It’s a big week for the Holy City; Spoleto Festival USA begins, and for 17 days and nights, the city’s spaces will be filled with performances from national + international performers.
The City of Charleston’s corresponding Piccolo Spoleto will kick off this Friday, May 24, and will celebrate local + regional talent through Sunday, June 9.
Keep reading for a snapshot of some of the Piccolo Spoleto events. Pro tip: Most events are free.
Sunset Serenade with the Charleston Symphony | Friday, May 24 | 8 p.m.
A festival tradition, this concert will take place on the steps of the landmark US Custom House (200 E. Bay St.)
Memorial Day Concert at Hampton Park | Monday, May 27 | 3 p.m.
This annual tradition showcases the Charleston Concert Band and the Columbia Community performing marches, Broadway show tunes, and a musical tribute to each of the armed forces.
Sand Sculpting Competition at IOP | Saturday, June 1 | 9 a.m.
You can compete or be a spectator at this sandy event — for those competing, there will be prizes in different categories.
Charleston Gospel Choir | Saturday, June 8 | 6 p.m.
For this year’s festival, the Charleston Gospel Choir will present a “Tribute to the Queen of Soul + Gospel: Aretha Franklin” at Mt. Zion AME (5 Glebe St.) Tickets range from $12-$25.
Marion Square Jam | Saturday, June 8 + Sunday, June 9 | 12-5 p.m.
Don’t miss two days of music. There will be twelve acts over two days.
Outdoor Art Exhibition | Friday, May 24- Saturday, June 8 | Times vary
Stroll through Marion Square, which is transformed into a market featuring 57 creative local and regional artists exhibiting and selling their work.
