BeachFest brings Carolina Coast to Matthews

MATTHEWS – The Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department is ushering in summer with BeachFest Matthews. 

The 16th annual festival, presented by Novant Health Matthews Medical Center, will take place Friday (6 to 10 p.m.) and Saturday (10 a.m. to 10 p.m.), May 10 and 11 at Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St. Admission to the two-day festival is free.

Families can enjoy carnival rides, interactive games and a “shop small boardwalk.” Have lunch or dinner at Food Truck Alley, visit the commercial exhibits on sponsor row and dance to beach music on the main stage dance floor.

Scheduled to perform during the two-day event are Blackwater, Gary Lowder & Smokin’ Hot, North Tower Band, The Band of Oz, The Embers featuring Craig Woolard and The Tonez.

• Returning in 2024: Organizers offer festival-goers to beat the crowds. The carnival will open two hours early on Friday, at 4 p.m. Wristbands and tickets will be on sale at 4 p.m.

• New in 2024: Seaboard, Southern Range and Edge City breweries will sell craft beer on-site during the festival. Those 21 and over can buy and enjoy beverages inside the event footprint, including only the closed portion of South Trade Street and Stumptown Park. 

• Street closure: Trade Street will close between John and McDowell streets on Friday, at 9 a.m. to accommodate pedestrians and vendors. The Trade Street closure will move to Main Street at 3:30 p.m. until the event’s conclusion around midnight Saturday evening.

On the web: www.matthewsnc.gov/beachfest.