The Charleston Parks Conservancy has announced its full slate of free spring events, inviting families, neighbors, and nature lovers to connect with Charleston’s parks through music, play, learning, and volunteerism. With more than 200 hours of free events offered throughout the year, the nonprofit, which stewards 26 parks across the city, is making it easier than ever to enjoy Charleston’s outdoor spaces in meaningful and accessible ways. From the beloved Teddy Bear Picnic to bird walks, concerts, and community gardening nights, each event is designed to spark connection and appreciation for Charleston’s shared spaces.
"Our parks are more than green spaces; they’re gathering places, classrooms, stages, and sanctuaries,” said Ali Warburton, Director of Events at Charleston Parks Conservancy. “By offering free, high-quality programming across the city, we’re making sure every Charleston resident has the chance to connect with nature and with each other in ways that are memorable and deeply rooted in community.”
Kicking off the season is the Teddy Bear Picnic, returning to Hampton Park’s Rose Pavilion on March 1 from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Now in its 16th year, this beloved tradition invites children and families to bring their favorite stuffed animals and step into the whimsical world of The Very Hungry Caterpillar. The afternoon will be filled with crafts, storytelling, games, and playful surprises, all set against the natural beauty of one of Charleston’s most iconic parks. This free event is made possible by support from our community and sponsors, including Vincent and Bullwinkel Orthodontics, Renewal by Anderson, MedCare Urgent Care, Stono Construction and more.
Throughout the spring, the Music in the Parks series brings live local performances, food trucks, and community spirit to neighborhood green spaces. Concerts will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Corrine Jones Park on March 12, Magnolia Park on April 9, and Moultrie Park on May 14. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket, enjoy a picnic or purchase dinner onsite, and take in the music surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors. This free concert series is made possible by support from Vincent and Bullwinkel Orthodontics, Renewal by Anderson, United Community Bank and Stono Construction.
For those looking to give back, Neighbor Nights offer a hands-on way to support local parks through light gardening and volunteer projects. All supplies and snacks are provided and no gardening experience is necessary. Held from 5 to 7 p.m., these evenings also include food, prizes, and a chance to connect with fellow neighbors. This spring’s gatherings will take place at Vangie Rainsford Park on March 18, Tiedemann Park on April 15, and Wragg Square on May 20.
Those who prefer moments filled with birdsong can join the Conservancy’s Early Morning Bird Walks, hosted in partnership with Holy City Birding. These guided walks begin at 7:30 a.m. and offer a journey through different parks each month. The spring schedule includes Governor’s Park on February 21, West Ashley Greenway on March 21, West Ashley Park on April 18, and Hampton Park on May 16. Registration is required, and space is limited
In addition to free offerings, the Conservancy’s ability to provide free programming is supported by three annual fundraisers. In 2026, Shucked and Sauced returned on February 8, Picnic for the Parks takes place on April 26, and the popular Party for the Parks will be on November 7. These signature events raise critical funds to support the Conservancy’s year-round work in enhancing and activating Charleston’s public parks, gardens, and trails.
For more information, visit charlestonparksconservancy.org