September Events in Charleston: What to Do This Month
September brings a welcome shift to Charleston. While the Lowcountry is still enjoying plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, the city’s calendar begins filling up with festivals, live music, local markets, arts and cultural events, and plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy the community. From Labor Day weekend through the beginning of fall, here are some of the best things to do in Charleston this September.
Lowcountry Jazz Festival
When: September 4–6, 2026
Where: Charleston Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun Street
Celebrate Labor Day weekend with three days of smooth sounds at the Lowcountry Jazz Festival. Held at the Charleston Gaillard Center, this annual event brings together talented jazz musicians for a weekend that feels equal parts sophisticated and laid-back. Whether you are a longtime jazz fan or simply looking for a memorable night out, this is a wonderful way to kick off September in Charleston.
Charleston Farmers Market
When: Saturdays throughout September, 8 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: Marion Square, 329 Meeting Street
A Charleston Saturday morning is hard to beat, and the Charleston Farmers Market is one of the best ways to spend it. Stroll through Marion Square while browsing local produce, prepared foods, handmade goods, flowers and artwork from Charleston-area vendors. Add a coffee and something delicious to eat, and you have the perfect start to a fall weekend in the city.
ArtWalk
When: September 4, 2026
Where: Downtown Charleston
Spend an evening exploring Charleston’s galleries during the city’s monthly First Friday ArtWalk. Galleries throughout downtown open their doors for an evening celebrating local and visiting artists, making it an easy way to discover something new while enjoying one of Charleston’s most charming neighborhoods.
Pure Theatre Playwrights Festival
When: September 11–13, 2026
Where: Cannon Street Arts Center
The Pure Theatre Playwrights Festival brings theater lovers together for a weekend filled with workshops, panels, performances and opportunities to experience new work. It is a great pick for anyone looking to experience Charleston’s creative side and discover the talent behind the Lowcountry’s thriving theater community.
Summerville Sweet Tea Festival
When: September 19, 2026
Where: Downtown Summerville
Sweet tea gets its moment in the spotlight at this beloved annual festival in Summerville. The Sweet Tea Festival transforms downtown into a lively street fair featuring food trucks, arts and crafts, entertainment and plenty of opportunities to sample creative takes on the South’s favorite refreshment. It is a fun, family-friendly day trip just outside Charleston and a perfect excuse to explore everything Summerville has to offer.
MOJA Arts Festival
When: September 24–October 1, 2026
Where: Various locations throughout Charleston
One of Charleston’s most anticipated cultural celebrations returns this September with the MOJA Arts Festival. The eight-day festival celebrates Black arts, culture and heritage through music, visual art, dance, poetry, theater, storytelling, food and more. This year’s schedule includes an opening celebration at Marion Square, a food truck cook-off, live concerts, gospel performances, poetry, storytelling and family programming throughout the city.
The festival officially opens September 24 at Marion Square with a lunchtime celebration featuring food, music and a high school drumline battle. Throughout the following week, visitors can experience everything from a New Jack Swing concert at Charleston Music Hall to a special concert celebrating the 50th anniversary of Stevie Wonder’s “Songs in the Key of Life.”
A Charleston September
Whether you spend your Saturday morning wandering the farmers market, catch a show downtown, head to Summerville for sweet tea or experience the incredible lineup of events during MOJA, September is a wonderful time to experience Charleston like a local. The city’s combination of history, culture, community and coastal charm makes every season special, but there is something particularly exciting about watching Charleston transition from summer into fall.
If you are considering making Charleston home, the September events calendar is just one small part of what makes this city such a special place to live. The Andy Bovender Team with Compass Carolinas is proud to serve Charleston and help buyers and sellers navigate the local real estate market. Whether you are looking for a historic downtown home, a Lowcountry retreat or a home in one of Charleston’s surrounding communities, our team is here to help you make the most of Charleston real estate.
