The group works to help keep our parks beautiful. | Photo provided by the Charleston Parks Conservancy
After a year of community work in 2024, including major renovations at historic Wragg Square, Tiedemann Park, and Vangie Rainsford Park, the Charleston Parks Conservancy — a nonprofit dedicated to connecting the Charleston community with its parks while preserving and enhancing public green spaces — is looking ahead to its 2025 initiatives. Keep reading to explore some of their key projects.
Key projects include:
Completion of the Colonial Lake Revitalization | In collaboration with renowned designer and horticulturalist Molly Hendry, the conservancy is transforming this beloved park. A ribbon-cutting is planned for October 2025.
Providing fresh produce | Following the establishment of the Mulberry Food Forest last year, the conservancy aims to provide fresh, organic produce to families facing food insecurity.
Enhancing park resiliency and sustainability | Will implement bioswales, rain gardens, and natural berms in vulnerable areas across its 26 parks, gardens, and trails to help with flood and extreme weather.
New revitalization Project | Initial planning and development will begin for the revitalization of Hazel Parker Park on East Bay Street, with a strong focus on community involvement.
Tuesday, Jan. 21 January Book Club | 6:15-8:30 p.m. | The Junction Kitchen & Provisions, North Charleston | $65 | Immerse yourself in a discussion of “Tehrangeles” while enjoying an original three-course meal inspired by the book’s themes
Wednesday, Jan. 22 Block Printing at the Aquarium | 6-8 p.m. | South Carolina Aquarium | $25+ | Learn how to carve your own design and test out your print-making skills.
Thursday, Jan. 23 Swipe Right Night: An Event for Singles | 6-9 p.m. | Firefly Distillery, North Charleston | $15 | Get ready for a lively evening of mingling, tasty food, cocktails, and a speed dating experience.
Friday, Jan. 24 Charleston Boat Show | Through Sunday, Jan. 26 | 10 a.m. | Charleston Area Convention Center, North Charleston | $12+ | Don’t miss this annual event that includes everything from powerboats to small jon boats, skiffs, cruisers, pontoons, yachts, and ski boats.
Will the Holy City see snow? We can’t stop checking the forecast, which hints at the possibility of frosty flurries later in the day. We’ll keep our fingers crossed.
State
$1.3 billion. That’s how much the South Carolina Research Authority — a nonprofit that aims to “fuel SC’s innovation economy by accelerating technology-enabled growth of academia, entrepreneurship, and industry” — contributed to the state in 2024, which supported ~6,700 SC-based jobs. (Upstate Business Journal)
Eat
Tickets are available for A Foxy Feast on Tuesday, Feb. 4, hosted by Austen Kroll and Craig Conover at By The Way. The four-course dinner features wine pairings by the team from Graft. Proceeds will benefit the LA Fire Department Foundation, supporting those affected by the recent California wildfires.
Show
Experience the vibrant performance of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater as they return to the Gaillard on Tuesday, Feb. 25 + Wednesday, Feb. 26. The renowned company will perform new works alongside classics, including the “Revelations.” Get your tickets.
Try This
Why keep your event a secret? Share it with our audience of the most engaged Charlestonians. Visit our self-service ad portal to get started + your event could be in our newsletter in as little as two days.
The Buy
The Buy
Our favorite $6.99 women’s thermal undershirts and women’s thermal leggings to get you through the winter season. We love brand 32 Degrees (you may recognize it from Costco) for durable, warm basics at price points that make us happy.
I love how many talented creators and storytellers beautifully capture the essence of our city. For example, check out this stunning scene of the Lowcountry from local videographer Morgan C.
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