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
Movie Nights on the Village Green
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. Come early and enjoy Bingo from 6:30-7:30pm!
Music on the Green
On Friday nights from June to August, 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. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.
Swim Across America
Swim Across America hosts .5-mile and 1.5-mile open water charity swims in Kiawah Island each summer. All levels of swimmers are invited to participate. All participation fees benefit local cancer research at Hollings Cancer Center at the Medical University of South Carolina.
Fall Events
Bohicket Marina Run
The Bohicket Marina Run was founded in 2010 to provide the Low Country running community with a high quality 5K & 10K event. The course is unmatched in its beauty with breathtaking views of the sea island marshes, Atlantic Ocean and canopy of historic trees. Runners are treated to sightings of island deer, exotic birds and numerous native wildlife. The equestrian center offers interaction with local horses that have been known to run alongside the runners (on their side of the fence of course) returning to the finish line. Come join us for a great run and breathtaking view from Seabrook Island!
Steeplechase of Charleston
Another Fall favorite is Steeplechase of Charleston. Bring your friends and family for a splendid day spent outdoors watching world-class horse racing! In between the races, take advantage of early holiday shopping by visiting our Merchant Market filled with the best of Lowcountry artisans and businesses, enjoy live entertainment on the stage, offerings from local food trucks, and more. November 10, 2024
Winter Events
Cork Shuckin’ Festival
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.
BBQ, Bluegrass, & Bourbon
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 listening to live local musicians, guests can enjoy food trucks like Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ 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
Spring Music on the Green
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 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. Check the Freshfields Village website for more information on dates.
Blues by the Sea
Freshfields Village proudly hosts Blues by the Sea each April. Hosted by the Cultural Events Fun of the Town of Kiawah Island, enjoy this complimentary blues show on the Village Green for fun for the whole family! Guests are encouraged to bring coolers, blankets, and chairs.
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.