Theater

Opening night for ppt’s sexy swashbuckling comedy ‘Tom Jones’ — Tonight at 7:30 p.m.   Meet the cast at a complimentary reception immediately following the opening performance.  Show dates May 4-6 and 10-13 at 7:30 p.m., May 7 at 2:30 p.m. Adults $17, seniors /students $14. Meroney Theater, 213 S. Main St. 704-633-5471, PiedmontPlayers.com

Old Courthouse Theatre presents ‘The Music Man’ — Through May 7: Fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill cons the people of River City, Iowa. Old Courthouse Theater, 49 Spring St. NW. Tickets at www.oldcourthousetheatre.org or 704-788-2405.

Music & more 

Open mic at Mean Mug — 7-11 p.m. Friday, May 5: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with host  Jamie Slate. Sign up begins 6:30 p.m. 1024 S. Fulton St., 704-754-4615, www.meanmugcoffeeco.com

‘When Doves Cry: A Tribute to Prince’ — 7:30 p.m. May 5: Lee Street theatre and the Catawba College Vernaculars present  a tribute to Prince and the Purple Rain Album featuring four former Prince band members and students of Catawba’s music department. Tickets $20, wrist bands required.  Parking lot at New Sarum Brewing, 109 N. Lee St. Info at 704-310-5507.

Trey Calloway coming to AmVets Post 460 — 8 p.m.-midnight Friday, May 5: Doors open 5 p.m., tickets $10, food and drink available for purchase. At the lake, 285 Lakeside Drive. 704-870-8777, www.treycallowayband.com

Music At The Mill — 7-9 p.m. Saturday, May 6: Featuring the sounds of Jeff Lumsden playing rock/country/blues. Bring a chair. China Grove Roller Mill, 308 Main St.

The Back Creek Bluegrass Boys & Tori Jones — Playing at two events on May 6 • 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.: McLaughlin’s Farm House fundraiser for Rowan Helping Ministries/West food pantry • 6 p.m.: West Rowan Farm, Yard & Garden’s Barn Dance.

Echoes for Christ Fifth Anniversary celebration — 5 p.m. May 6: Fairview Heights Baptist Church, 704 Old Concord Road, 704-433-1807.

Triad Harmony Express ‘I Love Beach Music’ — 2 p.m. matinee and 7 p.m. show May 6: Barbership quartet performs “I Love Beach Music,” Arts Council Theatre, 610 Coliseum Drive, W-S. $15 in advance/ $20 DOS. Information at 336-774-4044.

Sunday concert at Mean Mug — 5:30-8 p.m. May 7: Travis Smith, Best Male Vocalist at the L. Water’s 2005 Talent Show; opener for Grammy Award-winner Vashawn Mitchell at Spartanburg’s 2013 Spring Fling. 1024 S. Fulton St.,704-754-4615, www.meanmugcoffeeco.com

Kannapolis is “Jazzing up” Sunday Afternoons — 1-3 p.m.,  Sunday. Concerts are free and will be in Veterans Park, 118 N. Main St. Food will be available • May 7 Brad Bailey • May 14 John Gurske Band

Salisbury Symphony — • May 13 at 7:30 p.m.: Pops concert featuring the works of Gershwin on Varick Auditorium, Livingstone College • June 3: Annual Pops at the Post. 704-637-4314, Salisburysymphony.org

20th annual Pickin’ in the Park Bluegrass Festival —  May 13: Free annual bluegrass festival with bands, instrument workshops, food/craft vendors. Held at 5920 Hagan-Stone Park Road, Pleasant Garden, about an hour away, near Greensboro. Rain date May 14. Details at 336-674-4009 or www.highlonesomestrings.org/

FirstARTS hosts art gallery and music — Sunday, May 14 at 11 a.m.: First United Methodist Church continues its ninth season with a service of music featuring Ola Gjeilo’s “Sunrise Mass” accompanied by string orchestra and choir. Info 704-636-3121,  217 S. Church St.

FirstARTS hosts art gallery and music — The FirstARTS series of First United Methodist Church continues its ninth season Sunday, May 14 at 11 a.m. with a Service of Music featuring Ola Gjeilo’s “Sunrise Mass”. Composed in 2007, this ethereal work is divided between four movements and will be accompanied by a string orchestra and choir under the direction of Matthew Michael Brown, Director of Music and Organist.

‘Grace!’ by St. John’s Men’s Chorus — 4 p.m. Sunday, May 21: 22nd annual Spring Concert, St. John’s Lutheran Church, 200 W. Innes St. Offering to benefit Community Care Clinic. Free. Nursery provided. 704-636-3431. www.stjohns-salisbury.org

Let Your Voice Be Heard with ‘Downtown Beats’ — 6-7 p.m. May 22: Community sing impromptu chorus presented by Rowan Public Library. Free. Stanback Auditorium. 704-216-8248 or Abigail.Hardison@rowancountync.gov

 Memorial Week Gospelfest — 6-9 p.m. May 29-30-31: Annual event hosted byt JCPrice American Legion Post 107, 1433 Old Wilkesboro Road, emceed by George Heggins and  Keith Holland on the piano. Free. To participate, contact Dan Haddock 704-637-6231, Wayne Hill 704-754-1774 or     John Marshall Knox  704-310-6256.

History 

The China Grove Roller Mill – will be open from 6-7 p.m. Saturday May 6 before Music at the Mill.

Rowan History Club ‘Michael Briggs and the Rowan County’ — May 9 at 7 p.m. Author of “The Longrifle Makers of the Rowan School.” Light refreshments. Free, open to the public. Rowan Museum Messinger Room, 202 N. Main St., 704-633-5946, www.rowanmuseum.org

Confederate Memorial day Celebration — May 10 at 7 p.m.: Coltrane-Harriss Chapter United Daughters of the Confederacy and Sons of Confederate Veterans honor 125,000 troops the state of NC provided during the 1861-1865 war. Period music begins 6:30 p.m. Held at The Old Cabarrus County Courthouse 65 Union St. S, Concord.

Gold Hill Gold Rush Days — 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 13: Historic Gold Hill Art and craft booths, gold panning, live bluegrass music and food. Saint Stephens Church Road, www.goldhillnc.com

Patriotic program and military awards bestowal service — 1 p.m. May 20: Free event at Stanback Auditorium, Rowan Public Library, by the Robert F. Hoke Chapter No. 78, UDC. Info Sue Curtis, 704-637-6411, southpaws@fibrant.com

Historic Salisbury Trolley Tour — 11 a.m. Saturdays through Oct. 28. $8 adults/ $5 kids. Narrators describe historic sites, shopping, restaurants, theaters, public art. One-hour tour begins at the Rowan County Visitors Center, 204 E Innes St.

‘Cheerwine: 100 Years’ exhibit —Cheerwine celebrates 100 years in its hometown in an exhibit at Rowan Museum. Through December 2017. 202 N. Main St. Free. 704-633-5946 or www.rowanmuseum.org

This & That 

Tonight Game night at Mean Mug Coffee Co. — 6-9 p.m. Thursdays May 4 and May 11: Bring your favorite board game. Free. 1024 S. Fulton St., 704-754-4615.

Downtown Salisbury First Friday Night Out — 5-9 p.m. May 5: “Come Tickle Our Ivories” Downtown piano reveal and Cinco De Mayo Celebration • June 2-3: Gallery Gallop Art Festival • Aug. 4: Summer Sip Beer Crawl • www. downtownsalisburync.com

Community drum circle — 6:-8 p.m. May 5: At Center for Faith & the Arts. No experience needed, extra drums available. 207 W. Harrison St. behind and below Haven Lutheran Church. Free; donations accepted.

Make, Play, Learn Showcase at Horizons Unlimited —  3-5 p.m. May 6: Community and families invited to see the Maker Space offerings happening in the Rowan-Salisbury Schools. Planetarium shows every 30 minutes. 1636 Parkview Circle. Park and enter from Lilly Ave. www.rss.k12.nc.us/ horizons-unlimited- margaret-c-woodson-planetarium

Band dance at the Y — 7-10 p.m. Saturday, May 6: Delmonicos Band. Bring a covered dish. $8 per person. Guests welcome. J.F. Hurley Family YMCA, 828 W. Jake Alexander Blvd., 704-636-0111, www.rowanymca.org

Spencer Doll And Toy Museum — • 2 p.m. Thursdays: Downton Abbey Club • May 6: Children’s Scrapbooking Event (special price) • May 13: Musical guest Stephen Johnson • May 19-20: Western Movie Days featuring John Wayne • June 3: Fifth Anniversary Celebration • Regular admission applies to events. Spencer Doll And Toy Museum, 108 Fourth St., Spencer, 704-762-9359, www.spencer dollandtoymuseum.com

Millers Ferry Fire Dept Auxiliary Spring craft event — 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. May 6: This event will support the auxiliary at Millers Ferry Fire Dept.

NC Rowan County Anime Group — 9 a.m.-3 p.m. May 6: Membership drive at the Comic Monstore on Free Comic Book Day. https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/ncrowancountyanime/info

Mother’s Day Make & Take weekend at Patterson Farm — May 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and May 7, noon-5 p.m.: Make a special gift for Mom at the Barnyard Theater, small fee required. 10390 Caldwell Road, Mt. Ulla. Info and pricing at www.visitpattersonfarm.com

Dance at Harold B. Jarrett Post 342 — 7-10 p.m. Friday, May 12 (second Fridays): Live music with Country Legend Band.$10 admission, finger foods will be served includes snacks and drinks. 1024 Lincolnton Road. Info 704-637-1722.

Spring Fling Craft Fair at the Y — 8 a.m.-2 p.m. May 17: Guests welcome. J.F. Hurley Family YMCA, 828 W. Jake Alexander Blvd., 704-636-0111, www.rowanymca.org

58th annual Rowan Rose Society Show — 1-5 p.m. May 20: Held in the former JCPenney at West End Plaza. Growers may enter roses 6:30-10 a.m. Proceeds benefit American Rose Society. Info at 704-633-7024.

Line Dancing night at the Y — 7-10 p.m. Saturday, May 20: Delmonicos Band. Line Dancing night. Bring a covered dish. $8 per person. Guests welcome. J.F. Hurley Family YMCA, 828 W. Jake Alexander Blvd., 704-636-0111, www.rowanymca.org

Carolina Swap and Show — 7 a.m.-1 p.m. May 13: $5 admission or $20 swap space includes two people. 600 Stadium Drive, Kannapolis. Info: 704- 267-5664

Corvette Show and Cruise in — 7 a.m.-1 p.m. May 13: Free with your corvette car to show. All others $5. 600 Stadium Drive, Kannapolis. Info 704- 267-5664

Rowan Rose Show — 1-5 p.m.  Saturday, May 20:  Rowan Rose society’s annual Rose whow held in the former JCPenney building at West End Plaza, 1935 Jake Alexander Blvd. West. Area rose growers invited to enter roses 6:30-10 a.m. that day. Show will feature hundreds of beautiful roses of all kinds as well as rose arrangements. Information: Clyde Harriss, 704-633-7024.

L&R Beach Bingo and Vineyard — 6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday. Not-for-profit, proceeds used for community projects. 960 Talbert Blvd., Lexington. 704-310-8888.

60+ Bingo — 2 p.m. third Wednesdays. Info: 336-250-8585 or mdor.mkt@The MeadowsofRockwell. 612 China Grove Highway, Rockwell.

Haulers on Union street party — Thursday, May 18 at 5 p.m.: More than 30 monster energy nascar Cup car haulers en route to Charlotte Motor Speedway. A free party in the streets with Chairmen of the Board and The Entertainers, activities for children, food trucks, giveaways, race cars on display, more. Info at 704-454-4522 or www.600festival.com

Repticon Charlotte Reptile & Exotic Animal Show — June 3-4: Reptile event featuring pets, supplies, feeders, cages, merchandise, live animal seminars, raffles for prizes. Family-oriented. Held at Cabarrus Arena & Events Center, 4751 Highway 49 N., Concord. See www.repticon.com/north-carolina/charlotte/ for pricing and hours

Comedy

The Comedy Zone at The Loft — Wednesday, May 10: Headlining J Bliss; opening Todd Riley. Doors 6 p.m. show 7 p.m. $10 admittance. City Tavern, 113 E. Fisher St., 704-603-4656.

Fundraisers 

Jesse’s Ride and Run for PTSD — May 6: 8 a.m. registration, $25. Faith American Legion Park. All proceeds go to Honor One, for creating financial help for veterans, firefighters, police offices suffering from PTSD. Donate at Gofundme and also register online.

Miller’s Ferry Fire Department Spring Craft Show— 9 a.m.-3 p.m. May 6: Homemade crafts, direct sale vendors, homemade food and dessert. Proceeds support your local Fire Department Auxiliary & Vendors. 2650 Long Ferry Road.

MuckFest MS — May 6: Fun mud run at Concord Speedway, 7940 U.S. Hwy 601 S. raises money to fight MS. Ticket price $80 until 4/19/17. Day-of ticket price is $105. Register at www.MuckFestMS.com

BBQ fundraiser for hungry kids in Guatemala — 11 a.m.-4 p.m. May 6: Proceeds benefit the Guatemala school, GRACES (https://wearegraces.org/). Tickets $8 on site. Mean Mug Coffee Company, 1024 S. Fulton St.

Davie County High School Auto Tech Car Show — 9 a.m.-1 p.m. May 6: Davie County High School and SkillsUSA Auto Tech Car Show. Registration 8 -9:30 a.m., Entry fee $15. Held at Trailers of the East Coast, 418 Interstate Drive, Mocksville. Car show proceeds benefit Automotive Technology and SkillsUSA Chapter at DCHS. Info Seth James 336-751-5905 ext. 4084.

Bourbon in the ‘Bury — 3-7 p.m. May 13: “A tasting of generous spirits.” Tickets $40 each, include admittance, bourbon tasting, hor d’oeuvres, live music, raffles for prizes. In partnership with Chickweed. Additional fees/tax not included. Admission ticket required for non-drinkers too. City Tavern Salisbury, 113 E Fisher St. www.eventbrite.com/e/bourbon-in-the-bury-a-tasting-of-generous-spirits-tickets-32541252763 or www.bourboninthebury.com

PPT’s annual ‘Night on the Stage’ — May 19-20: Piedmont Players Theater fundraiser starring Tony Award winner Lillias White. Limited seating. To reserve your seats call 704-633-5471. Meroney Theater, 213 S. Main St. PiedmontPlayers.com

Third Annual Great Berry Ride at Patterson Farm— 8 a.m. Saturday, May 20: Benefits Rowan County United Way and Hospice. 20-40-60-mile course options. Start at 10390 Caldwell Road, Mt. Ulla. Individual and Team divisions. Register at www.sportoften.com. Info at www.visitpattersonfarm.com

American Children’s Home 19th annual car, truck, motorcycle show — 8 a.m.-3 p.m. May 20: Free spectator admission and parking. Proceeds benefit the boys and girls who call the campus Home. Info at ecrews@ach-nc.org

Seventh annual Riot at Pasture — ( or Riot at Walnut Hill) 3-7 p.m. May 21: Local food and drink, local music, family fun, held at The Vista at Walnut Hill, 1090 Mountain Road, Cleveland. Adults $35, children 6-16 are $15, age 5 and under free. Correll Farms and Two Pigs Farm offering free farm tours 2-4 p.m. Event provides income for other Bread Riot events. Bring a chair. Tickets at www.breadriot.org or the Salisbury- Rowan Farmer’s Market.

‘Grace!’ by St. John’s Men’s Chorus — 4 p.m. Sunday, May 21: 22nd annual Spring Concert, St. John’s Lutheran Church, 200 W. Innes St. Offering benefits Community Care Clinic. Free. Nursery provided. 704-636-3431. www.stjohns-salisbury.org.

Carolinas CARE 5K Run — 8 a.m. June 3: $35. Annual Carolinas CARE 5K run at McAlpine Creek Park, 8711 Monroe Road, Charlotte. Free T-shirts, finisher medal, food, family entertainment. Register at https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Charlotte/CarolinasCARE5k

Second annual Kegs for K9s — 7-11 p.m. June 10: Live music by The Lilly Brothers. Benefits Saving Grace K9s, a nonprofit that trains service dogs for veterans with PTSD. $10. 50/50 raffle and raffle prizes. First 100 guests get free SGK9s bracelet. At High Rock Outfitters, 13 S Main St., Lexington. More info on Facebook.

Wine & beer tastings 

Salisbury Wine Shop — 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, May 5: Wines of Maryhill Vineyards with Andrew Alley, 17th Street Distributing.  Taste wines from Washington State’s most decorated winery.  $5/person • 106 S. Main St., 704-636-5151, sws@ salisburywineshop.com

Morgan Ridge Vineyards and Brewhouse — 486 John Morgan Road, Gold Hill, 704-639-0911, www.morganridgevineyards.com

Cauble Creek Vineyard and Winery — NC’s 100th Winery. Tasting room Friday -Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday 1-6 p.m. $8. 704-633-1137, 700 Cauble Farm Road, www.caublecreekvineyard.com

Douglas Vineyards — Tasting Room hours: Friday 2-8 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 1-6 p.m. Wine Tasting $6. 7696 Freeze Road, Kannapolis, 704-939-6260, www.douglas vineyardswines.com

Cougar Run Winery — 704-280-3624. Cougar Run Winery, 363 N. Church St., Concord. www.cougarrunwinery.com/

Mean Mug Coffee Co. — 7-9 p.m. May 9: $10 presale or $15 at the door. RSVP 754-4615. 1024 S. Fulton St. www.meanmugcoffeeco.com

Old Stone Winery — 704-279-0930, 6245 US Hwy. 52. www.oldstonewines.com

Rocky River Vineyards — 704-781-5035. 11685 Reed Mine Road, Midland. www.rockyrivervineyards.com

Childress Vineyards — 336-236-WINE, 1000 Childress Vineyards Road, exit 89 off I-85, Hwy 64 W. Lexington. www.childressvineyards.com

Night Life

The Carriage Room, 2141 Statesville Blvd. — Sundays 2-7 p.m. Open Mic hosted by Danny Franklin • Fridays: pool tournament, $5. 704-647-9876, carriageroomnc@ facebook.com

City Tavern, 113 E Fisher St. —  6-10 p.m. May 8: Bike Night. Live music by 9 Day Trip. All bikes welcome, anything on wheels. East Fisher will be closed from S. Main to S. Lee Street for bike parking only.

DJs Restaurant, 1502 W. Innes St. — • Tuesdays, Live trivia. • Fridays, deejay • 704-638-9647, http://djsrestaurant.com

Firewater, 122 Avalon Drive — • Thursdays: Karaoke •Fridays-Saturdays: Deejay • Age 25+. 704-870-8689.

Go Burrito RumBar, 115 W. Fisher St. across from the mural — • Monday: Poker Night • Tuesday: Team Trivia • Wednesday: Open Mic • Saturday: Karaoke • www.facebook.com/GoBurritoRumBar

E.H. Montgomery General Store — 7-9 p.m. Fridays: Open acoustic Bluegrass jam. Historic Village of Gold Hill, 704-267-9439, www.themontgomerystore.com

Stars and Bars Tavern, 723 Klumac Road —Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Pool tournament.

Tonight at Sunrise Cafe, 210 Old Amity Hill Road, Cleveland — • 6:30-8 p.m. May 4: The Griggss • 5-8 p.m. every Monday: Karaoke with Crystal. 704-402-3527

Old Stone Vino, 515 S. Main St., Kannapolis — Live music Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday. 704-938-2337.

Festivals

Jiggy with the Piggy — May 5-6: The City of Kannapolis’ annual BBQ and music event, Friday through Saturday. kannapolisnc.gov/jiggywiththepiggy.

Fifth Annual Mount Ulla Spring Festival — May 6 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.: Flower, plant and crafter vendors. Some proceeds benefit West Rowan Volunteer Fire Department. West Rowan Farm, Home and Garden, 11575 NC Hwy 801, Mount Ulla. Info at 704-278-2800. Musician questions? Call Elsie Bennett 704-278-2800.

Eighth annual Wine and Craft Beer Festival — May 6: NC wineries and breweries line Mount Airy’s Main Street. Downtown events lead up to Saturday’s activities. Live music at the Blackmon Amphitheatre Thursday throguh Saturday. Friday: fourth-annual public art crawl kicks off. Mount Airy Rotary sponsors, all proceeds go to charity. Info and tickets at www.BudbreakFestival.com

Spring Heritage Fair at Iredell County Fairgrounds — May 6-7: Spring Heritage Fair, showcasing artisans,  crafters, local businesses, entertainers, raffle. A portion of admittance fee benefits Purple Heart Homes, providing housing for service-connected disabled Veterans. 90+ vendors plus music by Ambush, Chris Montgomery, Branson Inscore of the Catawba Riverkings, Veda & Rick Bafford, Christal Creek,  Shaunie and Steve Smithy, and the Possum Pickers. Visit www.heritageshows.com/springheritageshow2017/

Gold Hill Gold Rush Days — 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 13: Historic Gold Hill Art and craft booths, gold panning, live bluegrass music and food. Saint Stephens Church Road, www.goldhillnc.com

Spring into Arts Festival — 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 13: Free annual family-friendly event in Downtown Concord. http://www.concorddowntown.com

Let’s Get Connected Day — May 20, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.: Multicultural Celebration at Rufty-Holmes Senior Center, 1120 S. Martin Luther King Ave. • Dedication of Peace Pole at the Dream Park, 910 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. at noon. Sponsored by Covenant Community Connection . 704-636-6119.

Blue Ridge Music Center annual Summer Concert Series — May-October: The Steel Wheels, Steep Canyon Rangers, Mipso, Amythyst Kiah, Bill and the Belles, The Snyder Family, and more. Tickets $10-$20. The Blue Ridge Music Center, milepost 213 near Galax, Va. www.blueridgemusiccenter.org or 866- 308-2773, ext. 245.

Historic Gold Hill’s Tall Tale Tellers Festival — 1 p.m. Saturday, June 17: At the Arbor in the Village, 840 St. Stephen’s Church Road. Bring your blanket or beachy chair and sit and be entertained by local storytellers. Sponsored by the Gold Hill Merchants’ Association.

Denton Antiques Festival — June 30-July 4: Annual Denton Antiques Festival at Harrison Park in downtown Denton. Daily from 7:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. Info at 336-859-4231.

Rowan Chamber Dragon Boat Festival — July 29: Rowan Shrine Club on High Rock Lake, 6480 Long Ferry Road. Free to attend; see www.rowanchamberdragonboat.com for team signup costs.

NC Watermelon Festival in Murfreesboro — Aug. 2-5: 32nd annual festival with live entertainment, arts and crafts, food, 5K race/walk, fireworks, rides and games. Band schedule: Aug. 2 Band of Oz; Aug. 3 Backyard Groove; Aug. 4 Steve Owens and the Summertime Band; Aug. 5 Pizazz. Information 252-398-7695 or info@ncwatermelonfest.com

18th annual Rowan Blues and Jazz Festival — Oct. 21: “It’s Reunion Time!” Remembering the early years. Gates open 12:30 p.m., featured musicians 4-11 p.m. 200 W. Fisher St., For early bird group reservations contact rgjs1720@carolina.rr.com or see  www.rowanbluesandjazz.org or call 704-636-3277.

Classes

Mean Masterpieces With Melody — 2-4 p.m.  May 13: Paint-off classes every second Saturday with Melody Martin; $25 includes canvas, paint, brushes, supplies. RSVP to 704-754-4615. Held at Mean Mug Coffee Shop, 1024 S. Fulton St.

Pottery 101 — Eight week class: beginning and intermediate wheel and glazing techniques. $200. Tuesdays 10:30-1 p.m. May 16-July 11 or Wednesdays 6:30-9 p.m. May 17-July 12 or Thursdays 6:30-9 p.m. May 18-July 13 • Register at Pottery 101, 101 S. Main St., 704-209-1632, www.pottery-101.com.

Classes at Falling Rivers Gallery — • May 6, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.: Workshop taught by Patti Duncan. Experimental technique with melted oil pastels. $40, materials provided • May 13, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.: Stained glass workshop taught by Sue Smith. $45, materials provided • May 20, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.: Workshop taught by Patti Duncan. Create a canvas of a spring landscape in oil pastels. $40, materials provided • Bring bag lunch and drink. 119 W. Main St., Albemarle, 704-983-4278. http://www.fallingriversgallery.com

W4VEC Amateur Radio License Exams — 9:30 a.m. Saturdays May 13, Sept. 16, Nov. 18. W4VEC VEC Amateur Radio Exams Technician through Extra Class. $12 testing fee. Held at Bostian Heights Fire Dept., 8211 Old Concord Road, www.w4vec.org

Great Women and Men United present Queens in Training — 6-8 p.m. on May 23. An empowerment group for young ladies age 8-17. Hurley Room Rowan Public Library, 201 W. Fisher St. Info: 704-738-7077.

Country dance lessons at the Harold B. Jarrett — 6:30-9 p.m. Thursdays: $4 per person. Country Couples Circle Dance, Line Dance, Contra, more. Harold B. Jarrett American Legion Post 342, 1024 Lincolnton Road. 704-450-7446.

Meditation — First and third Sundays at 4 p.m. By donation only. 120 N. Church St. Studio A. See www.spotlightdancescene.com

60+ Gentle exercise — Fridays at 9 a.m. at The Meadows of Rockwell, 612 China Grove Hwy. Low-impact. Pre-register with Devan Bertch at 704-698-6459.

Speakers & forums

Bright Ideas — 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays. Find and develop ideas and resources. 10Thread, 1024 S. Fulton St.

Learn about strawberries — 7 p.m.May 6: Doug Patterson, VP of Patterson Farm and President of the NC Strawberry Association speaks at the Corriher Grange monthly meeting Enjoy strawberry shortcake and learn more about Rowan County’s commercial strawberry business. The Grange Hall, 1585 Corriher Grange Road, NCGrange.com

Alzheimer’s information — • 1-3 p.m. May 8: Practical Information for Care Partners  • 1-3 p.m. May 15:  Care Giver Challenges • 1-3 p.m. May 22: Strategies for Tackling Everyday Tasks • Info: Cyndi Reinhardt, 336 460-1741 • 10thread, 1024 S. Fulton St.

Free programs at the Y — May 16 at 1:30 p.m.: Medicine Shop Presents: “What are Probiotics.”Open to the public, sign up at 704-401-8158 or 704-636-0111 • J.F. Hurley Family YMCA, 828 W. Jake Alexander Blvd. www.rowanymca.org

Lunch and Learn at the Y — • Noon, May 24: Trinity at Home Presents: Nutrition. Bring covered dish, free, open to the public. J.F. Hurley Family YMCA, 828 W. Jake Alexander Blvd. W., 704-636-0111.

Home & Garden

Salisbury Farmer’s Market — 8 a.m.-noon. Saturdays and Wednesdays West Fisher and South Jackson Streets.

Rowan County Extension Master Gardeners’ annual plant sale — 8:30 a.m.-noon May 6: Shrubs, vines, perennials, more. Master Gardeners on hand to assist. Extension Office, 2727 Old Concord Road. Proceeds used to support Extension Office programs, gardens around the Agricultural Center and education offerings. Raffle for tile planter created by Edward Tezlaf, framed photograph by Shane Tolliver and 80-gallon rain barrel for use with home down spouts.

Lexington Farmers Market — 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays and Wednesdays. (Sats thru Oct) during peak season, plus Harvest and Holiday Market in November and December. 129 S. Railroad St., 336-731-7317, www.lexingtonfarmersmarketnc.com

Kannapolis Farmers Market — Thursdays, 4-7 p.m. May-September, corner of Vance Ave and Dale Earnhardt Blvd.

China Grove Farmers Market — Opens 4-6 p.m. Friday, May 5 . The Market at the Mill at the China Grove Roller Mill, 308 N. Main St. May-September. 704-633-5946.

Auditions

Burning Coal Theatre season auditions — 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. May 13: Murphey School auditorium, 224 Polk St., Raleigh. To shedule for acting or backstage email burning_coal@ipass.netor or visit www.burningcoal.org or call 919-834-4001.

PPT’s youth audition workshop for ‘Bring It On’ — 9 a.m.-1 p.m.Saturday, May 20: How to audition for a musical, specifically geared toward PPT’s upcoming production. Cost: $40. Sign up at 704-633-5471. Norvell Theater, 135 E. Fisher St., www.PiedmontPlayers.com

Lee Street theatre auditions for ‘Pride & Prejudice’ — May 21-22 at 7 p.m. Adapted for the stage by Jenny Hubbard. Performance dates June July 20-29. Script info available at 329 N. Lee St., 704-310-5507, www.leestreet.org

PPT youth auditions for ‘Bring It On’— 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. May 23-24: By appointment only. Show dates. Sign up at 704-633-5471. Norvell Theater, 135 E. Fisher St. www.PiedmontPlayers.com

Film

Longleaf Film Festival 2017 — May 12-13: Third annual free-to-attend festival screens juried narrative and documentary film submissions from around the world and our own backyard. Sixty official selections will screen; also workshops, awards presentation, and inaugural public “Wrap Party” at the festival’s conclusion on Saturday night where winners will be announced. Held at the NC Museum of History, Raleigh, 919-807-7900 or ncmuseumofhistory.org

Free ‘Movies in the Park’ — 9 p.m. May 26, June 9, June 23, July 7, July 21, Aug. 4 at City Park Flag Concourse, corner of W. Miller and Jackson Streets. Entertainment begins at 8 p.m. City Park. Free. www.salisburync.gov/PLAY or play@salisburync.gov or 704- 216-PLAY.

Art 

Wide open prairies and rugged mountain terrain — May 5-July 7: Place/Settings, a new exhibition at The Galleries  explores the influence of locale on the human spirit, as seen through the eyes of 12 Wyoming artists. Activities include • Art on Tap: Friday, May 5, 7 p.m. • Art Lab: Wednesday, May 10, 10 a.m. • Art Walk: Friday, June 9, 6-9 p.m. • Family Day: Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For pricing visit www.CabarrusArtsCouncil.org or call  704-920-2787. The Galleries, 65 Union St. S., Concord.

Opens May 11: FirstARTS hosts art gallery — The FUMC FirstARTS series and the Carolina Artist Guild present “Light and Life: A Gallery of Sunrises and Sunsets” in the Fisher Street addition beginning May 11 at 7 p.m. with a public gala opening. Over 100 pieces of art featuring sunrises and sunsets will be on display. The CAG will donate 15% of art sold to Family Crisis Council of Rowan County. Through June 2. Info: 704-636-3121, 217 S. Church St.

The Carolina Artists — 6:30 p.m. third Thursdays: May 18 At Rufty Holmes Center, 1120 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. Visitors welcome.

Center for Faith and the Arts, 207 W. Harrison St. — “Unreasonable Fears” exhibit. 207 W. Harrison St., behind Haven Lutheran Church. www.faithart.org or 704-647-0999.

Fine Frame Gallery, 105 S. Main St. — New watercolors by Kenneth Koskela, oil paintings by Phyllis Steimel, assorted works by other local artists. Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 704-647-0340, www.fineframegallery.com

Sedberry’s Framing & Art Gallery, 324 W. Liberty St. — Artist of the month: Salisbury’s Eric Ward. 704-633-1246.

New exhibit opens at Rail Walk Studios & Gallery, 409-413 N. Lee St. — Reception  May 6 from 5-7 p.m.: “Oil and Water” by Patt Legg and Marietta Smith, on exhibit May 4-June 24. Free, open to the public Thursdays through Saturdays 11 a.m.–4 p.m. 704-469-2781, www.railwalkgallery.com

Waterworks Visual Arts Center — • Through May 20: “A Sense of Place,” features Harriet Hoover’s Family Fruit sculptures, drawings, performance • Contemporary Southern photography: The Do Good Fund • Ann Marie Kennedy, installation and works on paper • 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 704-636-1882, www.waterworks.org

Art scholarship to a high school senior — Stanly Arts Guild is offering an art scholarship for residents of Stanly, Anson, Cabarrus, Montgomery, Rowan or Union County. Deadline May 20. Info: 704-982-0806. Application at www.fallingriversgallery.com

Trips 

Travel with the YMCA — • 9 a.m. Aug. 25: Charlotte Women’s Show • Exploring Scotland and Ireland, Oct. 15-26. If interested contact Barbara Franklin 704-223-1973 or Louise Klaver 704-636-0111 • Other trips are in the planning stages. Visit www.rowanymca.org • Buses leave from J. F. Hurley Family YMCA, 828 W. Jake Alexander Blvd. Trip info and reservations 704-636-0111 or lklaver@ rowanymca.com

Steppin’ Out Social Club trip to Harrah’s Cherokee — Leave old Belk’s parking lot 7 p.m. Friday, May 5, return Saturday 8 a.m. Cost $40 with $20 returned upon arrival at casino. Small coolers welcome. Contact 704-232-5201 or 704-640-6993 to pay your money.

Davie County Senior Services trip to Pigeon Forge — May 9-11: Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg open again after forest fires. See three shows, tour local attractions and shops. Call Barbara at Davie County Senior Services, 336-753-6230.

‘The Ark Encounter’ — May 30-June 2: Woodleaf Joy Group is going to Kentucky to the Ark Encounter (Noah’s Ark), Creation Museum, Botanical Gardens, riverboat cruise, tour of Cincinnati, Kentucky Horse Park. 4 days, 3 nights. Contact Janie Waller 704-278-4803.

Senior Group of New Zion Baptist Church — July 22: Road trip to Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers, Ga. For age 55+. Call 704-633-9256 after 7 p.m.

Call for vendors

JCPrice Post 107 annual Memorial week celebration — May 26-June 3: For a spot on the midway contact Daniel Haddock at 704-637-6231. Food vendors must have permit by May 8.

China Grove Farmers Market — is looking for interested vendors. The market is open 4-6 p.m. every Friday until the end of September.

Rowan Blues and Jazz Festival — Event is Oct. 21. Application deadline May 15. Apply at www.rowanbluesandjazz.org and choose Upcoming Events or call 704-636-3277.

Salisbury Pride Festival vendors — June 24 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Information at www.salisburypride.com

China Grove Farmers Day — Craft vendors needed for China Grove Farmers Day Saturday, July 15. Contact Patti Price 704-857-2466 or pprice@chinagrovenc.gov

Annual BBQ event at Tilley H-D of Salisbury — Sept 15-16: One of Salisbury/Rowan County’s largest events accepting vendor applications for KCBS sanctioned event free to the general public. Friday night’s entertainment: The Nantucket Band. 704-202-8712, www.bikerbluesbbqrally.com

Call for performers

Salisbury Swing Band— SSB is seeking instrumentalists. Auditions are Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. Contact Jim Grazcyk 704-798-5840 for more information.

Gold Hill Bluegrass jam — Acoustic Bluegrass jam. E.H. Montgomery General Store, Gold Hill. 7-9 p.m. Fridays. 704-267-9439. www.themontgomerystore.com

Blumenthal Performing Arts open mic nights — Free event open to performers, selected by lottery. E-mail openmic@ncbpac.org

Call for storytellers

Historic Gold Hill’s Tall Tale Tellers Festival — 1 p.m. Saturday, June 17: Are you the best tall tale teller in town? Inaugural Festival at the Arbor in the Village, 840 St. Stephen’s Church Rd., Gold Hill. $250 top prize. Free admission for audience; $5 registration for Tall Tale Tellers. Registration and info at www.goldhillnc.com

Call for artists

Middle School Art Contest — Submission accepted May 10-June 7. Eligible to submit are middle school 6th-8th graders. Judging will be June 17. First, second and third place winners announced June 24. The Art Celebration will be at E&M Art Gallery, 907 S. Main St., 2-6 p.m. June 24. Live entertainment and refreshments available for purchase. Deadline June 7. For rules and other info contact Elijah Belton, Mickey Chambers or artist Delores Medlin at 877-454-3487 or 336-564-6399 or 980-432-3428.

Gallery Gallop Art Festival in Downtown Salisbury — 11 a.m.-3 p.m. June 3: Accepting applications for artists. Email info@downtown salisburync.com or visit downtownsalisburync.com for more information.

Full Circle Arts seeks tiny art — May 11-June 10: “Tiny Arts Show” for artwork no larger than 7 inches in any direction; total with frame no larger than 12 inches. $10 for up to 5 entries. Reception May 11 from 6-8 p.m. 828-322-7545 or info@fullcirclearts.org or visit www.fullcirclearts.org

The Seasons of Hurley Park: 30 Years — Juried group exhibition in celebration of Hurley Park’s pearl anniversary, no fee to enter. Deadline Oct. 20, 2017. Exhibition: Feb. 10-May 19, 2018. Opening reception Feb. 16, 2018 at Waterworks Visual Arts Center. Requirements and guidelines at 704-636-1882 or www.waterworks.org

Ongoing call for sculpture artists — Caldwell Arts Council seek sculptors for annual Lenoir outdoor sculpture sales gallery. www.caldwellarts.com, 828-754-2486, email info@caldwellarts.com

Newton’s Foothills Folk Art Festival — Saturday, Oct. 7: Juried folk-art themed show featuring work intensely influenced by and displaying the spirit of folk, visionary and outsider art. Fees, deadlines, guidelines, etc available at hickorymuseumofart.org or 828-327-8576 ext. 210. Newton is about an hour from Salisbury. Apply at www.foothillsfolkartfestival.com/artist-information

Call for Models

Be a model for bourbon tasting fundraiser — 3-7 p.m. Saturday, May 13: A non-paying gig, but feel free to use on resume. You will be given information on a specific bourbon that you will need to be able to communicate with the patrons. Must be at least 21 years old. Send head shots and contact information to David at darski001@gmail.com

Call for volunteers 

Salisbury’s inaugural bourbon tasting — 3-7 p.m. May 13: Potentially help with setup, breakdown and during Bourbon in the ‘Bury. Must be at least 21 years old to volunteer. Should be able to be on your feet for at least 2 hours. Held at City Tavern. Interested volunteers should contact Mollie at info@bourboninthebury.com

Rowan Blues and Jazz Festival — Event is Oct. 21. Application deadline May 15. Apply at www.rowanbluesandjazz.org and choose Upcoming Events or call 704-636-3277.

Concord Spring into Arts Festival — May 13: From set up to break down and everything in between. Call 704-784-4208. To promote your non-profit email holly@concorddowntown.com

41st annual OctoberTour — Salisbury Foundation seeks volunteers for Oct. 14-15. House docents (tour guides) especially. http://www.octobertour.com/ or Historic Salisbury Foundation 704-636-0103.

Salisbury Pride — June 24: Time slots 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Complete the volunteer form at www.salisburypride.com

Rowan Helping Ministries volunteers – Pick up donated food, stock food pantry, intake interviews, laundry, meals. 704-637-6838.

Help feed the horses — Horse Protection Society, 2135 Miller Road, China Grove, hps@horseprotection.org

DAV transportation network of Rowan County — Take veterans to hospital appts. Call Jim Martin at 704-638-9000 x3904.

Novant Rowan Medical Center – Patient escorts, gift shop, surgical waiting room, flower delivery, more. dbhundley@novanthealth.org

Call for contestants

36th annual China Grove Farmers Day Festival — July 15: accepting applications for entries into the 2017 Little Mr & Miss Farmers Day Contest . Pre-registration is required. All entries MUST be received by 5 p.m. July 12. No late entries will be accepted. Contest open to first 20 applicants of each age group. Categories: • Infant to 2 years old Male • Infant to 2 years old Female • 3-5 years old Male • 3-5 years old Female. Apply to Patti Price, 333 N. Main St., China Grove, 704-857-2466. pprice@chinagrovenc.gov