FRIDAY, OCT. 5 Guitarist and frontman Dave Grohl's fractured rock folds around his distinct sense of writing pop ditties that has carried the Foo Fighters for over a decade. The band's mix of post-punk, grunge and shiny guitar pop is intact and continues to evolve. Just drop the needle on their newest record, Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace, to relish the continuing steady output of these rock catalysts. The disc should be out by the time this hits the streets. 8 p.m. $38.50. Cricket Arena, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. 704-522-6500. www.ticketmaster.com. (Shukla)
SATURDAY, OCT. 6 Want to enjoy an evening of fine culture and great food under the stars? Then, head to the Great Grapes! Wine, Arts & Food Festival. Over 150 wines from North Carolina vineyards, cooking demonstrations, unique artist exhibits, and live music will be offered. Bravo's Top Chef Ilan Hall will be headlining the demos. 11 a.m. $18 ADV; $20. Symphony Park, SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Rd. 800-830-3976. www.uncorkthefun.com. (Meredith Kanitra)
SATURDAY, OCT. 6 Get a little exercise while raising funds for autism at the Carolinas Autism Speaks Walk Now For Autism at Lowe's Motor Speedway. After the walk, if you're still looking to make a difference and party like you're Molly Ringwald on prom night, check out the Pretty in Pink party at the Breakfast Club. With proceeds benefitting the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, this 80's themed party will feature special pink drink specials, impersonators, appetizers, and raffle prizes. WN: 8:30 a.m. registration. 10 a.m. kick-off. Lowe's Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy South. 704-561-0003; PiP: 6 p.m. $10. The Breakfast Club, 225 N. Caldwell St. (Meredith Kanitra)
SUNDAY, OCT. 7 A former gang member and high school dropout is named number 54 on Comedy Central's list of the 100 Greatest Stand-ups of All Time? Say what?! Another "Original King(s) of Comedy" returns to Charlotte. D.L. Hughley takes a break from TV [Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, Weekends at the DL, and, of course, The Hughleys] to get back to where he's king. Stand-up. One of the most popular and highly recognized standup comedians touring, Hughley returns to tickle the city's funnybones, for old time's sake. 7:30 p.m. $24-$49. Belk Theater, Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.
