Family Fun at Carolina Ascent Games: A Complete Guide to Kid-Friendly Experiences

Family Fun at Carolina Ascent Games: A Complete Guide to Kid-Friendly Experiences

This post is sponsored by Gainbridge®. Gainbridge® was established to transform how people access financial products through its direct-to-consumer digital annuity platform, offering trusted annuity solutions with guaranteed growth and no hidden fees. In the world of sports, Gainbridge® is recognized as a leader in supporting and investing in women’s athletics.

Looking for an exciting, affordable, and family-friendly way to spend the weekend in Charlotte? Carolina Ascent FC is Charlotte’s only women’s professional soccer team and a proud member of the Gainbridge Super League, offering the perfect mix of action, entertainment, and kid-approved fun.

Whether your family is full of soccer fans or just loves a good time, Ascent games are a can’t-miss event. From princess parties and cowboy hat giveaways to post-game autographs and themed nights, there's something for everyone at the stadium.

Here’s your complete guide to enjoying a Carolina Ascent game with kids, including what to expect, helpful tips, upcoming themed events, and everything else to make your day smooth and memorable.

What to Expect at a Carolina Ascent Game 

When you attend a Carolina Ascent FC game, you’re in for an action-packed day of family fun! Here’s what you can expect:

• Themed Game Days: Every home game comes with a family-friendly theme, making each experience feel fresh and exciting. Whether it's a Princess Party or a Holiday Festival, these games are great for making lasting memories with your little ones.
• Fun Halftime Activities & Giveaways: Enjoy exciting activities during halftime that the whole family can participate in, along with special giveaways to take home.
• Small Fireworks: Some games feature small fireworks to enhance the excitement of the day.
• Free Concourse Activities: Fans can expect fun concourse activities like face painting, balloon animals, photo ops with princesses and mascots, and a variety of kid-focused booths and giveaways

Game Day Tips for Families

• Clear Bag Policy: Carolina Ascent follows a clear bag policy. Clear bags up to 12" x 6" x 12" are allowed, as well as small clutches and diaper bags. Blankets are permitted but may be searched upon entry. My favorite bag is linked here.

• Ticket Prices: Tickets are affordable for families, with regular seats and themed sections like Beach Club available. Kids under 12 months don’t need a ticket but must sit in an adult’s lap. Tickets here.

• Children: All kids over 12 months need a ticket to enter the stadium. Kids under 12 months can come without a ticket but must sit with an adult. 

• Arrive Early: Make sure to arrive early! Doors open 1.5 hours before the match, giving you plenty of time to explore pre-game activities for kids and get settled in.

• Stop by Guest Services: Call Chants Sheets are at Guest Services. They are mix of English and Spanish but the majority are in Spanish.

• Face Painting: Kids can show their Charlotte FC pride with fun designs at the face painting section (availability and times may vary by game). The cost for a single design is typically around $6 and full face is $10.

• Shop for Kids’ Apparel: Visit the stadium apparel store on the main concourse near Section 101 for some of the chicest merch I’ve seen from any of our professional teams. They have the best selection of kids' gear, stylish women’s apparel, and even retro Carolina Ascent bombers for everyone in the family. You can also request personalize jerseys on-site perfect for making your fan experience extra special.

Parking & Transportation

Parking: The closest parking lots to the stadium include:

• American Legion Memorial Stadium Lot (on-site) $15/car

• CPCC Student Deck – short walk to stadium

Where to Stay in Uptown Charlotte for a Game

Looking for the perfect place to stay during your Charlotte FC game? The JW Marriott is short drive from American Legion Memorial Stadium, making it an ideal home base for your family adventure. This hotel offers three fantastic onsite restaurants: Dean's, Caroline's Oyster Bar, and Aura. If you're looking for more casual dining options, Dos Caminos, Brown Bag Seafood and Golden Cow Creamery are just around the corner.

For a relaxing break, head to the rooftop pool, where family hours are from 10 AM - 11 AM, and unwind with stunning city views. Afterward, the pool tends to attract a more adult crowd. For those looking to unwind further, the hotel also boasts an onsite spa, perfect for some relaxation after the excitement of the game. With its prime location and top-notch amenities, JW Marriott is the perfect place to stay while enjoying all that Charlotte has to offer. Book your stay here!

Upcoming Family-Friendly Charlotte FC Games

Mark your calendars — these themed games are packed with fun for kids and families:

Sep 28 vs JAX @ 2:00 PM
Princess Party – Youth Jersey Giveaway (1,000 jerseys) + Post-Game Autographs with players and princesses.

Oct 4 vs TBD @ 7:00 PM
Soccer City Hoedown – Cowboy Hat Giveaway (1,000 hats) + 200 Cowbells. Country vibes and family fun all night long.

Nov 8 vs TBD @ 7:00 PM
Salute to Service – Bucket Hat Giveaway + 300 Red & Blue Vuvuzelas. A special night to honor those who serve.

Dec 6 vs TBD @ 2:00 PM
Santa’s Holiday Festival – Part 1 – 500 Ugly Christmas Sweaters + 200 Red & Green Vuvuzelas. Includes Post-Game Autographs with players.

Dec 20 vs TBD @ 2:00 PM
Santa’s Holiday Festival – Part 2 – 500 Ugly Christmas Hats + 500 Carolina Ascent Ornaments. Includes Post-Game Autographs with players.

⚽ Why Carolina Ascent Games Are Perfect for Families

Between the giveaways, themed entertainment, and the thrill of watching pro women’s soccer, Carolina Ascent games are a standout experience for families in Charlotte. You’ll leave with great memories, maybe some swag, and kids who can’t wait to come back.

Whether you're a soccer superfan or just want a fun day out with your crew — this is one of Charlotte's best family-friendly outings.

📸 Follow along on Instagram @CharlotteMama for more insider game day tips, family guides, and exclusive discount codes.