This July, Rowan County is alive with vibrant artistic energy. Whether you’re a lover of fine art, live performances, local crafts, or music under the stars, you’ll find inspiration in every corner. Our talented artists, performers, and makers bring stages, galleries, and sidewalks to life with creativity you won’t want to miss. From world-class exhibitions to small-town theater magic and lively summer festivals, there’s no better time to explore how #RowanCreates.
Waterworks Visual Arts Center Presents: "Never Before Seen...Modern Masterpieces"
Now - August 30, 2025
“Never Before Seen…Modern Masterpieces” includes forty works by twenty-eight leading European modernists, including such greats as Kandinsky, Monet, Picasso, and de Kooning. Spanning more than a century of art history, the exhibition will introduce viewers to several pivotal movements from French Impressionism to Abstract Expressionism.
Echoes of Summer: Faith's 4th of July Celebration Exhibit
June 27 - July 5, 2025
Echoes of Summer: Faith’s 4th of July Celebration is a new fine art photography exhibition by Salisbury-based artist Traci Arney, on view June 27 - July 5, 2025, at The Potters House in Faith, N.C. Through a blend of documentary and composite photography, Arney captures the energy, nostalgia, and quiet beauty of one of North Carolina’s largest Independence Day celebrations. Having photographed the event for over 20 years, her work offers an intimate, dreamlike reflection of small-town traditions. An opening reception will be held on June 25 from 6-8 PM, and the public is invited to attend.
Discover Fun in Kannapolis
July 10, 12, 18, 19 & 26, 2025
The Discover Fun in Kannapolis series returns with an outstanding lineup of concerts, outdoor movies, and community fun - all for free! This month, enjoy performances by The Marshall Tucker Band, Sister Sledge, featuring Sledgendary, Band of Oz, a showing of Twisters and a Stories Under the Stars Dog Performances event and stories with Sugar.
Lee Street Theatre Presents: "Disenchanted! A New Musical Comedy"
July 11 - 26, 2025
Lee Street Theatre presents Disenchanted!, a bold and hilarious musical that flips the fairytale script. Running from July 11–26, this hit comedy brings Snow White and her fellow princesses to life as they challenge their over-glamorized pop culture portrayals. Packed with sass, wit, and powerhouse vocals, these royal rebels are here to set the record straight. Performances take place at 7:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, with a matinee at 2:30 PM on Sunday, July 20.
Piedmont Players Presents: "The Bodyguard: The Musical"
July 11 - 27, 2025
Piedmont Players brings the iconic story of The Bodyguard to life on stage at the Meroney Theater, July 11-27, 2025. This romantic thriller follows former Secret Service agent Frank Farmer as he’s hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from a mysterious stalker - only to find himself falling for her. Based on the beloved 1992 film, the musical features a powerhouse score of Whitney Houston hits, including “I Will Always Love You.” Performances run Fridays through Sundays throughout the run.
Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute at The Swanee Theatre
July 18, 2025
Catch Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute at The Swanee Theatre on July 18, 2025, for a night of classic surf rock nostalgia. Known as the most booked Beach Boys tribute band in the world, Sail On delivers spot-on renditions of iconic hits and deep cuts alike - completely live. The show starts at 8:00 PM (doors open at 7:00 PM) and is open to guests 18 and up. Get ready to relive the sounds of an endless summer!
Pink Houses - The Ultimate Mellencamp Music Experience at The Swanee Theatre
July 19, 2025
Experience the heartland rock sound of Pink Houses: The Ultimate Mellencamp Music Experience at The Swanee Theatre on July 19, 2025. This tribute band delivers an unforgettable night of John Mellencamp’s greatest hits. Doors open at 7:00 PM and the show starts at 8:00 PM. This 18+ event promises an evening of nostalgic, high-energy Americana.
Gold Rush Art and Craft Festival
July 26, 2025
Celebrate creativity and community at the Gold Rush Art and Craft Festival in Historic Gold Hill on Saturday, July 26, 2025. Browse handmade treasures from over 65 local artists and artisans, enjoy delicious eats from Fat Mack’s Grill and food trucks, and explore the charming village shops in this picturesque setting. It’s the perfect summer day trip for the whole family!
Dancing on Depot Street - Summer Concert Series
July 26, 2025
Get ready to dance the night away at the 8th Annual Dancing on Depot Street Summer Concert Series on July 26, 2025 in Cleveland, N.C., featuring the high-energy sounds of Preacher Stone. Enjoy live music, great company, and delicious eats from the Food Truck Fiesta - all in a family-friendly, free community setting. Don’t forget your lawn chairs, blankets, and best dance moves!
Make It a Creative Getaway & Earn Rewards!
When you book your overnight stay in Rowan County, you may be eligible to receive exclusive rewards - like free tickets to local events and bonus gift cards to enhance your trip. Turn your visit into an arts-filled adventure and let your stay work for you. Use our widget below to discover what rewards await you!
Whether you’re browsing masterpieces, cheering at a show, dancing at a summer concert, or shopping hand-crafted goods, July in Rowan County offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the arts. Plan your visit, book your stay, and see how creativity thrives here all summer long.
Learn more about what's happening in Rowan County this July on our July in Rowan County blog post.
#VisitRowanCountyNC