The Panthers might not be giving us much reason to celebrate, but the fact the weekend is here is reason enough – and there are plenty of things to do in celebration of the week’s end. Here are a few:

Thursday

Battle for Gravedigger’s Ball at Strike City (210 E. Trade St.): Six local bands will compete to open for B.O.B at Gravedigger’s Ball on Oct. 27. The roster includes Dunder Chiefs, 21st Century Goliath, Eyes of the Elders, Brandon Kirkley and the Firecrackers, Course of Action, and defending champs Of Good Nature. $5, with all proceeds going to Amped-4-A-Cure cancer research. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. 704-716-9300.

Friday-Saturday

BBQ and Brews Festival at the NC Music Factory (1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.): Fourteen bands on two stages: The “BLOCtoberfest” stage (Business Leaders of Charlotte) will feature Mr. Potato Head, Swingin’ Richards, and Sirsy; mainstage performers include Early Ray, Mo’ Money, Trip Rogers Band, Jimmy Thackery & The Drivers, and Nantucket. Free admission. Proceeds from food and drink sales will benefit Jackson Laskowski Hope Alive Fund. 5:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, noon-9:30 p.m. Saturday. www.charlottebbqandblues.com.

Saturday

I Feel Liberated Cocktail Party at Pisces Sushi Bar & Lounge (1100 E. Metropolitan): This is a kickoff event for the new nonprofit “All We Need is Love,” which raises awareness about human trafficking. Liberty is definitely something to celebrate! 7 p.m. No cover; donations will enter you into a raffle. 704-975-4138.

The grand opening of Piano Man in Lake Norman (19701 Bethel Church Road, Cornelius): It’s a new sing-along piano bar, and aren’t we all in the mood for a melody? No cover. Show starts at 8:30 p.m. 704-895-5251.

The Bank of America 500 is a party where a race breaks out at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Whisky River is even bringing its bar to the Ford grandstands near Turn One. In addition to fast cars turning left, there will be pre-race concerts by Big & Rich and Victoria Justice, and special appearances by the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Party goes all day; green flag is at 7:30 p.m. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

Sunday

Disco Brunch at Soul Gastrolounge (1500-B Central Ave.): The party features DJ Weaver Fever, drag queen Bethann Phetamine, and of course good food. It’s like Studio 54 at midday, with grits. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 704-348-1848.