz, who will keep the energy high and the vibes positive throughout the evening.
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Art Exploration: Step inside the VAPA Center to witness the incredible art created by local artists every day. Discover new works and get inspired by the diverse range of artistic expressions on display.
Admission Details
As always, both parking and admission to the event are free. This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local art scene without any cost, making it accessible to everyone who wishes to attend.
Come and be part of this exciting event where ideas, music, food, art, and community come together to celebrate creativity in Charlotte. We look forward to seeing you there!
But wait, there’s more…
After the Block Party, stay for our monthly Night Market inside the VAPA Center until 10 pm!
NIGHT MARKET AT VAPA
Sponsored by TD Bank
::Free Parking::
PARKING AT THE VAPA CENTER
The entrance to The VAPA Center parking lot is located on N. College Street
Please use this address in your GPS to be directed to the correct entrance:
736 N. College Street
Or click here for a video guided tour
And, as always, admission and parking are FREE at VAPA.