Things to Do This Weekend in Charleston

Enjoy a relaxed evening on the water aboard the Charleston Princess, featuring live music, sweeping views of the Holy City, and a casual BBQ buffet. This fun, social cruise offers a laid-back alternative to a traditional dinner, complete with pulled pork, herb-marinated chicken, classic sides, and banana pudding, plus a full bar with beer, wine, and cocktails available for purchase.

Artist Joshua Parks joins scholar Mary Trent for a conversation exploring the research and relationships behind his solo exhibition, Reflections. The program will examine familial histories, archival practices, and the evolving visual culture of the Lowcountry, presented in collaboration with the Carolina Lowcountry and Atlantic World Program at the College of Charleston.

Movie Night in the Park brings free outdoor cinema to American Gardens every Thursday from September 3 through October 29. Guests can arrive early for local snacks, drinks, and kid-friendly activities before settling in for a 6 p.m. screening under the stars.

Bring your furry friends for an evening of live music, cold drinks, and fun. Admission is just $2 per person, free for Gold Pass members. Enjoy beer, wine, and soft drinks while mingling with other dog lovers!

Participants will explore the traditional Turkish art of paper marbling in this hands-on workshop. Learn to float and manipulate pigments on water to create colorful designs and imaginative motifs, with no prior experience required. Each guest will create one-of-a-kind artworks to take home.

Coffee lovers are invited to a complimentary tasting each Friday at 10 a.m. at Counter Culture Coffee Training Centers. This longstanding weekly tradition offers guests the chance to sample beautifully brewed coffees while learning about the company’s high-quality, sustainably sourced selections—from classic blends to the latest micro-lots—and the journey each coffee takes from seed to cup.

Catch live music with your toes in the sand at The Windjammer! With a rotating lineup of artists every weekend, it’s the ultimate beachside escape for music lovers and weekend adventurers alike.

Guests can enjoy an up-close look at the draft horses of Middleton Place during this interactive demonstration. Learn about their daily grooming routines, care, and well-being while meeting the horses and gaining a deeper appreciation for these gentle giants.

Guests can expect a fast-paced mix of short- and long-form improvisation, all fueled by audience suggestions and delivered by Theatre 99’s quick-witted ensemble. A beloved Charleston tradition, these high-energy performances promise plenty of laughter and unforgettable unscripted moments.

Guests are invited to explore the Gibbes Museum’s collection and current exhibitions during a weekly public tour from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Led by knowledgeable Museum Interpreters, the tour offers engaging insight and opportunities for questions. The tour is free for Members and included with Museum admission for non-Members.

Join Charleston Candle Co. for a hands-on experience where you’ll learn to mix and create your own custom fragrance, and pour your own soy wax candles! Each ticket includes two 8 oz. candles per person. Perfect for crafting a personalized gift or treating yourself.

Guests can enjoy an evening of painting and refreshments at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, led by local artist Kristen Cauble-Morse. Participants will paint their own set of poppy-inspired stemless wine glasses while enjoying complimentary garden admission with their ticket. Space is limited to 30 guests.

Join Deep Water Vineyard for their Weekend Wine-Downs every Saturday, rain or shine! Enjoy $15 wine tastings (hourly, includes a souvenir glass), sip fun drinks from thier patio bar, and relax with live music and rotating food trucks. Bring the whole crew: kids are welcome, and well-behaved, leashed dogs can roam the grounds with you.

The 2nd Annual Taco & Margarita Festival returns to Riverfront Park on Saturday, September 5, for a lively day of tacos, margaritas, and Charleston-inspired fun. Guests can enjoy a 21+ margarita garden, live DJs, competitions, and exclusive menus from local and regional culinary talent.

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.

The Refinery Charleston hosts a dynamic lineup of live concerts and special events throughout the year, welcoming national, regional, and local performing artists to its vibrant mixed-use campus. With multiple event spaces and a schedule that’s continually evolving, guests can enjoy an ever-changing calendar of music, performances, and community gatherings in the heart of Charleston.

Saturdays at the Distillery invites guests to unwind at Firefly with live local music, delicious food from an on-site food truck, and refreshing cocktails in a relaxed open-air setting. The laid-back afternoon experience is the perfect way to kick off the weekend and enjoy the distillery before the evening begins.

Sunday Market at American Gardens invites guests to spend a leisurely Sunday exploring a curated selection of local farms, specialty food vendors, fresh florals, and live music. Taking place every Sunday from September 13 through November 8, the market offers a relaxed way to experience Charleston’s seasonal flavors and blooms.

Hayley Williams brings The Hayley Williams Show to Charleston on Sunday, September 6, 2026, with special guests Magdalena Bay and Rico Nasty. Fans can expect an exciting night of live music featuring the Paramore frontwoman and her special guests.

The Sunday Brunch Farmers Market takes place year-round behind The Charleston Pour House, featuring 40+ local vendors, live music, delicious food, and a full bar. Open Sundays from 11am–3pm, with free live music on the deck stage until 9.