Charleston is one of the most attractive cities for tourists in the U.S. In 2016, it was named the best city in the world by Travel + Leisure Magazine. Although Charleston doesn't host any Independence Day parades, the Independence Day weekend is a special time to be in Charleston due to an array of fun events.
It's a perfect occasion to try Southern barbecue or go on a picnic in one of a dozen city parks. you can't miss one of the spectacular fireworks displays at Patriots Point or Folly Beach. Charleston Harbor offers special 4th of July Dinner Cruises, while North Charleston holds its annual 4th of July festival.
Daniel Island Field of Honor (June 22-July 7, 2024)
There's no shortage of islands in Charleston, and Daniel Island is one of the best. Just a 20-minute drive away from the center of Holy City, the neighborhood remembers the importance of commemorating the heroes who fought for American independence. On 9th annual Field of Honor, the Daniel Island Exchange Club will put up 1000 star-spangled flags with the banners dedicated to local heroes. The display will be located at River Landing Drive.
North Charleston 4th of July Festival at Riverfront Park (July 4, 2024)
North Charleston 4th of July Festival at Riverfront Park is the largest annual event in North Charleston. And the best part is: the festival is free for the public! Normally spanning from 5 to 10 pm, the celebration at Riverfront Park features traditional family-fun activities, a DJ-hosted soundtrack, a wide selection of local food vendors, and one of the best fireworks shows.
Attendees can bring lawn chairs and blankets, as well as water and snacks, to have picnics right at the venue. Located on the banks of the beautiful Cooper River, Riverfront Park is a perfect spot to see the Lowcountry’s largest 4th of July fireworks display, which normally starts at dark.
Patriots Point 4th of July Fireworks Blast (July 4, 2024)
Every 4th of July, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, located at the mouth of the Cooper River on Charleston Harbor, hosts a vibrant Independence Day celebration, usually from 6 pm to 10 pm. The museum opens its doors for the normal tour schedule from 9 am to 5 pm. The ticket cost ranges from $16 for children aged 6 to 11 and $27 for adults. Seniors and active and retired military personnel can get their tickets for $19. Children under 6 and uniformed servicemembers have free admission.
The 4th of July Fireworks Blast features a pyrotechnic show, food trucks, and live music. Attendees can visit the historic World War II aircraft carrier USS Yorktown and watch the fireworks on Yorktown’s flight deck. Guests can bring their lawn chairs for flight deck seating. Tickets are required for this event.
Charleston 4th of July Dinner Cruise (July 4, 2024)
To celebrate Independence Day with a bang, consider booking a seasonal 4th of July cruise, organized by SpiritLine Cruises. The tour will take you through the waters of Charleston Harbor, where you can take in the sights of The Holy Town and enjoy a four-course meal with specialty cocktails. As a cherry on top, you'll have one of the best viewing spots for the Patriots Point fireworks display.
The boarding is scheduled at 6:30 pm from Aquarium Wharf, and the cruise itself spans from 7 to 10 pm. The ticket for this function costs $99 per person and $258 for an exclusive private table for two.
Fabulous Fourth in the Creek at Goose Creek (July 4, 2024)
Fabulous Fourth in the Creek is an annual Fourth of July celebration in Goose Creek. Normally, it takes place from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm at Goose Creek Municipal Center. The party features fireworks, live music, a variety of food vendors, and free activities for kids. Admission and parking are free of charge.
Folly Beach 4th of July Fireworks (July 4, 2024)
Folly Island is a great summer destination with plenty of sunshine and soft white sand, situated 13 miles from Charleston It's also known for spectacular Independence Day fireworks in the town of Folly Beach. Locals and visitors can enjoy a free Independence Day show after sundown. Known as the biggest seaside pyrotechnic display on the East Coast, it's usually launched from 3rd Block West but can be observed anywhere on Folly Beach.
