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.

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.

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!

That BIG Book Sale is a long-standing Charleston tradition, bringing together thousands of book lovers for a four-day event featuring more than 50,000 titles. The annual sale supports local literacy initiatives across Charleston County Library branches while offering a wide selection of books for the community to explore.

Soul Fly CHS is an all-day outdoor festival celebrating fly fishing, local food, immersive art, and community in a relaxed Lowcountry setting. Featuring live music from The Stews, Mountain Grass Unit, Leon Majcen, and Bandito, the event brings together hands-on experiences, great food, and a laid-back atmosphere where everyone is welcome.

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.

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.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum hosts a Memorial Day observance honoring those who lost their lives in service to the United States. The program includes participation in Taps Across America at 3 p.m., inviting guests to join a nationwide moment of silence and remembrance accompanied by the playing of Taps.

Party at the Point returns  as Charleston’s favorite Friday night beach party! Held at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 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.