Charleston, the most populated city in South Carolina, is also one of the oldest cities in the United States, founded in 1670. All of that culture, history, and southern charm combine to make Charleston both a top vacation destination and a great place to live. Whether you’re new in town or a longtime resident, you can discover tons of fun things to do in Charleston, like touring the International African American Museum or joining a low-key mixer for sailing enthusiasts.
With Meetup, you never have to do fun things alone. Check out the following Meetup events happening around Charleston during the month of February 2024, and have a great time with new friends!
Expand your network at a local brewery
First Friday Charleston- Professional Networking Happy Hour is the single largest networking community in the city, with more than 5,000 members. Their monthly Meetup is always a notable event in the Charleston business scene. January’s happy hour gathering at The Brick had 98 attendees!
On Friday, February 2, the next installment will take place at Charleston Beer Works. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to strike up a conversation with someone new at First Fridays, where the vibe is breezy and welcoming. The event is free to attend, and open to professionals of all kinds.
Take a beginner lapidary class at Reforge Charleston
On Sunday, February 4, you can unlock the secrets of gemstone crafting at a non-profit, educational makerspace. Reforge Charleston offers a three-hour immersive experience with all the essential tools and guidance needed to shape and polish gems. Their Meetup group has more than 900 members interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM).
Participants will use obsidian to make free-form creations or stenciled shapes for jewelry or palm stones. With the help of experts, you’ll work through every stage of the lapidary process and witness your creativity forge something new.
Go for a walk on the beautiful Isle of Palms
Nestled among the many barrier islands that surround Charleston’s coastline, the Isle of Palms stands out for its rugged beaches, wild dunes, and charming oceanfront eateries.
On Saturday, February 10, you can join Charleston Walk and Socialize for an early outing of four miles. This Meetup group of more than 1,900 members will visit the island’s boathouse and pier, hopefully spotting some nesting sea turtles along the way! The route will also take you to Café Paname for coffee and breakfast.
See a free movie at a mixer for sailing enthusiasts
Charleston Sailing Meetup, a community of more than 2,100 members, sponsors a Free Movie Monday once a month. Hosted at the courtyard of the Palmetto Brewing Co., these events have more of a mingling atmosphere than a movie theater vibe. The movies always have some kind of aquatic theme, with this year’s slate including Jaws and The Perfect Storm.
On Monday, February 12, you can head to the brewery to see Sprout, a surfing film. This will be a special Free Movie Monday hosted in partnership with WOW: Women on the Water, a local organization that connects women who want to learn how to sail.
Join a group trip to the International African American Museum
This museum is poignantly located at Gadsden’s Wharf on Charleston Harbor, where an estimated 40% of African captives first entered the United States. The institution is dedicated to honoring the untold stories of the African American experience before, during, and after slavery to the present day.
On Sunday, February 18, you can join the Secular Humanists of the Lowcountry as they reflect on the significance of Gadsden’s Wharf, and the centuries of struggle that still impact the current moment. Afterward, this Meetup group of nearly 1,500 members will process their experience of the museum together at the nearby Saffron Café & Bakery.
Don’t see any activities that speak to you?
Don’t worry. There are so many fun things to do in Charleston, it would be impossible to capture them all on one list. If there’s an activity you’d love to do in Charleston but you can’t find an event for it, you can easily create your own Meetup group and host your own event!
Check out a new Meetup group in Charleston
Find events, join groups, and communicate with your people—from anywhere. Download the Meetup app today!
Mary Garcia (she/her) is Meetup’s Content Manager and editor of the Community Matters blog. When she’s not writing, Mary organizes a swamp fiction book club on Meetup. Find her on LinkedIn.
Last modified on January 29, 2024
