May 2025 Festivals and Events Guide with Charleston County Parks

Moonlight Mixer                     
Friday, May 2, 7 – 10 p.m.

Folly Beach Pier

Moonlight Mixers are back on the Folly Beach Pier! Dance the night away with DJ Bill Shelton spinning all of the hottest oldies and beach music classics!

Fee: $15

Ages: 4 and up

https://www.ccprc.com/1618/Moonlight-Mixers

Meet & Skate with Mitchie Brusco

Friday, May 2, 5 – 9 p.m.

SK8 Charleston

Come skate with 14-time X Games medalist Mitchie Brusco at SK8 Charleston!

Fee: $3 per skater; free for annual skate pass holders and spectators

https://ccprc.com/calendar.aspx?eid=17555

Inclusive Superhero Dance
Wednesday, May 7, 6 – 8 p.m.
Cooper River Room at Mount Pleasant Pier           

People with disabilities and their families and friends are invited to an unforgettable night! Come dressed as your favorite superhero!

Fee: $4
Ages: any 
https://ccprc.com/1544/Inclusive-Superhero-Dance

Starlight Yoga

Thursday, May 8, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Johns Island County Park
The moon and stars enhance this flowing yoga class. Live music provided. Participants will receive a special glow in the dark prize. What to expect: This class is open to all levels, including beginners. Accessible parking and restrooms available. Class is held at the end of the pier with cement tabby surface.

Fee: $12
Ages: 10 and up 
https://ccprc.com/2079/Starlight-Yoga

Cast Off Fishing Tournament

Saturday, May 10, 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Folly Beach Pier

Join us at the Folly Beach Pier for a fun day of fishing during the Cast Off Fishing Tournament. Prize categories include Biggest 3 by Weight, Biggest youth catch (12 & under), and Best 5 Fish Total Weight. No preregistration required. Register on site the morning of each tournament. For more information, call the Mount Pleasant Pier at 843-762-9946.

Fee: $12 for ages 13 and up; $9 for members of the military; $9 for youth and seniors; $5 for fishing pass holders

Ages: 3 and up (adult chaperone required for ages 15 and under)

https://ccprc.com/2038/Cast-Off-Fishing-Tournaments

Dancing on the Cooper: Tommy & The Chucktown Players
Friday, May 16, 7 – 10 p.m. Mount Pleasant Pier 
Enjoy scenic views of the Charleston Harbor while dancing to live classic country and southern rock music from Tommy & The Chucktown Players. Live music starts at 7:30 p.m. 
Fee: $10 – $15 
Ages: 4 and up 
https://ccprc.com/1175/Dancing-on-the-Cooper

Cast Off Fishing Tournament

Saturday, May 17, 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mount Pleasant Pier

Join us at the Mount Pleasant Pier for a fun day of fishing during the Cast Off Fishing Tournament. Prize categories include Biggest 3 by Weight, Biggest youth catch (12 & under), and Best 5 Fish Total Weight. No preregistration required. Register on site the morning of each tournament. For more information, call the Mount Pleasant Pier at 843-762-9946.

Fee: $12 for ages 13 and up; $9 for members of the military; $9 for youth and seniors; $5 for fishing pass holders

Ages: 3 and up (adult chaperone required for ages 15 and under)

https://ccprc.com/2038/Cast-Off-Fishing-Tournaments

SK8 Charleston Luau Street & Bowl Contest 2025Saturday, May 17, 6 – 9 p.m. 
SK8 Charleston 
The SK8 Charleston Hawaiian Luau Street & Bowl Contest features contests, food trucks, and live music. Registration is required for contest participants only, please see schedule below for categories and additional contest information. 
Fee: $3
Ages: any 
https://ccprc.com/3746/SK8-Charleston-Luau-Bowl-Jam

Reggae Nights Summer Concert        

Friday, May 30, 7:30 – 11 p.m.

James Island County Park
Relax and enjoy traditional old school roots reggae with a new school attitude in the beautiful outdoor setting of James Island County Park. Bring your chair or blanket and rock the night away! Food, beverages, and souvenirs will be available for purchase. Music by Mystic Vibrations begins at 8:00 p.m. Visit our website at ccprc.com or call (843) 795-4386 for more information.

Fee: $30
Ages: any 

https://www.ccprc.com/1619/Reggae-Nights

May 2025 Programs

Beginners Night at the Climbing Wall

Thurs., May 1, 5 – 7 p.m.

James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
Embark on an exhilarating journey at our “Beginner’s Night” at The Climbing Wall. This event is tailored for those stepping into the climbing world for the first time, promising an evening of excitement and shared experiences. Our friendly and knowledgeable instructors will guide you through the essentials, from harnessing up to conquering your first climbing challenges. The atmosphere will buzz with positive energy as you connect with fellow beginners, creating memories and building confidence together. Join us for a night filled with laughter, encouragement, and the joy of discovering the thrill of climbing. Registration includes harness and shoe rental. 
Fee: $15
Ages: 18 and up 
16108

Gator Tales

Thurs., May 1, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center

Join us as we search for alligators and separate fact from fiction to learn why these large reptiles carry the special title of “keystone species.” What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available at this park. The trails are paved and flat and the program speed is moderate to slow. Benches are located along the program route.

Fee: $10
Ages: 12 and up 

16024

Belay Basics

Sun., May 4, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone

Learn the ropes with our “Belay Basics” class, a comprehensive guide to the essential skill of top rope belaying in rock climbing. In this hands-on session, our experienced instructors will walk you through the fundamentals of belaying techniques, equipment usage, and safety protocols. Whether you’re a novice or looking to refresh your skills, this class is designed to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to securely manage the rope for your climbing partner. Join us for a practical and engaging session, where you’ll master the art of belaying, enhancing your climbing experience for you and your partner.

Fee: $25

Ages: 14 and up

16104

Seashore Exploration

Tues., May 6, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Isle of Palms County Park 

Spring is a great time to explore the beach. Join an experienced naturalist to familiarize yourself with many species that may be found there. We’ll search for artifacts and living creatures along the beach such as mollusks, sponges, corals, and more. Share in the discovery by learning intriguing stories about adaptations that allow for life near the ocean. Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available near the snack bar where the program begins and ends. An accessible route to a natural sand beach is present and beach wheelchairs are available for checkout on a first-come, first served basis. This program takes place on a sandy beach and requires periods of slow walking, standing, and gazing upwards or downwards to observe wildlife.    

Fee: $10

Ages: 9 and up

16027

Seashore Exploration

Thurs., May 8, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Beachwalker County Park

Spring is a great time to explore the beach. Join an experienced naturalist to familiarize yourself with many species that may be found there. We’ll search for artifacts and living creatures along the beach such as mollusks, sponges, corals, and more. Share in the discovery by learning intriguing stories about adaptations that allow for life near the ocean. Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available near the snack bar where the program begins and ends. An accessible route to a natural sand beach is present and beach wheelchairs are available for checkout on a first-come, first served basis. This program takes place on a sandy beach and requires periods of slow walking, standing, and gazing upwards or downwards to observe wildlife.    

Fee: $10

Ages: 9 and up

16026

Lighthouse Inlet Bird Walk            
Fri., May 9, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve 
This walk focuses on the incredibly diverse northeast end of Folly Island. Once the home of a Coast Guard station, this Heritage Preserve protects maritime forest, beach, dune and marsh habitats for wildlife, and boasts one of the largest bird lists in South Carolina. At this time of year, we hope to see spring arrivals such as Painted Buntings and Wilson’s Plovers, plus much more.
Fee: $9
Ages 12 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under) 
16017

Baptist Hill Pickleball Clinic

Sat., May 10, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Schroder Community Center 
No experience required. Clinic will focus on the fundamentals of the game. Participants will learn how to effectively hit the ball, maintain a rally, keep score, and become familiar with the basic rules of the game.  
Fee: Free 
Ages: 18 and up 
16134 

Sunset Moonrise Beach Walk

Sat., May 10, 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Folly Beach County Park – Dunes House

Join a naturalist for a leisurely walk on the beach to admire the southwest end of Folly Island during the twilight hours. We will watch the sunset and the full moon rise while we look for animals that call the edge of America home this time of year.  Accessible parking is available and accessible restrooms and water fountains are available near the Dunes House where the program begins and ends. An accessible route to a natural sandy beach is present and beach wheelchairs are available for checkout on a first-come, first served basis. Program route is out and back along a sandy beach where no benches are available. The walk is approximately a mile total, and the walking speed is slow. Program will require periods of standing.

Fee: $9
Ages: 12 and up 
16010

The Super Tour: Laurel Hill, McLeod, and Caw Caw
Sat., May 10, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
McLeod Plantation Historic Site – Pavilion 
The production of bricks, rice, and cotton left an indelible footprint on the Lowcountry. Three locations provide the stories: Laurel Hill, Caw Caw Interpretive Center, and McLeod Plantation Historic Site. During this Super Tour, Charleston County Park staff will weave the histories and stories of each site. Transportation is provided. The tour begins and ends at McLeod Plantation Historic Site, 325 Country Club Drive, Charleston, SC 29412.  What to expect: Participants will travel to three Charleston County Parks on an activity bus. Both McLeod Plantation Historic Site and the Caw Caw Interpretive Center have accessible bathrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables where the tour begins and ends. All destinations have flat trails made of natural surfaces and benches along the trail route. Laurel Hill County Park does not have restrooms or water fountains. The tour will consist of periods of sitting, periods of slow walking, and periods of standing in one place. The bus will leave from McLeod Plantation and Historic Site at 8:30 a.m.
Fee: $25
Ages: 12 and up 
15608

Lead Climbing EssentialsSun., May 11, 1 – 4 p.m. 
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone 
Embark on the next level of climbing mastery with our “Lead Climbing Essentials” class, tailored for those ready to elevate their skills and conquer new heights. This dynamic course delves into the intricacies of lead climbing, focusing on advanced techniques, risk management, and mental resilience.
Fee: $40
Ages: 14 and up 
16105

Gator Tales

Tues., May 13, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
James Island County Park – Park Center Parking Lot 
Join us as we search for alligators and separate fact from fiction to learn why these large reptiles carry the special title of “keystone species.” What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available at this park. The trails are paved and flat and the program speed is moderate to slow. Benches are located along the program route.

Fee: $10
Ages: 12 and up 

16025

Nature’s Soundscape: How to Really Tune In
Thursday, May 15, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center – Garden area 
Master Naturalist advanced training opportunities provide exposure and skill development in areas such as natural history, natural resource management, and nature interpretation. In order to keep a Master Naturalist certification current, you must take at least eight hours of advanced training per year. Listening to natural sounds can open new doors to experiencing the natural world, and every habitat has its own unique sounds. In this course we’ll hone our auditory skills to enhance our connection to the natural world. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available at this location. The program route is a flat loop and benches are available along the trail route. The trails are unpaved. The program speed is moderately slow and will require periods of standing and gazing upwards.
Fee: $50 
Ages: 18 and up 
16011 

Dock Discovery

Fri., May 16, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 
Palmetto Islands County Park 

Join our naturalist at the fishing dock at James Island County Park. We’ll explore the marsh edges, the organisms that live underwater on the dock itself, and even microscopic plankton that drift their way down the creek. A net specially designed to trap tiny planktonic organisms will be used and microscopes will be set up at an indoor location to allow us to view this seldom seen world. Accessible parking, accessible restrooms and water fountains are available at this park. The program’s walking pace will be slow to moderate, and the trails are paved surfaces. Tables for sitting will be available during the second half of the program.  

Fee: $9 
Ages: 12 and up 
16030

Wheel to Surf: Morning Session 1

Sun., May 17, 8 – 10:30 a.m.
Folly Beach County Park – Dunes House

This unique event provides individuals with disabilities an opportunity to experience surfing! Adaptive surfing staff from partner organizations Ocean Cure, Adaptive Surf Project, Coastal Adaptive Sports, and Adaptive Expeditions will provide instruction and assistance in a controlled environment. Participants must meet guidelines prior to registration. (Session 2 is full)

Fee: FREE
Ages: 4 and up 
15744

Adaptive Climbing Day – Adult 
Sun., May 18, 3 – 5 p.m. 
James Island County Park – Climbing Wall 
Join The Climbing Wall’s adaptive climbing monthly meetup, a supportive space designed for climbers of all abilities. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned climber, our community focuses on overcoming obstacles together, fostering personal growth, and building resilience. Adaptive climbers will find an encouraging environment that emphasizes individual strengths while embracing the thrill of climbing. Empower yourself, reach new heights, and be part of a community where every accomplishment is celebrated and everyone’s journey is valued. 
Fee: $00
Ages: 16 and up  
16361

Adaptive Climbing Day – youth
Sun., May 18, 1 – 3 p.m. 
James Island County Park – Climbing Wall 
Join The Climbing Wall’s adaptive climbing monthly meetup, a supportive space designed for climbers of all abilities. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned climber, our community focuses on overcoming obstacles together, fostering personal growth, and building resilience. Adaptive climbers will find an encouraging environment that emphasizes individual strengths while embracing the thrill of climbing. Empower yourself, reach new heights, and be part of a community where every accomplishment is celebrated and everyone’s journey is valued. 
Fee: $00
Ages: 16 and up  
16326

Basic Climbing Rescue
Sun., May 18, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone 
When things don’t go according to plan, have the skills and confidence to get you and your partner out of trouble. This class will cover basic climbing rescues for a top rope scenario. 
Fee: $40
Ages: 16 and up 
16106

Dock Discovery

Tues., May 20, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 
James Island County Park – Fishing Dock  
Join one of our naturalists at the fishing dock at James Island County Park. We’ll explore the marsh edges, the organisms that live underwater on the dock itself, and even microscopic plankton that drift their way down the creek. A net specially designed to trap tiny planktonic organisms will be used and microscopes will be set up at an indoor location to allow us to view this seldom seen world. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available at this park. A portion of this program will take place in the salt marsh on a dock. Periods of walking and observing nature are part of this program. The program’s walking pace will be slow to moderate, and the trails are paved surfaces. Tables for sitting will be available where the second half of program takes place. 

Fee: $9 
Ages: 12 and up 
16032

Seashore Exploration
Thurs., May 22, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 
Folly Beach County Park – Dunes House
Spring is a great time to explore the beach. Join an experienced naturalist to familiarize yourself with many species that may be found there. We’ll search for artifacts and living creatures along the beach such as mollusks, sponges, corals, and more. Share in the discovery by learning intriguing stories about adaptations that allow for life near the ocean.What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available near the snack bar where the program begins and ends. An accessible route to a natural sand beach is present and beach wheelchairs are available for checkout on a first-come, first served basis. This program takes place on a sandy beach and requires periods of slow walking, standing, and gazing upwards or downwards to observe wildlife.    

Fee: $10

Ages: 9 and up

16028

Seashore Exploration
Fri., May 23, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 
Beachwalker Park 
Spring is a great time to explore the beach. Join an experienced naturalist to familiarize yourself with many species that may be found there. We’ll search for artifacts and living creatures along the beach such as mollusks, sponges, corals, and more. Share in the discovery by learning intriguing stories about adaptations that allow for life near the ocean. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available near the snack bar where the program begins and ends. An accessible route to a natural sand beach is present and beach wheelchairs are available for checkout on a first-come, first served basis. This program takes place on a sandy beach and requires periods of slow walking, standing, and gazing upwards or downwards to observe wildlife.    

Fee: $10

Ages: 9 and up

16029

Beginner Birding

Sat., May 24, 9 – 11 a.m.
James Island County Park – Park Center Parking Lot 

Even the best birders were “fledglings” at one time. Join a naturalist to learn birding essentials, like proper gear and basic terminology. We’ll then take a walk to spot and identify some feathered friends. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available at this park. Trails are paved and flat and the program speed is moderate to slow. Benches are located along the program route. Periods of standing and gazing upwards to observe wildlife are part of this program.

Fee: $10

Ages: 12 and up

16012

A Handful of Pecans
Sat., May 24, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
McLeod Plantation Historic Site – Pavilion 
Join food historian and documentarian Julian Gooding as he takes you on a journey through the rich history of pecans in South Carolina. In this captivating cooking event, you’ll not only learn how to create classic Southern treats, including a mouthwatering pecan pie, but also discover the deeply rooted cultural significance of the pecan in the Lowcountry. But this event is more than just a cooking class. Julian will also share the poignant and emotional story of Ashley’s Cotton Sack. The sack belonged to a young, enslaved girl named Ashley who was sold away from her mother never to see her again. Among the meager belongings in the sack were a braid of her mother’s hair, a single dress, and a handful of pecans – an enduring symbol of love and loss. This artifact, now on display at the International African American Museum, continues to be a powerful reminder of the human cost of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit. Don’t miss this unforgettable program where food, history, and emotion come together in a celebration of South Carolina’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or both, A Handful of Pecans promises to be an inspiring and enriching experience. Join us for a taste of the past and leave with a deeper understanding of the connections between food, history, and the human experience. What to expect: This program will take place at the McLeod Plantation Historic Site Pavilion where seating is available for all participants. The program location is outside in a shaded area. A small, tasting portion of food will be provided to each participant. McLeod Plantation Historic Site has accessible parking, restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables. Trails throughout the property are of a natural, unpaved surface. Thanks to the generous support of the Charleston County Parks Foundation, this program is free. Registration is strongly recommended to guarantee you have a spot. 
Fee: $10
Ages: 16 and up 
16235