Things to Do This Weekend in Charleston

The North Charleston Arts Fest is a multi-venue, multi-disciplinary celebration of the arts featuring five days of programming across dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and literature. Residents and visitors are invited to experience a wide range of free performances, exhibitions, and family-friendly activities held throughout the city in parks, libraries, businesses, and community spaces.

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.

Author and historian John Beakes presents a talk exploring the life and legacy of Johann de Kalb, a key yet often overlooked figure of the American Revolution. Through his role as a French-American liaison and military leader, de Kalb’s influence on the fight for independence—and his connection to figures like the Marquis de Lafayette—is brought into focus, in partnership with the N.C. Zeitgeist Foundation.

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.

The Charleston Museum presents Ringleaders of Rebellion, a special exhibition commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Featured in the Historic Textiles Gallery is a rare 14-foot silk sash associated with Miss Harriott Pinckney and President George Washington’s 1791 southern tour. On May 1st, visitors are invited to observe museum staff as they carefully unroll and reposition the delicate textile, offering a closer look at this remarkable piece of early American history.

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.

Held at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, this family-friendly concert series features live music, food, drinks, and waterfront views.

The Gibbes Museum presents a President-led tour of Rodin: All the Truth of Nature, led by President and CEO Dr. Alex Rich. Guests will explore the life and legacy of Auguste Rodin while gaining insight into the significant long-term loans that comprise the exhibition.

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.

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.

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 are invited to a multi-day spring festival featuring classic farm fun, live entertainment, and family-friendly attractions. The event includes petting zoo encounters, rides, games, food vendors, contests, and seasonal activities such as strawberry picking, along with daily programming and performances. Festival admission provides access to the grounds and entertainment, with additional options for rides and select attractions available on site.

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.

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.

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 Wando Mount Pleasant Library hosts Puppy Yoga, a lighthearted program that blends gentle yoga with playful puppies for a fun and relaxing experience. Participants can enjoy mindful stretching while interacting with adoptable dogs and learning more about local rescue and fostering opportunities.

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.

LiveWildFest returns to Firefly Distillery, bringing together a full day of movement, mindfulness, music, and community along the banks of Noisette Creek. Guests can explore an expansive lineup of fitness classes, wellness workshops, and recovery activations, along with meditation sessions, local speakers, and live music across the festival’s five-acre grounds. Designed for all levels, the event invites participants to discover new practices and connect through a shared celebration of well-being.

The Summerville Artist Guild hosts a hands-on printmaking workshop led by printmaker and educator Marian Papon, inviting participants to explore nature through art. Guests will create textured prints using leaves, flowers, and natural materials on paper, card stock, and fabric, resulting in a collection of original works and a hand-printed canvas tote to take home. All supplies are provided, and participants are encouraged to bring their own pressed botanicals for an inspired, creative experience.

As part of the Conversations of Freedom Speaker Series, historian Christina Butler presents research on the British Occupation of Charleston (1780–1782), supported by the SC250 Commission. Drawing from extensive archival study, the talk examines how the occupation impacted enslaved people, women, and Native Americans, offering a deeper understanding beyond traditional military history.

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.