Organizers change venue for Democrats' celebration

Charlotte In 2012 spokeswoman Suzi Emmerling said late Monday that as the date of the event drew closer, logistics became a challenge. Emmerling said moving the celebration to downtown Charlotte near the convention venue would make it more accessible and family friendly. The speedway is about 18 miles outside the city.

“Our goal in hosting CarolinaFest to kick-off the 2012 Democratic National Convention is to provide an open and accessible convention experience to more Americans than ever before," Dr. Dan Murrey, executive director of the Charlotte in 2012 Convention Host Committee, said in a statement. "In order to facilitate public caucus meetings – and to maximize accessibility, transportation, and proximity of all guests – we have decided that moving CarolinaFest 2012 to Uptown Charlotte is the best way to achieve that goal."

The convention has already been shortened from the traditional four days to three to have a day to celebrate the region.

The convention is being held at Charlotte's Time Warner Arena. President Barack Obama's nomination acceptance speech on Sept. 6 is scheduled for Bank of America Stadium. Both arenas are in downtown Charlotte.

"“The location of CarolinaFest 2012 has changed, but the elements of the event will not. Guests attending CarolinaFest 2012 will enjoy a free event with interactive expositions, family-oriented activities, live music, speakers and history in the making, all in a centralized location," Murrey said.