May Events in Charleston

Immerse yourself in local art at more than 30 galleries during the Charleston Gallery Association’s Artwalk. Taking place on the first Friday of most months, the Artwalk is a fantastic way to meet new people, discover local artists, and find the perfect art piece for your home. Participants have the ability to create their own Artwalk route using the CGA website’s “Charleston Gallery Association Map.” There is no cost of admission to this event.

The 3rd Annual Lowcountry Mahi Invitational “Logan’s Derby” returns in 2026, bringing anglers together for a mahi fishing tournament based on fork length measurements. Hosted at Sunsets Shem Creek, the event includes a captains meeting, multiple eligible fishing days, and a final awards ceremony recognizing top catches and anglers. Designed to strengthen community and crew connections, the tournament blends friendly competition with Lowcountry fishing tradition.

The Charleston Airshow brings an action-packed day of aerial excitement to the Charleston Harbor, featuring dynamic performances, aerobatic displays, and both vintage and modern aircraft showcased on the ground. Spectators can look forward to dramatic flyovers, impressive stunts, and chances to meet pilots and get a closer look at the aircraft throughout the day. It’s a standout event for aviation fans, families, and anyone looking for a high-energy experience.

Guests are invited to celebrate the Kentucky Derby waterfront with live music, a large outdoor screen broadcasting the race, and a best-dressed contest. The event also features fresh Lowcountry seafood and open-air seating, offering a festive afternoon and evening by the water.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort hosts a Native Plants Watercolor Class & Book Signing featuring local artist Audrey Straus. Guests will participate in a guided watercolor session inspired by regional flora, followed by a book signing and a take-home copy of Native Plants of Kiawah Island.

The South Carolina Brewery Running Series® hosts a 5K-ish fun run starting and ending at Edmund’s Oast, inviting participants of all ages and fitness levels to run, walk, or jog the course at their own pace. The event concludes with a celebratory locally brewed craft beverage, combining fitness, community, and craft beer in a relaxed, festive setting.

The Heyward-Washington House offers a guided program exploring President George Washington’s 1791 visit to Charleston, the longest stop of his Southern tour. Led by Curator of History Chad Stewart, the experience provides insight into Washington’s time in the Lowcountry and his connection to the historic home that served as his headquarters.

The Coastal Cupboard hosts a hands-on Korean cooking workshop with Sarah of Sarah’s Dumps, focused on the art of making traditional mandu (dumplings). Guests will learn step-by-step filling and crimping techniques before the dumplings are prepared and served alongside a full spread of Korean dishes and sides. The evening concludes with a shared meal celebrating Korean culinary tradition in an interactive, communal setting.

The Charleston Greek Festival is a vibrant celebration of Greek culture, offering authentic food, music, dancing, and history in the heart of the Lowcountry. This beloved annual event is made possible by dedicated sponsors and volunteers who help share the spirit of Greece with the Charleston community.

This program explores the role of punch in colonial America, highlighting its popularity across all levels of society and its cultural significance leading up to the American Revolution. Drawing from excavated punch bowls at Drayton Hall, the event offers historical insight alongside samples of three 18th-century punch recipes.

Join Taylor Grant of Taylor Grant Pilates for an intimate, engaging Pilates class at the Gibbes Museum. This session offers a focused and fun workout surrounded by inspiring art. Participants should bring their own mats.

Smythe Park on Daniel Island hosts a festive Mother’s Day weekend celebration featuring live jazz under the open sky. Charleston Jazz Express, with vocalist Zandrina Dunning, performs from 7–9 PM, while guests are invited to arrive early to enjoy a relaxed evening with picnics, lawn seating, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Free and open to the public.

Enjoy exploring Kings Street without traffic every second Sunday of the month! You will find carefully curated artists showing their work on the street, unique food vendors, and other surprises! Enjoy discovering shops you might not have noticed before!

Firefly Distillery hosts the Pickers Hullabaloo Flea Market on May 10, 2026, offering a vibrant vintage shopping experience with over 100 antique and vintage vendors. Guests can browse curated finds from every era while enjoying live music, food, drinks, and a lively, community-focused atmosphere, with tiered admission options throughout the day.

The Sunday Bazaar at American Gardens is a weekly spring flower market held Sundays from May 10 through June, featuring local flower farms, artisan food vendors, and live music. Guests are invited to stroll the gardens, gather fresh blooms, and enjoy a relaxed morning in a vibrant seasonal setting in the heart of Charleston.

Community Garden Manager Sam leads a hands-on workshop demonstrating how everyday grocery store produce can be used to grow food at home. Participants will learn which items are suitable for cultivation, gain practical experience preparing them, and leave with a starter crop and care instructions. Space is limited, and all materials are included with registration.

That BIG Book Sale is a long-standing Charleston tradition, bringing together thousands of book lovers for a four-day event featuring more than 50,000 titles. The annual sale supports local literacy initiatives across Charleston County Library branches while offering a wide selection of books for the community to explore.

If you’re looking for some fun summer entertainment, head over to the Mount Pleasant Pier where you can enjoy an evening of dancing to a variety of music. Each month is a specific theme, ranging from beach tunes to classic 80s hits, so be sure to check out the link and plan to dance the night away! Advance tickets are $10 per person. Day-of tickets are $15 per person if the event hasn’t sold out. On-site tickets, if available, will only be sold via credit card.

Soul Fly CHS is an all-day outdoor festival celebrating fly fishing, local food, immersive art, and community in a relaxed Lowcountry setting. Featuring live music from The Stews, Mountain Grass Unit, Leon Majcen, and Bandito, the event brings together hands-on experiences, great food, and a laid-back atmosphere where everyone is welcome.

The South Carolina Aquarium Gala welcomes world-renowned National Geographic photographer, author, and conservationist Joel Sartore for an elegant evening celebrating care, connection, and conservation. Through powerful imagery and storytelling, the program highlights the dedicated teams who protect and care for marine life, honoring the shared bond between humans and the natural world.

As golden hour settles over the gardens, guests are invited to enjoy an evening of wine, light bites, and live music among peak May blooms. Wander garden paths with a glass in hand as hydrangeas and magnolia blossoms set the scene for a relaxed after-hours experience, ideal for date night, friends, or a quiet escape. Tickets are limited.

The All Types of Media Arts Convention (ATOMACON) is a family-friendly, multi-genre event celebrating its 12th year. This Sci-Fi and Fantasy, Paranormal convention and Film Festival brings together fans to explore and appreciate science fiction, fantasy, and science through various artistic forms.

Author Kevin Hazzard presents his book No One’s Coming, sharing the true story of the individuals and medical aviation team who helped save two American volunteers during a critical Ebola outbreak. Drawing on his background as a journalist and former paramedic, Hazzard offers insight into the high-stakes mission undertaken by Phoenix Air Medical and the specialized emergency transport services it provides worldwide.

As part of its 250th anniversary programming, The Charleston Museum presents a lecture exploring 18th-century fashion and material culture during the Revolutionary era. Led by Curator of Historic Textiles Virginia Theerman, the talk highlights garments featured in Ringleaders of Rebellion alongside pieces from the museum’s collection, examining how changing political ideals influenced textile design and dress in early America.

Circa 1886 is thrilled to host a very special Wine Dinner taking place on Thursday, May 21. The evening will feature special guest David Tate, acclaimed winemaker for Barnett Vineyards and owner and winemaker of Tate Wine. This dinner provides a unique opportunity to explore David’s exclusive, small-production wines while enjoying access to the winemaker himself throughout the evening. Several featured selections are produced in quantities as limited as just 3–5 barrels per vintage, making this a truly rare and memorable tasting experience. Seating is limited. Call 843-853-7828 to book.

This annual 17-day event is a celebration of the arts. Hosting over 150 performances, this popular event showcases opera, dance, theater, classical music, and jazz. With its rich history and commitment to artistic excellence, Spoleto Festival USA continues to captivate audiences and inspire artists, making it a must-see event for arts enthusiasts worldwide.

A miniature world awaits at Fairies & Flowers, an artful trail of more than 20 handcrafted fairy villages nestled into the historic flora. Created by gifted Charleston makers, these tiny architectural wonders encourage a sense of wonder for guests of every age. Access to this seasonal exhibit is included with your garden admission—providing the perfect excuse for a quiet morning of exploration in the shade of the Magnolias.

This all-ages event starts at 11:00 AM and features live country music from headliner Austin Burke, known for his hit “Whole Lot In Love”. A full day of food, music, and fun—don’t miss it!

Niko Moon returns to The Refinery for two nights over Memorial Day weekend, bringing a high-energy lineup of special guests including Uncle Kracker, The Wailers, The 502s, Artikal Sound System, and more. The event kicks off the holiday weekend with live music, community, and a celebratory atmosphere in the heart of Charleston.

Drayton Hall at Night offers members a special after-hours experience with live lawn music, self-guided house tours, and insights from Drayton Hall archaeologists. Guests of all ages can enjoy colonial games, scavenger hunts, and the beautiful landscape. Bring a picnic and chairs; beer and wine will be available for purchase.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum hosts a Memorial Day observance honoring those who lost their lives in service to the United States. The program includes participation in Taps Across America at 3 p.m., inviting guests to join a nationwide moment of silence and remembrance accompanied by the playing of Taps.

This community cleanup initiative highlights the impact of litter on local wildlife, waterways, and public spaces, while encouraging collective action to restore and protect natural beauty. Participants are invited to help improve the environment and take pride in preserving the area’s landscapes for future generations.

Sweat on the Ship offers an all-levels strength and movement class on the USS Yorktown’s flight deck. Combining functional training, breathwork, and mobility, participants enjoy a unique workout with sea breezes, golden skies, and historic surroundings, leaving them strong, centered, and energized.

Join the fun at the Isle of Palms Sand Sculpting Competition at Front Beach. Registration begins at 8:30 am, with sculpting starting at 9 am. Participants of all ages can compete in categories for adults, young adults, families, and children. Judging begins at 10:30 am, with awards presented throughout the day. Whether you’re showcasing your creativity or simply enjoying the incredible sculptures, this annual event promises a day of beachside fun.

Party at the Point returns this April to celebrate 25 years as Charleston’s favorite Friday night beach party! Held at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina from April 18–July 18, this family-friendly concert series features live music, food, drinks, and waterfront views. $15 admission, kids 12 and under free. Tickets: citypapertickets.com Free parking available; rideshare drop-off just steps from the entrance. Weather permitting.

Park & Grove hosts its spring market series every Thursday in May at 730 Rutledge Ave, featuring live music, local vendors, and cocktail specials in an open-air setting. Guests can enjoy an evening of shopping and entertainment under the stars, with performances by a rotating lineup of musicians and an early happy hour from 3–6 PM.

Founded in 1989, the Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square is a beloved community event. You will find a variety of local produce, plants, herbs, and cut flowers as well as breakfast and lunch vendors, live entertainment, and an assortment of juried arts and crafts from local artisans every Saturday at the Market.

Get the family together, head on over to Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, and enjoy Charleston’s very own Minor League Baseball team! From waterfront stadium views to various food and drink vendors, a Charleston RiverDogs game makes for the perfect summer night. Also, check out their promotions page to see what special-themed nights they have going on this month.