CHARLOTTE - The Queen City celebrated 249 years on Tuesday.

A celebratory birthday party was held at the Charlotte-Mecklenberg Government Center.

Charlotte is named for Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz. 

To commemorate the occasion, the City of Charlotte is encouraging folks to post their "I Voted "sitckers on social media, tagging @CLTgov. Those who tweet their sticker and mention the Twitter account will be entered for a chance to win a special Queen Charlotte sticker.

They are also doing a "Queen's Portrait" challenge. To participate, you have to send an original, illustrated portrait of Queen Charlotte to the city. Winners will receive a 'Queen City Prize Pack,' with items from numerous Charlotte businesses and organizations. The winner will be selected by the public. Entries are due by Nov. 7 and voting will take place from Nov. 10 to Nov. 17. Enter here.