If you love live music, there's no time like the present when it comes to getting out and about in Charlotte. From afrobeat to Latin jams, here are the local dance parties worth checking out this weekend.

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'Using Your Unique' Songwriters Workshops

First, join Charlotte-based singer-songwriter Arsena Schroeder for a free songwriting workshop this Friday evening. This is the first interactive session in a series running through Feb. 1 that will culminate with a local songwriters showcase featuring class participants.

When: Friday, Jan. 11, 6 p.m.
Where: Sugaw Creek Recreation Center, 943 W. Sugar Creek Road
Admission: Free

Click here for more details, and to get your tickets

'Solstice: A New Dawn Of Dance Music Euphoria' at Petra's

This second installment of the genre-bending dance party "Solstice" unfolds at Petra's this Friday night. Celebrating dance music in all its forms, the event will feature local DJs playing a wide range of genres, including house, afrobeat, deep cuts and more.

Get in by 10 p.m. to save $5 on admission.

When: Friday, Jan. 11, 9 p.m.- Saturday, Jan. 12, 2 a.m.
Where: Petra's, 1919 Commonwealth Ave.
Admission: $0-$5
Click here for more details, and to get your tickets

'Mega Fridays at La Revolucion 

This Friday at La Revolucion, expect a Bird Box Challenge in the form of a blindfolded shot contest — with cash prizes up for grabs. Also expect bachata, trap, salsa and more spun by DJ More9 and DJ Glyde Bachata.

Enter before 11:30 p.m. to avoid a cover charge.

When: Friday, Jan. 11, 10 p.m.- Saturday, Jan. 12, 2:30 a.m.
Where: La Revolucion, 900 N. Carolina Music Factory Blvd., #1
Admission: Free
Click here for more details, and to get your tickets