May Events in Charleston

From downtown Charleston’s iconic Spoleto Festival to beachfront music strolls and oyster roasts, the Lowcountry is blooming with springtime fun. Whether you’re chasing live music, coastal flavors, or cultural flair, this season brings something worth marking on every calendar.

DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON

Charleston RiverDogs Baseball | Home Games Throughout May 2025

Catch a Charleston favorite all month long at “The Joe” as the RiverDogs hit the field for their 2025 season. With waterfront views, great eats, and fun promos like fireworks nights and theme games, it’s the perfect way to spend a spring evening in the Holy City. Check their schedule for themed nights and grab your tickets early! View Schedule

 

South Carolina Aquarium 25th Anniversary Block Party | May 18, 2025

Celebrate 25 years of marine magic at the South Carolina Aquarium’s anniversary block party in Downtown Charleston. Enjoy live music, food trucks, educational activities, and special aquarium experiences along the Charleston waterfront. It’s a family-friendly celebration of conservation, community, and ocean wonder. The fun doesn’t stop outside. General admission is just $25 on Sunday, May 18 and Monday, May 19, making it the perfect time to explore everything the aquarium has to offer.

Spoleto Festival USA | May 23–June 8, 2025

Spanning 17 days and 150+ performances, Spoleto Festival USA transforms Charleston into a global stage for opera, dance, theater, classical music, and jazz. With events hosted in iconic venues throughout the city, this world-renowned celebration of the arts promises something unforgettable for every kind of arts lover. Tickets vary by performance and tend to sell fast—plan early!

Piccolo Spoleto Festival | May 23-June 8

A companion festival to Spoleto, showcasing local and regional artists through visual arts, music, and theater performances. Browse their festival events by category. 

The Prince Experience | May 30, 2025

Get ready to party like it’s 1999 at The Prince Experience, a high-energy tribute concert coming to the Charleston Music Hall. From iconic hits like “Purple Rain” to unforgettable stage presence, this show captures the essence of the legendary artist. Tickets start at $36.40. Grab yours here.

Karma: The Chappell Roan Tribute Band | May 30, 2025

Experience the glam, energy, and pop magic of Chappell Roan as Karma brings her music to life at Music Farm in downtown Charleston. Expect glitter, big vocals, and a night of bold, theatrical fun. Tickets start at $21.80. Get tickets here.

Charleston First Friday Art Walks | June 6, 2025

Stroll through downtown Charleston’s historic streets and explore the city’s vibrant art scene during the Charleston Gallery Association’s Art Walk. From 5–8 PM, galleries open their doors for an evening of art, wine, and conversation—perfect for a creative night out.

 

 

MOUNT PLEASANT

Cast Off Fishing Tournament | May 10, 2025

Cast your line at the Mount Pleasant Pier for a relaxing day of fishing with friends and family. This family-friendly tournament is open to all ages, with prizes awarded in various categories. Registration is available on-site the morning of the event. Learn more.

 

Party at the Point Concert Series | Fridays, May 16 – June 7, 2025

Kick off your weekends with live music, waterfront views, and coastal vibes at the Party at the Point concert series at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina in Mount Pleasant. This family-friendly event features popular bands, food trucks, drinks, and sunset views over Charleston Harbor. Bring your blankets or beach chairs and settle in for a laid-back Lowcountry evening. Tickets start at $15. 

Dancing on the Cooper | May 16 & June 13, 2025

Spend your Friday night dancing under the stars on the Mount Pleasant Pier with stunning waterfront views and live themed music—from beachy Carolina classics to throwback hits. This crowd-favorite series offers two chances to catch the fun this season: May 16 and June 13. Advance tickets are $10 per person or $15 day-of if available (credit card only at the gate).

DANIEL ISLAND

Keith Urban at Credit One Stadium | May 24, 2025

Country music superstar Keith Urban brings his World Tour to Charleston’s Credit One Stadium for an unforgettable night under the lights. Joined by special guests Chase Matthew, Alana Springsteen, and Karley Scott Collins, this high-energy show is sure to be a spring highlight. Tickets start at $45.95 and are available now through Ticketmaster.

Other Credit One Concerts in May:

Hank Williams Jr. with Joe Nichols | May 9, 2025

Country icon Hank Williams Jr. is bringing his legendary voice to Credit One Stadium, joined by country favorite Joe Nichols. Expect a night of chart-topping hits, Southern rock energy, and singalongs under the Charleston sky. Tickets available via Live Nation.

Widespread Panic | May 16–17, 2025

Back for two epic nights, jam band Widespread Panic takes over Credit One Stadium with their signature blend of rock, funk, and improv magic. Longtime fans and first-timers alike won’t want to miss this high-energy weekend.

Sturgill Simpson: Who the Fk Is Johnny Blue Skies? Tour | May 23, 2025

Sturgill Simpson returns to Charleston with a brand-new tour, fresh music, and his genre-blurring sound. This one-night show at Credit One Stadium promises unforgettable live performance energy and a new musical chapter.

Keith Urban: High and Alive Tour | May 24, 2025

Country superstar Keith Urban lights up Credit One Stadium with special guests Chase Matthew, Alana Springsteen, and Karley Scott Collins. Expect powerhouse vocals, guitar solos, and a crowd that won’t stop dancing.

ISLE OF PALMS

Isle of Paws Music Fest | May 15, 2025

Bring your pup and join the fun at the annual Isle of Paws Music Fest at the Isle of Palms Recreation Department. Enjoy live music, a dog show, pet adoptions, food trucks, and pet-friendly vendors—all in one tail-wagging celebration. Free and open to the public! Event Details

Windjammer Concerts on the Beach Stage in May

Brent Cobb | May 8th 

Leftover Salmon & Keller Williams | May 10th 

Vincent Mason x Hell Is A Dance Floor Tour with Carson Wallace | May 15th 

Corey Smith | May 16th & 17th 

GoldFord | May 18th 

Umphrey’s McGee | May 22nd & 23rd

Futurebirds | May 24th & 25th 

Sam Barber | May 29th 

Stop Light Observations | May 30th & 31st 

IOP Piccolo Spoleto Sand Sculpting Contest | June 7, 2025

Celebrate creativity at the beach with the 36th annual Piccolo Spoleto Sand Sculpting Contest on Front Beach, Isle of Palms. Whether you’re a solo sculptor or part of a team, this free event is open to all ages and skill levels. Registration opens at 8:30 AM with judging at 11 AM, and the first 200 participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt. Learn more here.

 WEST ASHLEY 

Great Guns on the Ashley at Charles Towne Landing | June 14, 2025

Step back in time and experience the thunder of 17th-century cannons during this live artillery demonstration at Charles Towne Landing. Presented by the Charles Towne Militia, the program explores the early colony’s fortifications and defense against Spanish threats. Demonstrations take place at 1 PM, 2 PM, and 3 PM, and are free with park admission.

Wine on the Piazza at the Edmondston-Alston House | May 15, 2025

Sip, stroll, and soak in the harbor views from one of Charleston’s most iconic piazzas. Enjoy a glass of wine and a self-guided tour of the historic Edmondston-Alston House on the Battery. Tickets start at $30 for this relaxed and scenic evening in the Holy City.

A Cup of History at Drayton Hall: The Way of Tea | May 17, 2025

Step back into the 18th century with a refined afternoon at Drayton Hall, where tea takes center stage. This immersive experience includes a guided tour of the historic estate and a tea tasting led by Charleston tea expert Richard Kligler, showcasing rare Chinese teas and the ancient ritual of Cha Dao. Tickets are $110 and space is limited, so reserve early for this elegant cultural journey.

JAMES ISLAND

Reggae Nights Summer Concert | May 30, 2025

Celebrate the start of summer with live reggae under the stars at James Island County Park. Mystic Vibrations takes the stage for the first Reggae Nights Summer Concert of the season—bring your chairs, blankets, and coolers for a relaxed evening of music and dancing. Gates open at 7:30 PM, and the show starts at 8 PM. Tickets are $20 per car and free for gold pass holders.

KIAWAH ISLAND & FOLLY BEACH

Cast Off Fishing Tournament at Folly Pier  | May 24, 2025

Join fellow anglers at the Folly Beach Pier for the Cast Off Fishing Tournament, where fun, fishing, and ocean views collide. Prizes will be awarded, and all ages are welcome to participate. Arrive early to register on-site and enjoy a day by the sea. More details here.

Kiawah Island Summer Food Truck Festival Series | Begins May 30, 2025

Kicking off on May 30 and running through the summer, Kiawah Island’s Food Truck Festival Series is a must for local flavor and Lowcountry vibes. Held at Night Heron Park, each festival features a rotating lineup of food trucks, live music, and family-friendly fun under the oaks. Entry is free, and food and beverages will be available for purchase—bring a blanket and stay a while!

Memorial Weekend on Kiawah Island | May 24–27, 2025

Celebrate the unofficial start of summer with a full weekend of family fun on Kiawah Island. From live music and poolside games at Night Heron Park to bike rentals, beach days, and a festive Sunday night fireworks show, there’s something for everyone. Guests and residents alike can enjoy special holiday programming all weekend long.

NORTH CHARLESTON

Les Misérables at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center | May 13–18, 2025

Experience the sweeping story of love, redemption, and revolution as Les Misérables takes the stage in North Charleston. This Tony Award-winning production features iconic songs like I Dreamed a Dream and One Day More, brought to life with stunning visuals and powerful performances. Tickets start at $42, and parking is available for $10.

High Tide Music Festival | June 6–7, 2025

Get ready to dance the weekend away at Riverfront Park in North Charleston during the annual High Tide Music Festival. This immersive experience blends top-tier electronic and dance music with art installations, VIP lounges, and waterfront vibes. Passes start at $109 and are on sale now.

Charleston Carifest | June 13-14 

Celebrate Caribbean American Heritage Month with a vibrant parade, music, food, and cultural events at the Jenkins Orphanage on 3923 Azaelea Drive in North Charleston. Tickets are $17.85 

Summer Served Chilled: Porch Punch in the South

Back in the day locals found other ways to beat the heat, and more than a few involved cocktails. One timeless favorite is Planter’s Punch: a refreshing blend of dark rum, citrus and pineapple juices, and just a hint of grenadine. Though often linked to Charleston’s historic Planter’s Hotel, most cocktail historians trace its roots to the British West Indies, where rum and tropical fruits were in abundance. Whether served in a glass or a bowl, this sweet-and-strong classic is still one of the South’s most beloved ways to cool down on a hot day.

Peninsula Grill's Planter's Punch

Single Cocktail

What’s Charleston Weather Like in May?

May is Charleston at its sweetest—warm days, light breezes, and gardens in full bloom. With highs in the upper 70s to mid-80s and cooler evenings dipping into the 60s, it’s ideal for patio cocktails, waterfront walks, and every festival the city throws our way. It’s the calm before the summer sizzle, and locals know it’s one of the best months to soak in the Lowcountry.

Local Tip: Sunset picnics at Waterfront Park or a breezy dinner on Shem Creek are hard to beat this time of year.