By Wyatt Barczak and Anik Nalbandian [email protected] [email protected]
Jump for joy this weekend because Charleston is putting on some spectacular events that you do not want to miss.
The big top comes to town, so make some time for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus shows. Plus, save your spot in this year's surfboard painting competition at IOP's Front Beach Fest.
Then toss some beaded necklaces at New Realm Brewing during their Mardi Gras event, take the kids out to see this year's Teddy Bear Picnic and enjoy a unique wine tasting courtesy of the Footlight Players.
FRIDAY-SATURDAY (FEB. 28-MARCH 1)
The Greatest Show on Earth
Step right up and prepare to be amazed as the sensational circus returns to Charleston with their opening show kicking off at 7 p.m. on Feb. 28 with more shows at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on March 1. The North Charleston Coliseum, 5001 Coliseum Drive, will be transformed into a spectacular big-top tent. Amazing tight-rope acts, high-flying BMX stunts, a dancing robot dog and more will grace the ring. The event will also highlight world-traveling aerial performers and musical acts certain to leave you in awe. Tickets range from $15-$60. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/2dpsv7z3.
FRIDAY (FEB. 28)
A Wine for All Seasons
Clink glasses with the Footlight Players during this inaugural wine tasting experience at the Queen Street Playhouse, 20 Queen St., Charleston from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Feb. 28. Guests will be greeted in the lobby with a chilled glass of Cava before embarking on a wine trail throughout the theatre. Sample from a variety of vintage wines at multiple booths where the players will have fun trivia questions for guests to answer and fill out their card. Each question will help in uncovering the Footlight Players' upcoming Season 94 productions. Afterwards, there will be a drawing for those with completed quiz cards to win prizes, as well as a live performance certain to get the community excited for the next season. General admission is $60, and guests are encouraged to dress business casual. For more details, check out tinyurl.com/jyvdunyz
SATURDAY (MARCH 1)
Front Beach Fest
Come out and enjoy a day with the whole family. The Front Beach Fest returns on Isle of Palms for a day full of fun and entertainment over at Front Beach, 1300 Ocean Blvd., from noon-4 p.m. on March 1. The fest will be highlighted with music from Vinyl Daze and Shem Creek Boogie, plenty of dancing and handmade arts and crafts from over 40 local vendors. Island restaurants and local food vendors, as well as entertainment areas for kids, will fill the coast with fun vibes. The event is free to attend. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/2j95tusr.
SATURDAY-SUNDAY (MARCH 1-2)
Mardi Gras at New Realm
Grab all the purple, green and gold you can find. Throw on some beads or even a mask, and head over to a two-day Mardi Gras celebration at New Realm Brewing Company, 800 Island Park Drive, Daniel Island, from 2-5 p.m. on March 1 and 6-9 p.m. on March 2. The party is going to feature specialty food and drinks, a costume contest, live music and high energy. Be sure to get dressed in colorful and creative Mardi Gras attire for a chance to win cool prizes, or throw some beads and decorations on your golf cart and hop in the festive parade. The event is free to attend. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/mrxk7nad
SUNDAY (MARCH 2)
Teddy Bear Picnic
Bring out the little ones to the 15th annual Teddy Bear Picnic in Hampton Park, 30 Mary Murray Drive, Charleston. The fun goes from 2:30-5 p.m. on March 2 and will feature a special theme based around Dr. Seuss' "The Lorax." Each year, this annual picnic brings the community together in celebrating the Charleston County Parks Conservancy and all of their efforts in preserving the natural world in our community. There will be family-fun activities, crafts, local vendors and plenty of teddy bears. The event will also feature live music from the V-Tones of Charleston, strumming ukulele beats to brighten your day. This event is free to attend. For more details, visit tinyurl.com/yzynxksw.