Annual Events on Kiawah Island
Aside from the stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and delicious food, the annual events on Kiawah Island are one of the best parts of visiting the Lowcountry. If you’re visiting in the winter, you’ll get a taste of the area’s freshest oysters during one of the many oyster roasts. Come summertime, Kiawah is filled with exciting outdoor events, including movie nights under the stars and outdoor concerts.
As you begin to plan your trip to Kiawah Island, be sure to request our complimentary Destination Guide. Inside, you’ll discover insider tips on the best activities and restaurants as well as even more Kiawah Island annual events. Countless travelers have used our guide to plan the perfect island getaway.
Summer Events to Enjoy
Each summer, Freshfields Village kicks off two weekly events perfect for travelers and locals of all ages. On Wednesday nights beginning at 8 p.m., pack blankets and chairs before heading to the village for Starlight Cinema, a movie night under the stars. Check the monthly calendar to find out which movie is playing each week. On Friday nights, you can hang out in the village for the weekly Music on the Green. Beginning at 6 p.m., this concert series welcomes local and regional bands take the stage for a night of live music.
Fall Events
An annual sporting event held each fall, the Tri-Kiawah triathlon challenges athletes to complete a 0.7-mile swim, 25.1-mile bike ride, and a 6.1-mile run. This event is considered intermediate level, so it may not be too much of a challenge for very experienced triathletes, but anyone looking to test their skills will enjoy this race. Beginning at Night Heron Park near the Heron Park Nature Center, the trail takes participants through Kiawah’s unique landscape from marshland to the sandy shores of the beach.
Fall is Oktoberfest season but when you’re just not quite ready to be done with the fun, the team over at Cassique typically hosts a Biergarten Bash in early October to keep the flavor and good times rolling. Between 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm, the Biergarten Bash at Cassique welcomes guests to come on in and enjoy an impressive buffet showcasing some truly mouthwatering German fare. Culinary delights on the menu include chicken schnitzel and homemade bratwurst to pretzels paired with German beers and signature cocktails too. The atmosphere is festive and open to visitors of all ages. Those 21 and over can enjoy the Biergarten Bash for $85 while those 13 to 20 can make the most of the experience for just $55. If you’re heading this way with little ones 3 to 12, be prepared to pay $30 at the door.
Winter Events
The Lowcountry is famous for its oysters, so come oyster season the area is a marathon of oyster roasts. Held every year in February at Deep Water Vineyard on Wadmalaw Island, the Cork Shuckin’ Festival is just a 30-minute drive from the Andell Inn. Get a taste of the local seafood while trying wine from the region’s only vineyard. Bring the whole family to listen to live music or let the kids play on the swings, bouncy house, and other activities. A portion of the proceeds is donated to a local charity or school.
In March, you’ll want to be sure to add the BBQ, Bluegrass, & Bourbon event to your to-do list between 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm. This Freshfields Village and Garden & Gun event is designed to celebrate three spectacular Southern staples of BBQ, Bluegrass and bourbon in good company. Guests are invited to make their way to the Village Green to sample the fare and enjoy live music in a festive atmosphere. There will be plenty of local food trucks on-site as well as bourbon cocktails that you simply won’t want to miss. FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen will have two bars set up for BBQ, Bluegrass & Bourbon as well as a kiosk with specialty beverages to sample. Kiawah Spirits will also be on hand to offer up tastes of Blade and Bow Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey starting at 3:00 pm. While The Lowhills take to the stage, guests can enjoy food trucks like Southern Roots Smokehouse and Swig & Swine BBQ. There’s no cost to register for this event and food and drink options on-site can be paid for with cash or credit.
Spring Events
While summer welcomes Music on the Green, those looking to enjoy a performance before the end of May kickoff can enjoy the Spring Music on the Green event on March 29, 2024, starting at 6:00 pm. It’s a chance for locals and visitors alike to celebrate the arrival of spring with a special concert at the Village Green. Be sure to bring your beach chair and blanket to settle in for an unforgettable performance by The Coppertones.
If you’re a traveler looking for a refreshing way to enjoy spring on Kiawah Island, the Core & Stretch series offered through Kiawah Recreation is always a great choice. For $25, participants can head over to the Sanctuary Beach Access on April 11 between 7:00 am and 8:00 am to join instructors on the sand for a bodyweight-based core class. This is followed by a relaxing stretch session to leave your muscles feeling great and leave you feeling ready to conquer the day ahead. The class is open to those 13 and up and while mats are provided, it’s recommended that you bring water and sunscreen along.
Charleston Favorites
Aside from all the outstanding events around Kiawah Island, there are tons of annual events that take place in Charleston. Embark on a 45-minute drive into the city to enjoy some of the area’s top events including Charleston Wine + Food, Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, and the Volvo Car Open. Perhaps the area’s biggest event, Spoleto Festival USA is the American version of the Italian arts celebration. For 17 days, the city hosts hundreds of events centered around visual arts, theater, dance, music, and more.
Unwind at the Andell Inn
When you stay at the Andell Inn, you’ll have access to everything you need in Freshfields Village from spas and salons to restaurants and boutique shops. Our luxurious inn offers top-notch amenities including a saltwater pool, porch bar and cabana area, and 24-hour front desk service. Planning to stay for more than a few days? Take advantage of our guest laundry services!
For those who desire all the comforts of home with the ambiance of an upscale hotel, our one- and two-bedroom suites are designed to provide just that. Prepare your own meals in the full-size kitchen with an oven, stovetop, fridge, and dishwasher. After a long day of exploring the island, unwind in the large living areas.
Browse our complete catalog of available rooms and start planning your trip to Kiawah Island today! We can’t wait to help make your getaway unforgettable.