CIAA Weekend

The best week in Charlotte is finally here. Check out the events that are going on around town.

Thursday, February 25
CIAA Ford Fan Experience/Yolanda Adams Morning Show
The syndicated radio host and singer gets the day stared early, followed a full schedule of events for fans, including car displays, video gaming zones, cooking exhibitions, and more. There will also be a career expo (10 a.m.-2 p.m.) and live performances by K'Jon (7 p.m.) and Melanie Fiona (9 p.m.). 5:30-11:00 a.m.; reopens 4:30-10 p.m. Free. Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St. ciaatournament.org.

Women's Basketball Quarterfinals
Remaining women's teams advance. 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Only tickets remaining are the upper level multi-game package, $100. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. ciaatournament.org.

Men's Basketball Quarterfinals
Remaining men's teams advance. 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m., 9 p.m. Only tickets remaining are the upper level multi-game package, $100. Also broadcast on TV One. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. ciaatournament.org.

Pink Groove 5
The ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Rho Psi Omega chapter, present this annual party, which usually reaches capacity. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Rho Psi Omega Scholarship Fund. Music by DJ Stacey Blackman. 9 p.m. $35 in advance; $50 at the door. The Forum, 300 N. College St. rhopsiomega.org/pinkgroove5.

The Best of Both Worlds 3
The Alphas and Deltas of Charlotte present this annual party. Music by DJ Flemingo. 10 p.m. $25 in advance. Grand Central Events, 1000 Central Ave. charlottesocialscene.com.

Skyline Thursday
Enjoy a party while taking in one of the best views of Charlotte. Bar inside and on the outdoor heated patio. Presented by Exclusive Entertainment NC. 9 p.m. $10 in advance. Loft 1523, 1523 Elizabeth Ave. exclusiveentertainmentnc.com.

Suite Dreams 2
This popular day party returns. Music by DJ BroRabb. Presented by Sol Kitchen and The A List. 9 p.m. $15 in advance; more at the door. Suite, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.thesolkitchen.com

Tip-Off Thursday
Three groups unite for this Thursday night party. Music by DJ Skillz. Presented by Pinkies Up, BestFriendz, and Dynasty 5. 9 p.m. Ladies free before 11 p.m.; gentlemen $10 before 11 p.m. Whisky River, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.pinkiesupproductions.com.

Purple Passion
It's a chance for you to party and check out one of Charlotte’s newest venues. Presented by Digital Divas and The Queen City Omegas. 10 p.m. $10 and up. The Liberty, 1812 South Blvd. digitaldivasevents.com.

ShowCase Thursday - CI Edition
Come see up-and-coming soul singers perform live. 8 p.m. Cost varies; free before 10 p.m. Allure Restaurant and Lounge, 1508 S. Mint St. www.allurerestaurant.com.

Heaven 3
This popular party returns for a third year. Featuring drink specials, a late-night menu, and valet parking. Music by DJ 06 and D.C.’s Let It Flow Band. Presented by Talk of the Town. 8 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Free before 8:30 p.m.; $20 in advance. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 214 N. Tryon St. (corner of Fifth and College streets). www.talkofthetownent.com.

Late Night Jazz Jam
Enjoy a performance by a live band and music by DJ Darryl Krush. Presented by Circle of Friends, The Main Event, and Jazz Diva Entertainment. 8 p.m. $20 in advance; more at the door. Therapy Cafe, 401 N. Tryon St. ez-tixx.com.

Celebrity NBA Day Party
Portland Trailblazer Greg Oden and Power 98's Ms. Ivory host this party at one of the city's trendiest lounges. Music by DJ Tab D'Biassi and DJ Ampz. 2-7 p.m. $20. Crave Dessert Bar, 500 W. Fifth St. www.cravedessertbar.com.

Melanie Fionia and Michael Vick CIAA 2010 Kickoff Party
The beautiful singer and infamous football star share hosting duties. 10 p.m. $20 in advance. Club 935, 935 S. Summit Ave. www.club935.com.

The Tip-Off Tournament Party
Expect a crowd of movers and shakers to party at this elite lounge. Music by Bad Boy Records’ DJ Siza. 9 p.m. $15-$25 in advance. The Sunset Club, 1820 South Blvd. www.forwardvisiongroup.com/live.


Friday, February 26
CIAA Ford Fan Experience/ Steve Harvey Morning Show
The syndicated radio host and comedian gets the day stared early, followed a full schedule of events for fans, including car displays, video gaming zones, cooking exhibitions, and more. There will also be live performances by Laura Izibor (7 p.m.) and Ginuwine (8 p.m.). 5:30-11 a.m.; reopens 4:30-9 p.m. Free. Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St. ciaatournament.org.

Déjà Vu Day Party
Part of Digital Divas' Welcome to Charlotte Weekend. Music by DJ Daddy D. 12-6 p.m. Cost varies. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 214 N. Tryon St. (corner of Fifth and College streets). digitaldivasevents.com.

Women's Basketball Semifinals
Remaining women's teams advance. 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Visit website for available tickets. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. ciaatournament.org.

Fifth Annual VSU Meet and Greet CI Day Party
This popular day party for college alumni is hosted by radio personality Lorenzo "Ice Tea" Thomas. Presented by The Legends of Troy. 1-6 p.m. $20. The Forum, 300 N. College St. ez-tixx.com.

Men's Basketball Semifinals
Remaining men's teams advance. 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Visit website for available tickets. Also broadcast on TV One. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. ciaatournament.org.

CIAA Step Show Throwdown
See Greek step teams from colleges from around the Southeast compete, as well as a step off between area high schools. Hosted by Terrence J from BET's 106 & Park. Doors open 6 p.m.; show starts 8 p.m. $25-$35. Bojangles' Coliseum, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. earthquakeproductions.net.

The Blues is Alright Tour
Featuring performances by Bobby Bland, Marvin Sease, Roy C, Theodis Ealey, Calvin Richardson, and Shirley Brown. 8 p.m. $41.50 and $48.50. Ovens Auditorium, 2700 East Independence Blvd. ovensauditorium.com.

Chuck Brown
The King of Go-Go returns for another year, bringing his funky music. 9 p.m. $40 in advance. Alley Cat, 314 N. College St. thesolkitchen.com.

Star Power Weekend 2010
It's one of the weekend's largest parties, encompassing three ballrooms. Hosted by the legendary Doug E. Fresh and music by DJs Biz Markie, Boney B, and Trauma. 9 p.m. $35 in advance. The Blake Hotel, 555 S. McDowell St. ez-tixx.com.

Eye Candy: A Red Caret Event
9:30 p.m. $25 and up. VIP packages with bottle service available. Kiss Ultra Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. ez-tixx.com.

CIAA Extravaganzas
This party is taking over the 25,000 square-foot ballroom. So big they're doing it Friday and Saturday night. Music by DJ Bro Rabb (Friday) and DJ Kool (Saturday). Hosted by The A List. 9 p.m. Cost varies. The Westin, 601 S. College St. alistnextevent.com.

New York City and Friends Party
It's a classy affair at a historic mansion. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres. Hosted by Men In Harlem. 9 p.m. $15.The Wadsworth House, 400 S. Summit Ave. meninharlem.com.

Kendra James and Friends of The Bad Girls Club
Charlotte's own reality TV star hosts this party. 9:30 p.m. Cost varies; ladies free until 11 p.m. Alive, 2909 N. Davidson St. skycityent@gmail.com.

Stogies and Stilettos
This party draws a sophisticated and trendy crowd each year. Music by DJ DR. Presented by Digital Divas and The Grays. 10 p.m. $20 and up in advance. Zink, 201 N. Tryon St. digitaldivasevents.com.

CIAA Ladies Night Out
Hosted by former NFL player Tory Woodbury and Carlester Massey. Featuring a catered breakfast. Presented by Facebook Reunion and Charleston Affair Presents. 10 p.m. $20 in advance. Hart Witzen Gallery, 136 E. 36th St. cmassey4@yahoo.com.

JetSet Series: Day Dreams - The CI Edition
They kept the day parties going throughout the summer and are back for CIAA Week. Music by DJ DR. 12-6 p.m. $10 in advance; more at the door. Mez, inside the EpiCentre, 20 E. Trade St. thesolkitchen.com.

Uptown Fetish III Day and Night Party
Get your party on, go home, come back and party some more. Music by DJ Heart Break (day) and DJ Freedom (night). Presented by Six Figure Entertainment. 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $10 and up; 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m., $20 and up. LaVecchia’s, 225 E. Sixth St. www.sixfigureentertainment.com.

Founders Hall Frenzy
This is night one of Maz Entertainment’s takeover of one of the city’s tallest buildings. Party on marble floors as you gaze at the city’s skyline through a three-story glass ceiling. Plus the escalators will lead you to the large VIP section located on level two. 9 p.m. $30 and up. Bank of America’s Founders Hall, 100 N. Tryon St. www.mazentertainment.net.

The Brown Eye Geisha Experience
Come party with a mature crowd (25 and up preferred). Hosted by So So Def's own DJ Shakim. Presented by Q and NoGrease. 10 p.m. $30 and up. Nikko's Japanese Restaurant, 1300 South Blvd. ez-tixx.com.

True School - CI Edition II with 9th Wonder
The True School Corporation in association with The Sol Kitchen present this event featuring the Grammy Award winning producer. 9 p.m. $20 in advance; more at the door. Mez, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. thesolkitchen.com.

Friday Night Live with Ginuwine
The R&B star hosts this party. 9 p.m. $35 and up. Crowne Plaza Hotels, 210 S. McDowell St. ez-tixx.com.

SoulNight CI Edition with Bobby Valentino and Verse Simmonds
See the two R&B crooners perform their hits. 9 p.m. $32.50 general admission, $50 VIP includes no waiting in line and complimentary drinks. Amos’ Southend, 1423 S. Tryon St. www.soulnightcharlotte.com.

School Daze with Slick Rick
The hip-hop legend hosts this event. 9 p.m. $40 and up. The Big Chill, 911 East Morehead St. ez-tixx.com.

The CIAA Signature Event with DJ Khaled
This party sells out every year and returns with another celebrity DJ. Presented by Inner Circle Events. 10 p.m. $30 and up. The Forum, 300 N. College St. www.innercircleevents.com.

C.I. Day Party Headquarters Part 1
It’s one of the largest day parties, spread over two days. Encompassing three levels with 40 TVs, 10 pool tables, and card games. And featuring five DJs as well as live performances by BlacCatt and the Company Band. Presented by Talk of the Town, L.K. and R&R Productions, and Pinkies-Up Productions. 12-7 p.m. $10 in advance; free before 1 p.m. Fox and Hound, 330 N. Tryon St. www.talkofthetownent.com.

Facebook Edition C.I. Day Party
This party's going down Friday and Saturday. Meet current and potential Facebook friends Music by a live band featuring Shableek and by DJ Eclips. Presented by N2bleek Entertainment. 12:30-5 P.m. $10-$15 in advance. Wine Up, 3306 N. Davidson St. www.bandtastic.com.

The Party Before the Party
They're bringing the DMV (DC/MD/VA) style of party to the CIAA. Music by DJ Cuzzin B. Presented by ForWard Vision Group and Eddleton Events. 12:30-6 p.m. $10 in advance; more at the door. The Breakfast Club, 225 N. Caldwell St. ciaa2010dayparties.eventbrite.com.

The Pre-Game Day Party
They're suggesting you party here before you go to any party that night. Featuring live entertainment. Presented by NXL21 Charlotte. 2 p.m. Cost varies. Aquavina, 435 S. Tryon St. charlotte.nxlevelent.com.

Aggie/Eagle Blowout Day Party
Come party with these HBCU alumni. Hosted by Janine Davis. Presented by Native Sons Promotions. 2-6 p.m. $15 in advance. Dilworth Neighborhood Grille, 911 E. Morehead St. www.nativesonspromotions.com.

C.I. Reminisce Friday
Come reminisce to your favorite jams from the 80s, 90s, and today. 8 p.m. $10 and up; free before 10 p.m. with flyer (print from website). Allure Restaurant and Lounge, 1508 S. Mint St. www.allurerestaurant.com.

Old Skool, New Skool Party
Enjoy new and old music while enjoying great drink specials like $5 Crown Royal and $2 Buds. Presented by Native Sons Promotions. 9 p.m. $25 in advance. Dilworth Neighborhood Grille, 911 E. Morehead St. www.nativesonspromotions.com.

H.I.M.
It's "History in the Making" at this celebration with music by celebrity DJs Shogun and Mars. Presented by Eddietainment. 9 p.m. $20 in advance. BlackFinn, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.eddietainment.com.

Swank II
Dress your best and party with an elite crowd. Event will also feature a fashion preview. Hosted by former NFL player Terry Cousin. Presented by Talk of the Town and L.K. and R&R Productions. A portion of the net proceeds will go towards the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. 10 p.m. Cost varies; register online to receive complimentary admission before 11 p.m. Chima Brazilian Restaurant, 139 S. Tryon St. www.talkofthetownent.com.

The CIAA Naked Sushi Day Party
It’s an exotic way to serve sushi—on a naked model. 2-8 p.m. Prevue Rhythm Lounge, 2909 N. Davidson St. www.twitter.com/prevuelounge.

Tournament Day Party
Come out Friday and Saturday and enjoy $5 drink specials and food specials all day long. A DJ will be spinning your favorite R&B hits and club classics. 12-7 p.m. Free. The District Restaurant & Lounge, 391 Towne Centre Blvd., Pineville. www.thedistrictnc.com.

Nelly
The St. Lunatic rapper and hip-hop icon hosts a party at this exclusive venue. 10 p.m. $25 in advance. Suite, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.suitecharlotte.com.

Charlotte Tournament Party with Amber Rose
The eccentric model and girlfriend of Kanye West hosts this party. Music by “BET’s 106 and Park” DJ Prostyle. 9 p.m. $25-$60 in advance. Halo, inside NC Music Factory, 820 Hamilton St. www.ez-tixx.com.

History
It's a party set in the city's new African-American cultural center, comprising all three levels and the rooftop patio. Music by Boogie Down Productions’ DJ D-Nice. 9 p.m. General admission, $10 in advance; VIP, $30 in advance and includes an open bar and buffet. Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture, 551 S. Tryon St. www.historyciaa.eventbrite.com.

The South Carolina CI Experience
Hosted by Columbia radio station Hot 103.9 personality Neek at Night along with leading S.C. DJ B-Lord. 10 p.m. $15 in advance. Luna Lounge, 521 N. College St. www.ez-tixx.com.


Saturday, February 27
McDonald's Super Saturday
Featuring the Miss CIAA Pageant, a cheerleading exhibition, battle of the bands, dance show by celebrity choreographer Laurie Ann Gibson, and a performance by Bow Wow. 9 a.m. Free. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. ciaatournament.org.

The Satur-DAY Party
Presented by Sol Kitchen and Dynasty 5. 12-6 p.m. Cost varies. Mez at the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. thesolkitchen.com.

CIAA Red Carpet Affair – Day Party
Power 98 broadcasting live and hosted by Mr. Incognito. Presented by Heights Entertainment. 12-6 p.m. $30 in advance. Ruth's Chris, 222 S. Tryon St. heightsent.com.

Uptown Saturday
This day party usually reaches capacity within a couple of hours. Part of Digital Divas' Welcome to Charlotte Weekend. Music by DJ Polo. 12-6 p.m. Cost varies. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 214 N. Tryon St. (corner of Fifth and College streets). digitaldivasevents.com.

9th Wonder Presents The Breakout
The acclaimed hip-hop producer will also spend time on the turntables. 1-6 p.m. Limited number of $9 tickets. Alley Cat, 314 N. College St. 9thwonderpresents.com.

CIAA Championship Concert
Starring R&B group En Vogue. 5 p.m. Cost varies; free with CIAA ticket book. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. ciaatournament.org.

CIAA Women's and Men's Championships
The weeklong tournament concludes with these two games. Men's game 6 p.m. and televised by ESPN U. Women's game 9 p.m. and televised by ESPN Plus. Visit website for ticket prices. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. ciaatournament.org.

The Royal Comedy Tour
Featuring comedians Sommore, Don "D.C." Curry, George Willborn, and D.L. Hughley. 8 p.m. $38.50-$48.50. Bojangles' Coliseum, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. bojanglescoliseum.com.

Diddy Presents The Event
Hosted and including a performance by the hip-hop music mogul. VIP packages available, including a meet-and-greet with Diddy. Presented by Taylor Massey Entertainment. 9 p.m. $60 and up. Ramada Hotel, 212 W. Woodlawn Rd. ez-tixx.com.

The Reunion
A thirty-and-older crowd is preferred (but not required). Part of Digital Divas' Welcome to Charlotte Weekend. Music by DJ Polo. 10 p.m. $15 in advance. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 214 N. Tryon St. (corner of Fifth and College streets). digitaldivasevents.com.

Casino Royale
Featuring music, a dance floor, and live casino games with professional dealers. Presented by Heights Entertainment. 10 p.m. $20 in advance; ladies free until 10:30 p.m. Ruth's Chris, 222 S. Tryon St. heightsent.com.

CIAA Post Tournament Party
Official tournament after-party featuring the Temptations. 11 p.m. Visit website for ticket info. Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St. ciaatournament.org.

The Day Affair Vol. 4
It’s billed as "The Best D#mn Day Party…Period" and returns for another year. Includes an open buffet. Presented by BestFriendz. 12-7 p.m. $25 and up. Whisky River, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. thedayaffair.eventbrite.com.

The Colossal Finale
This is night two of Maz Entertainment’s takeover of one of the city’s tallest buildings. Party on marble floors as you gaze at the city’s skyline through a three-story glass ceiling. Plus the escalators will lead you to the large VIP section located on level two. 9 p.m. $30 and up. Bank of America’s Founders Hall, 100 N. Tryon St. www.mazentertainment.net.

The Tournament Extravaganza
They're giving you the CIAA's first theater party. DJ BroRabb will be spinning in the main room, while DJ Tron will play in the theater with music videos on the big screen. 9 p.m. $20 in advance; more at the door. Presented by Sol Kitchen. Mez and EpiCentre Theaters, 210 East Trade St. thesolkitchen.com.

Doug E. Fresh
The hip-hop legend hosts this party. 9 p.m. $30 general admission; $50 VIP includes no waiting in line and heavy hors d'oeuvres. Presented by Dynasty 5. Hilton Center City, 222 E. Third St. www.dynasty5.com.

The Big CI Elegance of Red Affair
This event also doubles as a JCSU alumni reunion. Hosted by Deltonia Cannon and Big Pat. 25 and older (30 and older preferred). 9 p.m. $20 and up. The House of Jazz, 8630 University Executive Park Dr. ez-tixx.com.

CIAA Celebrity Party
This event is hosted by singer Monica. 9 p.m. $40 general admission; $75 VIP. The Big Chill, 911 E. Morehead St. ez-tixx.com.

The Grand Finale
This party will encompass both levels of the atrium and the rooftop terrace. Several VIP packages, including an open bar and heavy hors d'oeuvres, are offered. Presented by Six Figure Entertainment. 9 p.m. $30 and up for general admission. Harvey B. Gantt Center, 551 S. Tryon St. www.sixfigureentertainment.com.

The CIAA Main Event
These promoters are known for taking over multiple venues for one party. Hosted by Cash Money rapper/CEO Baby aka Birdman. Presented by Inner Circle Events. 10 p.m. $30 and up. Suite, Whisky River, and The Pavilion, inside the EpiCentre. $40 and up. www.innercircleevents.com.

C.I. Day Party Headquarters Part 2
It’s one of the largest day parties, spread over two days. Encompassing three levels with 40 TVs, 10 pool tables, and card games. And featuring five DJs as well as live performances by BlacCatt. Presented by Talk of the Town, L.K. and R&R Productions, and Pinkies-Up Productions. 12-7 p.m. $10 in advance; free before 1 p.m. Fox and Hound, 330 N. Tryon St. www.talkofthetownent.com.

LA Fin: The C.I. Finale
Beautiful people party at one of the city's most beautiful venues. Presented by NXL21 Charlotte. Cost varies; limited number of $10 advance tickets. 10 p.m. Aquavina, 435 S. Tryon St. charlotte.nxlevelent.com.

Mingle Before the Mall
As you’re shopping for that new outfit for your party, stop by and mingle for an hour or two. A VIP brunch will be served. Music by celebrity DJ Shogun. Presented by HBCUconnect.com, UNCF, and Eddietainment. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost varies; free before 12 p.m. M5, 4310 Sharon Rd. www.eddietainment.com.

Cufflinks and Cocktails Day Party
This monthly after-work event has been re-tooled for tournament weekend. Hosted by the Charlotte Kappas. 12-6 p.m. $10. Enso, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.cufflinksandcocktails.com.

Soul2Soul
Featuring celebrity guests Daron Jones of 112 and Jre Riley of MTV’s “Making of the Band.” Music by DJ Cali. A portion of the proceeds go to support Leaving It Behind. 12-7 p.m. General admission, $15 in advance; VIP, $35 in advance. Therapy Café, 401 N. Tryon St. acircleoffriendsproduction.eventbrite.com.

Drake’s CIAA 2010 Grand Finale
He’s the hottest new rapper of the past year, and you can see him in person as he hosts this party. 9 p.m. $40 in advance. Club 935, 935 S. Summit Ave. www.club935.com.


Sunday, February 28
Panache – It's Just Brunch
Enjoy good food as you say good-bye to the CIAA Tournament during this annual brunch. Presented by Digital Divas. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Ruth's Chris, 222 S. Tryon St. digitaldivasevents.com.

Ladies Leaving A Legacy Brunch
Honoring Pauletta Pearson Washington with the 2010 Icon Award. Benefiting the United Negro College Fund and the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture. 11:30 a.m-3:30 p.m. $75 in advance; $100 day of event. Harvey B. Gantt Center, 551 S. Tryon St. www.ladiesleavingalegacy.com.

Jazzy Sundays Farewell Party
Get one more party in before the weekend concludes. Hosted by V101.9’s Chirl Girl and music by DJ ’06. 2-7 p.m. Cost varies. Tempo, 4809 Wilkinson Blvd. www.tempocharlotte.com