April Events in Charleston

Since its inception in 1947, the Historic Charleston Foundation has honored the city’s houses, history, and culture through its annual spring festival. Over the past 78 years, this flagship fundraising and educational event has grown into a comprehensive celebration of Charleston’s rich heritage, architecture, culture, and community. Now known as The Charleston Festival, this month-long event will return in 2026 with its beloved House & Garden Tours and captivating lectures, alongside an exciting lineup of new programs and venues to discover.

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 Cooper River Bridge Run is a premier 10K race known for its outstanding organization, world-class competition, and incredible participant experience. It fosters community engagement and encourages healthy living year-round, serving as an inspiration for other communities to promote fitness and wellness.

Every second Sunday of the month from noon until 5 pm, the City of Charleston shuts down King Street from Queen to Calhoun to through traffic. In addition, no cars are allowed to park, giving pedestrians the ability to stroll through the street and visit businesses they might not have known about. There are also artists displaying their work on the street and unique food vendors tempting guests with their fare.

The 2026 Charleston Jazz Festival has been expanded to an impressive 9-day lineup of jazz events beginning April 21st! This year’s festival is made possible through exciting collaborations with Spoleto Festival USA, the Charleston Gaillard Center, the College of Charleston, The Establishment, and Charleston Music Hall. Celebrate the magic of jazz with world-class performances and inspiring educational programs. Immerse yourself in the joy and connection that jazz brings to Charleston’s dynamic arts scene!

Charleston Race Week, founded in 1996 by the Charleston Ocean Racing Association, has grown from a local event into the largest keelboat regatta in the Western Hemisphere. A strategic shift to spring racing and a focus on accessibility helped attract international competitors, solidifying its status as a premier East Coast regatta.

Held at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, this family-friendly concert series features live music, food, drinks, and waterfront views.

High Water transforms North Charleston’s Riverfront Park into a musical oasis, featuring artists from around the world on two alternating stages. Enjoy your favorite bands, discover new ones, and soak in the stunning views of the Cooper River. Relax under century-old trees at The Refuge, where you can sample local food, brews, and refreshments while embracing the perfect mix of excitement and laid-back Lowcountry vibes.

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 ready for the Lowcountry Cajun Festival on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 12-6 p.m. at James Island County Park! Enjoy a day of Zydeco music, authentic Cajun and Creole dishes like jambalaya and crawfish, and Southern BBQ. Kids can join in fun activities, including a reptile program and eating contest. It’s a full day of food, music, and ragin’ Cajun fun!

This year, the Lowcountry’s top homebrewers will showcase their finest creations for a chance to have their beer featured on tap at our brewery, all while raising funds for their favorite local charities. Guests can also enjoy sampling a diverse selection of the brewers’ favorite beers throughout the event.

Experience handcrafted signature cocktails at a discounted price during Charleston Cocktail Week! During this 7-day event, participants have the opportunity to try cocktails from over 30+ participating venues throughout Charleston.

Art Charleston, created to inspire and celebrate Charleston’s vibrant arts community, is the city’s premier visual arts event. Over five days, enjoy artist lectures, panel discussions, gallery walks, workshops, and guided tours. The installation pairs fine art from the Gibbes collection with fashion designs by icons like Alexander McQueen and Gucci. Don’t miss the exciting programs exploring art and fashion!

The 2026 Black Food Truck Festival returns to Charleston for its 5-year anniversary, celebrating Black American food, music, and culture. Taking place April 24–26 at Exchange Park, the weekend features Black-owned food trucks, live entertainment, and community-focused events designed to highlight and support local businesses.

Guests are invited to attend Picnic for the Parks, presented by Biom, a spring fundraiser hosted by the Charleston Parks Conservancy in Hampton Park. This family-friendly event features live music, local food, lawn games, and activities for children, all set beneath the oaks in support of Charleston’s public parks.

Guests can enjoy a lively boat parade and the traditional blessing of the shrimp and fishing fleet, along with delicious seafood dishes prepared by top Mount Pleasant chefs. The event also features live music, a craft market, a juried art exhibit by the Mount Pleasant Artists Guild, Shag dancing, shrimp-eating competitions, and plenty of family-friendly fun. With free admission and activities, it’s a perfect way to celebrate the community in one of the Lowcountry’s most scenic waterfront locations.

The North Charleston Arts Fest explodes with five days of free festivities. Immerse yourself in a diverse array of performances, exhibitions, and activities. Sway to live music, be captivated by theatrical productions, or marvel at stunning visual arts. The festival brings art to life in a variety of spaces, from libraries and businesses to community centers and parks.  With children’s programs, demonstrations, and more, there’s truly something for everyone to experience the joy of creativity. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate art in all its forms!