If you’re looking for some of the best music festivals South Carolina has to offer, you’ll find that there’s something for everyone. From hip-hop and electronic music to bluegrass and country, each festival brings a flavor of its own that will set it apart from the rest.
Here are the top ten music festivals in South Carolina:
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1. Carolina Country Music Fest
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
When: June (four days)
Make sure to pack your cowboy hat and flip-flops when you head to Myrtle Beach for the Carolina Country Music Fest! The boardwalk will be transformed into a country music lover’s paradise.
Carolina Country Music Fest attracts 40 or more of country music’s most popular artists every year.
2. High Water Fest
Riverfront Park, N. Charleston
When: April (two days)
The natural beauty of N. Charleston’s Riverfront sets the perfect stage for High Water, which welcomes musicians from all corners of the globe. You won’t want to miss a single band playing at this year’s festival with two distinct stages.
This year’s lineup is packed with Americana folk rock bands, indie acts, jazz trios, and more.
3. Charleston Bluegrass Festival
Woodlands Nature Reserve, Charleston
When: April (four days)
Every year, the Charleston Jazz Festival brings in internationally known jazz artists, along with showcasing local talent and student musicians. This event not only celebrates Charleston’s jazz roots but also provides support for the city’s current jazz community.
By attending and purchasing tickets, you are directly contributing to their important effort.
4. Albino Skunk Music Festival
The Skunk Farm, Greer
When: October (three days)
The Albino Skunk Music Festival is the perfect event for a fun and relaxed day out with family and friends. With a wide range of musical performances ranging from bluegrass to rock, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Most of the sets are acoustic, so you can truly appreciate the raw talent on stage. If you get hungry, the festival offers a variety of tasty food trucks and craft beers.
5. Lowcountry Cajun Festival
James Island County Park
When: April (one day)
Celebrate Louisiana Cajun culture at the Lowcountry Cajun Festival. This festival, which lasts all day, has Zydeco music and dancing.
You can bop to the music and feast on Cajun staples, such as alligator, sausage, jambalaya, and other seafood dishes.
6. Spoleto Festival USA
Charleston, South Carolina
When: May – June (fifteen days)
The festival offers attendees a diverse range of musical performances, from pop and country to classical and jazz. There are also theatrical productions and dance troupes appearing throughout the weekend.
You’ll be able to see both well-known stars as well as up-and-comers at this event. It’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
7. Edisto Beach Shag Festival
Bay Creek Park
When: September (three days)
Carolina shag is a partner dance to beach music that is often enjoyed at the Edisto Beach Shag Festival. This festival occurs every Labor Day weekend and features swing dancing, quick footwork, catchy rhythm and blues songs.
You’ll be able to relax and enjoy the music for three whole days in this family-friendly atmosphere.
8. Myrtle Beach Jazz Festival
Carver St. in Downtown Myrtle Beach
When: October (three days)
The Myrtle Beach Jazz Festival reminds attendants of a classic era while also bringing people together to enjoy the music. The best part? It’s free!
This festival features some of the biggest names in jazz and blues. In addition to great music, there will be vendors selling food and drinks.
9. Fall for Greenville
Greenville, South Carolina
When: October (three days)
Fall for Greenville is an annual musical and culinary event held in October that provides nonstop entertainment with six stages hosting a total of 75 bands over four days.
The food options range from 40 to 50 different mouth-watering menus. In addition, there are over 50 liquor, beer taps and wine vendors.
10. Charleston Jazz Festival
Charleston, South Carolina
When: April (four days)
The Charleston Jazz Festival is the perfect event for music lovers who want to hear both internationally acclaimed jazz artists as well as local talent. The festival also features student musicians, giving them a chance to showcase their skills.
The purpose of the event is to honor Charleston’s jazz roots and by buying a ticket, you would be supporting the city’s jazz community.
Final Thoughts
South Carolina boasts some of the best music festivals in the country, and there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to get down on the dance floor or just sit back and relax with friends, these ten festivals have got you covered.
So grab your tickets and head out to one of South Carolina’s top music festivals!
Spoleto Festival USA Featured Image (Top) by: ProfReader, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
