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 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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.