Charleston's Signature Events & Festivals

Held Saturdays in Marion Square from spring through fall, the Charleston Farmers’ Market brings together local farmers, artisans, food vendors, and musicians in the heart of downtown. It’s one of our favorite ways to spend a Saturday morning, whether you’re browsing local produce, enjoying breakfast from a food vendor, or discovering handcrafted goods from Charleston makers.

On the first Friday of each month, many of Charleston’s galleries open their doors for a special evening of receptions, exhibitions, and artist meet-and-greets. Strolling through the French Quarter during Artwalk offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Charleston’s thriving arts community while exploring one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods.

One of Charleston’s most popular monthly traditions, Second Sunday transforms a portion of King Street into a pedestrian-only promenade filled with outdoor dining, shopping, street performers, and live entertainment. The event captures the energy and charm that make King Street one of the South’s most beloved shopping districts.

For 20 years, Charleston Wine + Food has united people through the stories, flavors, and creativity that define our city’s culinary spirit — growing from humble roots into a nationally celebrated festival.

Presented by Historic Charleston Foundation, the Charleston Festival offers a rare opportunity to step inside some of Charleston’s most beautiful private homes and gardens. Guided tours, educational programs, and special events provide an intimate look at the architecture, preservation efforts, and history that define the city. For guests who appreciate history, design, and Charleston’s distinctive sense of place, this is one of the year’s most rewarding events.

Hosted by the Garden Club of Charleston, Inc, the tours take place in two different historic districts over the course of two days: South of Broad & Ansonborough. Peek behind the walls of some of the most beautiful gardens in Charleston, and step inside homes to see stunning architectural details, lovely furnishings, and interesting art & antiques. Tours are self-guided with club-member docents sharing knowledge and history at each location.

As North America’s largest women’s-only professional tennis tournament, the Credit One Charleston Open attracts some of the world’s top players each spring. Held on picturesque Daniel Island, the tournament combines world-class competition with Charleston’s signature hospitality.

Produced by Charleston Jazz, this annual festival celebrates jazz through performances, educational programs, and special events held throughout the city. From intimate venues to larger concert spaces, the festival highlights both internationally recognized artists and emerging talent.

Founded in 1977, Spoleto Festival USA is internationally recognized as one of America’s premier performing arts festivals. Each year, artists from around the world gather in Charleston for more than two weeks of opera, theater, dance, music, and visual arts programming. For many travelers, Spoleto alone is reason enough to visit Charleston.

Charleston’s waterfront provides a memorable setting for Fourth of July celebrations. Fireworks displays, harbor festivities, and special events throughout the city make Independence Day a favorite time to visit.

For more than four decades, the MOJA Arts Festival has celebrated African-American and Caribbean arts and culture through music, dance, visual arts, theater, and educational programming. The festival honors the diverse influences that continue to shape Charleston’s cultural identity.

The Charleston Literary Festival brings together acclaimed authors, historians, journalists, and thought leaders for intimate conversations and presentations held in some of the city’s most beautiful historic venues. The festival has become a favorite among intellectually curious travelers seeking meaningful cultural experiences.

Hosted by preservation organizations throughout the city, fall home and architecture tours provide another opportunity to explore Charleston’s private residences, historic landmarks, and remarkable architectural heritage.

Enjoy 50+ celebrity chef demos and beverage seminars, 4 grand tastings with 100+ brands and restaurants, and access to exclusive events!

Throughout the holiday season, Charleston hosts concerts, theatrical productions, choral performances, and special events that capture the spirit of the season. From festive concerts at Charleston Music Hall to beloved holiday productions at Dock Street Theatre and performances at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center, the city offers countless opportunities to celebrate the season through music, theater, and tradition.

The Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park remains one of Charleston’s most beloved seasonal traditions. Millions of sparkling lights, festive displays, and family-friendly attractions create a memorable conclusion to the holiday season.

Take a guided holiday stroll with Bulldog Tours or Lowcountry History Strolls through Charleston’s historic neighborhoods, where stories of holidays past come to life amid twinkling lights, seasonal greenery, and the beautifully decorated homes that make the Historic District especially magical during the holiday season.

Each winter, thousands of camellia blossoms transform America’s Oldest Landscaped Gardens into a breathtaking display of color, beauty, and living history. Camellia Walks are led by expert guides who bring to life the stories behind Middleton Place’s extraordinary camellia collection.

Each February, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition transforms Charleston into a celebration of wildlife art, conservation, and sporting traditions. Widely regarded as one of the nation’s premier wildlife events, SEWE attracts acclaimed artists, conservationists, exhibitors, and visitors from around the world.