10 Local Ways to Celebrate the Fourth of July 2025 in Charleston

Charleston knows how to do summer right—and the Fourth of July 2025 is no exception. From Shem Creek docks to fireworks over the Harbor, the Holy City offers endless ways to celebrate.

Whether you're looking for festive fun, local traditions, or scenic charm, these ten Charleston Fourth of July experiences will help you enjoy Independence Day 2025 in true Lowcountry style—laid-back, beautiful, and full of good company.

1. Hop Around Shem Creek (Then Stroll the Pier)

If your version of independence involves cold drinks and waterfront breezes, Shem Creek is the place to be. Spend the afternoon bar-hopping down the scenic boardwalk, sampling local favorites.

Then wind down with a sunset stroll along the Shem Creek Park Pier for one of the best views of Charleston's Fourth of July fireworks over the Harbor.

2. Join the Crowd at the Sullivan’s Island Sandbar

Looking for a truly local way to spend the Fourth in Charleston? Head to the sandbar near Sullivan’s Island, where boats gather for one of the area’s most classic Independence Day celebrations.

Pack a cooler, bring sandwiches, and don’t forget water and sunscreen. Tide times on July 4th are low at 9:25 AM and high at 4:07 PM—check the Sullivan’s Island tide chart to plan your day on the water.

3. Beach It (But Go Early)

Charleston beaches like Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms, and Folly Beach are always a top pick for the Fourth of July 2025. But to enjoy the sand and beat the crowds—or snag a decent parking spot—make it an early morning outing.

Bring a beach chair, a shady umbrella, and a cooler of iced-down lemonade or sweet tea for a relaxed, toes-in-the-sand kind of celebration.

Beachgoers pack Isle of Palms on a sunny summer weekend—head out early if you want a front-row spot this July 4th.

4. Step Back in Time at Pitt Street Pharmacy

Celebrate the holiday with a touch of nostalgia at Pitt Street Pharmacy in Mount Pleasant—a true Charleston classic. Order a grilled cheese or a fountain soda at the old-fashioned lunch counter, then take a walk out to the nearby Pitt Street Bridge.

The breeze, the view of the Intracoastal, and the slower pace make it a perfect throwback moment in the middle of a festive day.

5. Kick Off the Weekend Early with Thirsty Thursday at The Joe

Start your Fourth of July weekend in Charleston with a classic: baseball at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park—affectionately known as “The Joe.” On July 3rd, the Charleston RiverDogs face off against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans.

Expect hot dogs, cold drinks, and a festive post-game fireworks show. Check the full July 2025 game schedule and get ready to celebrate early with some all-American fun.

6. Run, Then Revel: The Firecracker 4 Miler

Kick off the day on the move with the 11th Annual Firecracker 4 Miler at Laurel Hill County Park in Mount Pleasant. This scenic run winds through shaded trails and ends in a festive celebration with music, hot dogs, and cold drinks.

Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a spirited way to start your holiday morning. Register here to join the fun.

7. Take in the Big Show at Patriots Point

For one of the most iconic Fourth of July fireworks shows in Charleston, head to Patriots Point for the annual Fourth of July Blast.

A ticket gets you onboard the historic USS Yorktown, where you’ll enjoy live music, family-friendly fun, and panoramic views of Charleston Harbor. Food and drink vendors will be available throughout the evening. Get full event details and ticket info here.

At Patriots Point, the Yorktown lights up at sunrise—a peaceful start before Charleston’s big July 4th celebration.

8. Pack a Picnic for Battery Park

Looking for a peaceful way to enjoy the holiday? Bring a blanket and a basket to White Point Garden—also known as Battery Park. Nestled under massive oaks with views of Charleston Harbor, it’s a perfect spot for a slow afternoon picnic.

Watch sailboats drift by, soak in the sea breeze, and enjoy a classic Lowcountry moment that feels like a step back in time.

9. Host a Lowcountry Boil

Few things say “Charleston summer” like a backyard Lowcountry boil; there's nothing better then shrimp, corn, sausage, and cold beer on a newspaper-covered table.

It’s casual, it’s communal, and it’s a Southern staple that makes any gathering feel like a celebration.

10. Fish, Float, or Just Relax on the Water

Whether you’ve got a boat or just a good spot on the pier, the Fourth of July in Charleston is best experienced near the water.

Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park offers a fantastic fishing pier with sweeping views of the Harbor. It’s the perfect place to slow down, cast a line, and reflect on what the holiday is really about.