Memorial Day weekend in Charleston is more than just beach trips and backyard cookouts. It’s a time to pause and reflect, honoring the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. As the city marks the beginning of summer with concerts, festivals, and family-friendly events, many locals and visitors also take time to recognize the deeper meaning of the holiday.

If you’re spending the long weekend in the Lowcountry, here’s a guide to what’s happening—and how to get around the area without the headaches of holiday traffic and packed parking lots.

Can’t-Miss Memorial Day Weekend Events in Charleston

The Spoleto Festival USA
Kicking off Memorial Day weekend, the Spoleto Festival is one of Charleston’s biggest cultural events. This internationally recognized arts festival features performances in opera, theater, jazz, and dance, with events spread out across historic venues like the Dock Street Theatre and Charleston Gaillard Center. It’s a great way to soak in the city’s creative energy while enjoying world-class entertainment. Find out more about booking rides to the Spoleto Festival.

Charleston Concert Band Memorial Day Concert
For a more traditional observance, the Charleston Concert Band Memorial Day Concert offers a moving tribute to the men and women who’ve served in the U.S. armed forces. Held at the Charleston Music Hall, the program features patriotic music and historic tributes, making it a meaningful part of your weekend plans.

Maybee Fest at Firefly Distillery
If you’re after something laid-back and family-friendly, head over to Firefly Distillery for Maybee Fest. This local favorite features food trucks, craft vendors, live music, and plenty of space to relax. It’s a casual, easygoing way to kick off summer and support local businesses at the same time.

Keith Urban in Concert
Country music fans won’t want to miss Keith Urban’s Memorial Day weekend performance at Credit One Stadium. The show is expected to draw big crowds, so it’s wise to plan ahead when it comes to transportation.

Don’t Forget the Beach

Holiday weekends mean Charleston’s beaches will be buzzing. From Sullivan’s Island to Folly Beach, expect full parking lots and steady traffic in and out of the area. Whether you’re heading out for the day or spending the weekend near the water, a private sedan, SUV, or van service makes coordinating beach time much easier—especially for families or groups bringing gear and coolers along.

Getting Around Charleston Memorial Day Weekend

Charleston’s historic streets and popular destinations can be tough to navigate even on a normal day—and Memorial Day weekend is far from normal. With road closures, packed lots, and heavier airport traffic, booking a private car service gives you more control over your schedule.

GCT offers professional transportation for:

Mark the Moment
As you plan your Memorial Day weekend in Charleston—whether it’s a concert, a day at the beach, or a visit to a local military memorial—take a moment to reflect on those who served and sacrificed. And if you’re looking for reliable chauffeured transportation to help make the weekend a little easier, GCT has you covered with safe, dependable service across the city.