Former EpiCentre rooftop draws thousands as Uptown party scene returns
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An Instagram reel announcing one event got more than 3,000 likes and is filled with comments from people reminiscing on the vibes the EpiCentre used to offer. Photo: Courtesy of Kenise Taylor
A new event venue at Queen City Quarter (formerly The EpiCentre) is bringing back a bit of Charlotte nostalgia with rooftop parties.
Why it matters: Queen City Quarter isn't bumping like the EpiCentre once was. But, recently, Rooftop at The MEC has been drawing crowds back to the once-popular Uptown hangout.
Context: Rooftop at The MEC is situated in the former Rooftop 210 space on the third floor of Queen City Quarter (QCQ).
- It's primarily used as a private event space, but in recent months, local entrepreneurs Kenise Taylor and George Waters have been managing it with the intention of reviving the former Uptown hot spot.
- "Everybody gave up on it. But we didn't," Taylor tells Axios.
Between the lines: Taylor and Waters own The MilliUp Event Center (MEC), a smaller event space on the second floor of QCQ, where AT&T used to be.
Driving the news: Rooftop at The MEC has attracted thousands of partygoers in recent months by partnering with party promoter Six Stars Entertainment.
- Last month, about 1,000 people showed up at the venue's 21+ parties. This month, the events grew to more than 2,000 attendees.
Catch up quick: The EpiCentre was once known as a lively nightlife hub, but a combination of nearby crime, its former owners' financial struggles, and an accelerated downturn due to pandemic shutdowns ultimately led to its closure, sale and rebrand.
- Over the last year, several new businesses have opened at the now Queen City Quarter, which its new owners hope to turn into a family-friendly destination.
- But the prominent complex at 210 East Trade St. is still lacking significant foot traffic.
What to expect: The 21+ parties at Rooftop at The MEC happen about once a month.
- There's typically a DJ, bar, and ticket prices vary depending on the promoter. In the past, tickets have started at $20.
What's next: Taylor and Waters say another event is expected in late August.
- More details will be announced at a later date on the Queen City Quarter's event page or the MilliUp Event Center.
