Spring Festival Fun in Charleston
People may croon about “Springtime in New York,” but those living in Charleston, SC, know there is a lot to sing about in the Holy City as well. This article’s host of Spring festivals is just one of the reasons to feel so upbeat.
The season starts with the annual Spring Festival of Houses and Gardens. This multi-week event enjoyed its 75th year in 2022. Hosted by the Historic Charleston Foundation, the festival gives visitors to the city as well as those living in Charleston, SC, a rare opportunity to go inside some of the more historic, private homes and gardens. The foundation also holds two-hour Morning History Walks and “Live Like a Local” events during the festival.
The Flowertown Festival is another way to enjoy the beauty and hospitality of Charleston. This April arts and crafts festival is a fundraiser for the local Summerville YMCA. Jury-selected artists from throughout the country display their work for sale and there are fun activities and rides for kids. The Taste features fare from Charleston restaurants. Plus, there’s a Farmer’s Market to enjoy too.
See top tips to Make your Charleston Home your Canvas.
Another big draw for those living in Charleston and the many tourists that come to this culturally rich city? The annual Spoleto Festival USA. Billed as “America’s premier international performing arts festival,” Spoleto takes place from May 27-June 12 this year. In 2023, it’s scheduled for May 26-June 11. Over its 17 days and nights each spring, Spoleto fills Charleston, South Carolina’s historic theaters, churches, and outdoor spaces with opera, theater, dance, and chamber, symphonic, choral, and jazz music performed by artists from around the world.
If a focus on music is your jam, you’ll want to check out the city’s Colour of Music Festival in May. Since 2013, this festival has highlighted “the impact and historical significance of black classical composers and performers on American and world culture.” The performances are held in various city venues, and the festival has even expanded to play in other cities too. In 2022, the Charleston performances are May 19 and 21.
The North Charleston Arts Fest is a sampler of regional and local dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and literature. Started in 1982 as a one-day event, the festival has grown to a four-day event with free events and modestly priced performances throughout various venues. This year’s Arts Fest is May 4-8.
For a focus on visual arts, take in the Charleston Gallery Association’s May 3, 2022 art walk. Over 40 galleries participate in this free evening event that happens every first Friday of the month.
Another reason to enjoy Charleston? The food of course. The annual Lowcountry Cajun Festival has already been held this year, but keep it in mind for 2023. This annual festival brings Louisiana to the Lowcountry. Enjoy Zydeco music, Cajun and Creole foods, children’s activities, and even a Rajun’ Cajun crawfish eating contest. The festival fun is all at James Island County Park.
The Annual Blessing of the Fleet and Seafood Festival in Mount Pleasant is another way to sample seafood. There’s also a boat parade along with the ceremonial blessing of the shrimp/fishing fleet in Charleston Harbor. While not savoring the tastes of fresh fare offered for sale by local restaurants, you can enjoy live music, a craft show and art exhibition, Shag, and shrimp-eating contests, and family-friendly activities. The 34th annual blessing is from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 28, 2022.
The Cooper River Bridge Run is a big draw for those who want to run up (and much happier, down) The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge over the Cooper River. With a main span of 1,546 feet, this is the third longest among cable-stayed bridges in the Western Hemisphere. The 10K takes runners from the Mount Pleasant starting line to a finish festival with food and music in downtown Charleston. Race day is April 1, 2023 (no fooling).
In Charlotte and want to prep for the next Bridge Run? Check out these best running trails.
If tennis is more your game, you’ll (ahem) love the Open. In 2022 it was known as the Credit One Charleston Open, but it’s been the Volvo Car Open and the Family Circle Cup. This April event is a WTA Tour-affiliated professional tennis tournament for women. Held every year since 1973, the city’s Open is the oldest professional all-women’s tournament in America.
Of course, living in Charleston, SC doesn’t just have this kind of perks in the Spring. There’s always something to see or do in this beloved Southern city. That’s why Saussy Burbank takes such pride in building its high-quality homes in and around Charleston. Find out what’s available today.
