MARCH 2008

MARCH 1
Pink in the Rink: South Carolina Stingrays

American Cancer Society
Bring out the whole family, friends, and coworkers to the second annual “Pink in the Rink” hockey game hosted by the Charleston Stingrays. Wearing pink jerseys, to be auctioned off to benefit the American Cancer Society, the Stingrays take on the Columbia Inferno. Buy a “Pink Pack” and receive a ticket to the game, a “Pink in the Rink” t-shit, admission to Hockey 101, and in the process make a donation to the American Cancer Society. North Charleston Coliseum, 3300 W. Montague Ave. Saturday, 7:05pm. $30-$10. (843)744-2248 ext. 1211, www.stingrayshockey.com

March 1

BUBBLES & SWEETS

Charleston Food + Wine Festival

Sponsored by Charleston magazine, this lively party filled with Champagne and desserts is the sweet ticket. Sample decadent confections from leading area and national pastry chefs, have your fill of bubbly, and dance to a great band. Culinary Village, main tent, King & Calhoun sts., Saturday, call for time & price. (843)722-5549, www.charlestonfoodandwine.com

March 1

MUSC CHARITY BALL

MUSC College of Medicine

This black-tie optional event includes a silent auction, open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and entertainment provided by the Summerville Community Orchestra and Permanent Vacation. The event benefits local charities and is the College of Medicine’s largest single charitable event. Omar Shrine Convention Center, 176 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant. Saturday, 8pm-12:30am. Call for price. (843)792-2086, www.musc.edu

March 7

MID-WINTER GAMES

Special Olympics

Come support more than 600 athletes as they compete in badminton, basketball, masters bowling, power-lifting, table tennis, and team handball. The games commence with the torch run and opening ceremony. The Citadel, 171 Moultrie St. Friday, 7pm. Call for price. (843)852-9275, www.so-sc.org

March 8

THE CITADEL INDOOR GAMES

The Pipe-Major Sandy Jones Invitational

Calling all amateur pipers: don your kilt, grab your pipes, and head to The Citadel for this Scottish bagpiping competition, which is held under the Eastern United States Pipe-Band Association guidelines. Proceeds go towards funding the Pipe-Major Sandy Jones Invitational, which provides scholarships to students of the Scottish arts. Bond Hall at The Citadel, 171 Moultrie St. Saturday, 7:30pm. (843)270-0903, www.southepba.com

March 8

ROAD RALLY & OYSTER ROAST

LifeManagement Center

Rev up your engines! This is a scavenger hunt with clues given for drivers to decode and great prizes to be had. Charleston Area Visitors Center, 31 Ann St. Saturday, 3:30pm. Call for price. (843)852-5705, www.lifemanagement.org

March 12-16

THE CHARLESTON ART & ANTIQUES FORUM

Gibbes Museum of Art

Presenting the best in fine and decorative arts scholarship, this year’s forum, entitled “Terra Incognito: New Discoveries and Influences of the South,” offers lectures in small-scale sessions along with other special events over five days. Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St., and other locations. Wednesday-Sunday, times & prices vary. (843) 722-2706, www.gibbesmuseum.org

March 13-April 13

CSOL DESIGNER SHOWHOUSE

Charleston Symphony Orchestra League (CSOL)

Every year, the Charleston Symphony Orchestra League asks talented interior designers to transform the rooms of a downtown home into intriguing spaces for living with furnishings available for purchase. Also enjoy music by symphony members, alfresco luncheons, and a spectacular boutique. Location TBA. $20; $15 advance. (843)723-0020, www.csolinc.org

March 13-April 12

FESTIVAL OF HOUSES & GARDENS

Historic Charleston Foundation

Join the HFC for the 61st year of their award-winning series of heritage tours and special events. Tour the private interiors and gardens of one of America’s oldest and most picturesque cities. Downtown Charleston. Days, prices, & locations vary. (843)722-3405, www.historiccharleston.org

March 14-16

CHARLESTON INTERNATIONAL ANTIQUES SHOW

Historic Charleston Foundation

For this annual antiques extravaganza, Historic Charleston Foundation draws more than 30 of the most highly respected antique dealers in the world to town to showcase their finest pieces. The collection ranges from the late 17th to the 20th centuries and includes decorative arts, estate jewelry, vintage clothing, Oriental rugs, ceramics, portraits, paintings, and more. 40 East Bay St. Friday & Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. Prices vary by event. (843)722-3405, www.historiccharleston.org

March 15

FLOWERTOWN FESTIVAL RUN/WALK

Summerville Family YMCA

Run one of the best races in the Southeast with more than 800 of your closest friends. Race options include 10K, 5K, and a one-mile fun run. All proceeds benefit YMCA programs and services. Summerville. Saturday, 8am. Registration fees vary. (843)871-9622, www.summervilleymca.org

March 16

SPRING BENEFIT CONCERT

Charleston Men’s Chorus

This special concert features and benefits this year’s Charleston Men’s Chorus Music Scholarship recipients from the College of Charleston, Charleston Southern University, and the Charleston County School of the Arts. Sottile Theatre, 44 George St. Sunday, 3pm. $15; $10 senior/student; free for child under seven. (843)720-8505, www.cmchorus.com

March 20

SPRING FARE

My Sister’s House

Enjoy a wine tasting and silent auction. Gullah Cuisine, 1717 Hwy. 17 North, Mt. Pleasant. Thursday, 6-8pm. $15. (843)276-8357

March 22

BOWL FOR KIDS SAKE

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Carolina & Carolina Youth Development Center

Gather your friends, family, coworkers, or your civic or church group for a day of fun on the lanes. Proceeds help children in the Lowcountry receive a mentor who will help them grow into competent, caring adults. Dorchester Lanes, 10015 Dorchester Rd., Summerville. Saturday, 9am. Sponsorship fees vary. (843)266-5256, www.cydc.org

March 22

EASTER PROMENADE

The Hat Ladies

Don your Easter bonnet and take part in an elegant procession of ladies, gentleman, children, and pets honoring the traditions of hat wearing. The seventh annual event is held to bring awareness to Child Abuse Prevention Month. Corner of Broad & Meeting Sts. Saturday, 11am. Free. (843)762-9979, www.hatladies.org

March 25-29

CHARLESTON MAGAZINE’S CHARLESTON FASHION WEEK

Dress for Success, Charleston County

Get ready for Charleston magazine’s second annual Charleston Fashion Week, a five-night celebration of fashion and the city’s burgeoning retail and design community in historic Marion Square. In tents echoing New York’s Bryant Park, models work the runway in the latest designer wares. New this year: a local emerging designer runway show on Friday, March 28 and Bridal Couture Show on Saturday morning, March 29. Don’t miss the red-carpet finale celebration capping off this exciting week. All proceeds benefit Dress for Success, Charleston County, a nonprofit that seeks to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support, and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Marion Square, King & Calhoun sts. Tuesday-Saturday. Call for times & prices. (843)971-9811, www.charlestonfashionweek.com

March 29

ROCK ’N’ RESEARCH

MUSC Children’s Hospital

The stars of this gala, offering great food, wine, and entertainment, are the rocking horses signed by celebrities and decorated by area artists. Gaillard Auditorium Exhibition Hall, 77 Calhoun St. Saturday, 7pm. $250. (843)792-1414, www.musckids.com

March 31

GOLF TOURNAMENT

Respite Care Ministries

This enjoyable outing supports a vital ministry in the Charleston community. The money raised helps offset the costs of providing care to families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias. Both golfers and sponsors are needed to make this event successful. Greens fee, cart fee, beverages, box lunch, awards reception with hors d’oeuvres, beer, and wine are all covered under the entry fee. Seabrook Island. Monday, 1pm. $100. (843)723-1611, www.smlcharleston.org

APRIL 2008

April 3

ASCEND IMAGINE GALA

ASCEND Foundation

“Imagine a World Without Cancer” with ASCEND and enjoy live entertainment, cocktails, and delicious food for a wonderful cause. All proceeds benefit ASCEND’s mission to make ending cancer a national priority. Location TBA. Thursday, 7pm. $125. (843)225-4055, www.ascendfoundation.org

APRIL 4
Second Annual Art Walk Before the Bridge Run

Louies Kids
Several East Cooper Art Galleries are joining forces to bring attention to the childhood obesity. Owners of galleries in Mt. Pleasant and Sullivan’s Island team up the night before the Bridge Run to host the event. Proceeds gathered from 10% of all sales go to benefit Louie’s Kids, a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization that raises funds to treat the epidemic of childhood obesity. Accent Framing & Gallery,1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd. Suite 1104, Mount Pleasant; Karen’s Korner, 405 Ben Sawyer Blvd., Mount Pleasant; Painted Palm-Steve Neff Gallery, 811 Ben Sawyer Blvd., Mount Pleasant; Shem Creek Art Gallery    , 320 W. Coleman Blvd. # C, Mount Pleasant; Steve Jordan Gallery, 409 W. Coleman Blvd, Mount Pleasant; Seagull Gallery, 224 E. Coleman Blvd. Mount Pleasant; Expectations Gallery, 1256 Ben Sawyer Blvd. #D, Mount Pleasant; Sandpiper Gallery, 2019 Middle St. Sullivan’s Island. Friday, 5-8pm. Free. (843)343-5746, www.louieskids.org

April 3

DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE

Charleston Stage Company

Enjoy an evening of entertainment and support Charleston Stage’s arts education initiatives during the opening night of Greater Tuna. Stick around for elegant food and wine following the show. American Theatre, 446 King St. Thursday, 6pm. Donation. (843)577-5967, www.charlestonstage.com

April 4-6

FLOWERTOWN FESTIVAL

Summerville Family YMCA

More than 200 craft vendors and artists set up booths surrounded by a profusion of azalea blooms in the park in downtown Summerville. Food vendors, live entertainment, a tennis tournament, and children’s activities will keep you entertained all weekend long. Main St. & Azalea Park, Summerville. Friday-Sunday, 9am-5pm. (843)871-9622, www.summervilleymca.org

April 5

BRIDGE THE GAP THROUGH BASEBALL

Charleston Miracle League

Occurring in conjunction with the Cooper River Bridge Run, this fundraiser asks participants to collect donations from sponsors for every kilometer of the race they completes. All donations are welcomed. Participants must register with the Cooper River Bridge Run and the Charleston Miracle League. Starts at Shem Creek on Coleman Blvd., Mt. Pleasant. Saturday, 8am. Free with race registration. (843)763-2513, www.charlestonmiracleleague.org

April 11

KIAWAH ART & HOUSE TOUR

Gibbes Museum of Art

This eighth annual tour features exceptional homes with spectacular private art collections in elegant Lowcountry settings. Kiawah Island. Friday, 3-7pm. $60. (843)722-2706, www.gibbesmuseum.org

April 11

SHUCKIN’ & SHAGGIN’ ON DANIEL ISLAND

United Methodist Relief Center

Put on your shaggin’ shoes, grab your oyster knife, and head over to Daniel Island for the last oyster roast of the season. Shuck and shag the night away under the big oaks at Pierce Park Pavilion. All proceeds benefit UMRC’s “Building Homes for Today & Hope for Tomorrow” program. Pierce Park Pavilion, Daniel Island. Friday, 6:30pm. $35-$20. (843)884-4860, www.umrc.org

APRIL 12
Fourth Annual FamJam!
Join the Children’s Museum of Charleston and discover the importance of an active healthy lifestyle at this year’s FamJam. With food, activities such as an egg toss, sack races, and face painting, and an afternoon concert, this carnival is sure to be fun for the whole family. Children’s Museum, 25 Ann St. Saturday, 1-5pm. $12; $10 member. (843)853-8962, www.explorecml.org

April 16

SEAFAIR CHARLESTON OPENING NIGHT PREVIEW PARTY

Gibbes Museum of Art

Be one of the select few to experience the world’s first fine art megayacht. SeaFair’s Grand Luxe, a luxurious 228-foot yacht offers collectors and connoisseurs a new portal through which to view and buy major works of art from dealers of international caliber. The yacht remains dockside, so guests can come and go as they please. Day & time TBA. Prices vary. (843)722-2706 ext. 25, www.gibbesmuseum.org

April 17-20

CHARLESTON RACE WEEK

South Carolina Maritime Foundation

Charleston Race Week is one of the nation’s top regattas, with more than 150 boats entered in 2007 and sailors arriving from around the globe. The various racing circles are planned in Charleston Harbor and offshore, and are followed by beach parties at night. The Charleston Ocean Racing Association manages the races, with the proceeds supporting the Spirit of South Carolina tall ship. Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 20 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant. Thursday-Sunday, 10am. $400-$300. (843)722-1030, www.charlestonraceweek.com

April 18

WOMEN OF DISTInCTION

Girl Scouts of South Carolina

Join Women of Distinction for a cocktail hour, silent auction, and dinner program. The signature event honors women who have made significant achievements, made contributions to the community, and have acted as positive role models for today’s young women. Charleston Marriott, 170 Lockwood Blvd. Friday, 5:30pm. $100. (843)552-9910, www.girlscoutsesc.org

April 19-20

BATTLE OF CHARLESTON

27th SCVI & Legare Farms Education Foundation

Learn history as you watch a Civil War battle reenactment. Events include a ladies’ social and a period church service. 2620 Hanscombe Pt. Rd., John’s Island. Saturday & Sunday, 9am-5pm. $10. (843)559-0788, www.legarefarms.com

April 19

WINDWOOD YOUTH JAMBOREE

Windwood Farm Home for Children

Held during Youth Service Month, this event includes games, entertainment, and food. Parents and sponsors are requested to accompany children. Reservations required. 4857 Windwood Farms Rd., Awendaw. Saturday, 9am-1pm. Free. (843)884-5342, www.windwoodfarm.org

April 22

NIGEL COOPER GOLF CLASSIC

Junior Achievement

Great golf, food, and gifts attract duffers to Junior Achievement’s annual golf outing year after year. Groups are limited to foursomes, and reservations are required. Daniel Island Club, 600 Island Park Dr., Daniel Island. Wednesday, 10am. Call for price. (843)745-1141, www.jacoastalsc.org

April 24

FOOD. SHELTER. HOPE.

Crisis Ministries

This fourth annual event features music, art, food, and a live auction to raise funds for Crisis Ministries. The organization provides basic needs like hot meals, a warm place to sleep, and other resources to the homeless. Location TBA. Thursday, 7pm. (843)723-9477, www.charlestonhomeless.org

April 24

IT’S IN THE BAG PURSE AUCTION

Center for Women

A variety of local celebs and artists create unique purse designs to show at this fundraising and networking event. Proceeds benefit Center for Women programs and services. City Gallery at Waterfront Park, 34 Prioleau St. Thursday, 6pm. $25. (843)763-7333, www.c4women.org

April 25-27

GOLDEN AGE OF INNS FESTIVAL

Summerville-Dorchester Museum & other local organizations

This historic community’s third annual festival features walking tours, an antiques fair, craft demonstrations, an art walk, open houses, and lectures. Historic Summerville. Friday-Sunday, 9am. Free. (843)308-2103, www.goldenageofinns.com

April 25

SPRING SOIRÉE

Junior League of Charleston

Celebrate the Junior League’s 85 years of service to the Charleston community. This event includes both silent and live auctions, and all proceeds benefit the League’s community projects. 28 Bridgeside Dr., Mt. Pleasant. Friday, 7pm. Price TBA. (843)763-5284, www.jlcharleston.org

April 26

THE ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AWARDS GALA

The South Carolina Aquarium

Dine, dance, and have a great time at this awards presentation recognizing recipients whose combined contributions have made a profound and positive difference in the health and beauty of South Carolina, now and for generations to come. Liberty Square outside the Aquarium, 100 Aquarium Wharf. Saturday, 6:30pm. Call for price. (843)577-FISH, www.scaquarium.org

April 26

PLANTASIA

Charleston Horticultural Society

“A Green Market for Plant Lovers!” This event offers annuals, perennials, flowering shrubs, and other types of plants for sale. Proceeds benefit educational programs of the Charleston Horticultural Society. Front lawn of the Gaillard Auditorium, 77 Calhoun St. Saturday, 8am-12pm. Free. (843)579-9922, www.charlestonhorticulturalsociety.org

April 26 & 27

SHEEP & WOOL DAYS

Middleton Place Foundation

Learn more about sheep and the crafts made from their wool by watching sheep herding, sheep shearing, and wool dyeing and spinning. A crafts fair and a tasting of wine and cheese made from sheep’s milk will be part of this event. Middleton Place Plantation, 4300 Ashley River Rd. Saturday & Sunday, 10am. Call for price. (843)556-6020, www.middletonplace.org

April 26

WALKAMERICA 2008

March of Dimes

Get in step for WalkAmerica 2008, the March of Dimes’ biggest fundraiser. WalkAmerica supports research and programs to help prevent or treat premature births, birth defects, and other threats to babies’ health. Walk location TBA. Saturday, 8am registration; 9am walk. Call for registration fees. (843)571-1776, www.marchofdimes.com/southcarolina

April 26

WINE & WARBLERS

Audubon South Carolina

Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and wine tastings as you stroll through the boardwalk of this ancient swamp forest. Expert birdwatchers lead small groups to experience the wide variety of songbirds traveling from South America to nest in Beidler Forest. Audubon Center in Beidler Forest. Saturday, 5pm. $35. Advance payment and reservations required. (843)462-2150, www.sc.audubon.org

April 27

GREATER BLUFFTON TOUR OF HOMES

Bluffton Self Help

Get an insider’s look at the beautiful homes on the river in Bluffton and surrounding communities. Six homes will be open for viewing. Historic Bluffton. Sunday, 1-5pm. $20. (843)837-3242

April 28

I BELIEVE GOLF MARATHON

Dee Norton Lowcountry Children’s Center

Participants in this special golf tournament are challenged to play 100 holes of golf in one day in order to solicit pledges and to raise $2,500 each. The event raises money to provide services for victims of child abuse and their families. Patriots Point Golf Links, 1 Patriots Point Rd, Mt. Pleasant. Monday, 7am. No entry fee. (843)723-3600, www.dnlcc.org

MAY 2008

May 2

CINCO DE MAYO FESTIVAL

Trident Literacy Association

This third annual celebration of Mexican culture features live music, DJ Luigi Bravo of Latin Groove, and professional dance performances. Sample local Mexican and Caribbean foods and relax with a margarita or a Mexican beer. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Trident Literacy Association. Charleston Visitors Center Bus Terminal, 375 Meeting St. Friday, 7pm. $5. (843)225-5558, www.charlestoncdm.com

May 2

FRESHFIELDS VILLAGE WINE FESTIVAL

Make-A-Wish Foundation of South Carolina

Taste wines from around the world, sample Lowcountry cuisine, and groove to live music. All proceeds help to grant wishes to Lowcountry children. Village Green at Freshfields Village, at the entrance to Kiawah Island. Friday, 7-9pm. $45 at the door; $35 in advance. (843)853-7880, www.freshfieldsvillage.com

May 3

CHARLESTON DOG SHOW

Lowcountry Lab Rescue, Lowcountry Golden Retriever Rescue, & Coastal Jack Russell Rescue

It’s a dog day at Marion Square for this friendly canine competition. Local rescues will be onsite to raise awareness. There will also be a silent auction and food vendors at the event. Marion Square, corner of King & Calhoun sts. Saturday, 8:30am. Free. (843)412-8198, www.charlestondogshow.com

May 3

CHARLESTON DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

MUSC Hollings Cancer Center

The inaugural Charleston Dragon Boat Festival features dragon boat racing by local community and corporate teams, as well as out-of-town teams. Dragon boat teams consist of 20 paddlers, one drummer to keep the beat of the stroke, and one trained steersperson (provided by race management). The race is open to teams of all skill levels. Brittlebank Park, along the Ashley River on Lockwood Blvd. Saturday, all day. Free admission. (843)742-4306, www.char.racedragonboats.com

May 3

DINING WITH FRIENDS

Lowcountry AIDS Services

Take part in the biggest dinner party in Charleston by inviting friends to dine in your home, church, or other venue. Guests are encouraged to bring a donation, which goes towards funding programs at LAS. Following the dinners, hosts and guests are invited to the Maritime Center for a grand Champagne and dessert finale. The Maritime Center, 10 Wharfside St. Saturday, 9-11pm. (843)747-2273, www.aidsservices.com

May 3-10

WOMEN’S BUILD

Sea Island Habitat for Humanity

Calling all women of the Lowcountry! Join Sea Island Habitat for Humanity during its 30th anniversary year and eighth annual Women’s Build as two houses are constructed during the week leading up to Mother’s Day. Sea Island Habitat for Humanity, 2545 Bohicket Rd. Saturday-Saturday, 8am. Free. (843)768-0998, www.seaislandhabitat.org

May 13

GALA CHAMBER MUSIC SOIRÉE

Chamber Music Charleston

The finale of Chamber Music Charleston’s concert season, the evening begins with a Champagne reception followed by a chamber music performance of Mozart’s Horn Quintet and Debussy’s String Quartet. Old Exchange Building, 122 East Bay St. Tuesday, 7pm. $50. (843)763-4941, www.chambermusiccharleston.org

May 15

AN EVENING IN THE OLD VILLAGe: A MEAL TO REMEMBER

East Cooper Meals on Wheels

This second annual gala and auction is an elegant coat-and-tie affair with dinner provided by East Cooper’s premier restaurants and businesses. Grand live and silent auction items, an open bar, and beautiful music create a memorable evening. Seating is limited to 200. Alhambra Hall, 131 Middle St., Mt. Pleasant. Thursday, 6pm. $150-$100. (843)881-9350, www.ecmow.org

May 16-18

CHARLESTON MARITIME FESTIVAL

South Carolina Maritime Foundation

Celebrate the sea and Charleston’s waterfront at this fun-filled annual festival. Visit the Spirit of South Carolina tall ship and other great attractions, including a pirate camp, the education village, a children’s area, family boatbuilding, and dozens of classic wooden boats on display. Charleston Maritime Center, 10 Wharfside St. Friday-Sunday, all day. Free. (843)722-1030, www.charlestonmaritimefestival.com

May 17

I’ON GARDEN TOUR

The I’On Trust

Mt. Pleasant neighborhood I’On introduces a special tour of 10 of its most beautiful private gardens. An exhibit of original sculpture and an art sale are included in the event. The I’On Community in Mt. Pleasant. Saturday, all day. Call for price. (843)881-7541, www.theiontrust.org

May 17 & 18

sculpture in the south

City of Summerville Public Art

Get to know 35 renowned artists from across the country as they present their fine art sculpture in Summerville’s Azalea Park. Discover a broad range of original sculpture from Western to wildlife to abstract in bronze, clay, wood, and stone. Artists demonstrate techniques and processes of sculpture creation. Proceeds benefit public sculpture acquisition for the city of Summerville. Downtown Summerville. Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm. $5; free for student. (843)851-7800, www.sculptureinthesouth.com

May 18

SPRING MEMORIAL CEREMONY

Hospice of Charleston

As spring arrives, Hospice of Charleston takes an opportunity to celebrate and remember the lives of those whom the Hospice has sheltered in the past. Location TBA. Sunday, 3pm. Donation. (843)529-3100, www.hospiceofcharleston.org

May 22

Landscape of slavery: THE PLANTATION IN AMERICAN ART

Gibbes Museum of Art

Celebrate the launch of the Spoleto season and view this special exhibition organized by the Gibbes. “Landscape of Slavery: The Plantation in American Art” explores the use of plantation imagery in works of fine art from the 18th century to the present day. Join fellow art enthusiasts, collectors, and connoisseurs for a one-of-a-kind evening celebrating artists and institutions represented in this exhibition. Gibbes Museum Courtyard, 135 Meeting St. Wednesday, 7pm. Call for prices. (843)722-2706, www.gibbesmuseum.org

May 23-June 1

AFTERNOON TEA

St. Matthew’s Community Outreach Center

Join the Outreach Center for its elegant annual benefit, as soft music, walls of exquisite art, linen-clad tables with fresh flowers, and lovely tea sets fill the room and overflow into the courtyard. Enjoy scones, desserts, and teas and browse the gift boutique. 405 King St. Daily, 1-5pm. Prices vary. (843)579-0420, www.connectinghands.org

May 26

MEMORIAL DAY CONCERT: PICCOLO SPOLETO

Charleston Men’s Chorus

This popular program includes service anthems, patriotic songs, and other inspiring works to honor our military. St. Phillip’s Episcopal Church, 142 Church St. Monday, 12pm. $15; $10 senior/student. (843)554-6060, www.cmchorus.com

May 31 & June 1

3 MO’ DIVAS + 2

Philip Simmons Foundation

Through dramatic performances that are colorful, entertaining, and meaningful, the Divas blend special combinations of musical styles, from grand opera to pop, bel canto to gospel, show tunes to American folk music. They spread their message of hope, peace, and love through their voices. St. John’s Reformed Episcopal Church, 91 Anson St. Saturday, 6pm; Sunday, 3pm. $15. (843)425-4558, www.philipsimmons.org

May 31

SOUTHERN LIGHT PLEIN AIR PAINT OUT & SILENT AUCTION

Charleston School of the Arts

This event draws painters of all levels to the French Quarter for a weekend of painting and art appreciation. A portion of the proceeds from the silent auction goes to support the Charleston County School of the Arts Music Program. Harbour Club, 35 Prioleau St. Saturday, 5:30pm. Donation. (843)853-5002, www.goodthingsonbroad.com

JUNE 2008

June 6

SWEETGRASS CULTURAL ARTS FESTIVAL

Sweetgrass Basket Makers

Celebrate the Gullah/Geechee culture at this festival, which highlights the sweetgrass basket art form and features storytelling, drummers and dancers, and Gullah cuisine. Laing Middle School, 2213 Hwy 17, Mt. Pleasant. Friday, 3pm. Free. (843)856-9732, www.sweetgrassfestival.com

June 14

SWEET CORN FESTIVAL

Legare Farms Education Foundation

Celebrate the summer harvest at this annual festival, featuring great food, live music, pony rides, a jump castle, and more. 2620 Hanscombe Point Rd., John’s Island. Saturday, 10am-4pm. $5. (843)559-0788, www.legarefarms.com

JULY 2008

Mid-July

HMY-Viking MegaDock Billfishing Tournament

Various water-related charities

AUGUST 2008

August 1-31

BACK TO SCHOOL PREVENT-A-THON

Darkness to Light

This month-long media and training event is designed for adults in the Tri-county area who are interested in learning about and stopping child sexual abuse. The two-and-a-half-hour Stewards of Children prevention trainings are scheduled throughout the area all month long. Ongoing, call for dates & times. Multiple sites throughout the Tri-county area. Free. (843)965.5444, www.darkness2light.org

August 13

TRICOUNTY FAMILY MINISTRIES CHARITY BALL

Tricounty Family Ministries

Enjoy a buffet dinner, dance to music provided by The Mixers, and bid on fabulous items in the silent auction. This event raises funds for Tricounty Family Ministries, which provides food and a support to the less fortunate in the community. Embassy Suites Hotel Convention Center, 5055 International Blvd, North Charleston. Thursday, 6:30 pm. $35; $30 in advance. (843)747-1788, www.tricountyfamilyministries.org