Plaza Midwood social district expected to launch this weekend

WSOCTV.com News Staff
·2 min read

The Plaza Midwood social district is set to begin this weekend.

It will be Charlotte’s first district, which will allow people to sip and stroll with alcoholic drinks from ABC-approved establishments.

Plaza Midwood’s social district runs about one mile long, mostly along Central Avenue, and parts of Commonwealth Avenue, Pecan Avenue and The Plaza.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Reusable cups unveiled for Plaza Midwood social district

If you plan to participate, there are a few things you need to know:

  • First, you must purchase a 16-ounce stainless steel cup for $8 from participating restaurants if you want to sip and stroll.

  • Second, participating businesses should have a sticker posted on their doors letting you know where you can buy the cups and where they are allowed. A green sticker means they are participating. A purple sticker means you can buy a cup at the business. A red sticker means they are not participating in any way.

  • Third, signs will be posted to show the perimeters of the social district. You will be required to stay within that perimeter if you want to participate.

  • Fourth, social district hours are 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: The ins and outs of Plaza Midwood’s proposed social district

While some businesses in the area are embracing the idea of a social district, others say they are not interested.

“I think it wise liability issues ... mostly,” resident John Brasch said.

The owner of Moxie Mercantile, Michelle Castelloe, told Channel 9 that they are in a unique situation because, while they don’t sell alcohol, they will still allow it.

“We won’t have any responsibility for the cups or the labeling of their cups. But people can come in with their container from whatever bar they just left and shop with us,” Castelloe said.

She said she hopes the social district will create a walking path to support retail and the community, however only time will if it will be successful.

The city of Charlotte has created a map that will show you which businesses are expected to participate in the social district. You can find a list of those businesses here.

VIDEO: Social district map approved by Concord City Council