Featured Events

LoSo Community to Rally for Second Annual Give Back Block Party Supporting the American Red Cross and Billie's Buddies 

 CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Zepeddie's Pizzeria and Lower Left Brewing Company are once again joining forces to host the Second Annual Give Back Block Party on Saturday, September 26, 2026, bringing the LoSo community together for a day of giving back, supporting local businesses, and celebrating neighbors helping neighbors. The free, family-friendly event will benefit two organizations making a meaningful impact throughout the Charlotte community—the American Red Cross and Charlotte-based dog rescue Billie's Buddies—and will feature a full day of activities for all ages. The American Red Cross Big Red Bus will be on site from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., giving community members the opportunity to donate blood and help meet the ongoing need for lifesaving blood products across the Carolinas. As a thank-you for donating, blood donors will receive a free beer from Lower Left Brewing Company and a complimentary cannoli from Zepeddie's Pizzeria. From 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., guests can browse a vendor market featuring local artisans, makers, nonprofits, and small businesses from across the Charlotte area. Returning as the event's featured nonprofit is Billie's Buddies, a Charlotte rescue organization dedicated to saving dogs facing euthanasia or severe medical challenges. Through volunteer support and community donations, the organization provides emergency medical care, rehabilitation, foster placement, and adoption opportunities for dogs in need. Billie's Buddies will host an on-site adoption event from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., giving attendees the opportunity to meet adoptable dogs looking for their forever families. During last year's inaugural Give Back Block Party, nine rescue dogs found permanent homes, making the event an overwhelming success for both the organization and the community. The day's festivities will conclude with the Pet Parade at 6:00 p.m., proudly sponsored by Diamonds Direct. Pet owners are encouraged to dress up their furry companions and compete for fun prizes while celebrating Charlotte's love for animals. Throughout the event, attendees can also participate in raffle drawings featuring baskets donated by local businesses. One hundred percent of raffle ticket sales will directly benefit Billie's Buddies, helping fund lifesaving medical care, rehabilitation, and rescue efforts for dogs throughout the region. "The response from our community last year was incredible," said Diana Zepsa of Zepeddie's Pizzeria. "What started as an idea to bring neighbors together became a day that truly made a difference—from lifesaving blood donations to dogs finding loving homes. We're excited to partner with Lower Left Brewing Company once again and continue growing this event into a tradition that gives back to the Charlotte community." In addition to supporting worthy causes, the Give Back Block Party showcases the strength of Charlotte's small business community, with local vendors, sponsors, and neighbors coming together for a shared purpose of making a positive impact. Community members are encouraged to donate blood, shop the vendor market, meet adoptable dogs, participate in the pet parade, purchase raffle tickets, and spend the day supporting local businesses while giving back. Admission is free and open to the public. Event at a Glance What: Second Annual Give Back Block Party When: Saturday, September 26, 2026 Where: Zepeddie's Pizzeria & Lower Left Brewing Company, LoSo, Charlotte, NC Schedule:     • 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.: American Red Cross Big Red Bus Blood Drive     • 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.: Local Vendor Market     • 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.: Billie's Buddies Adoption Event     • 6:00 p.m.: Pet Parade sponsored by Diamonds Direct For more information, visit Zepeddies.com or follow Zepeddie's Pizzeria on social media for event updates. Come and Have Fun Doing Good.