Save the Dates: May 2024 Festivals and Events at Charleston County Parks
MAY 2024 Festivals & Events
Moonlight Mixer
Friday, May 3, 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: $10
Ages: 4 and up
https://www.ccprc.com/1618/Moonlight-Mixers
Inclusive Superhero Dance
Wednesday, May 8, 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
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Cheers on the Pier
Thursday, May 9, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Mount Pleasant Pier
Wrap up your workday on the Mount Pleasant Pier with live music, craft beer, good friends, and a gorgeous sunset. No admission fee. Blankets and chairs are welcome, as seating is limited.
Fee: FREE
https://ccprc.com/3286/Cheers-on-the-Pier
Starlight Yoga
Thursday, May 9, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Trailhead at 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: $10
Ages: 10 and up
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Cast Off Fishing Tournament
Saturday, May 11, 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
Cheers on the Pier
Thursday, May 16, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Mount Pleasant Pier
Wrap up your workday on the Mount Pleasant Pier with live music, craft beer, good friends, and a gorgeous sunset. No admission fee. Blankets and chairs are welcome, as seating is limited.
Fee: FREE
https://ccprc.com/3286/Cheers-on-the-Pier
Cast Off Fishing Tournament
Saturday, May 25, 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
Reggae Nights Summer Concert
Friday, May 31, 7:30 – 11 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
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 p.m. Visit charlestoncountyparks.com or call (843) 795-4386 for more information.
Fee: $20
Ages: any
https://www.ccprc.com/1619/Reggae-Nights
May 2024 Programs
Early Morning Bird Walks at Caw Caw
Ongoing on Wednesdays and Saturdays: May 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, and 29, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Advance registration is required. Join us on one or more of our regular bird walks. Our trek through many distinct habitats will allow us to view and discuss a variety of birds, butterflies, and other organisms.
Fee: $9 per person
Yoga For Climbers
Wednesdays, May 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, 5:30 – 7 p.m.
James Island County Park – Edisto Hall
Join Charlie in this Hatha yoga class specially designed for climbers. In this class we will experiment with body position and the application of force to develop muscle memory and effective breathing practice. We will move at a slow to moderate pace focusing on a healthy range of motion and sustainable form. The goal is to learn to think critically about our body’s position so that we can problem solve/improvise while rock climbing.
Fee: $15
Ages: 18 and up
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Beginners Night at the Climbing Wall
Thursday, May 2, 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. It’s not just an introduction; it’s a vibrant and welcoming kickoff to your climbing journey. Registration includes harness and shoe rental.
Fee: $15
Ages: 18 and up
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Gullah Burial Practices
Saturday, May 4, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
McLeod Plantation Historic Site
Gullah spiritual practices have a long and rich history. Activities at funerals or a “homegoing” have special meanings that extend back to West Africa. Join us as we explore the meaning behind the burial practices and traditions. Participants will take a brief tour through the cemetery. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available at the Welcome Center. A portion of the tour will take place in a densely vegetated cemetery with narrow, uneven trails made of natural, unpaved surfaces. The tour pace is slow and requires periods of standing, bending over, and squatting.
Fee: $10
Ages: 16 and up
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Drawn to Nature: Observing Birds
Saturday, May 4, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
In Drawn to Nature explore new artistic techniques, develop your observation skills, and connect with the natural world through nature journaling. In this session, practice both patience and quick thinking while observing and drawing birds at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Bring your preferred journal and we’ll provide the rest. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available at this location. The park includes natural, unpaved trails that are mostly flat. The program route is a loop and benches are available along the trail route. The program speed is moderately slow to medium.
Fee: $7
Ages: 8 to 18
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Gator Tales
Saturday, May 4, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
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
Essentials of Kayaking
Saturday, May 4, 11, 18, and 25, 2 – 5 p.m.
James Island County Park – Boat Launch
Discover the joy of embracing a new sport with ease and pleasure. Dive into our entry-level course, where you’ll explore a diverse range of boats and acquire fundamental techniques and strokes, enabling you to relish your time on the water with absolute enjoyment!
Fee: $50
Ages: 16 and up
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Climbing Anchors 101
Sunday, May 5, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
Embark on a hands-on exploration to enhance your climbing expertise with our “Anchors 101” class. Tailored for climbers transitioning from the gym to outdoor climbing, this session, led by seasoned instructors, delves into the intricacies of constructing robust anchors. Dive into practical lessons on gear selection, knot tying, and creating dependable anchors to confidently support your outdoor climbs. Whether you’re refining your anchor-building skills or venturing outdoors for the first time, this class offers valuable insights and practical techniques to enrich your climbing experiences. Join us for an engaging session, where you’ll uncover the secrets of crafting reliable anchors and feel empowered to scale new heights in the great outdoors.
Fee: $40
Ages: 16 and up
Belay Basics
Sunday, May 5 and 19, 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. Gear up and get ready to elevate your climbing skills!
Fee: $25
Ages: 14 and up
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Climbing Technique Essentials
Sunday, May 5 and 19, 12:30 – 2 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
Step into the vertical realm with our “Climbing Technique Essentials” class designed for beginners. Immerse yourself in the art of climbing technique, honing precise footwork and mastering optimal body positioning. Whether conquering indoor walls or venturing outdoors, our expert instructors will skillfully guide you through efficient movement, empowering you to navigate routes with finesse. Join a supportive community, unlock the secrets of climbing technique, and elevate your skills to new heights in this exhilarating class.
Fee: $25
Ages: 14 and up
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ClimbStrong!: Strength & Conditioning for Rock Climbers
Wednesday, May 8, 6 – 7 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
Elevate your climbing game with our “ClimbStrong!: Strength & Conditioning for Rock Climbers” class, a dynamic fusion of bodyweight, free weight, and hangboarding exercises designed to amplify strength and resilience for rock climbers. Led by experienced instructors, this class offers a focused and efficient approach to target key muscle groups essential for climbing success. Whether you’re a beginner seeking foundational strength or an experienced climber aiming to enhance performance, ClimbStrong is your pathway to conquering ascents with newfound power and confidence.
Fee: $20
Ages: 16 and up
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Lighthouse Inlet Bird Walk
Friday, May 10, 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. This site 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 more.
Fee: $9
Ages 12 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
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Caw Caw: Walking on History
Saturday, May 11, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
The Stono Rebellion, the largest uprising of people who were enslaved in the British colonies, took place in 1739 within a 15-mile radius of the Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Come and walk on the actual ground where a key event in the rebellion occurred. After the tour, a discussion of the event and the implications will be held. The Stono Rebellion changed the face of slavery and the consequences of the uprising centered the Gullah Geechee community. Join us for this very special walk. 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.
Fee: $10
Ages: 15 and up
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Gator Tales
Saturday, May 11, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Wannamaker County Park – Outdoor Zone
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
Basic Climbing Rescue
Sunday, May 12, 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
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Lead Climbing Essentials
Sunday, May 12, 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. Our expert instructors will guide you through the fundamentals of clipping, rope management, and route reading, preparing you to take the lead on both indoor and outdoor climbs. Join a community of aspiring lead climbers, push your boundaries, and experience the exhilaration of ascending vertical challenges with confidence. Gear up for a transformative journey into the world of lead climbing, where each ascent becomes a personal triumph! In order to gain the most knowledge from this class, you should be able to climb a 5.9 route.
Fee: $40
Ages: 14 and up
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Intro to Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Folly River
Sunday, May 12 and 26, 8 – 11 a.m.
Folly River Boat Landing at Off-Site Location
This course offers a progression of skill and knowledge development for paddling at the coast. We will begin in the calmer waters of Folly River and work towards introducing ourselves into a moderate ocean environment. The course is designed to introduce basic coastal kayaking skills and safety to beginners.
Fee: $45
Ages: 16 and up
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Lowcountry Senior Series: Essentials of Stand Up Paddleboard
Tuesday, May 14 and 28, 9 – 11 a.m.
James Island County Park – Boat Launch
This program empowers adults 50+ to continue to explore, discover, and grow.Explore and learn new activities through kayaking on the James Island County Park lake to keep you young at heart. We will cover the essentials of kayaking including basic rescues to increase your sense of independence and meet others with similar interests. For more information about our Paddlesports programs, click here: https://www.ccprc.com/107/Paddlesports
Fee: $40
Ages: 50 and up
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Understanding the Rice Culture
Saturday, May 18, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
To talk about land in the Lowcountry is an automatic invite to talk about rice, who grew it, where it came from and the how cultivation changed the landscape in ways that are still evident today. Caw Caw Interpretive Center provides one of the best local looks in the Lowcountry. What to expect: Accessible parking, restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables are available at the Welcome Center where the program begins and ends. The park includes natural, unpaved trails that are mostly flat. The program route is a loop and benches are available along the trail route. The program speed is moderately slow and includes periods of standing.
Fee: $10
Ages: 16 and up
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Dawn Patrol Adult SUP Surf Camp
Tuesday, May 21 – Friday, May 24, 6:30 – 8 a.m., 1 week-session
Off-Site – Folly River Boat Landing
Greet the mornings with a surf session led by a certified instructor. Hone your skills and appreciation for the sport and culture over the course of a week. But be careful, this could be habit forming!
Fee: $175
Ages: 16 and up
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Lowcountry Senior Series: Essentials of Kayaking
Tuesday, May 21, 9 – 11 a.m.
James Island County Park – Boat Launch
This program empowers adults 50+ to continue to explore, discover, and grow.Explore and learn new activities through kayaking on the James Island County Park lake to keep you young at heart. We will cover the essentials of kayaking including basic rescues to increase your sense of independence and meet others with similar interests. For more information about our Paddlesports programs, click here: https://www.ccprc.com/107/Paddlesports
Fee: $50
Ages: 50 and up
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Nature’s Soundscape: How to Really Tune In
Thursday, May 23, 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
Drop-In Dawn Patrol
Friday, May 24, 6:30 – 8 a.m., 1 week-session
Folly Beach County Park
Alumni of SUP Dawn Patrol, treat yourself to some fun by dropping into some waves. Extend your journey from previous sessions with this open session format. Hone your skills and meet others that will give you the confidence to continue catching waves and grow as a SUP surfer.
Fee: $40
Ages: 16 and up
Tones at Twilight
Friday, May 24, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Have you ever wondered about sounds from the natural world? Join a Master Naturalist instructor to figure some of them out. We will listen for owls, frogs, and other creatures awake during the twilight hours. 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.
Fee: $10
Ages: 12 and up
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