Events JULY-AUGUST 2026

July & August

Fireworks Spectacular at Patriots Point  July 4

Enjoy an unforgettable evening aboard the historic aircraft carrier USS Yorktown with live music, local food and beverage vendors, family-friendly activities, and panoramic views of a stunning 20+ minute fireworks show over Charleston Harbor. Takes place from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Fireworks & Freedom Festival July 4

Celebrate your independence at Summerville’s annual Fireworks & Freedom festival at Gahagan Park with food trucks, vendors, music, and fun activities, all followed by a spectacular fireworks show. 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m

Fireworks on Folly July 4

Celebrate Independence Day with a fun and festive fireworks show that will start at dusk (around 9 p.m.) and will shoot from the West side of the island, a few blocks from the pier. Viewing is available from all along the beach and even throughout Center Street. Please remember to celebrate responsibly and respect the beach and the wildlife by removing trash and anything else you bring.

Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series July 12, 26, and August 9

The four-race (three left!) Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series at James Island County Park features a 600-yard freshwater swim, 12-mile bike ride, and 5K flat run. Over 30,000 people have raced the series over the years, and the series has been honored as one of the Top Ten Charleston Signature Sport Events by the Charleston Metro Sports Council. Register at: ccprc.com for all races or individual dates.

The French Quarter Gallery Walk: Art and Artisans of Charleston July 17

Join Walk and Talk Charleston for an exploration of the thriving arts scene in the beautiful French Quarter. Meet at the Hat Man mural to visit a series of Charleston’s fine art galleries and favorite shops to pique your creative passions. Learn about the architectural and social history of the district and listen to stories of the buildings inhabited by studios, galleries, and shops. walkandtalkchs.as.me

Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series July 17, August 7

The Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series at James Island County Park features traditional old-school roots reggae with a new-school attitude in a beautiful outdoor setting. Bring your chairs or blanket. It’s Irie! Advance tickets are $20 per car! ccprc.com

Dierks Bentley: Off the Map Tour July 18

American country music singer and songwriter Dierks Bentley is headed to Credit One to perform with special guests Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder and Cole Goodwin. Bentley has released 10 studio albums and garnered 20 number-one country singles, to date, ensuring a really fun show! 7 p.m. start.

Dancing on the Cooper July 24

Come dance the evening away on the scenic Mount Pleasant Pier at Memorial Waterfront Park to the sounds of Tommy & the Chucktown Players. It’s one of the most unique things to do in the Charleston area during the summer. 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. 843.856.4700 Marketing@FrankeAtSeaside.org

IOP Beach Run July 25

Get your steps in with this fun morning run on the beach during low tide! 5k Run/ Walk and 10K Run, along with Youth Fun Runs. Starts at 8 a.m. Register online at raceroster.com or at the IOP Recreation Center.

Sweetgrass Festival July 25

There’s only one place in the country where you can experience this tradition like this: Mount Pleasant, South Carolina! The Sweetgrass Festival is a vibrant, family-friendly celebration that honors the rich heritage of the Gullah Geechee people and the centuries-old art of sweetgrass basket weaving, an art form born in Mount Pleasant and still seen today. From 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Memorial Waterfront Park. Photo courtesy of Town of Mount Pleasant.

The Black Keys: Peaches ‘N Kream World Tour ‘26 July 30

The Black Keys are headed to Firefly Distillery with special guest Eddie 9V. They hand-picked the venues on this tour for optimal dancing and grooving. This is a can’t-miss show featuring one of the most influential rock bands of the last two decades, live under the summer sky at Firefly. Starts at 7 p.m.

Moonlight Mixer July 31, August 21

Dance the night away under the stars at the iconic Folly Beach Pier! Moonlight Mixers return this summer, bringing music, ocean breezes, and classic Folly fun to the end of the pier. The event is from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Movies in the Park: One Last Splash July 31

Head to Doty Park in Summerville for a day of fun in the sun before school starts back up. A movie night event with backto- school games and vendors for the whole family to enjoy. 6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

ArtWalk August 7

Discover the art scene of Charleston during First Friday ArtWalks! Take a stroll downtown through some of the liveliest neighborhoods and enjoy this vibrant community event as you explore galleriesand discover inspiring artwork. map at: charlestongalleryassociation.com/map

The Wizard of Oz August 26 – September 27

Follow the yellow brick road to a world of magic and wonder in The Wizard of Oz! Filled with memorable songs like “Over the Rainbow,” iconic characters, and timeless themes of friendship and bravery, this beloved musical is a heartwarming adventure for audiences of all ages. At the Historic Dock Street Theatre. charlestonstage.com

Goo Goo Dolls Summer 2026 Tour August 29

Formed 40 years ago, the Goo Goo Dolls, with special guests Neon Trees, are headed to Charleston this summer to perform at the Credit One Stadium. The band has had seven top 40 singles and sold over 15 million records worldwide. Show starts at 7:30 p.m.