Although many traditional Labor Day Weekend events are canceled this year due to COVID-19, there are still plenty of options to choose from to create a fun and memorable weekend for your family. From hiking and rafting to swimming and fishing, Charlotte, NC, is within driving distance to so many areas filled with activities. Below, we have rounded up some safe and fun ideas to fill your Labor Day Weekend!
Socially Distanced Labor Day Trail Race
This Labor Day, challenge yourself to either a 5K or the 15K trail race at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. The race will be using a dispersed start model to maintain social distancing throughout the day on Saturday, September 5th. Racers may enter the course to run at any time during the time window of 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Runners will still be chip timed and must begin at the designated start line, but due to COVID-19, this race will not have any aid stations or water coolers.
U.S. National Whitewater Center
Although the Labor Day Celebration is cancelled due to COVID-19, the Whitewater Center property and activities remain available. Activity passes can be purchased to access more than 30 outdoor experiences at the Whitewater Center. Activities include whitewater rafting, ziplining, climbing, flatwater paddling, mountain biking, and more. You can purchase an All-Access Pass or a Single Activity Pass based on your desired experience.
North Carolina Apple Festival, Hendersonville
The NC Apple Festival is still on for September 4-7! Enjoy a self-guided and socially distanced scenic tour of orchards in the area with apples, food, crafts, shopping, and more. This year’s event will not have the downtown street fair, live music, kiddie carnival, or parade, but you can still enjoy downtown Hendersonville after you finish your tour! For ideas of what to do while exploring Hendersonville, check out this guide.
Hiking in the NC Mountains
Spend your Labor Day outdoors, enjoying the beautiful scenery that North Carolina has to offer. Near Asheville, there are 3,000+ miles of free, public hiking trails, including 1,600 miles in the Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests, 850 miles in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and many more along the Blue Ridge Parkway and in state parks and forests. To check out the top 75 Blue Ridge Hikes near Asheville, click here.
Head Out on the Lake
Charlotte, NC, is fortunate to be surrounded by so many accessible lakes. There is no better way to spend your Labor Day than to be out on the water with friends! From Lake Norman to Lake Wylie and so many others, there are amazing options to choose from, just a quick drive from home. From fishing and swimming to water skiing with friends, spending your Labor Day Weekend on the lake is a perfect way to bring your summer to an end.
