Concord’s development is marked by several relatively major events. Several years before the city’s incorporation in 1806, gold was discovered in Concord, sparking a gold rush in North Carolina. Just after the Civil War, Union soldiers briefly occupied Concord. The city was undeveloped at the time and a small cotton mill was the primary business in the area. Toward the end of the 19th century, Concord Cotton Factory was sold in a distress sale. The buyer quickly expanded the factory. Other businesses soon established themselves in and around Concord. Concord is now home to several large enterprises including Phillip Morris, U.S.A., Oiles American Corporation and Pass & Seymour/Legrand.

Concord maintains links to its past through the Reed Gold Mine State Historic Sites and the Historic Cabarrus Courthouse Museum. The Old Courthouse Theater – the local playhouse and cultural center of the city – is a historic building with an exciting past. Built in 1924 and once home to a First Baptist congregation, the building was scheduled for demolition in 1975. Artist Mary Snead Boger spearheaded a movement to bring cultural arts to Concord. With help from others, she saved the building in the process.

Recreational and entertainment activities can be found within Concord or in nearby Charlotte. The Carowind theme park and Discovery Place are the main attractions in Charlotte. Carowind has roller coasters and water slides, while Discovery Place offers educational fun for children. NASCAR fans can also attend the auto races at Lowe’s Motor Speedway.

Within Concord, residents and visitors can relax outdoors, play sports or window shop. Frank Liske Park has a variety of facilities including picnic areas and playgrounds, tennis courts, miniature golf course and nature trails. The city also manages summer youth programs and offers year-round athletic classes for all ages. In September, one can visit the Cabarrus Arena & Events Center for the Cabarrus County Fair, a family-oriented agricultural event. Shoppers can stroll the downtown area or stop by the Concord Mills mall, which has several national chains and more than 200 retailers.