LIFESTYLE
Dwayne
Dwayne.Heigh@TeamEsplanade.com
Megan
Megan.Michaux@TeamEsplanade.com
Letter From the Lifestyle Team
MEGAN MICHAUX YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER
Happy New Year!
As we welcome 2026, I want to extend my warmest wishes for a year filled with health, joy, and meaningful moments. The winter season brings a special kind of calm and comfort, and I hope you are finding time to enjoy the beauty and stillness it offers.
A new year always brings a sense of renewal, and I’m excited for all that lies ahead for our community. We’re already planning fresh experiences, activities, and opportunities to come together in ways that inspire connection and create lasting memories. As always, your ideas and feedback are truly valued, so please feel free to share anything you’d love to see in the months ahead.
With February on the horizon, we’re preparing some fun and heartfelt gatherings to celebrate the season. From community moments to special themed events, there will be plenty to enjoy as we embrace the warmth that comes from spending time with friends and neighbors. Be on the lookout for what’s coming soon.
Thank you for being such an important part of this community. I’m grateful for each of you, and I look forward to the many wonderful moments we’ll create together in 2026.
2026 Member Trips
Text coming soon...
Help Backyard Wildlife
Winter is here and it’s a perfect time to spend a Green Hour® helping backyard wildlife thrive throughout the season. Many of the beneficial insects, birds, and small animals in your backyard may find it harder to find shelter, water, and food in the coming months. You can help by simply placing a shallow dish of water in a sunny spot in your backyard. If you place a container on the ground, add a rock or two near the edge to help smaller creatures crawl out. Keep the containers clean and refill when low. Find more tips and activities from the National Wildlife Federation by scanning the QR code or visit thegreenhour.org/ activity/help-backyard-wildlife.
New Year’s Brunch
January 1
11:30 A.M. THE VENUE
It’s a brand-new year and that’s cause for celebration! Join your neighbors at The Venue to enjoy a midday brunch! Bring your favorite brunch dish to share with your neighbors. Let your Lifestyle Manager know what you plan on bringing by sending her an email or signing up at the front desk of The Venue.
Mardi Gras
February 17
6:30 P.M. THE VENUE
Laissez les bons temps rouler—let the good times roll! Celebrate with your neighbors as we bring the spirit of New Orleans to Northgate with bright colors, lively music, and sweet treats. Enjoy traditional King Cake, great conversation, and a fun, cheerful atmosphere to kick off the Mardi Gras season. Come join the fun and add a little flair to your February!
Getting to Know You!
ONEBLOOD
Blood Drive
February 6
9 A.M. - 1 P.M. THE VENUE ENTRANCE
The drive will support local hospitals and save lives! Members are encouraged to participate, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and engage with neighbors in this life-saving endeavor. Together, let’s make a difference and show the power of community spirit! All donors will receive a OneBlood T-shirt and a $20 e-gift card.
THE Members OF OUR Community ARE TRULY WHAT MAKE THIS A WONDERFUL PLACE TO LIVE.
In each magazine issue, we spotlight a Member, couple or family to showcase the amazing Members we have living in Esplanade at Northgate. If you would like to be featured, please answer the questions below and send some fun photos to your Lifestyle Manager, Megan Michaux at Megan.Michaux@TeamEsplanade.com
1. What are your names and why did you choose Esplanade?
2. Are you a full-time Member? If not, where else do you spend your time? Where are you from?
3. What Lifestyle programs are you most interested in?
4. Also, tell us your hobbies.
5. Tell us about your family/pets and your current or past professions.
6. What is the best advice you've ever received or given?
7. Where is the most exciting place you've traveled to and what made it so memorable?
8. Tell us something about yourself that may surprise people.
Exclusive Concierge Offerings
Let us handle the details while you enjoy the moments. To browse the full list of available Esplanade Concierge offerings, visit EsplanadePerks.com and use registration code esplanade2023 to access the Esplanade Member portal. Through the Esplanade Concierge program we are proud to offer you exclusive discounts and rates on everything from local restaurants and attractions, to movie tickets, car rentals, hotels and more! With thousands of local and national offers across the country, you’ll always find a reason to celebrate your savings.
VACATION IS CALLING
EXCLUSIVE HOTEL OFFERINGS
In addition to our existing hotel and travel perks, we are pleased to offer Members up to 15% off at select Marriott® Hotels by using code 44M when booking their next reservation at any of the following participating locations:
Art Ovation - Sarasota, FL; Courtyard Faro Blanco Resort - Florida Keys; Playa Largo Resort and Spa - Key Largo; French Leave Resort - Bahamas; The Daytona - Daytona Beach, FL; Courtyard - Downtown Fort Lauderdale, FL; Springhill Jax Beach Oceanfront - Jacksonville, FL; Courtyard Jax Beach OceanfrontJacksonville, FL; Residence Inn Tierra Verde - St. Petersburg, FL.
HOME SERVICES
HYDROSHIELD
ECO-FRIENDLY COATINGS
Hydroshield offers innovative surface protection that takes highmaintenance surfaces in home and transforms them from good to amazing. Their customers receive peace of mind that their surfaces will be easy-to-clean, stain resistant, and guaranteed to stay looking new. Call Noel and Carmen Torres to schedule an appointment for your free consultation. 704-909-9289
QUANTUM SECURITY AND INNOVATIONS
Esplanade Members can choose from three EXCLUSIVE packages: Sonos Home Theater Package, Sonos Package, or Alula Security Package. Members who purchase an exclusive package will also receive a 10% discount on any additional purchase. To view QSI’s state-of-theart systems, visit the Model Homes or stop by the Sales Gallery for a brochure detailing these packages. 704-534-2468
GOLF
TROON ACCESS
Esplanade Members can enjoy a 25% discount on a Troon Access Membership by entering code ESPLANADE25 at checkout! With savings and access to over 150 world-class courses, Troon Access is perfect for every Esplanade golf enthusiast, of any level! From Kapalua, to Gamble Sands and Troon North –your Troon Access benefits give you a network of premier courses to play. Save every time you play. troon.com/access
WINDOW COVERINGS
CAROLINA SHUTTERS & BLINDS
Esplanade Members can choose from exclusive package discounts. Contact Nicole Evans-Lane for a free design consultation. When contacting Nicole, Members are asked to supply the offer code: AFFINITY 303. 704-840-8000 nicole@csandb.us carolinashutterandblinds.com
DRY CLEANING
COLLINS CLEANERS VALET SERVICE
Members receive FREE pickup and delivery service directly to their door. Services include dry cleaning, linens, laundry, alterations, shoes, and household items. Stop by the Sales Gallery for the sign-up sheet with the schedule and pricing list or sign up on their website. 704-398-1525 collinscleaners.com
PET SERVICES
CAMP BOW WOW
10% off all services (including grooming) and 5% off all products. Members are given the Wag Bag when they go under contract. 704-708-9663 campbowwow.com/matthews
HOUNDS TOWN USA
10% off Weekday Daycare, 20% off Saturday Daycare, 50% off first bath. Valid at the Indian Trail location only. 704-218-2100 houndstownusa.com
Recent Events
Cooking & Cocktails Series: SOUTH OF THE BORDER
Members enjoyed a flavorful evening with Patrick, our National Director of Food, Beverage & Culinary Experience. From fresh, vibrant ingredients to creative beverage pairings, the night was filled with delicious tastes, fun demonstrations, and plenty of laughs. It was a wonderful opportunity for Members to connect while learning new recipes to bring home.
Craft Northgate: PIPE CLEANER ORNAMENTS
Members tapped into their creativity during our festive Pipe Cleaner Ornament workshop. With colorful supplies and plenty of imagination, everyone created charming, personalized ornaments perfect for the holiday season. It was a cheerful and relaxed crafting session that brought out the artist in all of us.
Pickled Pink PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
Our Members came together for a fun and energetic morning of pickleball competitions in support of the Pretty in Pink Foundation. With friendly tournaments taking place on the courts, everyone brought great spirit and good sportsmanship. It was a lively morning filled with movement, community, and purpose as we rallied together for a meaningful cause.
Recent Events
Oktoberfest EVENT
Members gathered for an afternoon of German-inspired fun at our annual Oktoberfest celebration. Traditional bites, great music, and a lively atmosphere made it a memorable event. It was a wonderful chance to unwind, mingle, and enjoy a taste of fall festivities.
Paint and Sip: WINTER SCENE WITH SUSAN
Under the guidance of Susan, Members enjoyed a cozy and creative Paint and Sip session featuring a beautiful winter landscape. With step-by-step instruction, everyone left with a unique piece of art and an evening full of conversation, creativity, and seasonal charm.
Fall in Love WITH WELLNESS
Members started their morning with a peaceful Yoga session led by KrisBliss, setting the tone for a mindful and energizing day. After yoga, the group learned helpful nutritional facts and wrapped up with a refreshing smoothie to complete the wellness experience. It was a perfect blend of relaxation, learning, and nourishment.
Friendsgiving GATHERING
Our Friendsgiving gathering brought Members together for a warm and welcoming celebration of community. With shared dishes, heartfelt conversations, and a cozy atmosphere, it was a beautiful reminder of the friendships that continue to grow here. It was the perfect pre-holiday moment of gratitude and connection.
Upcoming Events
All activities and events are subject to change. For full details, please visit EsplanadeNorthgateLifestyle.com/events.
NEW YEAR’S BRUNCH
Thursday, January 1 | 11:30 a.m.
The Venue
It’s a brand-new year and that is cause for celebration! Join your neighbors at the Venue to enjoy a midday brunch! Bring your favorite brunch dish to share with your neighbors. Let your Lifestyle Manager know what you plan on bringing by sending her an email or sign up at the front desk of The Venue.
YAPPY HOUR
Fridays, January 2 & February 6 | 2 - 3 p.m.
Bark Park
Gather with your furry friends for a dogtastic social event. It is a play date for both pets and humans! Feel free to bring your favorite beverages to share and enjoy with fellow attendees.
NEW YEAR VISION BOARD
Monday, January 5 | 2 p.m.
The Venue
Start the new year with creativity and intention at our Vision Board Party! Join your neighbors for an inspiring evening where we’ll design personalized vision boards filled with goals, dreams, and motivating images for the year ahead. We’ll provide poster boards, scissors, glue, and tape, and we encourage everyone to bring a few of their own magazines to share. This is a relaxed, feel-good workshop— perfect for setting the tone for a positive and fulfilling 2026. Enjoy light refreshments, great conversation, and a supportive space to dream big. Let’s create something meaningful together!
WINTER BINGO
Thursday, January 15 | 2 p.m.
The Venue
Join us for a cozy and festive Winter Bingo Night! This fun, easygoing event is the perfect way to brighten up a chilly evening and enjoy time with neighbors. We’ll play several rounds of winter-themed bingo—just grab your card, settle in, and get ready for a night full of laughs, surprises, and maybe even a few lucky wins. No teams, no pressure, just simple seasonal fun for everyone. Light snacks will be provided, and small prizes will be awarded to our winners. Come enjoy a warm and cheerful night of bingo and community!
MOVIE NIGHT: THE HOLIDAY
Tuesday, January 20 | 6 p.m.
The Venue
Get cozy and join us for a warm and relaxing Movie Night featuring the charming winter classic, The Holiday! Enjoy an evening filled with laughter, heartwarming moments, and a feel-good story perfect for the season. We’ll have popcorn, hot cocoa, and comfy seating ready—just bring your favorite blanket or sweater and settle in for a cozy night with neighbors. Come unwind, mingle, and enjoy a delightful winter movie together!
ONE BLOOD – BLOOD DRIVE
Friday, February 6 | 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
The Venue Entrance
Following the wonderful turnout at our previous drives, we’re looking forward to coming together once again to help save lives and support our local hospitals. We welcome all Members to take part in this meaningful event, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and connect with neighbors while making a real impact. Every donation brings us one step closer to helping those in need—and your contribution truly matters. As a thank-you, all donors will receive a OneBlood T-shirt and a $20 e-gift card. Let’s show the power of our community spirit and make this blood drive our best one yet!
Upcoming Events
All activities and events are subject to change. For full details, please visit EsplanadeNorthgateLifestyle.com/events.
WATCH PARTY FOR THE BIG GAME
Sunday, February 8 | 7 p.m.
The Venue
ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?! Join us for a fun and exciting Super Bowl watch party for the Big Game! The lifestyle team will be bringing delicious wings to keep everyone fueled, and all you need to do is bring your favorite beverage. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy the game, great food, and great company.
VALENTINES DAY SOCIAL WITH MUSICAL BINGO
Thursday, February 12 | 6 p.m.
The Venue
Join us for a heartwarming social with neighbors! It’s a wonderful opportunity to spread some love, enjoy sweet treats, and connect with friends in the community. We look forward to celebrating the season of love together with great company and festive fun!
MARDI GRAS CELEBRATION
Tuesday, February 17 | 6:30 p.m.
The Venue
Laissez les bons temps rouler—let the good times roll! Celebrate with your neighbors as we bring the spirit of New Orleans to Northgate with bright colors, lively music, and sweet treats. Enjoy traditional King Cake, beads, great conversation, and a fun, cheerful atmosphere to kick off the Mardi Gras season. Join the fun!
Monthly Member Meetings
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Wednesdays, January 14 & February 11
10:15 a.m. | Gathering Room
Join your Lifestyle Manager for a relaxing and informative meeting. Find out what’s happening on the social scene. Bring your questions and suggestions.
CRAFT NORTHGATE: WINE CORK CRAFT NIGHT
Friday, February 20 | 6:30 p.m.
The Venue
Get creative with us at our Wine Cork Craft Night! Join your neighbors for a relaxed and fun evening where we’ll turn simple wine corks into charming, handcrafted décor. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or trying something new, this hands-on activity is easy, enjoyable, and a great way to unwind. All supplies will be provided—just bring your creativity and enjoy a cozy night of crafting, conversation, and community. Let’s sip, craft, and create something wonderful together!
ESPLANADE 101
Wednesdays, January 21 & February 18
10:30 a.m. | Gathering Room
New Members can meet with the CAM and Lifestyle Manager to briefly discuss HOA and Lifestyle topics outlined in your Member Handbook. Come with your questions!
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Wednesdays, January 28 & February 25
10:30 a.m. | Gathering Room
Meet with your Community Association Manager in a relaxed and social setting to discuss the latest news surrounding the neighborhood.
Interest Groups & Social Clubs
Doing more of what makes us happy is called the key to life by many. Share your passion and take the first step by attending or creating a club/group today.
Meet fellow Members with similar interests by creating or joining an interest group or club! Your Lifestyle Manager will assist in coordinating when and where is available for your club or interest group to meet at the Sales Gallery. All groups and clubs must be open to any Member of the community who is interested in joining. To receive an application or for more information about creating a club or interest group, please contact your Lifestyle Manager. Check out the current clubs below!
Current Clubs & Groups BOOK CLUB
Third Tuesday of the Month | 2 p.m. Movement Room
Join the Book Club to discuss each month’s assigned book. Group leader Teresa Cole will be leading the discussion on this book. Books are available on Kindle, books.com (used and new), Barnes and Noble, Amazon, or anywhere books are sold. To learn more about the Book Club or to join, please contact Teresa at cole3761@bellsouth.net.
BUNCO CLUB
Second Thursday of the Month | 6:30 p.m.
Gathering Room
Gather with your neighbors for a lively evening of Bunco! Join our friendly group where everyone brings their favorite snacks and drinks to share. Just remember, for safety, no glass is allowed. Roll the dice, enjoy good company, and create memories with your community. Contact Judy with questions at 412-952-1125.
KNIGHTS OF NORTHGATE BREAKFAST
Tuesdays, January 13 & February 10 | 9 a.m.
The Americana Restaurant
Calling all Esplanade at Northgate men! Join your neighbors at The Americana Restaurant for some great food and great conversation. See event on Member website for Club Leader details to register.
MAHJONG
Every Monday | 6:30 p.m.
Gathering Room
Mahjong is all the rave! As you learn the game and think about how you play and the choices you make, it’s important to remember a couple of points. In the long term, it’s a game of skill. In the short term, luck is a significant factor. With that in mind, this introduction is intended to get you started off and winning games in no time. Contact Rosalind Rokita at roz.rokita@frontier.com for more information.
CRAFT NORTHGATE: VALENTINE CARD MAKING
Monday, January 19 | 10:30 a.m.
Gathering Room
Celebrate the season of love with a creative twist at Craft Northgate! Join us for a fun and hands-on Valentine card-making workshop where you can design personalized cards for friends, family, or that special someone. All materials will be provided, and our team will guide you step by step to create beautiful, heartfelt cards. This is the perfect opportunity to get creative, enjoy some social time, and leave with a collection of unique cards that spread love and joy. Bring your imagination and your Valentine spirit for an afternoon of crafting, laughter, and connection.
VETERANS GROUP COFFEE HOUSE SOCIAL
Thursdays, January 22 & February 26 | 9 - 11 a.m.
Waxhaw Baptist Church | 8213 Old Waxhaw Monroe Road
Veterans are invited to join Group Leader David Hiza for an opportunity to make new friends, participate in raffle prize drawings, access resources, and enjoy the company of fellow veteran Members. Contact David at 704-562-6946 to register and arrange carpooling.
New Year, New You!
Jumpstart Your Wellness Journey in 2026
January is the perfect time to reset, refocus, and commit to a healthier, more energized version of yourself. Whether you’re looking to get back into shape after the holidays or kick off a brand-new fitness routine, this month is all about fresh starts and building momentum for the year ahead. Here’s how to get moving and stay motivated this season:
1. SET REALISTIC GOALS
Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on progress. Start small, add 10 minutes of movement to your day or try a new workout once a week. Small steps lead to lasting results.
2. CREATE A ROUTINE YOU ENJOY
Choose activities that excite you, whether it’s dancing, strength training, or early morning walks. When fitness feels fun, it’s easier to stay consistent.
3. WINTER WELLNESS INDOORS & OUT
Don’t let cooler temps stop you. Layer up and enjoy brisk outdoor walks, or explore indoor options like yoga, swimming, or resistance
training to keep your body strong.
4. NOURISH YOUR BODY
Balance your workouts with proper nutrition. Incorporate lean proteins, hearty grains, and winter veggies like kale, carrots, and sweet potatoes to fuel your energy.
5.
STAY HYDRATED & RESTED
Even in winter, hydration matters. Keep your water intake steady and aim for 7–8 hours of sleep each night to support recovery and overall well-being.
6. FIND ACCOUNTABILITY
Partner with a friend, join a group class, or track your progress with a fitness app. Having support keeps you encouraged and focused.
Consistency is key research shows it takes about 21 days to form a habit. By the end of January, your new routine could already feel like second nature. Let’s start 2026 strong, stay committed, and make this year your healthiest one yet!
Set Your Intentions: The Power of a Vision Board
The start of a new year is the perfect time to clarify your goals and intentions. A vision board is a creative and effective tool to help you focus on what you want to achieve. By visually mapping out your dreams, whether personal, professional, or wellness-focused, you create a daily reminder of your aspirations and what you are working toward.
Creating a vision board can help increase motivation, improve focus, and cultivate a positive mindset. It encourages reflection on what truly matters, helps you set clear priorities, and inspires actionable steps to reach your goals. The process itself can be therapeutic, sparking creativity and mindfulness while giving you a sense of excitement and purpose for the year ahead.
Using magazine clippings, photographs, or even digital tools, a vision board is more than just a collection of images. It is a roadmap to your dreams and a source of daily inspiration that reminds you to keep your intentions at the forefront of your life.
Join us on January 5 to create your own New Year Vision Board at 2 p.m. at The Venue.
Around Town
EXTREME ICE CENTER
Open Daily | Public Skating Times Vary 4705 Indian Trail Fairview Road, Indian Trail | xicenter.com
Start the new year with a little winter fun at XICenter, our local hub for ice skating, hockey, fitness, and more. The Extreme Ice Center offers public skating, figure skating, and hockey programs. If you’re looking for a fresh way to stay active this season, it’s a great place to check out!
PRINCE OF EGYPT
Select Days January 16 - February 1 | Times Vary Matthews Playhouse | www.matthewsplayhouse.com
Journey through the wonders of Ancient Egypt as Ramses and Moses, two young men raised together as brothers in a kingdom of privilege, find themselves suddenly divided by a secret past. One must rule as Pharaoh, the other must rise up and free his true people; both face a destiny that will change history forever. A musical in two acts. Approximate run time is two and a half hours.
Cozy Winter Spiced Apple Crisp
Patrick Scully, the Esplanade National Director of Food, Beverage & Culinary Experience is partnering with the Lifestyle team to bring you a delicious start to the new year. From chef-led cooking pop-ups to memorable food and wine outings, our winter calendar is filled with opportunities to taste, learn, and explore. Stay tuned—warm, flavorful experiences are coming your way! In the mean time, try out this cozy dessert to comfort you up this winter season!
FILLING INGREDIENTS
» 5 - 6 apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
» 2 tablespoons lemon juice
» 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
» ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
» ¼ cup sugar
» 1 tablespoon flour
CRUMBLE TOPPING INGREDIENTS
» ¾ cup rolled oats
» ½ cup flour
» ½ cup brown sugar
» ½ cup cold butter, cubed
» ¼ tsp salt
» Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish.
3. In a bowl, toss apple slices with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, and flour. Spread evenly in the baking dish.
4. Begin preparing the topping by combining oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt.
5. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or your fingers until the mixture becomes crumbly. Stir in nuts (if applicable).
6. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.
7. Bake for 40 - 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are tender and bubbling around the edges.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.
9. Serving idea: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect cozy winter dessert.