About this Event
## Event Title
The Great Westside Fish Fry 2026: Charlotte’s Culture, Cuisine & Community Festival
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## Event Summary (Eventbrite Short Description)
Charlotte’s beloved Westside festival returns! Join us for a free, family-friendly celebration of local food, art, music, and community empowerment—hosted by Applesauce Group.
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## Event Description (Main Body)
**Experience the Heart of Charlotte at The Great Westside Fish Fry!**
On Saturday, April 18, the Historic Westside transforms into a vibrant community festival where food, art, music, and togetherness take center stage. Hosted by Applesauce Group, this annual tradition is more than just a fish fry—it’s a joyful homecoming for neighbors, families, and friends across Charlotte.
**What to Expect:**
- **Delicious Eats:** Savor the best of Westside cuisine with 20+ local food vendors, including favorites like West End Fresh Seafood.
- **Live Art & Music:** Watch the Tommie Robinson Invitational art battle, groove to a New Jack Swing tribute, and enjoy live performances celebrating Charlotte’s creative spirit.
- **Family Fun:** Kids Create Zone, Hula Hoop Contest, Freestyle Skate Battle, and Line Dance University offer hands-on fun for all ages.
- **Marketplace & Community Resources:** Shop from local artisans and connect with organizations like DreamKey Partners for housing and economic mobility resources.
- **Legacy & Impact:** Be part of a living archive that honors Westside’s history while building new memories and pathways to opportunity.
**Why Attend?**
- Free admission—everyone’s welcome!
- Celebrate Black culture, creativity, and community pride in the heart of Charlotte.
- Connect with neighbors, support local businesses, and discover resources that empower.
**Signature Experiences:**
- **Tommie Robinson Invitational** (live art competition)
- **Freestyle Skate Battle**
- **Kids Create Zone**
- **Line Dance University**
- **Hula Hoop Contest**
- **Live New Jack Swing Tribute**
- **Vendor Marketplace**
- **Resource Hub**
**Event Details:**
- **Date:** Saturday, April 18, 2026
- **Time:** 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- **Location:** The West Complex, 1600 W. Trade St., Charlotte, NC 28216
- **Admission:** Free and open to the public
**About Applesauce Group:**
Applesauce Group is a Charlotte-based nonprofit dedicated to uplifting local culture and creativity through immersive festivals and experiences that connect people to life-changing resources.
**Ready to join the celebration? RSVP now and invite your friends and family!**
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## Schedule (Optional Section)
- 1:00 p.m. — Gates Open, Vendor Marketplace & Food Service Begins
- 2:00 p.m. — Tommie Robinson Invitational (live art battle starts)
- 3:00 p.m. — Freestyle Skate Battle & Hula Hoop Contest
- 4:00 p.m. — Line Dance University
- 5:00 p.m. — Live Music Tribute to 90s era New Jack Swing sound
- 6:00 p.m. — Event Concludes
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## FAQs
**Is this event free?**
Yes, admission is free for all ages!
**Do I need to register?**
Registration is encouraged so we can plan for food and activities, but walk-ups are welcome.
**Is this family-friendly?**
Absolutely—there’s something for everyone, from kids to grandparents.
**Where can I park?**
Free parking is available on-site and in nearby lots. Carpooling and public transit encouraged.
**Will there be vegetarian/vegan options?**
Yes, a variety of food vendors will offer meatless and fish-free options.
**Who can I contact with questions?**
Email us at [email protected]
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## Accessibility
The festival site is wheelchair accessible and ADA compliant. Please contact us in advance for any specific accommodations.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
1600 W Trade St, 1600 West Trade Street, Charlotte, United States
USD 0.00
