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Highly Anticipated Return Brings New Spring Dates and Star-Studded Lineup; Sign Up Now for Exclusive Presale Access

SIMPSONVILLE, S.C. (OCTOBER 27, 2026) — Greenville Country Music Fest (GCMF) is officially making its highly anticipated comeback in 2027, bringing some of country music’s hottest names back to the Upstate with new spring dates and an exciting lineup. After taking a year off in 2026, the festival returns April 30-May 1, 2027, to CCNB Amphitheatre at Heritage Park in Simpsonville, South Carolina, with Gavin Adcock, Sam Barber and Ty Myers leading the charge.The announcement marks an exciting new chapter for the festival, which has grown from a single-day event into a multiday country music destination drawing thousands of fans to the Upstate. Traditionally held in the fall, GCMF is trading autumn nights for springtime, giving country music fans a new way to kick off festival season. Joining Adcock, Barber and Myers are Wyatt Flores, Two Friends performing their Big Boots Set, Buffalo Traffic Jam, Waylon Wyatt, Blake Whiten, Emily Ann Roberts, 80 Acres, Pecos & The Rooftops, Laci Kaye Booth, The Creekers, Redferrin, Benny G, Jordan Cobb and DJ Slim McGraw.From Adcock’s high-energy performances and unapologetic country sound to Barber’s emotionally charged songwriting and Myers’ soulful vocals, the 2027 lineup brings together some of the genre’s most talked-about emerging artists. With a mix of country, Americana, red dirt and genre-blending performances, the festival promises something for country music fans of all kinds.“Greenville Country Music Fest has built something special in the Upstate, and we’re excited to be part of its next chapter,” said Shawn Krauel, vice president of festivals for Opry Entertainment Group.  “With new spring dates, an incredible lineup and the excitement surrounding its return, we see a tremendous opportunity to build on the festival’s success. Our focus is on creating an experience that brings fans, artists and the community together while continuing to grow what makes this event so special. ”Since its debut in 2019 at Fluor Field, Greenville Country Music Fest has grown into a multiday celebration of country music, welcoming thousands of fans and an impressive roster of established stars and rising talent. Over the years, the festival has hosted some of the genre’s biggest names, including Zach Bryan, Brooks & Dunn, Cody Johnson, Jon Pardi, Whiskey Myers, Megan Moroney, Zach Top, Koe Wetzel, Turnpike Troubadours and Travis Tritt. “Greenville Country Music Fest has come a long way since we started in 2019, and seeing what it’s grown into means a lot to us, especially being a hometown festival for me,”said Braxton Wilson, owner of Palmetto Entertainment. “We’ve built something here that goes beyond the music. It’s about the fans, the community and the memories made year after year. After deciding to move it from the Fall to the Spring, we wanted to come back strong, and with this lineup and our new dates, I think we’re doing just that. We’re ready to bring the party back to Greenville. ”The festival’s return also comes during an exciting period for its longtime home, CCNB Amphitheatre at Heritage Park. Opry Entertainment Group, the Nashville-based company behind iconic country music destinations including the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium, recently announced a new management agreement for the venue, along with plans to invest $6 million in improvements over five years. The investment includes enhancements to guest amenities, infrastructure, parking, food and beverage offerings, and backstage facilities.Co-produced by Opry Entertainment Group and Palmetto Entertainment, the 2027 event will continue its tradition of bringing major country music talent, professional bull riding and an authentic festival experience to the heart of the Upstate. Tickets and Presale Information Fans can get a head start on securing their spot at Greenville Country Music Fest 2027! Exclusive ticket presales begin Wednesday, Oct. 28, with public ticket sales opening Friday, Oct. 30, at 10 a.m. Fans must register at gvlfest.com by Tuesday, Oct. 27, at 11:59 p.m.to receive their presale access code. Previous festival attendees will automatically receive a code.Two-day General Admission tickets start at $135, with upgraded Main Stage VIP packages starting at $253.62 and Super VIP experiences starting at $428.90. Limited on-site RV and camper camping is also available.Payment plans start as low as $30 down, making it easier to lock in a weekend of country music. Payment plans are subject to applicable fees and terms.For more information and to register for presale access, visit gvlfest.com. About Greenville Country Music Fest:  Since its debut in 2019, Greenville Country Music Fest has grown into one of the Upstate’s premier live music events, bringing together thousands of fans and some of country music’s biggest names. Held at CCNB Amphitheatre at Heritage Park in Simpsonville, South Carolina, the festival has welcomed renowned artists including Zach Bryan, Brooks & Dunn, Cody Johnson, Jon Pardi, Whiskey Myers and Megan Moroney, among others. More than just a music festival, Greenville Country Music Fest brings together the excitement of live country music and professional bull riding, celebrating the spirit of country music and the community that surrounds it through unforgettable performances, thrilling rodeo action, local vendors and authentic Southern experiences. For more information, visit gvlfest.com. About Opry Entertainment: Rooted in the unparalleled country music legacy of the Grand Ole Opry, Opry Entertainment Group produces multi-platform entertainment across a growing portfolio of iconic venues and brands. Its properties include the world‑famous Grand Ole Opry, the historic Ryman Auditorium, WSM Radio, ACL Live, Blake Shelton’s Ole Red, Luke Combs’ Category 10, Ascend Federal Credit Union Amphitheater, and CCNB Amphitheatre. Through live concerts, tours, artist‑driven bars, retail, publishing, digital content, and more, Opry Entertainment Group connects millions of music fans to the artists they love through experiences they’ll never forget. Opry Entertainment Group is a subsidiary of Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. (NYSE: RHP).About Palmetto Entertainment:  Palmetto Entertainment is a premier independent concert and festival promotion, production and venue management company dedicated to creating exceptional live entertainment experiences. With more than a decade of industry experience and over 500 concerts and events produced, the company has worked with some of music’s biggest names, including Chris Stapleton, Post Malone, Luke Combs and Cody Johnson. Its extensive portfolio includes Greenville Country Music Fest, St. Pete Country Fest, Marcus King Family Reunion, Voyage Music Fest, and events at CCNB Amphitheatre at Heritage Park and The Foundry, among many others & while adding to the portfolio annually. Specializing in talent buying, event management, marketing and full-scale production, Palmetto Entertainment combines industry expertise, trusted partnerships and a hands-on approach to deliver seamless, high-quality events. Rooted in the Southeast with a reach extending nationwide, the company is committed to bringing people together through memorable live experiences.

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By Mark A Leon

From champagne in a pink marble lounge to rooftop cocktails above the Holy City, these Charleston destinations prove that sometimes the setting is just as memorable as the menu.

There is a particular kind of Charleston night out that practically begs to be photographed. The light hits a cocktail just right. A rooftop opens up to a skyline of church steeples and historic rooftops. A restaurant’s interior is so striking that dinner almost becomes secondary to the experience.

In the age of Instagram and TikTok, Charleston’s bar and restaurant scene offers plenty of places where atmosphere is part of the attraction. These are not simply spots to grab a drink or sit down for dinner. They are destinations with personality, visual appeal and the kind of details that make people stop scrolling.

Whether you are planning a stylish date night, celebrating with friends or looking for a fresh backdrop for your next social media post, here are six Charleston destinations worth putting on your radar.

Camellias: A Champagne Lounge in Shades of Pink

The look: Elegant, romantic and unapologetically glamorous.

Inside Hotel Bennett on King Street, Camellias delivers one of Charleston’s most distinctive luxury interiors. Its signature pink marble, oval bar and champagne-focused atmosphere create a setting that feels tailor-made for a celebration.

This is the kind of place where the surroundings do much of the work. A champagne pour, a beautifully arranged afternoon tea or a carefully framed shot of the lounge can turn an ordinary outing into something that looks straight out of a lifestyle magazine.

Camellias is especially appealing for birthdays, bridal celebrations and afternoons when you want to trade the usual coffee date for something a little more indulgent.

The Instagram moment: A champagne coupe against the pink marble, with the room’s distinctive design filling the frame.

Explore: Camellias at Hotel Bennett⁠

Citrus Club: Charleston From Above

The look: Sophisticated rooftop living with a skyline view.

Perched on the eighth floor of The Dewberry, Citrus Club offers a different perspective on Charleston. The rooftop cocktail lounge combines a polished, mid-century-inspired aesthetic with panoramic views of the historic city.

Citrus-forward cocktails, stylish seating and the changing light over Charleston create an atmosphere that feels equally suited to a special occasion or an impromptu evening out. The views are a major part of the experience, especially as daylight fades and the city takes on its evening glow.

For content creators, Citrus Club offers an easy formula: a well-presented drink, a beautiful outfit and a backdrop that immediately identifies the city.

The TikTok moment: Begin with a close-up of a cocktail before slowly revealing the skyline behind it.

Explore: Citrus Club at The Dewberry⁠

Church and Union: Where Historic Architecture Meets Modern Dining

The look: Dramatic, unexpected and distinctly memorable.

Housed in a historic former church on North Market Street, Church and Union brings a striking architectural setting to a contemporary dining experience. Its dramatic interior and distinctive ceiling, featuring the text of The Art of War, give the restaurant a visual identity unlike a typical downtown dining room.

Here, the atmosphere is part of the conversation. The contrast between historic architecture, modern restaurant design and contemporary American cuisine creates plenty of opportunities for photography without making the experience feel staged.

It is a natural fit for group dinners, celebratory evenings and anyone who appreciates a restaurant with a story behind its walls.

The Instagram moment: A wide-angle photograph that captures the scale of the room, followed by close-ups of cocktails and beautifully plated dishes.

Explore: Church and Union Charleston⁠

The Rooftop at The Vendue: Sunset Looks Good on Charleston

The look: Open-air charm, harbor views and classic Holy City scenery.

In the heart of the French Quarter, The Rooftop at The Vendue offers one of the most recognizable settings for an evening drink downtown. Historic rooftops, distant church steeples and views toward the harbor provide a backdrop that needs very little editing.

The atmosphere is lively without losing the character that makes Charleston special. It is a place to gather with friends, enjoy a cocktail and watch the city shift from afternoon sunshine to evening color.

For visitors, the rooftop provides a memorable introduction to the city’s historic landscape. For locals, it offers a familiar view of Charleston from a fresh angle.

The Instagram moment: A sunset panorama with a cocktail in the foreground and the historic skyline stretching behind it.

Explore: The Rooftop at The Vendue⁠

Little Palm: A Tropical State of Mind

The look: Poolside relaxation with a vacation-inspired aesthetic.

Sometimes the best social media backdrop is one that makes you feel as though you have left town without ever leaving downtown Charleston.

Located at The Ryder Hotel, Little Palm brings tropical-inspired style to the city’s dining and cocktail scene. With poolside surroundings, greenery and colorful drinks, the setting offers a more relaxed alternative to Charleston’s formal cocktail lounges.

The appeal is its easygoing atmosphere. It feels right for a leisurely afternoon, a casual get-together or an evening when the goal is simply to unwind somewhere that looks and feels different from everyday life.

It is also a reminder that Charleston’s hospitality scene can offer more than traditional Lowcountry elegance. Sometimes, a little tropical escapism is exactly the point.

The TikTok moment: A colorful cocktail beside the pool, followed by a quick transition to the greenery and outdoor setting.

Explore: Little Palm⁠

The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits: Dinner With a View

The look: Elevated dining and panoramic Charleston scenery.

Located atop The Restoration Hotel, The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits brings together rooftop views, cocktails and a full dining experience. Its elevated position provides a sweeping look across Charleston’s historic buildings, making the surroundings as much a part of the evening as the food.

The setting works particularly well for those who want their content to tell a complete story. Start with the view, move to a colorful cocktail or spritz, and finish with the dishes arriving at the table.

Unlike a destination focused exclusively on drinks, The Watch gives diners the opportunity to settle in for a full meal while enjoying the atmosphere of a rooftop lounge.

The Instagram moment: A table spread framed by the Charleston skyline, ideally captured in the soft light of late afternoon.

Explore: The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits⁠

Charleston’s Most Photogenic Nights Out

What makes these destinations stand out is not simply their ability to produce a good photograph. Each offers a distinct experience: the glamour of Camellias, the elevated perspective of Citrus Club, the architectural drama of Church and Union, the open-air views at The Vendue, the tropical atmosphere of Little Palm and the rooftop dining experience at The Watch.

Together, they reflect the variety that makes Charleston’s food and beverage scene so appealing. One evening might call for champagne and marble, another for a sunset over the rooftops, and another for a relaxed cocktail beside the pool.

The secret to capturing the experience is to look beyond the drink or the plate. Notice the lighting, the architecture, the details and the people around the table. Those are often the moments that make a post memorable.

Because in Charleston, a night out can be more than dinner and drinks. Sometimes, it is a little bit of theater, a little bit of indulgence and a picture-perfect reminder of why the Holy City is such a compelling place to explore.

Before visiting, check each venue’s official website for current hours, menus, reservations and any access requirements for rooftop or poolside areas.

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By Mark A. Leon

College basketball returns to downtown Charleston this November as the Shriners Children’s Charleston Classic brings six nationally recognized programs to TD Arena for two days of competition.

Scheduled for Friday, November 20, and Sunday, November 22, the 2026 tournament marks the event’s 18th year. The early-season NCAA Division I men’s basketball showcase will feature the University of Dayton, University of Minnesota, Northwestern University, Oklahoma State University, the University of Utah and Virginia Tech.

Games on Friday begin at 12:30 p.m., with Oklahoma State facing Minnesota, followed by Northwestern versus Virginia Tech at 3 p.m. Dayton and Utah close out the day at 5:30 p.m.

Sunday’s matchups begin at 1 p.m. with Dayton taking on Northwestern. Virginia Tech meets Oklahoma State at 3:30 p.m., followed by Utah versus Minnesota at 6 p.m.

The games will be played at TD Arena, 301 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401, placing fans in the heart of downtown Charleston for a weekend of college basketball.

Tickets are available through ESPN Events and are sold on a game-by-game basis. Fans planning to attend both tournament days must purchase separate tickets for their selected games, as an all-event pass is not offered.

For schedules, ticket purchases and additional event information, visit the official Shriners Children’s Charleston Classic website or go directly to the official ticket page.

The Charleston Classic continues to bring college basketball programs and fans to the Lowcountry, pairing nationally televised competition with the opportunity to experience Charleston’s restaurants, attractions and historic downtown.

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The Bloomhaven Foundation will be hosting a Charity Golf Tournament in Mount Pleasant, SC on Monday, November 30, 2026. Here is everything you need to know to participate and support.

• When: Monday, November 30, 2026
• Where: RiverTowne Country Club – 1700 Rivertowne Country Club Drive
  Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466
• Schedule: 7:30 AM   Registration Opens / 9:00 AM   Shotgun Start / 2:00 PM   Reception & Awards (Bar, Raffles, Silent Auction)
• Registration: Click HERE
• Ongoing Online Silent Auction: Click HERE
• Official Event Website

CONTESTS & CHALLENGES

• Closest To The Pin
• Longest Drive (Men & Women)
• Two Golf Pro Challenges
• Putting Challenge
• Drone Golf Ball Drop
• Hole-In-One-Prizes

About The Bloomhaven Foundation

The Bloomhaven Foundation – Planting Hope. Growing Futures.

The Bloomhaven Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit work-study program headquartered in Charleston, SC. We are leading the way in creating job opportunities for teens living in group care and foster homes as they prepare to leave care through an immersive, hands-on floral design program. 

At Bloomhaven, we believe floral design can be a tool for healing, confidence, and connection. It’s not about perfection — it’s about the process and what it unlocks in each student.

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By Zoe Nicholson, zen@mailbox.sc.edu

Carrie Morey and the University of South Carolina were predestined. 

It wasn’t kismet — it was her father.

“To be honest, I wasn’t given much of a choice,” the Charleston biscuit maker and entrepreneur says of where she went to college.

But Morey wouldn’t change a thing. And while the owner and creative force behind Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit — which just opened a location in the Russell House — didn’t find the career she was passionate about while studying education as an undergraduate, she found everything else: confidence, friends, mentorship and a community she continues to pour into more than 20 years later.

“It was perfect for me,” Morey says of USC.

Gameday memories at Williams-Brice Stadium

Morey’s father, Don Bailey, played football at USC and went on to serve on the Board of Trustees. Morey’s earliest memories of the university were Saturdays at Wiliams-Brice Stadium, picking up fried chicken at Bernie’s before cheering on the Gamecocks.

“We were the family that had the stuffed tiger that was tied to a rope,” Morey says. “And we drug that from Charleston to Columbia for every home game. Not just the Clemson-Carolina game.”

When she was planning her wedding, Morey had to set a date around the fall football schedule. “Gamecocks were always first,” she laughs.

Now, she enjoys going to Soda City Market on Columbia’s Main Street or Kudzu Bakery & Market on Forest Drive to pick out local items to make a tailgate spread for her daughters, two of whom followed in her footsteps. Morey’s eldest is a recent Moore School graduate, while another is a sophomore studying hospitality management. Like their mother, both women are members of Kappa Delta sorority. Her youngest is forging her own path at Wofford College. 

The wrong major, the right university

Morey was an education major while attending USC. She loved her classes, but she didn’t love the profession. It still taught her plenty.

“I knew just enough people. I met just enough new people,” the Charleston native says. “I experienced independence in a very positive way.”

While she never took a class with him, Morey says Harry E. “Sid” Varney, a former dean of the College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management and friend of her father, became an invaluable mentor to her while at USC. She’d drop into the celebrated former football coach’s office at the Coliseum or ring him up on the phone to ask for advice or just to chat.

“He kept saying, ‘Why are you in education? You need to be in hospitality,’” Morey recalls. “He could see it, and I couldn’t.”

Morey was also president of her sorority, Kappa Delta.

That experience gave her the tools needed to open a business: conflict resolution, delegation, public speaking and vision.

“Being the president of my sorority made me a problem solver, a cheerleader, all the things that make up a decent entrepreneur,” Morey says. “And I didn’t know that at the time, but it led me here.”

Biscuits and mentorship: Giving back to USC

Morey launched Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit in 2005 using her mother’s biscuit recipe. What began as a mail-order biscuit company has grown into a brand that ships nationwide, includes multiple storefronts, is sold at hundreds of grocery stores and has led to cookbooks and a docuseries on PBS.

Her latest venture brings it back to her garnet-and-black roots. Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit opened in the Russell House in August, serving up a variety of savory and sweet biscuit concoctions for students. 

Morey has been on the ground to ensure her food connects with students. She’s passed out biscuits at First Night Carolina, among other days on campus , and recruited several students to be ambassadors for the brand.

It’s a more visible impact at the university she’s been steadily giving back to for years, namely through a mentorship program at the Darla Moore School of Business.

She does it because it’s what she needed when first starting out.

“When I started Callie’s, I did not have anybody other than my father to talk to,” Morey recalls. “And starting a biscuit business? What I was trying to do didn’t exist. And I just remember feeling so alone.”

Morey keeps up with her mentees. She knows the importance of having someone to call for advice or “just a therapy session,” especially in the beginning of a venture or career, and she hopes to be that for young people.

“Bouncing ideas off of somebody is a survival technique for any entrepreneur,” she says. “You need to know that there’s somebody else out there that’s going through a similar thing.”

Source: University of South Carolina

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By Mark A Leon

From South Lockwood Drive to the Calhoun Street merge off the James Island Connector, tidal flooding creates a daily headache for commuters. Charleston is studying solutions, but the question is how quickly those plans can translate into meaningful relief.

For people commuting from James Island into downtown Charleston, the morning drive can become a test of patience before the workday even begins.

Along the west end of the peninsula, high-tide flooding on South Lockwood Drive can disrupt traffic, force drivers to slow down or seek alternate routes, and add pressure to an already constrained corridor leading toward the Calhoun Street merge from the James Island Connector.

And when water covers a roadway that thousands of people rely on to get to work, school, medical appointments and businesses, the consequences extend well beyond a few extra minutes in traffic.

The frustrating part? It does not always have to rain for the problem to occur.

Charleston’s own flood data identifies Lockwood Drive as one of the city’s most flood-prone roads. The city’s analysis lists 144 flood-related closures on Lockwood Drive, including 87 associated primarily with high tides. That makes it a particularly clear example of how tidal flooding can interfere with daily transportation.

For commuters, the question is straightforward: Can anything be done to keep this vital route moving?

Why this stretch of road is so vulnerable

Charleston faces three overlapping flood threats: high tides, heavy rainfall and coastal storm surge. These problems can compound one another when elevated water levels prevent stormwater from draining efficiently.

During high tide, water can push into low-lying areas and restrict the ability of drainage systems to move water away from streets. When heavy rain arrives before the tide recedes, standing water can become more persistent.

The City of Charleston acknowledges that flooding is occurring more frequently and has reported approximately 13 inches of sea-level rise over the past century, with a substantial portion occurring in recent decades.

The transportation challenge is especially acute along the peninsula’s western edge, where road capacity is limited and commuters converge on a relatively small number of routes.

When flooding affects South Lockwood Drive, traffic disruptions can ripple into nearby streets and the approaches to the James Island Connector. Drivers have fewer convenient alternatives, and even a relatively localized flood can create a much larger commute problem.

Can anything be done? Charleston has several options on the table

The answer is yes, but meaningful relief will require more than clearing storm drains or waiting for the tide to go out. It will take a combination of targeted improvements and longer-term flood protection.

1. Improve drainage and install pumps

One option is to expand drainage capacity and use pump stations to move water out of vulnerable areas when high tides prevent gravity drainage.

Charleston and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are examining options such as larger drainage pipes, pump stations and road elevation as part of a broader tidal and inland flooding study. The goal is to identify practical projects for downtown, James Island and West Ashley.

For commuters, the key question is whether this work can identify specific drainage improvements that reduce recurring flooding along the Lockwood corridor and surrounding approach roads.

2. Build flood barriers along Lockwood Drive

There is already a larger project aimed at protecting portions of the peninsula from coastal flooding.

The Battery Extension project includes a planned flood-protection segment along Lockwood Drive between the U.S. Coast Guard and Ashley River bridges. According to the city’s 2026 project materials, the segment is approximately 7,390 linear feet, with construction planned to begin in 2028.

In September 2026, the Army Corps advanced engineering work on the Lockwood corridor, awarding a $3.31 million design contract for surveys, geotechnical investigations and other early-stage work. The overall project is intended to reduce coastal flooding and storm-surge risks.

This is significant progress, but it is important to distinguish between storm-surge protection and everyday tidal flooding. A flood barrier alone will not necessarily solve every drainage problem, especially when rainfall accumulates behind a barrier.

3. Address the bottleneck as a transportation problem, too

Flood mitigation and traffic management need to be considered together.

Even if water levels are reduced, the merge near Calhoun Street can remain congested because traffic from James Island and other approaches converges on a limited road network.

Potential measures worth evaluating include:

Targeted drainage upgrades at recurring flood points affecting commuter access.

Real-time flood alerts and detour guidance so drivers can avoid impassable streets before reaching a bottleneck.

Traffic-flow studies examining whether signal timing, merge geometry or intersection changes could reduce delays when roads remain passable.

A coordinated commuter corridor plan linking flood protection, roadway operations and emergency access.

These are recommendations for further evaluation, not a claim that each measure has already been approved or funded.

The biggest challenge: turning studies into results

Charleston is no longer simply documenting its flooding problem. The city and Army Corps are evaluating possible solutions, while major flood-protection projects move into design.

But commuters need to know what those plans will mean for their daily lives.

The city’s tidal and inland flooding study is intended to narrow potential projects and develop more specific engineering designs and cost estimates. Officials have discussed options ranging from drainage upgrades to pumps and raising roads, with construction funding dependent on the solutions selected.

That leaves several important questions for city and state officials:

Which improvements could reduce flooding on South Lockwood Drive in the near term?

Can targeted drainage or pumping work be completed before larger flood barriers are built?

How will officials ensure the Calhoun Street merge and James Island Connector approaches continue functioning during high-water events?

What is the timeline from engineering studies to construction, and which agency is responsible for each part?

Those answers matter to residents, employers, medical workers, students and businesses whose schedules are affected by recurring tidal flooding.

The bottom line

Charleston cannot control the tides, but it can invest in infrastructure designed to better manage them.

The long-term Battery Extension project could provide an important layer of coastal protection. Drainage improvements, pumps and better traffic planning may offer additional ways to reduce the impact of recurring high-water events.

The challenge is making sure these efforts work together—and that officials prioritize the specific locations where flooding repeatedly disrupts the morning commute.

For drivers traveling from James Island toward downtown, the goal is not just a more resilient Charleston decades from now. It is a dependable route to work today.

The question for Charleston is no longer whether tidal flooding is a problem. The city’s own data makes that clear. The question is how quickly the solutions can reach the streets where commuters need them most.

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Photo Credit: Shea Gibson – Meteorologist

By Mark A. Leon / Charleston Daily

South Carolina and federal officials are preparing to launch Project Lifeline 250, a new pilot initiative designed to strengthen cybersecurity protections at rural hospitals and help safeguard critical healthcare services.

The announcement is scheduled for Monday, October 26, at Newberry Health Hospital in Newberry, South Carolina. Gov. Henry McMaster will join White House National Cyber Director Sean Cairncross, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Chief Counselor Chris Klomp, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division Chief Mark Keel and healthcare representatives for the event. 

The initiative comes as cybersecurity remains a growing concern for healthcare organizations, where digital systems support patient records, clinical operations, scheduling and other essential services. Disruptions caused by cyberattacks can create operational challenges and potentially affect patient care, making security a particularly important consideration for rural facilities with limited resources.

Project Lifeline 250 is intended to help address those vulnerabilities by focusing on cybersecurity protections for rural hospitals. However, specific details about the pilot’s funding, participating facilities, technical requirements and implementation timeline have not yet been publicly outlined in the available announcement.

For rural communities, protecting hospital technology is about more than preventing data breaches. Reliable digital infrastructure is essential to maintaining access to healthcare, supporting medical staff and ensuring hospitals can continue delivering services during emergencies.

The involvement of state and federal officials also highlights the importance of collaboration among government agencies, healthcare providers and technology partners in addressing cybersecurity risks. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is among the state agencies participating in the announcement.

Monday’s event is expected to provide additional information about the program’s scope and how the pilot will be implemented.

As rural healthcare providers face increasingly complex technology and security demands, Project Lifeline 250 could represent an important step toward strengthening the resilience of South Carolina’s healthcare infrastructure.

Source: South Carolina Governor’s Office announcement, October 23, 2026. – Click HERE for official announcement

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Photo Credit: University of South Carolina

 

Approximately $1 billion investment to boost LEU+ fuel production

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Westinghouse Electric Company (Westinghouse), a leading nuclear energy company, today announced it is expanding its Columbia Fuel Fabrication Facility in Hopkins to construct one of the most advanced nuclear fuel factories in the United States. The company’s approximately $1 billion investment will significantly boost commercial scale low enriched uranium plus (LEU+) fuel production.

LEU+ fuel has a higher level of uranium enrichment (5% to 8%), which increases reactor power output and lowers production costs by reducing refueling time. Through an industry partnership in 2025, Westinghouse achieved the first successful deployment of LEU+ fuel in the U.S. This new factory in Richland County represents a turning point to bringing this next-generation fuel industrywide.

Built in 1968, Westinghouse’s Columbia Fuel Fabrication Facility is one of the largest nuclear fuel plants in the world, generating fuel powering approximately 10% of U.S. electricity. The Richland County facility produces fuel pellets, fuel rods, fuel assemblies and fuel components to support other Westinghouse manufacturing plants and a global base of customers.

As part of the expansion, Westinghouse will construct a new LEU+ facility at its existing Bluff Road campus, which will supply next-generation fuel with advanced equipment to support existing and new customers. 

Construction is underway, and operations are expected to begin in 2030. Individuals interested in joining the Westinghouse team should visit the company’s careers page.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.

Images of Westinghouse and the new factory can be accessed here.

QUOTES

“Drawing on decades of our nuclear fuel expertise, we are advancing the next generation of nuclear fuel for the future. Our significant investment in this new fuel factory marks a transformative milestone for our company and the industry. By evolving our LEU+ operations, we’re securing a clean energy supply, strengthening energy independence and creating new opportunities in South Carolina. We are grateful for the U.S. Department of Energy’s invaluable support, which was key to reaching this historic achievement.”  -Westinghouse President and CEO Dan Sumner

“South Carolina is already leading America’s nuclear renaissance, and this announcement further strengthens our commitment to help meet the clean energy needs of the future. Westinghouse has been a critical partner in this effort, and we look forward to it expanding its work in our state to create next-generation fuel products that will continue to support nuclear energy production well into the future.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“Businesses like Westinghouse are propelling South Carolina forward in the advanced energy sector. The company’s $1 billionexpansion in Richland County marks a significant step forward in our state’s capacity to strengthen national security and drive economic growth. With its legacy rooted here in the state, we are pleased to see Westinghouse amplify its capabilities and leadership in the industry.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Richland County has spent years laying the groundwork for investments like this one and we’re grateful to Westinghouse for this historic expansion. Beyond the significant investment that will strengthen our schools and local infrastructure, this new facility will move Lower Richland forward as one of the world’s leading providers of clean energy. Our workforce has supported this facility for generations, and this expansion ensures that we’ll continue to see high-paying jobs and economic stability for years to come.” -Richland County Council Chairwoman Jesica Mackey

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Westinghouse Electric Company (Westinghouse) is expanding its operations in Richland County.
• The company’s approximately $1 billion investment will boost low enriched uranium plus (LEU+) fuel production.
• Westinghouse is a leading nuclear energy company.
• The company is located on Bluff Road in Hopkins, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Westinghouse team should visit the company’s careers page. 
  

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COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster today issued Executive Order 2026-24, establishing the Governor’s Conservation Commission. The Commission will strengthen collaboration among state and local agencies, private landowners, and entities and citizens in preserving South Carolina’s natural resources, wildlife, historic sites, and cultural heritage.

“South Carolina’s natural beauty and rich history are an important part of what makes our state unique,” said Governor McMaster. “As our state continues to prosper, we must be thoughtful and think broadly about how we preserve the land, historic sites, and cultural heritage that define South Carolina. We know that our economic, academic, and conservation efforts each depend on the other to thrive. This Commission will help bring people together to strengthen our conservation efforts and protect these resources for future generations.”

To date, South Carolina has preserved approximately 3.4 million acres of land, including approximately 400,000 acres added since 2017. Governor McMaster has called for preserving 10 million acres for current and future generations. The South Carolina Protected Lands and Conservation Coordination Act of 2026 established a long-range goal of protecting 7 million acres by 2050, and the Working Agricultural Lands Preservation Act of 2024 addressed voluntary conservation easements, among other actions taken.

The Governor’s Conservation Commission will advise the Governor and Executive Branch on conservation and preservation strategies, promote coordination among state agencies, and assist local governments in developing conservation goals. The Commission will also work to increase public awareness of South Carolina’s history and culture, identify potential funding sources, and encourage partnerships among public, private, academic, and nonprofit organizations.

The Commission will include key state officials serving as ex officio members and up to 26 members appointed by the Governor from the private and academic sectors. The Commission will serve in an advisory capacity.

The executive order takes effect immediately.

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From live music and ballet to comedy, classical performances and the opening of the Coastal Carolina Fair, here are 10 events to check out around Charleston during the final week of October.

Charleston is getting into the Halloween spirit, and the week of October 26–30 offers plenty of opportunities to get out and explore the Lowcountry.

Whether you’re planning a downtown date night, looking for live entertainment, enjoying a night of comedy or searching for a fall outing with the family, this week’s calendar features a mix of touring performers, cultural experiences and seasonal attractions.

Here are 10 events to put on your calendar.

Monday, October 26

1. John Cameron Mitchell:

Hedwig and the Angry Inch

25th Anniversary Tour

Location: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St., Charleston
Time: Check the official event listing
Tickets: Charleston Music Hall⁠

Celebrate the cult-classic musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch with its creator and star, John Cameron Mitchell. The anniversary tour offers fans an opportunity to revisit a groundbreaking production that helped reshape alternative musical theater and remains influential in LGBTQ+ culture.

Tuesday, October 27

2. International Piano Series: Jonathan Mamora

Location: Sottile Theatre, 44 George St., Charleston
Time: 7 p.m.
Tickets: College of Charleston event information⁠

Classical music lovers can enjoy an evening with pianist Jonathan Mamora as part of the College of Charleston’s International Piano Series. The program features works by Frédéric Chopin and Robert Schumann, offering an opportunity to experience classical piano in an intimate downtown setting.

3. Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

Location: North Charleston Performing Arts Center, 5001 Coliseum Drive, North Charleston
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: North Charleston Performing Arts Center⁠

Fans of classic rock can revisit the music of Fleetwood Mac with Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, a tribute act celebrating the band’s celebrated catalog. Expect familiar melodies, memorable harmonies and a nostalgic evening featuring music from one of rock’s most enduring groups.

Wednesday, October 28

4. CeCe Winans: COME WORSHIP! Tour

Location: North Charleston Coliseum, 5001 Coliseum Drive, North Charleston
Time: 7 p.m.
Tickets: Official event information⁠

Gospel music star CeCe Winans brings her COME WORSHIP! Tour to the Lowcountry for an evening celebrating faith, music and community. The event also features Charity Gayle, Red Worship and Terrian, making it a major midweek option for fans of contemporary Christian and gospel music.

5. Sonic Live in Concert

Location: North Charleston Performing Arts Center, 5001 Coliseum Drive, North Charleston
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: North Charleston Performing Arts Center⁠

Video-game fans can experience the music of SEGA’s iconic Sonic the Hedgehog franchise in a live concert setting. Celebrating more than three decades of Sonic’s musical history, the production brings familiar video-game themes to the stage in a format designed for longtime fans and younger audiences alike.

Thursday, October 29

6. South Carolina Ballet Presents

Dracula: Ballet with a Bite

Location: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St., Charleston
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Charleston Music Hall⁠

With Halloween just around the corner, Dracula: Ballet with a Bite offers a theatrical way to embrace the season. The production combines classical ballet with gothic imagery, suspense and a rock-and-jazz score, bringing Bram Stoker’s legendary vampire into a dramatic stage experience.

The production is also scheduled for Friday, October 30, giving audiences another opportunity to experience the show.

7. The Witching Hour

Location: Charleston Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St., Charleston
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Charleston Symphony⁠

The Charleston Symphony sets a Halloween mood with The Witching Hour, a concert featuring music inspired by horror films, Broadway and the classical repertoire.

Featuring vocalists Hugh Panaro and Morgan James, the program includes selections associated with Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera and Psycho, alongside works by composers including Mozart and Bach. It’s an appealing option for music lovers looking for something atmospheric ahead of Halloween.

Friday, October 30

8. An Evening with David Sedaris

Location: Charleston Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St., Charleston
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: David Sedaris official tour website⁠

Best-selling author and humorist David Sedaris brings his distinctive storytelling and sharp social observations to Charleston. Known for his autobiographical essays and offbeat humor, Sedaris has built a devoted following through his books, radio appearances and live performances.

His appearance offers a chance to enjoy an evening of literary humor and personal storytelling in one of downtown Charleston’s premier performing arts venues.

9. Neal Francis Live

Location: The Charleston Pour House, 1977 Maybank Highway, James Island
Time: 8:30 p.m.
Tickets and details: Charleston Pour House⁠

For those who prefer their Friday nights with a live band, musician Neal Francis brings a blend of rock, funk and vintage soul influences to the Charleston Pour House.

Known for his keyboard-driven sound and energetic performances, Francis offers a concert option for music fans seeking something beyond the larger touring productions at the area’s performing arts centers.

10. Coastal Carolina Fair Opens

Location: Exchange Park, Ladson
Dates: October 29–November 8, 2026
Information and tickets: Coastal Carolina Fair⁠

One of the Lowcountry’s major fall traditions returns as the Coastal Carolina Fair opens Thursday, October 29.

Visitors can look forward to carnival rides, fair food, games, vendors and entertainment throughout the event’s extended run. Friday, October 30, provides an opportunity to kick off Halloween weekend with a visit to the fairgrounds.

The fair is a popular seasonal outing for families, couples and groups of friends looking to enjoy a little classic fall fun.

Planning Your Week in Charleston

With everything from classical piano and symphonic music to rock tributes, comedy and seasonal attractions, the week of October 26–30 offers a variety of ways to enjoy the Lowcountry.

Planning a date night? Consider Dracula at Charleston Music Hall or David Sedaris at the Gaillard Center.

Looking for family-friendly entertainment? Sonic Live in Concert and the Coastal Carolina Fair offer options for different ages and interests.

Want to get into the Halloween spirit? The Witching Hour and Dracula: Ballet with a Bite bring a spooky theatrical atmosphere to the days leading up to Halloween.

Before heading out, check each event’s official website for the latest ticket availability, showtimes, age restrictions and parking information. Some events take place outside downtown Charleston, so allow additional travel time.

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