There’s always a party happening in the Lowcountry! From oyster roasts to wildlife expositions, there are Isle of Palms events for everyone’s interests. Join us any time of year to celebrate what makes our area so special. Enjoy festivals centered around food, friends, and fun! Some of our favorite annual events in the Lowcountry take place just a stone’s throw away from our rental homes on Isle of Palms.
When you’re ready to start planning, request a copy of our free Isle of Palms Vacation Guide! This resource provides more local insight into what’s happening during your stay.
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Local-Approved Isle of Palms Events
Lowcountry Oyster Festival | January
Like New Englanders to lobster rolls, Lowcountry locals love their oysters! Our location on the Atlantic makes Charleston a great place to taste fresh-catch oysters. Chargrilled, fried, or however you like them, you can find nearly any style of prepared oyster in the Lowcountry.
Come out and see what our love for this seafood is all about the annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival at Boone Hall Plantation. It’s the largest oyster festival in the world and takes place at the end of each January to benefit various local charities. Participate in oyster shucking and eating contests, sing along to live music and more!
Southeastern Wildlife Exposition | February
Do you love wildlife? From exotic reptiles to agility dogs, there’s so much to learn and observe at the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, known locally as SEWE. Since 1983, this Lowcountry favorite has grown to become the largest event of its kind, with more than 40,000 guests each year! This weekend-long event features art exhibits, wildlife demonstrations, and more. The most famous event is the DockDogs® competition, in which skilled agility canines soar through the air.
Charleston Food & Wine Festival | March
Dining is the cornerstone of almost any visit to the Lowcountry. Our area is known for Southern staples like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried seafood. The Charleston Food & Wine Festival celebrates masterful iterations of these classics, as well as brand-new dishes crafted by the most talented chefs in the nation. Enjoy cooking demonstrations, sink your teeth into culinary creations, and more! This event is great for the foodie in all of us! There are a variety of ticket options, so be sure to browse and see what best suits you. Be warned, though, this event sells out fast! So, don’t wait to plan your trip to Charleston for this event.
Cooper River Bridge Run | April
The Cooper River Bridge Run is hosted annually and aptly appointed the tagline “Get Over It.” This 10K run and 4.4-mile walk begins in Mt. Pleasant, crosses the Cooper River Bridge, and ends in historic downtown Charleston. Attendance increases yearly, and you are invited to join the more than 30,000 participants that turned out last year.
Isle of Paws Music Fest | May
This May, join us for live music performances, pet-related vendors and services, delicious food trucks, and dog contests with prizes. Bring your lawn chair and your appetite for an afternoon of good music and food in the park. Pets are welcome at Isle of Paws Music Fest!
Spoleto Festival USA | May-June
Historic Charleston is the host of the annual Spoleto Festival USA. With an array of artistic performances, there is something for everyone. Enjoy opera, jazz, theater, orchestral, chamber, contemporary music, literary, and visual arts, filling the theaters and halls of the area during this extraordinary two-week event. Delight yourself in the arts!
4th of July Fireworks | July
Prepare for our annual Independence Day spectacular on the Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, and Patriots Point. There are several places to watch fireworks as they light up the night sky over the coast.
MOJA Arts Festival | September – October
The MOJA Arts Festival highlights the many African-American and Caribbean contributions to Western and world cultures. MOJA’s wide range of events includes visual arts, classical music, dance, gospel, jazz, poetry, R&B music, storytelling, theatre, children’s activities, traditional crafts, local foods, and more. In addition to its myriad arts presentations, MOJA also includes an active educational outreach component of workshops in public schools and senior centers.
The Fall Tours | October-November
Stroll under the lights of Charleston’s doorways during the Preservation Society of Charleston’s Annual Fall Tours of Architecture, History, and Gardens. By joining the tour, you are helping to promote the preservation of Charleston’s architecture, history, and culture.
Annual Holiday Festival of Lights | November-December
Over the years, the Holiday Festival of Lights has become a must-see event. This annual event started in 1990 with only 18 light displays. Today, there are over two million lights and 600 light displays. The Holiday Festival of Lights has become a Lowcountry tradition for many families. Enjoy the train ride, sand sculpture, the carousel, and the enchanted forest.
Stay Near the Excitement at East Islands Rentals
Our rental homes are an excellent option for anyone who wants to attend these Isle of Palms events. Enjoy a luxurious stay in a home with beachfront views, cozy amenities, and a convenient location near downtown Charleston, where all the best events occur!
Browse a complete inventory of East Islands Rental’s homes to start planning your Lowcountry getaway!