How To Take Advantage of These 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 about 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.
Discover These Top 5 Annual Events on Kiawah Island
Summer Events in Freshfields Village
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.
Tri-Kiawah
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.
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.
Charleston Events
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 in January or February, Southeastern Wildlife Exposition in March, and the Volvo Car Open in March or April. 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.
If you’re interested in staying in downtown Charleston during one of these events, check out the brand-new Hotel Bella Grace located in the heart of downtown Charleston just moments away from many of these event venues.
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.