A new pop-up picnic styled event series is taking over Charlotte parks.

Why it matters: Organizer and local DJ Darryl McNeil created Touch Grass to help people unplug from social media and connect in real life.

What they're saying: McNeil, a local DJ, tells us he wanted to create a slower, low-stress alternative to meeting people outside of Charlotte's nightlife scene without the pressure of expensive events or loud parties. He describes Touch Grass as a "reset" where people can spread out on blankets, listen to mellow R&B and actually talk to each other.

• "I wanted a space where people could be social without all the loud, overstimulating club energy," said McNeil.

Catch up quick: Around 1,400 people showed up for Touch Grass' last meetup at Freedom Park on May 17.

• The event grew from just about 40 people at his first gathering in April to a crowd that surprised even McNeil.

What to expect: The meetups are free and open to everyone. Events typically run 3–7pm on Sundays, so people can wind down before the workweek.

• Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets, chairs, picnic setups while McNeil spins low-stimulation R&B tunes.

What's next: McNeil hopes to host another event next month around Father's Day and will make an official announcement on Instagram once the date and location are confirmed.

What's next for Touch Grass

Many NASCAR fans will have their eyes are on The Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord this weekend.

Why it matters: The 67th annual Memorial Day weekend tradition will carry a more emotional tone this year following the death of two-time NASCAR champion Kyle Busch earlier this week.

The latest: Charlotte Motor Speedway plans to continue as planned, with tributes expected throughout the weekend to honor Busch's legacy and impact on the sport.

If you go: The Coca-Cola 600 is at 6pm tomorrow. Tickets are $10 for children 12 and under if seated next to an adult. Standard admission starts at $111.

More weekend events

Picasso's Sports Café recently soft opened in Third Ward and they have a grand opening set for Friday, May 29.

Why it matters: The longtime sports bar is making its return to Uptown after relocating to University City years ago, adding another game-day option near Bank of America Stadium.

What to expect: Around 30 brand new TVs to watch all the sports games and the same menu as their University City location with typical bar food like wings, pizzas and burgers. There's also a 36-seat bar, plus booths and high-tops seating.

• Eventually, they'll add a stage on the patio for live music performances on the weekends.

Stop by: Find Picasso's Sports Café in the former Hooters space, next to Tilt, at 123 W Trade St.

More local sports bars to visit

Night Swim Coffee will open its seventh location at Queensbridge Collective.

Driving the news: The local roaster's newest café will be the first retail opening at the mixed-use South Tryon development when it opens on May 30.

• More than 12,000 square feet of food and beverage concepts are also expected to open within Queensbridge Collective this year, per a release.

What to expect: The new café — located across from the Carson Blvd light rail stop — will feature indoor and outdoor seating, Night Swim's full beverage menu, pastries and bagels.

What's next: Night Swim Coffee plans to open two additional locations later this year.