Don’t blink because summer is flying by! It’s time for back-to-school shopping, and fall fun is just around the corner. You can beat the heat this August by enjoying some indoor activities or cooling off at one of Charleston’s many beautiful beaches. Or grab a cold one at one of this month’s beer-themed events. No matter how you spend your summer months, Charleston welcomes you with open arms. Happy August, Charleston Travelers!
Summer Fun in Charleston
Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series: Aug. 2
The Gullah/Geechee Nation International Music & Movement Festival is the official celebration of the Gullah/Geechee nation. This three-day celebration highlights the connection from the Sea Islands to Barbados through music, dance, drama, film, books and crafts.
Beer From Here at the SC Aquarium: Aug. 16
Hops and habitats are part of this Carolina-led craft beer experience. Enjoy local brews and local wildlife in one setting. Sip on select beers and enjoy bar refreshments – all part of the all-inclusive ticket purchase.
Moonlight Mixer: Aug. 16
Nothing says summer like listening to live music and dancing the night away at the Folly Beach Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier, where DJ Jim Bowers will be spinning the hottest oldies and beach music all night long.
Second Sunday on King Street: Aug. 11
Enjoy your Sunday afternoon shopping and socializing on King Street. This monthly event features new product launches, sales, great food, activities and more.
Gay Bingo: Mad Hatter’s Ball Aug. 15
This marquee fundraising event for Palmetto Community Care is Thursday, August 15 at the Charleston Convention Center in North Charleston featuring hostess Patti O’Furniture. This evening of fun and frivolity will pair with an important message to our community – the HIV/AIDS epidemic is still affecting many in our community, LGBT and straight alike.
Ballpark Festival of Beers: Aug. 17
Sample more than 100 American and international ales, stouts, lagers, pilsners and specialty brews at Joe Riley Park.
Lowcountry Jazz Festival: Aug. 30 – Sept. 1
Award winning jazz, soul, R&B and pop artists take the stage at the Gaillard Center.
New Must-Try Dining Hot Spots
735 Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant
Manhattan-based restaurant Handcraft Kitchen & Cocktails moved into Mount Pleasant with American classics, like burgers, chicken wings, hanger steaks, as well as cocktail classics.
Wild Common
103 Spring Street, Charleston
Step into the exquisite space at Wild Common to sample the four-course tasting menu at $65. Look for dishes like a stuffed quail with Carolina Gold rice bread and foie gras from chef Orlando Pagán.