1. The Annual Carolina Renaissance Festival

Dates: October 1 through November 20 (Saturdays and Sundays Only)

Huzzah! The Renaissance Festival is back! Unfortunately, they don't have the Knights Who Say Ni. (I'm just as disappointed as you are.) But they do have several great attractions and special events including jousting, Rick the Hypnotist, Renaissance Vaudeville, Shamus the Insulter and my personal favorite, Hey Nunnie Nunnie! And who could ever resist their famous turkey legs and bread bowls?Before you go, be sure to buy discounted tickets at Harris Teeter. You may also have to pay to play games or ride any rides, should your heart so desire.

2. Festival in the Park

Dates: September 23-25

If you've been looking for a great festival in one of the most beloved parks of Charlotte, look no further! Freedom Park will host this celebration of some of Charlotte's best artists and musicians. You can also laugh with clowns, enjoy Cirque performances, and marvel at Haydini the magician. There will also be plenty of mouth-watering places to eat. There's something for everyone here!

3. UNC Charlotte International Festival

Date: September 24

This is one of UNC Charlotte's most highly anticipated events (besides graduation, of course). This festival has been an annual event on the beautiful UNC Charlotte campus since 1975, and it only gets better every year. There will be music and dancing, delicious foods from different cultures, the Parade of Nations, and a fun Passport Project that will take you around the many booths and events during the festival. Happy travels.

4. Latin American Festival

Date: October 8

¡Olé! The Latin American Festival promises one of the brightest, most fun and engaging festivals in Charlotte. There will be many musical and dance performances including Nicaraguan Salsa singer Luis Enrique, Venezuelan ska artists Desorden Publico and Mexican-American Grammy winners La Santa Cecilia. You can also experience traditional Latin American food from several vendors. If you're looking for an unforgettable cultural experience, this is the festival for you!

5. Carolinas WordFest

Date: October 15

If you're inclined towards all things literature, this is the festival for you! Carolinas WordFest will feature some of the most talented literary minds in the Carolinas. This free festival offers many events including "panels and workshops, as well as a book market with author signings. However, the focus will be on performances and pairings that mix genres and media" as the official site states. For anyone even remotely interested in the written and spoken word, this should be a fantastic time!

Many thanks to Charlotte's Got A Lot and 10 Times for details about these events.