May Events in Charleston
Looking for May events in Charleston? If so, you are in the right place! Spring and event season are in full swing, and we want to help you plan your itinerary by putting together a few of our favorite events in May!
First Friday Artwalk
When: Friday, May 1, 2026 | 5:00-8:00 pm
Where: Downtown 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.
Charleston Air Show
When: May 2-3, 2026 | 12:00-4:00 pm
Where: Joint Base Charleston | 102 E. Hill Blvd., Charleston
The Charleston Airshow brings an action-packed day of aerial excitement to Joint Base Charleston, 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. Gates open at 9 am.
Party at the Point
When: 2026 Dates Coming Soon!
Where: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina 20 | Patriots Point Rd. Mt. Pleasant
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.
Weekend Wine Down
When: Saturday, May 2, 9, 26, 23, 30, 2026 | 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Where: Deep Water Vineyard | 6775 Bears Bluff Rd., Wadmalaw Island
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 their patio bar—like wine slushies, mead, and mimosas—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. Lawn games, friendly animals, and good vibes await!
2nd Sunday on King Street
When: Sunday, May 10, 2026 | 12:00-5:00 PM
Where: KING STREET FROM QUEEN TO CALHOUN STREET
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!
AtomaCon Film Festival
When: May 16-17, 2026
Where: Trident Technical College Conference Center | 7000 Rivers Ave., North Charleston
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.
Charleston Greek Festival
When: 2026 Date Coming Soon!
Where: Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity | 30 Race Street, Charleston
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.
Dancing on the Cooper
When: 2026 Dates Coming Soon!
Where: Mount Pleasant Pier
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.
Spoleto Festival USA
When: Friday, May 22-Sunday, June 7, 2026
Where: Various Locations
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.
BBQ & Boots Fest
When: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Where: Charleston RiverDogs | Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, Charleston
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!
Piccolo Spoleto Sand Sculpting Competition
When: Saturday, May 30, 2026 | 9:00 am
Where: Front Beach, Isle of Palms
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.
Charleston Farmers’ Market
When: Every Saturday | 8 am-2 pm
Where: Marion Square | 329 Meeting Street
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.
RiverDogs Minor League Baseball
When: Home Games throughout May
Where: Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park | 360 Fishburne Street
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.
We hope this list of May events in Charleston will help you add some events to your calendar!

