In 2009, a newcomer from Cincinnati noticed something amazing about Cornelius. The town was packed with incredible local talent that had nowhere to shine. Musicians, artists, and creative minds were everywhere. But their passions weren’t paying the bills.
What started as a simple open mic night has grown into the Lake Norman region’s most anticipated annual celebration. Tawba Walk represents more than just a festival. It’s proof that authentic community support can transform both individual lives and entire neighborhoods.
From Open Mic to Community Phenomenon
Case Warnemunde moved to Cornelius during the 2008-2009 recession. As a social person, he started meeting locals and making friends.
“I am meeting the next person and the next person I meet is more interesting and creative than the last,” Case recalls. “There was just so much talent. There was so much passion, whether they were visual artists or musicians or aspiring entrepreneurs.”
But he noticed a pattern. What these talented people really wanted to do was always “a step away.” Their passions couldn’t support their careers.
Case had a big idea. What if there was a “physical social network” that the community could follow? One brand that would support all this unique talent and reconnect people to their hometowns.
He started hosting an open mic every first and third Thursday in downtown Cornelius. This was back when you could “literally see a tumbleweed going across Catawba Avenue in downtown Cornelius.”
The open mic became the most popular thing in town. They packed the place out every time. Musicians who later formed successful bands got their start there. They showcased young talent playing classic rock “even better than the artists themselves.”
After two years of packed venues, they needed bigger stages and more space. That’s how Tawba Walk was born.
What Makes Tawba Walk 2025 Special
The first Tawba Walk in 2011 drew maybe 500 to 750 people. It had one stage with bands, fire hula hoopers, and a live graffiti wall.
This year’s event has grown much bigger. Tawba Walk 2025 will feature 125 local artists, vendors, and small businesses. You’ll find everything from woodworking to custom trucker hat booths. Visual artists will display toys, handmade soaps, jewelry, and clothing.
Multiple food truck courts will host about 10 food trucks. Sweet treat vendors will offer everything from shaved ice to popcorn to candies.
Families will love the two epic kid zones hosted by the YMCA and Bouncin’ Out Bounce Houses. There will be tons of bounce houses, giant bubbles, and giant Jenga. Kids can try the ultimate bungee trampoline, where four trampolines let them strap in and do flips.
This year introduces inflatable bumper cars. Two stages will feature performances at Oak Street Mill and Town Hall. Old Town Public House will also have entertainment. You might catch a busking musician or even a flash mob.
Case brings a Walt Disney approach to the event. “If resources were no limitation, I’ve always wanted to have it where people explore these events and around every turn they’re just like, are you kidding me?”
The Community Partnership Model
Tawba Walk succeeds because of strong community partnerships. The town of Cornelius and the Parks Department have been the greatest partners from day one.
“I love this town. I love the staff, just how much support this town has given for us,” Case says. “We couldn’t have done it without them.”
Key supporters include Abigail Jennings of Lake Norman Realty, McIntosh Law Firm, and the Knox Group, who owns Oak Street Mill and has donated property use for years. Eventive Venues and the YMCA also provide essential support.
This partnership model shows how local government, businesses, and nonprofits can create something bigger than any one group could manage alone.
The Walt Disney Philosophy on a Bootstrap Budget
Case runs Tawba Walk with limited resources but unlimited passion. His goal is to create surprise moments that make people think, “I can’t believe they thought of that.”
The magic comes from “connecting with other people with passion,” he explains. “You can’t go wrong with that.”
Case wears many hats in the community. He’s the executive director of Old Town Cornelius, runs marketing agency Bella Creative, operates Handyman LKN, and owns Old Town Public House. All connect back to his core mission of supporting the local community.
His marketing agency works with brands and municipalities “looking to make a positive and lasting impact on the communities they serve.” This philosophy drives everything he does.
Your Tawba Walk 2025 Guide
Tawba Walk 2025 takes place on Saturday from 11 AM to 8 PM throughout downtown Cornelius. The event is free and open to all ages.
You’ll find two main performance stages at Oak Street Mill and Town Hall. Old Town Public House will also feature performers.
Food options include multiple food truck courts with about 10 different trucks. Sweet treat vendors will be scattered throughout the event area.
Families should plan time for the two kid zones with bounce houses, giant bubbles, giant Jenga, and the ultimate bungee trampoline. New inflatable bumper cars promise to be a hit with all ages.
With 125 local vendors, plan to spend time browsing. You’ll discover local artists, handmade goods, and unique items representing the true depth of local talent.
Why Tawba Walk Matters
Tawba Walk succeeds because it proves Case’s original vision works. A “physical social network” can reconnect people to their hometown and neighbors.
The event creates a platform where local talent can thrive. Musicians, artists, entrepreneurs, and creators get the support they need to turn their passions into sustainable careers.
Downtown Cornelius has transformed since those early days when tumbleweeds rolled across Catawba Avenue. Tawba Walk played a role in that change by bringing people together.
Case’s work with Old Town Cornelius helps “preserve this unique community identity” even as development changes the area. Events like Tawba Walk balance growth with character while promoting local businesses and artists.
The festival also proves that authentic community engagement works as a business strategy. The partnerships that make Tawba Walk possible create lasting relationships that strengthen the entire area year-round.
Join the celebration on Saturday, 9/27 and experience how a community comes together to showcase its best. You’ll discover local talent, make new connections, and see what happens when people with passion come together around shared love for their community.
Tawba Walk isn’t just about one day of fun. It’s about building the genuine connections that make communities thrive.
About the author:
Jeff Hamm is the creator and producer of The Best of LKN. He’s a local real estate agent and digital marketing professional.
Since 2020, Jeff has been sharing the stories of Lake Norman’s most inspiring small businesses and nonprofits.
When he isn’t working, you can usually find Jeff boating, playing pickleball, cycling local greenways, and taking walks with his dogs Sam and Maisy.
Jeff Hamm
Broker: LKNreal
Founder: Epic Journey Media
Photo credit: LKN Images by Kathleen Martin
UPDATED FOR 2025!
Get the BEST of Lake Norman all in one place.
Download our
Lake Norman Visitors Guide
– FREE!
