Festivals, Farmers Markets, & Spring Fun: This Week in CLT🌷🎭

Christen Ripoli - REALTOR
Apr 1
10 min read

🌟Five To Try in the Greater Charlotte Area🌟

🌷 Festivals, Farmers Markets & Spring Fun 🎡🎭

April is kicking off in the best way, full of color, creativity, and community events all across Charlotte! From citywide festivals and comedy nights to Easter fun and fresh farmers markets, there are so many ways to get outside and enjoy the season.

This week’s Five to Try is all about celebrating spring, supporting local, and soaking up those longer, sunnier days. 💛

And as always, THANK YOU for the support, referrals, and love. Your trust keeps my business growing through relationships, and I’m forever grateful!

Let’s dive in!

1️⃣ The Charlotte Fair 🎡🎠

Step right up! The Charlotte Fair is back with rides, games, fair food, live entertainment, and all the nostalgic fun you’d expect. Whether you're going for funnel cake, Ferris wheel views, or family fun, this is a classic spring outing.

🗓️ March 26 - April 6 | Hours vary by day

📍 Charlotte Motor Speedway

🔗 Info & Tickets

2️⃣ East Charlotte Farmers Market 🥕🌼

Nothing says spring like a farmers market! The East Charlotte Farmers Market is back every Wednesday, offering fresh produce, local goods, and a welcoming community feel. It’s the perfect midweek reset.

🗓️ Wednesdays | April 1 - May 27 | 3-6:30 PM

📍 McLawland Farms - 8632 Reedy Creek Rd

🔗 More information

3️⃣ April Fools’ Fest at The Carolina Theatre 😂🎭

Get ready to laugh! April Fools’ Fest features stand-up comedy and performances that bring the laughs all week long. A perfect excuse for a fun night out (or even a midday show!).

🗓️ April 2-4 at 7 PM | April 8 at 1 PM

📍 The Carolina Theatre

🔗 Info & Tickets

4️⃣ Charlotte SHOUT! Festival 🎨🎶

One of the city’s most anticipated events is back! Charlotte SHOUT! brings art, music, food, and interactive installations to Uptown for over two weeks. Think pop-up performances, immersive exhibits, and a whole lot of creative energy.

🗓️ April 3 - April 19

📍 Uptown Charlotte (specific locations vary based on event)

🔗 More information

5️⃣ Spring Hunt at Camp North End 🐣🌸

Grab the kids and head to Camp North End for a festive Spring Hunt! This family-friendly event is packed with fun activities, seasonal vibes, and a great excuse to spend a morning outdoors.

🗓️ Saturday, April 4 | 11 AM

📍 Camp North End

🔗 More information

NOTE: There's much more happening around Charlotte this week, so check out this Facebook group for tons of family-friendly events happening all over the Charlotte area. Family Fun in Charlotte and Union County I'm also trying to build up another group What's Up Charlotte. If you haven't already joined, I'd love your support!

Protect Your Legacy With UCNOW Unlocked!

Calling all amazing women across every industry! Whether you’re running a business, growing your career, or building something of your own… this one’s for you.

Join us at UCNOW Unlocked: Boss Moves & Legacy Plans on April 7th. A powerful (and fun!) space to connect, learn, and start thinking about your future with confidence. We’ll be diving into estate planning in a way that’s simple, empowering, and actually relevant to your life and goals. Because building success is one thing… protecting it is another.

📅 April 7, 2026

⏰ 8:30-9:30 AM

📍 3115 Old Charlotte Highway, Suite 1814, Monroe, NC

Come for the insights. Stay for the connections. Leave feeling more in control of your next chapter! Bring a friend and let’s grow together 💛

🎟️ Save your seat!

Wondering What The Homebuying Process Is Like? This Workshop Is For You!

Looking to buy your first home in Monroe, NC or Union County? Join us for a FREE First-Time Homebuyer Seminar designed to educate, empower, and prepare you for the homebuying process!

📍 Location: Union County Public Library - Monroe Branch

🗓 Date: Saturday, April 25

⏰ Time: 10:00 AM

💲 Cost: Free (registration required)

This in-person homebuyer workshop is led by a local Realtor, Christen Ripoli and Mortgage Lender, Sarah Stokes, along with additional trusted resources, who will walk you through:

How to buy a home as a first-time buyer in North Carolina
Mortgage basics and loan options for first-time buyers
Credit, income, and down payment requirements
First-time homebuyer assistance programs
How much home you can afford
The full homebuying process from pre-approval to closing
Common mistakes first-time buyers should avoid

Whether you’re currently renting, casually exploring, or actively planning to buy a home, this seminar will give you clear next steps and practical guidance. Make sure you register in advance - seats are limited, so reserve your spot!

Mortgage News

📉 Mortgage Rates Drop Again to Kick Off April

Great news to start the month: mortgage rates moved lower across every major loan type this week. The 30-year fixed dropped to 6.47%, while the 15-year fixed saw an even larger improvement, falling to 6.03%. Jumbo loans also declined to 6.60%, and the 7/6 SOFR ARM dipped to 6.16%, continuing to provide a lower-payment alternative for buyers. Government-backed options followed the same trend, with FHA at 5.97% and VA at 5.99%, both slipping just below the 6% mark.

This kind of across-the-board movement is exactly what buyers have been hoping for. Even small decreases like these can translate into meaningful savings and increased purchasing power, especially as the spring market heats up.

*Most recent mortgage rates according to https://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/

Featured Homes

📍2237 Balting Glass Drive, Indian Trail📍

Welcome to 2237 Balting Glass Drive - a home that truly feels like it was designed for the way life is meant to be lived. Nestled in the heart of the Glendalough community, this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 2,644 square feet of light-filled, inviting living space.

Step inside and you’re greeted by a layout that flows effortlessly, perfect for both quiet mornings and lively evenings. The kitchen is the heart of the home, featuring an oversized island that naturally becomes the gathering spot for family and friends. Upstairs, the primary suite feels like a private retreat, complete with a spa-inspired bath, soaking tub, and oversized shower designed for true relaxation.

And then… the backyard. This is where the magic happens. A fully fenced space with a massive covered patio, pergola, and cozy fire pit creates the ultimate setup for entertaining. With space already prepped for an outdoor kitchen, it’s ready for summer cookouts, fall nights by the fire, and everything in between.

🔑 Highlights:

4 bedrooms | 2.5 bathrooms
2,644 sq ft of living space
Open, light-filled layout
Kitchen with oversized island
Spa-inspired primary suite
Covered patio + pergola + fire pit
Fenced backyard with space for outdoor kitchen
Located in Glendalough with community pool
Zoned for Porter Ridge Elementary, Middle & High

📍3574 Nimbell Road, Monroe📍

Welcome to 3574 Nimbell Road: a beautifully designed townhome in the Secrest Landing community that blends charm and everyday functionality from the very first step. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 1,752 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space with welcoming touches throughout.

It all begins on the inviting front porch, perfect for morning coffee, evening chats, and friendly waves to neighbors passing by. Inside, the open-concept main level creates an easy flow between the kitchen, dining area, and family room. The kitchen features granite countertops, stylish cabinetry, and a spacious island ready for barstools and conversation. Natural light fills the breakfast nook, while the family room opens to a sunny patio ideal for relaxing or entertaining.

Upstairs, the spacious owner’s suite offers a peaceful retreat with a private bath and walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and convenient upper-level laundry complete the second floor. Located just minutes from Highway 74 and the expressway, commuting to Uptown Charlotte is quick and convenient. Schedule your private showing and see how perfectly this home fits your next chapter!

🔑 Highlights:

3 bedrooms | 2.5 bathrooms
1,752 sq ft of comfortable living
Kitchen with granite countertops + large island
Open-concept main living area
Sunny patio for relaxing or entertaining
Sealed driveway + automatic sprinkler system
Community amenities including playground, pavilion, fire pit & pocket park
Zoned for Poplin Elementary, Porter Ridge Middle & High

Under Contract Homes

📍1152 Stone Marker Drive, Monroe📍

Welcome to 1152 Stone Marker Drive - a pristine, 2-year-old home in one of Monroe’s most desirable golf communities! This beautifully designed one-story layout features 3 bedrooms and over 1,800 sq ft of open living space, perfect for both relaxing and entertaining.

The kitchen is the heart of the home with a massive island, abundant storage, and seamless flow into the dining and living areas. The primary suite is a true retreat, complete with a light-filled sitting room, spa-inspired bathroom, and generous walk-in closet.

Step outside to a fenced backyard ready for gatherings, pets, or play. A widened driveway and 3-car garage offer convenience and curb appeal. Plus, enjoy resort-style amenities - pool, cabana, tennis, pickleball, fitness center, and a premier golf course - all just 25 minutes from Uptown Charlotte.

🔑 Highlights:

3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms
1,863 sq ft of bright, open living
Kitchen with oversized island
Primary suite with sitting room + spa-inspired bath
Fenced backyard + 3-car garage
Resort-style amenities in Stonebridge Fairways
Zoned for Western Union Elementary and Parkwood Middle & High

📍3637 Secrest Landing, Monroe📍

Welcome to 3637 Secrest Landing - an end-unit townhome that’s ready to begin its next chapter in the desirable Secrest Landing community. Thanks to its corner placement, natural light pours into the open main level, giving this home an airy, welcoming feel the moment you step inside.

The thoughtfully designed layout makes everyday life easy, with the kitchen flowing seamlessly into the living and dining areas - perfect for easy mornings, relaxed evenings, and entertaining without feeling crowded. Upstairs, spacious bedrooms provide flexibility for rest, work, or hosting guests. And because this home is vacant, it’s truly move-in ready - clean, bright, and waiting for someone to make it their own.

Conveniently located and zoned for highly regarded Union County schools, this end-unit blends comfort, function, and location in all the right ways.

🔑 Highlights:

3 bedrooms | 2.5 bathrooms
1,800 sq ft of living space
End-unit with extra natural light
Open, connected main-level layout
Vacant & move-in ready
Convenient Secrest Landing location
Zoned for Poplin Elementary, Porter Ridge Middle & High

📍3627 Secrest Landing, Monroe📍

Welcome to 3627 Secrest Landing - an end-unit townhome designed to make everyday living easy, bright, and comfortable. This popular Catawba floorplan offers an open, welcoming layout with extra natural light thanks to its corner location, creating a space that feels warm the moment you step inside.

The main level flows seamlessly from the living area into the kitchen and dining space, making it perfect for relaxed mornings or hosting friends. Step outside to the patio for fresh air and quiet evenings at home. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite provides a peaceful retreat, while additional bedrooms offer flexibility for guests, a home office, or hobbies. Convenient upper-level laundry keeps daily routines simple.

With a two-car garage, low-maintenance townhome living, and a location close to shopping, dining, and major roadways, this home truly checks all the boxes.

🔑 Highlights:

3 bedrooms | 2.5 bathrooms
End-unit Catawba floorplan
Bright, open layout with extra natural light
Primary suite with room to unwind
Upper-level laundry
Two-car garage
Low-maintenance townhome lifestyle
Zoned for Poplin Elementary, Porter Ridge Middle & High

Video of the Week

Check out this video featuring: Out-of-State Buyers Reveal What It’s REALLY Like Moving to Waxhaw, NC

If you’re thinking about moving to Charlotte, NC this one is for you!

In this video, my clients share their real experience relocating from out of state and what the home buying process was actually like. From long-distance house hunting to finally getting the keys, they walk you through what surprised them, what they loved, and what made Waxhaw feel like home.

As a local Realtor® who works with a lot of relocation clients, my goal is to make the process simple, clear, and as stress-free as possible even if you’re buying from miles away.

If you’re considering a move to Waxhaw or anywhere in the Charlotte area, I’d love to help guide you through it!

📧 christen.ripoli@gmail.com

📞 330.301.0687

Charlotte Market Minute

📢 Charlotte Market Update | March 24th - March 31st 📢

A total of 1,367 properties were sold this week, with the average sales price coming in at $506,432 and the median sales price at $391,699. Properties spent an average of 68 days on the market and sold for 97.79% of list price, showing continued consistency as the spring market stays in full swing. The average price per square foot landed at $230.50, holding steady alongside recent trends. The lowest sale closed at $24,000, while the highest reached $7.6 million, highlighting strong activity across all price points. With a noticeable jump in total sales this week, it’s clear that buyer demand is picking up and the market is moving. If you’ve been thinking about making a move, now is a great time to take advantage of the momentum.

📊 Here’s your weekly snapshot:

1,367 total properties sold
Average sales price: $506,432
Median sales price: $391,699
Average price per square foot: $230.50
Properties are selling for an average of 97.79% of list price
Average days on market: 68
Lowest sale: $24,000
Highest sale: $7.6M

Have questions about how this impacts your home plans? I’d love to help!

📩 Christen.Ripoli@gmail.com

📞 330.301.0687

🏡 Christen Ripoli, REALTOR® | Real

Discover "What's Up Charlotte?"

Looking for fun things to do around the Queen City? Check out the Facebook page What’s Up Charlotte? - your one-stop hub for local events, festivals, family-friendly activities, date night ideas, small business spotlights, and so much more!

It’s the perfect place to find weekend plans, connect with fellow Charlotteans, and uncover hidden gems in our city. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime local, this community has something for everyone.

👉 Join the conversation here: What’s Up Charlotte?

Christen's Connections

"I know a guy" (and plenty of ladies too!). Are you in need of a connection? Maybe you want to have a deck added onto your home, or you need new blinds, or perhaps a cleaning service - I've got an extensive list of the best connections in the area. Consider me your own personal Yelp! Clicking on the link above will bring you to my quick connections list, but I have lots more saved in my Google Drive. Let me know how I can help!

Referrals

We love it when you have an incredible experience moving to the area and we're so grateful when you refer us to your friends and family considering making the move!

Share our channel with them as well as our other social media profiles so that we can keep in touch.

BEST WAY TO SEND ME A REFERRAL

1. Call (Let's talk about your referral)

2. Introduce me in a group text or email

Thank you in advance!!