A Family’s Guide to Kid-Friendly Events in Charleston, SC

Charleston is home to way more than its historic charm—it also offers a calendar full of recurring activities geared toward families with young children. If you're considering relocating with kids, understanding what everyday life offers is just as important as knowing the housing market. This guide outlines ongoing family events that help new residents feel at home quickly.

Weekend Activities the Whole Family Can Enjoy

Charleston's weekend options provide accessible entertainment for families exploring the area. The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry holds interactive Saturday programs for preschool and elementary-aged children. Nearby Waterfront Park often becomes a gathering place for relaxed afternoons, with splash fountains and open green spaces. Seasonal carousel rides and food trucks add variety depending on the time of year. Whether you're new to the region or touring homes nearby, weekend routines help establish familiarity.

Parents can also bring kids to the Charleston Farmers Market on Saturdays at Marion Square, where live music and local snacks provide more than just groceries. The market hosts seasonal features such as face painting and puppet shows that rotate throughout the year. Outdoor seating allows families to relax together before continuing their day. These activities provide a sense of rhythm and reliability for newcomers trying to establish new routines. 

Seasonal Highlights: Festivals, Parades, and Family Fairs

Charleston’s calendar includes kid-friendly festivals spread throughout the year, creating built-in traditions for newcomers. The Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park features drive-through light displays and train rides that return each winter. Spring welcomes the Lowcountry Strawberry Festival, which includes carnival rides, climbing walls, and petting zoos. Families relocating in the fall can take part in harvest-themed events like the Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch. Each event connects new residents to the broader community.

Several annual parades also include segments specifically created for younger audiences. During the Charleston Christmas Parade, children can watch local schools, dancers, and musicians line the streets in a family-friendly setting. The MOJA Arts Festival, held each fall, celebrates African-American and Caribbean culture through food, art, and music, with specific programming for kids. Parents can plan around these recurring events to help ease transitions into a new home and school schedule. 

Educational and Enriching Events for Curious Young Minds

For families interested in expanding their children’s learning beyond the classroom, Charleston delivers consistent options. The South Carolina Aquarium regularly offers behind-the-scenes access, animal feedings, and early learning activities for younger visitors. Storytimes at Charleston County Libraries often include crafts and interactive themes tied to local culture and wildlife. Weekend workshops at the Gibbes Museum of Art cater to creative exploration, especially for elementary-aged kids. These activities help parents integrate enrichment into daily or weekly routines.

During school breaks, several organizations host camps and pop-ups that continue academic momentum through hands-on learning. The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry provides rotating STEM and art programming, keeping kids engaged during downtime. Meanwhile, the College of Charleston’s Youth Programs occasionally open limited sessions focused on music and environmental studies. Each program gives children a chance to meet peers and build connections. 

Local Parks and Nature-Based Programming for Kids

Charleston County’s parks are more than picnic spots—they double as year-round activity centers for children. James Island County Park features climbing walls, paddleboats, and a seasonal water play area. Hampton Park, near downtown, offers wide-open fields perfect for free play and often hosts outdoor learning events. Nature-based programs like Buggy Walks introduce children to local wildlife in an approachable way. These park experiences often serve as informal gathering spaces for families.

Parents interested in routine outdoor programs can explore options like the Junior Naturalist Program, which introduces environmental topics through hikes and wildlife observation. Monthly meetups are common at parks such as Caw Caw Interpretive Center, which offers themed walks and field journals for school-aged kids. These recurring activities help children better understand the Lowcountry’s ecosystem while giving families regular outings to look forward to. 

Family-Friendly Concerts, Movie Nights, and Outdoor Series

Evening events in Charleston cater to all ages without sacrificing comfort or safety. Movies in the Park, hosted in various neighborhoods, provides open-air screenings with family-oriented titles. Bring a blanket and snacks, and enjoy films ranging from animated classics to modern comedies. The city also sponsors Second Sunday on King Street, which turns the street pedestrian-only for live music and local vendors. Families often stroll, enjoy street performers, and discover new favorites together.

Charleston’s seasonal concert series often includes early evening shows suitable for younger attendees. Venues such as Charleston Harbor Resort and Riverfront Park schedule family hours or open lawn seating ideal for large groups. Local food trucks and vendor markets usually accompany these performances. Parents seeking regular outings that fit early bedtimes often find these recurring events helpful for scheduling. 

Getting to Know the Community Through Kids’ Sports and Clubs

Youth sports leagues and after-school programs offer structured ways for kids to build friendships and routines in a new environment. Mount Pleasant Recreation Department and City of Charleston Youth Sports offer programs like soccer, baseball, and flag football year-round. These leagues are open to newcomers and often emphasize fundamentals over competition. Parents can sign up for seasons in advance, ensuring consistent involvement. For families new to the area, this structure can be grounding.

Beyond sports, clubs like Charleston County 4-H and Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina hold regular meetings and community service projects. Libraries and local rec centers also run coding workshops, Lego clubs, and chess meetups for different age groups. These programs help families make personal connections beyond the classroom. Living close to these activities can simplify logistics and enhance engagement. 

Conclusion

Charleston provides a variety of recurring events and activities that support young children and their families. From creative workshops and outdoor adventures to festivals and sports leagues, the city accommodates a wide range of interests. If you're considering relocating, these family-friendly experiences can help make the transition smoother and more enjoyable.

Family-Friendly Events in Charleston, SC FAQs

What are some free things to do with kids in Charleston?

Charleston offers several no-cost activities for families with children. Waterfront Park, Hampton Park, and the Charleston County Public Library system frequently host free events like storytimes and outdoor play. Seasonal festivals and the Second Sunday on King Street also provide free entertainment options for families exploring the area.

Are there ongoing indoor activities for kids in Charleston?

Yes, families can explore indoor options throughout the year. The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, the South Carolina Aquarium, and local libraries all offer consistent indoor programs. These spaces are helpful for hot summers or rainy days when outdoor activities are limited.

Do Charleston public schools organize any community events?

Local schools often participate in neighborhood events or host their own. From open houses to student performances, many of these are open to residents. Families interested in learning about schools through firsthand experiences often find these helpful when evaluating neighborhoods.

Are there kid-friendly events near the beaches?

Yes, beach communities like Folly Beach and Isle of Palms frequently host events that welcome children. Seasonal outdoor movie nights, sandcastle contests, and environmental learning days are commonly held. These activities are great for families considering homes near the coast.

How easy is it to find childcare at local events?

Larger events like festivals and museum programming sometimes offer supervised activities for kids. While drop-off childcare isn't common at most public gatherings, many events are designed for co-attendance by parents and children. Families should review each venue’s policy ahead of time to plan accordingly.