February 23-26, 2012
Tar Heel Kids Consignment Sale
Thursday, 6:30-9 p.m.
Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cabarrus Arena & Events Center
4751 Hwy 49 North -- Concord

Admission is free to this four-day consignment sale, featuring closing for children, teens and maternity as well as toys, accessories, equipment, furniture and more.

February 23, 2012
Explore the Underground Railroad at Harrisburg Library
4:30 p.m.
Cabarrus County Public Library at Harrisburg
201 Sims Parkway -- Harrisburg

It has been estimated that during the 1800s more than 100,000 enslaved people sought freedom through the Underground Railroad. Come explore the train without tracks as the Harrisburg Library presents a traveling trunk from the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Guests will have a hands-on experience and learn how the underground railroad really worked. This event is for children ages 8-12.

February 24, 2012
"Kisses and Cupcakes" with the Piedmont Choral Society
7-8 p.m.
Forest Hill United Methodist Church
265 Union St. North -- Concord

This Valentine-themed program, held in the Church's fellowship hall, will feature popular love songs from the Piedmont Choral Society as well as homemade desserts. A love offering will be taken during the free program. Call 704-699-6053 or email kayy2000@gmail.com for more information.

February 25, 2012
5th Annual Spayghetti Dinner
5-8:30 p.m.
Hickory Ridge High School
7321 Raging Ridge Road -- Harrisburg

Benefiting the Cabarrus Spay Neuter Clinic, this annual event will feature Chef Lou Petrozza of Hell's Kitchen Season 4 fame who will prepare a fabulous meal of homemade spaghetti and his famous Flaming Banana's Foster. Entertainment will be provided by Melon Belly with a dinner for six prepared by Chef Lou being raffled off as well as other great prizes. The event is sponsored by The Humane Society of Concord. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door. Call 704-763-8550 for ticket information.

February 26, 2012
Loco for Cocoa
2-3 p.m.
Reedy Creek Nature Center
2900 Rocky River Road -- Charlotte

Dive into the natural history of chocolate at this event, also learning how it relates to wildlife. Chocolate is involved! All ages are invited. Participation is $3 per person and pre-registration is required, 704-432-6460.

February 27, 2012
Explore the Underground Railroad at Harrisburg Library
10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Cabarrus County Public Library at Harrisburg
201 Sims Parkway -- Harrisburg

It has been estimated that during the 1800s more than 100,000 enslaved people sought freedom through the Underground Railroad. Come explore the train without tracks as the Harrisburg Library presents a traveling trunk from the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Guests will have a hands-on experience and learn how the underground railroad really worked. This event is for children ages 12 and older.

February 28, 2012
Safe Web Browsing & Online Scam Prevention
10:30 a.m.
Cabarrus County Public Library at Harrisburg
201 Sims Parkway -- Harrisburg

With new computer viruses and scams constantly emerging, join Nick Reale, IT Consultant, and learn steps you can take to protect yourself from fake websites, phishing and other hazards of the Internet.

February 28, 2012
Teen Book Club
6 p.m.
Cabarrus County Public Library at Harrisburg
201 Sims Parkway -- Harrisburg

Join the Library and other teenagers for a discussion of City of Bones by Cassandra Clare.

March 3, 2012
Winter Weeds Walk
10-11 a.m.
Reedy Creek Nature Center
2900 Rocky River Road -- Charlotte

Learn about weeds in the winter and how to identify them from their seeds and dried form on this quiet winter walk through the woods. Guests must be able to walk up to two miles on uneven terrain. Call 704-432-6460 to register in advance. All ages welcome.

March 8, 2012
Full Moon Hike
6-7 p.m.
Reedy Creek Nature Center
2900 Rocky River Road -- Charlotte

Discover the preserve after hours. Guests will explore the trails under the light of the full moon. Participants must be able to hike two-to-three miles on uneven terrain. This free event is open to those ages five and older. Register by calling 704-432-6460.

March 10, 2012
Get Your Rear In Gear 5K
Race Day Registration, 7 a.m.
½ Mile Kids Fun Run, 8 a.m.
5k Run/Walk, 8:15 a.m.
Independence Park
Park Drive and Clement Avenue -- Charlotte

The Colon Cancer Coalition invites all to the third annual Charlotte “Get Your Rear in Gear” 5K walk/run and ½ Mile Kids’ Run presented by Presbyterian Cancer Center. The goal is to host runners and walkers of all abilities to help raise awareness and funds that will be invested in local area projects to help educate the public about colorectal cancer, encourage screening and emotionally support those diagnosed with the disease. There are many ways to participate in the event; join as a volunteer, sponsor, runner, walker or spectator.For more information, visit www.getyourrearingear.com.

March 17, 2012
16th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade & Charlotte Goes Green Festival
Festival, 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Parade, 11 a.m.
Uptown Charlotte

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day the Charlotte way! The Charlotte Goes Green Festival kicks off at 10 a.m., located on S. Tryon St. between 1st St. and 3rd St., featuring Irish music and dancers, bagpipers, food, vendors, beverages and more. There is no fee for admission. The parade begins at 11 a.m. at Tryon and 9th Street, marching south to Tryon St. and 3rd St. Visit www.charlottestpatsday.com for full holiday details.