Charleston Daily Seeking all the beauty that is Charleston, South Carolina

By Mark A Leon

SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — As winter fades and azaleas burst into brilliant shades of pink and white, Summerville steps confidently into its most vibrant time of year. Known as the “Flower Town in the Pines,” this charming Lowcountry community comes alive each spring with a calendar packed full of festivals, concerts, markets, and cultural events that draw both locals and visitors alike.

From nationally recognized celebrations to intimate community gatherings, the spring season in Summerville reflects the town’s unique blend of Southern hospitality, artistic spirit, and small-town charm. Whether you’re strolling beneath blooming oaks, browsing handmade goods, or enjoying live music in the heart of downtown, there’s no shortage of ways to soak in the season.

Below is a look at 10 festivals and events you won’t want to miss this spring in Summerville:

Flowertown Festival (March 27–29, 2026)

The signature event of the season, the Flowertown Festival transforms Azalea Park into a bustling showcase of art, food, and Southern culture. Drawing more than 200,000 visitors annually, it remains one of the Southeast’s premier arts festivals.

🔗 https://www.summervilledowntown.com/events/flowertown-festival/

Third Thursday Concert Series (March–May)

Held in Hutchinson Square, this free monthly concert series invites the community to gather for live music, food trucks, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

🔗 https://summervilledream.org

Summerville Farmers Market Opening Day (April 2026)

The return of the farmers market signals the true start of spring, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and locally crafted items in the heart of downtown.

🔗 https://summervilledream.org

Summerville Wine & Food Festival (Spring 2026)

Celebrating Lowcountry flavors, this event pairs regional cuisine with curated wine selections for an elevated culinary experience.

🔗 https://www.eventsinsummerville.com

Public Works Art Center Spring Exhibits

Seasonal exhibitions and gallery events showcase local and regional artists, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers this spring.

🔗 https://publicworksartcenter.org

Azalea Park Spring Blooms & Community Events

Beyond a single event, Azalea Park serves as the scenic centerpiece of the season, hosting informal gatherings, picnics, and photo-worthy strolls among its iconic blooms.

🔗 https://summervillesc.gov

Spring Artisan Markets (Various Dates)

Pop-up markets throughout downtown and surrounding areas highlight local makers, offering everything from handcrafted goods to specialty foods.

🔗 https://www.whatsupsummerville.com

Strawberry Festivals at Local Farms (April–May)

A regional favorite, these festivals feature strawberry picking, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities just minutes from downtown.

🔗 https://lowcountrylocalfirst.org

Flowertown Players Spring Performances

Live theater rounds out the season with a slate of engaging performances, showcasing local talent and beloved productions.

🔗 https://flowertownplayers.org

A Season Worth Celebrating

With its blend of natural beauty and community-driven events, Summerville continues to define what makes springtime in the Lowcountry so special. Whether attending a major festival or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon beneath blooming azaleas, the season offers countless opportunities to connect, celebrate, and experience the best of this growing town.

As the calendar fills and the flowers reach full bloom, one thing is certain—spring in Summerville is not to be missed.

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Charleston, SC (For Immediate Release) –  PURE Theatre is proud to announce the World Premiere of a new play inspired by the lives of two now-forgotten Lowcountry artists. Written by local playwright Brad Erickson, The Ocean We Swim In uncovers haunting secrets of the past and offers a path to reconciliation. Directed by Sharon Graci, performances will run from April 16 to May 9 at the Cannon Street Arts Center. 

In the quiet of the South Carolina Lowcountry, a recently canceled art critic seeks refuge with his husband. But exile to the South Carolina marshes unexpectedly offers one last chance at redemption – if the critic is willing to take down a nearly 100-year-old local art legend to do it.

“I’m thrilled that The Ocean We Swim In is receiving its world premiere at PURE Theatre here in Charleston”, says playwright Brad Erickson. “The play is not only set in the Lowcountry, it is steeped in Lowcountry history and characters. PURE Theatre, with its long commitment to new work and expertise in bringing new plays to life, is the perfect company for this very personal play’s first production.”

The production features Michael Smallwood, Andrew Puckett, Joy Vandervort-Cobb, and R.W. Smith. 

Tickets for The Ocean We Swim In range from $47 to $53. Pay-What-You-Will performances will take place on April 16 and April 22, with tickets available for online purchase one week before opening. Student tickets are available for $15 for every performance. The production is also available through the Season 23 Flex Pass, offered in 3- or 5-ticket options that include flexible scheduling and additional perks. Tickets and Flex Passes are available now at puretheatre.org. 

Additional information about The Ocean We Swim In can be found on PURE’s website or by calling the box office at 843.723.4444 (Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm).

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ABOUT PURE THEATRE

Founded in 2003, PURE Theatre is Charleston’s award-winning professional theatre company, now in its 23rd season. Built around a resident ensemble of actors, directors, and designers, PURE produces bold contemporary plays—often Southeastern and regional premieres—that bring the most current voices in American theatre to Charleston. Known for its quality, intimacy, and consistency, PURE offers audiences a boutique cultural experience that complements the city’s historic and culinary landscape. Grounded by a five-play mainstage season, PURE also produces educational and touring programs, strengthening Charleston’s arts ecology and contributing to its reputation as a world-class cultural destination.

PURE’s staff includes Sharon Graci (Co-founder and Artistic Director), Rodney Lee Rogers (Co-founder and Director of New Media and Production), David Mandel (Associate Artistic Director), Joy Vandervort-Cobb (Associate Artistic Director), Shivam Patel (Director of Education), Meagan McMahon (Patron Experience and Marketing Manager), and Tippy Trombly (Patron Experience and Marketing Associate).

Serving on PURE Theatre’s board of directors are Stephanie Hunt (President), Brad Erickson (Vice Chair), James M. Ward, CPA (Treasurer), Michael Culler, Amy Gaffney, David Smalls, Liza Elsner, Bea Wray, and Josh Wilhoit.

Photo Credit: David Mandel

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By Mark A Leon

If you’re looking for a meaningful, creative, and distinctly Charleston experience this spring, Art Charleston is one you shouldn’t miss. Taking place April 22–26, 2026, this five-day celebration—hosted by the Gibbes Museum of Art—brings together artists, thinkers, and the community through immersive events, lectures, and hands-on experiences. 

At its core, Art Charleston is about connection—connecting people to art, to ideas, and to each other. Whether you’re a lifelong art lover or just curious, participating gives you access to behind-the-scenes perspectives, inspiring conversations, and unforgettable moments that reflect the city’s vibrant creative culture. 

Why You Should Participate

• Engage with artists and experts through panels, lectures, and workshops
• Experience Charleston’s creative energy in a uniquely immersive setting
• Support the local arts community and cultural institutions
• Discover new perspectives through visual art, design, and storytelling
• Enjoy a mix of social and educational events for all interests

🌟 Top Highlight Events

• Art of Design (April 22, 2026)
  A stylish kickoff luncheon and lecture blending art, architecture, and design
  🔗 https://www.artcharleston.org/
• Gibbes on the Street (April 23, 2026)
  A lively street party celebration with art, music, and community vibes
  🔗 https://www.artcharleston.org/
• Panels, Lectures & Tours (April 22–26, 2026)
  Daily programming connecting attendees with artists and ideas
  🔗 https://www.gibbesmuseum.org/
• Artisan Fair (April 26, 2026)
  A community market showcasing local makers and creatives
  🔗 https://www.charlestoncvb.com/events/art_charleston~24657/

Art Charleston isn’t just an event—it’s an invitation to see the world differently. In a city known for its rich culture and artistic heritage, this festival stands out as a must-attend experience that blends tradition with fresh, modern creativity. Whether you attend one event or the full lineup, you’ll walk away inspired—and maybe even looking at Charleston in a whole new way.

Photo Credit: Art Charleston

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The Citadel Board of Visitors announced today that they have selected Gen. Frank McKenzie, USMC (Ret.), ’79, to serve as the 21^st president of The Citadel.

Gen. McKenzie, one of the four finalists selected by the presidential search committee earlier this spring, is currently serving as the Executive Director of the University of South Florida’s Global and National Security Institute and the Executive Director of the Florida Center for Cybersecurity, also known as Cyber Florida.

“The Citadel is incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to bring Gen. McKenzie back to campus as the 21^st President,” said Greg Delleney, ’74, chairman of the BOV. “We had an outstanding pool of candidates and an exceptionally strong shortlist of finalists making this decision extremely difficult. Having Gen. McKenzie, with his experience as a theater commander and an academic institution leader, agree to lead The Citadel is a reflection of the outstanding institution we currently have and our bright future.”

“I am honored and humbled to come home to The Citadel,” said McKenzie. “This is where it all began for me. I look forward to giving back some of the things that were given to me during my time as a cadet. Marilyn and I are excited and energized about the opportunities ahead.”

McKenzie also said, “I would also like to take a moment to recognize the remarkable things that my classmate and friend, Gen. Glenn Walters, has done for our college. He and Gail have given it their all. I also want to thank the Board of Visitors for their faith in me. It will not be misplaced. We’re excited about getting to work!”

The BOV voted on the morning of Saturday, March 21, just as the college marked its 183^rdbirthday with the annual Corps Day celebrations. The vote for McKenzie was unanimous.

A career infantry officer, McKenzie was commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps program at The Citadel, where he majored in English. Over more than four decades of service, he held a wide range of command and staff positions, including serving as Commander of Marine Forces Central Command and Director of the Joint Staff. His final military position was as the Commander, United States Central Command where he was responsible for all US military operations in a vast area of the world covering the Middle East and South Asia.

McKenzie holds an advanced degree from The Citadel Graduate College and is a graduate of the Marine Corps Command and Staff College as well as the School of Advanced Warfighting. He was a Commandant of the Marine Corps Fellow at the National Defense University.

Since retiring from active duty, McKenzie became the Executive Director of the University of South Florida’s Global and National Security Institute in May 2022. In July 2022, he also became the Executive Director of the Florida Center for Cybersecurity, also known as Cyber Florida.

The current president of The Citadel, Gen. Glenn M. Walters, USMC (Ret.), ’79, will retire at the end of June 2026. He announced his retirement in December of last year, following nearly 50 years of service to his country and his alma mater. Under General Walters’s leadership, The Citadel has undergone significant infrastructure, academic and financial improvements. McKenzie will inherit a high-performing institution that is ranked as the #1 Regional University in the South by U.S. News & World Report. 

The new President is scheduled to begin his tenure at The Citadel on July 1, 2026.

Source: The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina

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By Mark A Leon

Charleston County’s dining and retail scene continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with several highly anticipated restaurants and shops slated to open in April and May 2026. As the Lowcountry heads into peak spring tourism season, these new concepts reflect both national trends and Charleston’s ever-growing appetite for diverse, experience-driven spaces.

One of the most talked-about openings is PopUp Bagels, a popular Northeast-based concept bringing its fresh, small-batch bagels and rotating schmears to downtown Charleston. Expected to open on Mary Street, the shop has built a cult following for its simple, high-quality approach and weekend drop-style service. 

Another exciting addition is Bareo, a Filipino-Japanese concept that blends dumplings, street food flavors, and kakigōri (Japanese shaved ice). This locally driven project highlights Charleston’s increasing embrace of global cuisine, particularly from Southeast Asia, and is expected to draw both locals and visitors looking for something new. 

Spring will also welcome a new Italian dining experience at 465 Meeting Street called V Modern Italian. The restaurant, part of a European hospitality group, is expected to debut in late spring with a modern take on Italian classics, adding to Charleston’s already strong lineup of upscale Mediterranean concepts. 

In the retail and mixed-use space, Odd Duck Market is expanding its footprint with a move into downtown Charleston. Known for its curated grocery offerings and community-focused vibe in North Charleston, the new location is expected to blend specialty retail with prepared foods—continuing the trend of hybrid market-eateries. 

Additionally, several hospitality-driven concepts tied to waterfront developments that began opening in March—such as new café, wine bar, and casual dining spots near Concord Street—will likely see full operational momentum in April and May, further energizing Charleston’s harbor front dining scene. 

Overall, spring 2026 in Charleston County signals a continued shift toward experiential dining, global flavors, and multi-use spaces that combine food, retail, and community. Whether it’s a quick bagel run, an inventive fusion meal, or a curated market experience, the region’s newest openings are poised to add fresh energy to an already vibrant culinary landscape.

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“The Next Best Thing to Shark Week!”

Charleston, South Carolina: The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network’s (LMMN) 9th annual Dolphin Week will be April 20-25, 2026. Events are family-friendly and for all experience levels. Tickets are now available for Charleston events including:

• beach yoga with Erin Gray at sunset on Breach Inlet
• sunset boating with Barrier Islands Eco Tours
• kayak tour with Coastal Expeditions at sunset
• College of Charleston staff and faculty exclusive screening of the documentary ‘Stranded’
• Happy Hour on Shem Creek – Meet the LMMN Team at Vickery’s Muddy’s Dockside Bar

Dolphin Week is one of LMMN’s largest annual fundraising events and proceeds go towards LMMN’s efforts to protect the Lowcountry’s dolphins and whales through science, awareness and conservation.

Dolphin Week culminates with Dolphin Count, on Saturday April 25. During this event, community members will volunteer together with marine mammal experts across multiple Charleston area locations to help collect valuable dolphin population data. These “community scientists” will also learn about Charleston’s local dolphins; how to raise awareness; ways to view dolphins responsibly; and help inspire the next generation of marine stewards.

“Charleston is lucky to have resident dolphins, but without conservation efforts, we all risk the loss of this amazing natural resource,” said Lauren Rust, Executive Director of the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network. “Dolphin Week and Dolphin Count are great ways to engage the community in our work with a common goal of learning about how to protect local dolphins and their environment”.

Dolphin Week and Dolphin Count activities are sponsored in part by Orca level sponsor Dominion Energy and Spinner level sponsor Everything Zen Sailing.

For a full event schedule and more information about Dolphin Week and LMMN, please visit: www.LMMN.org

• More Info on Dolphin Week link: https://www.lowcountrymarinemammalnetwork.org
• More Info on Dolphin Count here:  https://www.lowcountrymarinemammalnetwork.org/dolphin-count-1

About the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network: The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network (LMMN) is a 501(c)3nonprofit focused on protecting marine mammals in South Carolina waters. Their mission is to raise awareness about marine mammals in coastal South Carolina, educate the general public on federal regulations, and foster young stewards in ways to protect both marine mammals and their environment.

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$17.5 million investment will create 50 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. – United Composite Materials, LLC (United Composite Materials), an advanced carbon composite materials manufacturer, today announced it selects Greenville County for its first South Carolina operation. The company’s $17.5 million investment will create 50 new jobs. 

The company’s new site is located at 1446 S. Buncombe Road in Greer. United Composite Materials will use the property’s existing two facilities as specialized manufacturing plants to supply the North American sports and leisure composite markets with advanced carbon composite material.

Operations are expected to be online in July 2026. Individuals interested in joining the United Composite Materials team should visit readySC’s recruitment website for more information.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $250,000 Set-Aside grant to Greenville County to assist with the costs of building improvements. 

QUOTES

“We are excited to establish our first South Carolina manufacturing facility in Greenville County. This strategic investment allows us to be closer to our North American customers and leverage the region’s exceptional workforce. We look forward to becoming an integral part of the Greer community.” -United Composite Materials, LLC CEO Yunho Cho

“From its site availability to its skilled workforce, South Carolina leads the way in advanced manufacturing. United Composite Materials’ $17.5 million investment in Greenville County reflects the business-friendly environment found in the Palmetto State.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“With the creation of 50 new jobs, United Composite Materials’ decision to establish operations in Greenville County is a win for our state. Economic development in key industries like advanced manufacturing supports South Carolina’s continued growth and success.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are excited to welcome United Composite Materials, LLC to Greenville County and the city of Greer. This investment highlights the collaborative environment we have built to support business growth and reinforces Greenville County’s importance to South Carolina’s economy. We look forward to partnering with United Composite Materials as they grow and succeed here.” -Greenville County Council Chairman Benton Blount

FIVE FAST FACTS

• United Composite Materials, LLC (United Composite Materials) selects Greenville County for its first South Carolina operation.
• The company’s $17.5 million investment will create 50 new jobs.
• United Composite Materials is an advanced carbon composite materials manufacturer.
• The company will be located at 1446 S. Buncombe Road in Greer, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the United Composite Materials team should visit readySC’s recruitment website.

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JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. – Joint Base Charleston proudly welcomed home Airmen from the 16th Airlift Squadron last week after a successful deployment supporting global mobility operations. The returning Airmen were greeted by family, friends, and base leadership.

Throughout their deployment, the members of the 16th Airlift Squadron executed high-tempo missions, delivering critical cargo and personnel in support of joint and coalition forces. Their efforts were vital to sustaining global operations and projecting American airpower.

“We are incredibly proud of the professionalism and dedication of the aircrew, maintenance, and operations support professionals from the 16th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron,” said Colonel Patrick McClintock, Commander of the 437th Airlift Wing. “Their commitment to the mission, in the face of unprecedented airlift demands, is a testament to their character and training. We also extend our deepest gratitude to their families, whose unwavering support and sacrifice on the home front make these critical missions possible. We are thrilled to have them home, as they prepare to support ongoing operations. It is this level of dedication, across the entire team, that serves as the very backbone of our nation’s security and global readiness.”

The 16th Airlift Squadron’s mission is to equip combat-ready air crews for worldwide airlift operations, ranging from airdrop capabilities to aeromedical evacuation and humanitarian relief missions. They are a critical component of projecting power into theater drop zones and austere airfields globally.

The success of the 16th Airlift Squadron’s deployment would not have been possible without the unwavering support of their families, loved ones and community. Joint Base Charleston extends a heartfelt thank you to the families for their resilience and sacrifice. Welcome home, 16th Airlift Squadron!

Photo credit: Joint Base Charleston

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Columbia, SC – Governor Henry McMaster has named Camden native and Nashville songwriter and storyteller Patrick Davis as the Poet Laureate of South Carolina.

Established in 1934, the position of Poet Laureate is one of the state’s highest cultural honors, recognizing individuals whose work has made a lasting impact on the literary and artistic landscape of South Carolina. Appointed by the Governor, the role carries a mission to promote poetry, storytelling, and creative expression across the state.

“Throughout his career, Patrick Davis has used music and words to tell the stories of our people, and we are proud to have him represent South Carolina’s rich heritage,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “His deep South Carolina roots and talent as a songwriter and storyteller make him uniquely suited to serve as our state’s Poet Laureate.” 

Davis, whose career has been rooted in Nashville’s songwriting community, has long maintained deep ties to South Carolina. A native of Camden, his work consistently reflects the landscapes, people, and traditions that shaped him. Though based in Nashville, he and his wife, Lauren Jenkins Davis, spend significant time at their historic home in Camden and remain actively engaged in its cultural life.

“South Carolina has always been home. No matter where my stories, songs, and guitar have taken me over the years, I have always come back to her. She is in every line I write, every song I sing, and every dream I dream. This appointment is beyond humbling, and I look forward to shining a light on the poets, writers, storytellers, and voices—past, present, and future—across our state.” said Patrick Davis.

His most recent album, Carolina When I Die, serves as a direct tribute to his upbringing in Camden. Raised by a working musician, Davis was introduced early to a wide spectrum of songwriting—from The Beatles to James Taylor—and began performing alongside his father as a child. The album’s title track captures a life spent traveling and creating, while ultimately returning—both physically and spiritually—to the place he calls home.

In addition to his work as a recording artist and songwriter, Davis has played an active role in South Carolina’s cultural and civic communities. He serves on the boards of the Carolina Cup and the Colonial Cup, two of the state’s most enduring traditions, and contributes to their broader philanthropic impact through the Carolina Cup Racing Association.

Davis is also the creator and host of Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis, a South Carolina ETV series that explores the state’s rich musical heritage through intimate conversations and performances with acclaimed songwriters. The first season aired nationally on American Public Television and PBS, as well as statewide on SCETV, with a second season currently in production.

As Poet Laureate, Davis will focus on celebrating and elevating the voices of South Carolina’s poets, songwriters, and storytellers, while fostering a deeper appreciation for the written and spoken word across the state.

Photo credit: Lauren Jenkins

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Charleston field includes defending champion Jessica Pegula and two-time 2025 Grand Slam finalist Amanda Anisimova, as well as 2025 Australian Open champion Madison Keys and local standout Emma Navarro

CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Credit One Charleston Open, North America’s largest women’s-only professional tennis tournament, has released the preliminary player field for the 2026 event, taking place March 28 – April 5 on Daniel Island in Charleston, South Carolina. The preliminary main draw is highlighted by 10 top 25 players, 11 Americans, three Grand Slam singles champions and four former Charleston champions. As the kick-off event of the clay season on the WTA Tour Driven by Mercedes-Benz, the tournament was recently named the WTA 500 Tournament of the Year for the fourth consecutive year. 

Headlining the field are World No. 5 and 2025 Charleston champion Jessica Pegula, World No. 6 and two-time 2025 Grand Slam finalist Amanda Anisimova, World No. 11 and two-time Charleston semifinalist Ekaterina Alexandrova, World No. 12, 2020 Olympic Gold Medalist and 2022 Charleston champion Belinda Bencic, World No. 15, 2025 Australian Open champion and 2019 Charleston champion Madison Keys, World No. 18, 2025 Guadalajara champion and 18-year-old sensation Iva Jovic, World No. 20 and 2025 Monterrey champion Diana Shnaider and World No. 25, Lowcountry tennis standout and 2025 Merida champion Emma Navarro. 

The 2026 lineup also reflects the strength of American tennis, with 11 U.S. players entered in the main draw, including Pegula, Anisimova, Keys, Kenin and Navarro, as well as Jovic, Peyton Stearns, Hailey Baptiste, McCartney Kessler, Caty McNally and Ashlyn Krueger. 

Former champions Keys, Pegula, Bencic and Daria Kasatkina (2017) return to compete for another Charleston title.

“This year’s field reflects the strength and depth of women’s tennis right now,” said Bob Moran, President of Beemok Sports & Entertainment. “With 10 top 25 players confirmed, a strong group of American contenders and athletes representing 20 different countries, the level of competition in Charleston will be incredibly high. From established champions to emerging talent, fans can expect world-class play on the green clay of Credit One Stadium.”

Player field stats include:

• • 10 Top 25 Players: Jessica Pegula, Amanda Anisimova, Ekaterina Alexandrova, Belinda Bencic, Madison Keys, Iva Jovic, Diana Shnaider, Elise Mertens, Anna Kalinskaya and Emma Navarro
  • Four Charleston Open Champions: Jessica Pegula, Madison Keys, Belinda Bencic and Daria Kasatkina
  • Three Grand Slam Champions: Madison Keys (2025 Australian Open), Jelena Ostapenko (2017 Roland Garros), Sofia Kenin (2020 Australian Open)
  • Olympic Gold Medalist: Belinda Bencic (Tokyo) 
  • 11 American Competitors: Jessica Pegula, Amanda Anisimova, Iva Jovic, Madison Keys, Emma Navarro, Sofia Kenin, Peyton Stearns, Hailey Baptiste, McCartney Kessler, Caty McNally and Ashlyn Krueger
  • Five 2026 WTA Champions: Elisabetta Cocciaretto (Hobart), Sara Bejlek (Abu Dhabi), Jessica Pegula (Dubai), Peyton Stearns (Austin), Cristina Bucsa (Merida)
  • Five Grand Slam finalists: Jessica Pegula (2024 US Open), Amanda Anisimova (2025 Wimbledon & US Open), Madison Keys (2017 US Open), Sofia Kenin (2020 Roland Garros), Leylah Fernandez (2021 US Open)

Four additional players will join the main draw via wild card entry, to be announced at a later date. To round out the field, six players will earn entry into the main draw via qualifying competition. The nine-day Credit One Charleston Open showcases a singles draw of 48 players, a qualifying draw of 24 players, and a doubles draw of 16 players. The event hosts more than 90,000 attendees on Daniel Island. 

“For more than 50 years, the Credit One Charleston Open has been an important part of the clay court season and the growth of women’s professional tennis,” said Moran. “As North America’s largest women’s-only professional tournament, we’ve built a strong tradition of competition and community here in Charleston. We’re grateful to Credit One Bank for its continued support of our players and its commitment to equal prize money. In 2026, we’re excited to award equal prize money for the first time, with total player compensation reaching $2.5 million – an important step for our event and the athletes who compete here each spring.”

As the kickoff event of the WTA Tour’s clay season, the Credit One Charleston Open is held annually at Credit One Stadium and was named WTA 500 Tournament of the Year in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025. In April, Credit One Bank extended its title partnership through 2031 and announced the tournament will offer $2.5 million in equal prize money beginning in 2026, marking a significant milestone for the event. The increase reflects the bank’s commitment to advancing investment and opportunity in women’s sports and further positions Charleston as a leader on the WTA Tour Driven by Mercedes-Benz. With this move, the Credit One Charleston Open became the first standalone WTA 500 tournament to voluntarily raise prize money. 

The Credit One Charleston Open has been a pioneer in women’s professional sports since 1973, paving the way for female tennis players to receive equal recognition, respect and compensation in the sport. The tournament has a long history of breaking new ground in tennis, having been the first women’s tennis event to offer $100,000 in prize money in 1973 and the first to be broadcast live on network television. The inaugural champion, Rosie Casals, received a check for $30,000, which was the largest prize money payout awarded to a woman that year. Originally held on Hilton Head Island, the event relocated to Charleston in 2001 and is now played at the LTP Daniel Island tennis center, home to Credit One Stadium. 

The Credit One Charleston Open has launched its Fan Hub, a centralized destination for all on-site experiences and tournament happenings. Beyond world-class tennis, fans can enjoy nine days of elevated dining, theme nights, live music and interactive programming, highlighted by the debut of a new eatery on-site, The Kitchen, and a signature Oyster Roast on Saturday, March 28, featuring all-you-can-eat oysters during qualifying weekend. Special event tickets are on sale now at creditonecharlestonopen.com or by calling (843) 856-7900, in addition to a variety of single-session and package options available. Special discounts are available for juniors, seniors, USTA members and military members. Juniors aged 16 and under receive complimentary general admission with the purchase of an adult ticket, courtesy of Credit One Bank.

Charleston Tennis, LLC, which manages Credit One Stadium under a lease from the City of Charleston, renovated and modernized the 20-year-old facility in 2022. The city-owned venue underwent upgrades to enhance the stadium experience for patrons, performers, tennis players and event management, allowing the venue to attract world-class athletes and talent to Daniel Island.