Pick a book and get cozy at Philosophers and Fools. | Photo by Brennan Wesley
Here’s your sign to visit a local independent bookstore — tomorrow, April 26 is Independent Bookstore Day, and several local shops are joining the celebration. Here’s how they’re marking the occasion.
Philosophers & Fools | Downtown Charleston
Head to this cozy neighborhood bookstore and bar for free popcorn all day and a special sale shelf where the discounts increase as the day goes on. Shoppers can enter a raffle for prizes and, at select times, enjoy free samples of High Rise Seltzer and Sunboy Spiked Coconut Water. That evening, they’re also offering $1 oysters and a $5 bubbly-by-the-glass special.
The Archive | Mount Pleasant
Step into a newly academic-inspired coffee shop and bookstore that is inviting guests to pick up a bingo card, sip a warm drink, and explore the shop. There will be pastries and breakfast sandwiches available, tarot readings to enjoy, and prizes to be won, along with a few surprises.
Friday, April 25 Black Food Truck Festival | Through Sunday, April 27 | Times vary | The Exchange Park Fairgrounds, Ladson | $15+ | Savor incredible bites, enjoy live music, explore family-friendly activities, and celebrate community.
Pixelate x Sir Wieners Pop Up | Lamar’s Sporting Club | $100 | Get ready for a night of house and techno music with hot dog tastings, Belvedere martinis, and open house bar access.
Saturday, April 26
Glow Up - candle making x mindful workout | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Estuary Beans & Barley, Johns Island | $55 | Create your own candle and recharge with a mat-based strength workout.
Local Yarn Store Day | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Wild and Wooly, Mount Pleasant | Free entry | Celebrate fiber arts with unique yarns, expert advice, and community spirit.
Crowfield Kidz Bash | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Crowfield Middleton Park, Goose Creek | Free entry | Bring the kiddos out for games, obstacle courses, food trucks, prizes, vendors, and music.
Picnic for the Parks | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Hampton Park | $125 | Join Charleston Parks Conservancy’s birthday party with a petting zoo, flower crowns, face painting, and games.
This blockbuster exhibition, created by the Walt Disney Archives, showcases 70 costumes worn by stars like Bette Davis, Glenn Close, and Angelina Jolie, bringing to life beloved characters such as Cinderella, Maleficent, and many more.
This exhibition is on view Saturday, May 3-Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025.
Jeff’s Bagel Run is now open off Clements Ferry Road and is celebrating today, April 25, from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The shop is known for its boiled-from-scratch bagels. Bonus: Expansion plans are already in motion for Isle of Palms, Mount Pleasant, Johns Island, and James Island locations.
Real Estate
After the well-known “Wedding Cake House” at 3209 Marshall Blvd. on Sullivan’s Island was demolished last year, construction is underway on a new home slated for completion around Thanksgiving. Take a look at the progress. (The Post and Courier)
Shop
On Wednesday, May 7, Ruby Sunshine in West Ashley will host its first-ever Small Business Expo. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., shop a curated selection of small businesses offering everything from handmade goods and wellness services to lifestyle brands and professional services.
Eat
Ready for some finger-licking fun? Park Circle’s Southern Roots Smokehouse is hosting its inaugural Rib Fest & Cook-Off on Sunday, May 11, from 1 to 4 p.m. Sample ribs and house-made Jack Daniel’s-inspired barbecue sauces from local pitmasters. Admission is free, and sampling tickets are $2 each.
Watch
Stay cautious at the beach. A beachgoer at Sullivan’s Island captured footage of a shark in shallow water getting dangerously close. Watch the video to see the close call.
Community
Did you know May is National Preservation Month? The Preservation Society of Charleston is celebrating with a full lineup of events, including the annual Cahill Distinguished Lecture. This free event features James F. Lima, President of James Lima Planning + Design, who will discuss “What It Takes: Building Great Public Places.”
Cause
Step up to the plate and donate blood with the Charleston RiverDogs next Tuesday, April 29 at The Joe. Psst… You’ll score a limited-edition RiverDogs jersey and two game tickets when you donate. Learn more + schedule your appointment.*
Real Estate
Nature meets convenience at Longview Carolina, a new “agrihood” centered around wellness and outdoor living in Easley, South Carolina. From an organic farm and hiking trails to community gathering spaces with panoramic mountain views, Longview makes healthy living easy. Plus, it’s just five minutes from downtown Easley. Explore the community.*
These teacher meet-ups get larger and larger. | Photos provided by Sara Toppe
Teacher Appreciation Week is just around the corner, from Monday, May 5, through Friday, May 9. To celebrate, The Teacher Care Club will host TeacherFest, Charleston’s first week-long celebration of educators, including these five free events (with a valid ID).
Takeoff| Monday, May 5 | 4-8 p.m. | Fight Adventure Park, North Charleston | Enjoy a night of trampoline jumping.
Tranquility | Tuesday, May 6 | 5-7 p.m. | Azalea Park, Summerville | Teachers can gather for a peaceful evening stroll with light refreshments provided.
Recharge| Wednesday, May 7 | 5-8 p.m. | Ritual Rooftop | Take a midweek break to unwind with relaxing activities like self love skincare and massages.
Trivia | Thursday, May 8 | 5-8 p.m. | Red Palm Tavern | Put their knowledge to the test with “Are You Smarter Than a Teacher?”
Grand Finale| Friday, May 9 | 5-9 p.m. | Firefly Distillery, North Charleston | Celebrate the end of the week with live music, photo ops, giveaways, food trucks, and local vendors.
The Buy
Freshen up your jewelry box with some of 2025’s top trending styles:
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