🌴 Charleston’s coziest rooftop vibe

Welcome to CHS Happenings, the weekly newsletter that keeps you in the know about Charleston events, restaurants & retail.

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Happy Friday morning, Charleston! I went down what felt like 19 different internet research rabbit-holes, trying to find something—anything—that occurred in Charleston history on August 1. Nothing evidently did, so if y’all want to make something happen that I can write about this time next year, feel free.

Congrats to Will J. of James Island, who was the 1st to guess correctly in our “Where Are We” segment last week! Our photo was of the outdoor seating area at Ellis Creek Fish Camp on James Island. Your responses came early and often, which surprised me. I thought an innocuous photo of a big oak tree in the middle of an outdoor patio with no discernible landmark…might be tough. Get to Ellis Creek Fish Camp if you haven’t. Good food, great views.

For those who’ve shared your favorite sections of the newsletter, thanks! Your preferences are coming into view, and it’s evident Home Of The Week needs to be consigned to the dustbin of CHS Happenings history. 🤣

For those who haven’t clicked that button yet, please do so and let me know what you think! This is the last week we’ll keep the survey active.

WEEKEND WEATHER

Friday 94° / 75° ⛈️ 💧61%

Saturday 84° / 72° ⛈️ 💧39%

Sunday 81° / 72° ⛈️ 💧41%

CURATED HAPPENINGS

Friday, August 1

Thai Street Food: Bold Flavors and Techniques Cooking Class | 5 - 8 PM | Chef's Collective, 874 Orleans Road #Suite 2, Charleston | Immerse yourself in the bold and delicious flavors of Thailand in our Thai Street Food Cooking Class! In this hands-on experience, you’ll learn to create three iconic street food favorites.

James Island Town Market | 6 - 9 PM | Town Hall Parking Lot | The James Island Town Market takes place the first Friday of every month and has live music, crafts, lawn games, food trucks and fresh produce vendors.

Poker Night at The Ansonborough Hotel | The Ansonborough Hotel | Go all in on weekend plans at The Ansonborough Hotel's hidden Poker Room! For a limited time, this exclusive space is open to the public to sip craft cocktails from the Scarborough & Squirrel Bar and try their luck over a few rounds of poker. This "how-to" interactive experience will feature a poker professional to show you the best tips, tricks and techniques to become a card shark.

Saturday, August 2

17th Annual Joe's Buddy Memorial Tournament | 6 AM - 11:30 PM | Gold Bug Island I Join us & cast a line for a cause! Proceeds will support MUSC Children's Hospital & Camp Happy Days. Family, friends, & fishing for the kids!

PoHo Night Market | 5 PM - 9 PM | Pour House | Shop goods from 40+ vendors including local artists, makers, vintage & vinyl collectors & more! Enjoy full bar service & live music on the deck + food from Jack of Cups Bebop in the container kitchen.

The Impossible Murder at Captain Jack's Flapjack Shack | 8 PM I Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre | The Storm of the Century is raging outside Captain Jack's Flapjack Shack, but inside, murder brews like a strong cup of Luanne the waitress's killer coffee.

Sunday, August 3

Yoga at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens: A Wellness Experience in Nature | 10:30 - 11:30 AM | Magnolia Plantation | Join us for a serene yoga experience set amidst the natural beauty of Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or build strength and flow, there's a class for everyone. Enjoy complimentary garden admission with your yoga ticket!

Book Signing with Children's Book Author Dawn Burns | 1 - 3 PM | Buxton Books | Buxton Books is excited to welcome children’s book author Dawn Burns to the bookstore for a signing celebrating her book, This is Charleston. This is Charleston is a delightful love letter to the city, celebrating its traditions, landmarks, and even a few of Dawn’s favorite childhood spots.

Charleston Riverdogs vs. Myrtle Beach Pelicans I 5:05 PM | Joe Riley Stadium I It’s Charlie the Dog’s birthday, and to celebrate the first 1,000 fans get a Charlie bobblehead!

For a COMPLETE list of events in the Charleston area, bookmark the site below!

Lillian’s Petite Market & Eatery Is A Westside Gem

If you haven’t been to Lillian’s lately—or at all—consider this your nudge.

Since opening its doors back in December in the old Harold’s Cabin space, Lillian’s Petite Market & Eatery has grown into one of the most versatile, welcoming spots on the peninsula. And not just because of the name change and blue-and-white facelift on the corner of Congress and President. It’s the vibe inside—and upstairs—that keeps people coming back.

Kim and I stopped in for breakfast not long after they opened. We met the owner, Heather Greene, and walked away impressed, not just by the food but by the vision. Coffee shop, local market, breakfast counter, neighborhood bar, rooftop dinner spot… Lillian’s is wearing a lot of hats, and wearing them well.

Kim’s been back with friends for cocktails on the rooftop terrace (yes, there’s a rooftop), and she had the kind of good time that practically demands a repeat. The terrace itself is one of Lillian’s secret weapons: 22 seats, a soft breeze, and just enough separation from the hustle below to make it feel like your own tucked-away hangout.

Inside, the space strikes the right balance between casual and curated. You can grab a coffee and fresh pastry at the counter, pick up eggs or pasta from the market, or settle in for brunch with a group. It gets lively, especially on weekends, but the energy feels more neighborhood gathering than tourist frenzy.

The menu shifts with the seasons and leans into local ingredients—everything from grits and breakfast sandwiches to salmon small plates and hearty dinner options. And whether you’re stopping in for a flat white or a glass of wine, the service has a relaxed, easy feel to it. You never feel rushed, but you’re always looked after.

That sort of atmosphere is part of what’s made Lillian’s settle in so well. It’s a place you can show up in flip-flops or with out-of-town guests and feel equally at home. A spot where breakfast might roll into lunch, or where a late-afternoon coffee somehow turns into drinks on the terrace.

Bottom line? Lillian’s has found its footing—and then some. It’s a place with heart, range, and the kind of welcoming presence every neighborhood wishes it had.

If you’ve already been, you probably don’t need convincing to go again. And if you haven’t? Time to make plans. You’ll see what the neighborhood’s been buzzing about.

IN THE COMMUNITY

• On Aug. 8, 2000, hundreds of spectators packed Charleston Harbor, lining the docks and floating in boats and kayaks, to witness a historic event.

• Harris Teeter is investing millions of dollars in renovating its 12 Charleston-area stores. While it remains a mystery what will replace the store it closed in the Spring in Seaside Farms (I’ve heard it’s NOT another grocer).

• MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital was a recent beneficiary of a sizable fundraising check. Raised through a King Mackerel fishing tournament!

• Another show is casting for young singles in Charleston. If you’re the risk-taking type who’d propose marriage before ever seeing your partner-to-be in person, throw your hat in the ring!

• Charleston City Council approved funding for recreation center upgrades in West Ashley and Johns Island. Over $3 million worth.

3 MOST-CLICKED FROM LAST WEEK

• Our events calendar. Planning your own event? Add it to our calendar with this super-easy form.

• Park Circle’s first hotel. Described on their website as “as "a gathering space for cultural exchange and a welcoming retreat for relaxation and discovery.”

• The 20th Annual Sweetgrass Festival. Seems like a bunch of you went?

WHERE ARE WE?

Each week, watch this space for a random snap from somewhere in Charleston. Where are we? Just hit reply to this email, or if you’re reading on our website, email me here. The first person to guess correctly will get a shout-out at the top of our issue next week!

I created a nice, easy form where YOU can send me a photo. But only if you think it will stump our eagle-eyed community. Click the button below if you do! Landscape (horizontal) orientation works best.

THE BULLETIN

Want to spread the good word about your business, a project you’re working on, a hire, or just want to say hi to thousands of friends?

Front & Center is a boutique branding and strategy studio based in Charleston, helping solopreneurs and small businesses across the country build brands that suit - season, stage and story. This summer, they’re offering Insights - focused 1:1 sessions for founders who need a smart sounding board, real talk, and clear next steps heading into Q4. Each $500 intensive includes a pre-call brain dump, a live or virtual working session, and a written follow-up with a practical plan. No repackaged problems here. Speaking to you?

The Farrell Group. Tired of real estate agents who talk more than they listen? The Farrell Group skips the fluff and gets to work. No filters, no egos, no TikTok dances—just seasoned pros who know Charleston like the back of their hand. We don’t chase clout, we close deals. If you’re ready for smart strategy, sharp insight, and zero BS, let’s talk. We’re here when you’re serious. 

Molly’s Dog-Walking & Pet-Sitting. Need someone who’ll treat your pet like their own? I offer walks, drop-ins, and overnight stays around South Mount Pleasant, Sullivan’s, and IOP. Expect belly rubs, treats, and lots of one-on-one attention—no rushed visits or cookie-cutter care here. Meet & greets are always free. Let’s make your pet my new BFF—your dog’s already on board (the cat’s still negotiating).

LIVE MUSIC LOCALLY

Starting Monday and continuing every week, I’ll be posting separately on our website a complete listing of live music events during the week. Come back each Monday to see what’s going on during the proverbial workweek!

Friday, August 1

Friday Live Music at Firefly | 4 - 7 PM | Firefly Distillery | Join us for a free performance from Charleston-based singer-songwriter Tom Mackell.

Kiawah Arts 25-26 Season Kickoff with The Will Thompson Band | 6 - 9 PM | Freshfields Village | Get ready to kick off the 25-26 season of Kiawah Arts with a bang as The Will Thompson Band takes the stage!

Departure - Journey Tribute on the NÜTRL Beach Stage I 6 PM | The Windjammer

DJ Dolla Menu, Five Door Sedan, One Spliff and the Three Minorities I 6:30 PM | LO-Fi Brewing

Forte's Latin Jazz Series Featuring Percussionist Calixto Oviedo | 7 - 9 PM | Forte Jazz Lounge | Charleston's best jazz musicians and will explore the dynamic and exciting Latin Jazz Genre.

Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series | 8 PM I James Island County Park | The Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series at James Island County Park features traditional old-school roots reggae with a new-school attitude in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Dumpstaphunk I 8:30 PM | Pour House | w/ Magnolia Boulevard I Dumpstaphunk has cemented its reputation as one of the most respected New Orleans musical institutions.

Saturday, August 2

Southbound 17 I 2 PM | Firefly Distillery | Southbound 17 is made up of Lowcountry natives Jack Austen & Katie Bailey. The harmony driven duo has been voted Best Up & Coming Band by Charleston City Paper and was recently named Charleston's Choice Best Band of 2023.

Marvelous Funkshun | 4 PM I Pour House | Marvelous Funkshun w/ New Dirty Shoes. This is the early show during the night market**.

Easy Honey w/ Special Guest Freddie McClendon on the NÜTRL Beach Stage I 6 PM | The Windjammer

20 Watt Tombstone & The Slow Attack I 7 PM | Burns Alley Tavern | Since the band’s formation in 2011, the Wisconsin Duo has been receiving an unreal amount of attention. Their brand of brash un-tethered alt.

Lovesong: The Cure Tribute I 7:30 PM | Music Farm

Dumpstaphunk I 8:30 PM | Pour House | w/ Caminator. Dumpstaphunk has cemented its reputation as one of the most respected New Orleans musical institutions.

Big Band Saturday Night: Frank and Dean | 9:30 | 9:30 - 11:30 PM | Forte Jazz Lounge | Your favorite Sinatra and Martin tunes from the Rat Pack Days.

Sunday, August 3

Motown Throwdown | 1:30 - 5 PM | Pour House |  Motown Throwdown. Patrons of the farmers market will have access to the deck bar and deck restrooms throughout the market.

Kyle Herring I 8 PM I Tommy Condon’s I Relaxed, soulful and Southern.

Gracious Day I 9:30 PM I Henry’s On The Market I Acoustic country and classics.

ICYMI

North Charleston is developing its own credibility as a dining destination. And the part outside of Park Circle is growing.

There’s always movement in Charleston’s restaurant scene. Here’s our area’s upcoming and highly-anticipated openings.

Another celebrated pizza joint opened downtown. Timber Pizza Co. opened last week at 741 Meeting Street.

A new retail “village-like” development is proposed for north Mount Pleasant. And 6,000 square feet is allocated for restaurants.

Charleston’s restaurant scene has become more global lately. And locals seem to love these spots.

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FEEDBACK

Got 15 seconds? Let us know what you thought about today’s newsletter by voting in the poll below (you’ll be done MUCH faster than cars on Johnnie Dodds at 4:00 PM on a Friday). 👇