Arthur Middleton unpacked, flags unfurled, and Wimbledon with a wink
Charlie's Three for the Week in Charleston, 7/1 - 7/7
Founder’s Note: As I write, I’m on the other side of the Atlantic, in the West of Ireland eluding sheep on the highway while forever chasing new cultural experiences. Back in Charleston, my summer intern Charlie Hastings has taken the reins of Three for the Week. A Charlestonian currently pursuing an undergraduate degree at Trinity College Dublin, here the aspiring journalist builds on the terrific work he’s doing this summer for Culture South. Following is his roundup.
Hi everyone! I’m Charlie. Usually I’m an intern, but this week I also happen to have the pleasure of being your guest editor. I’ve tried my best to quell my urges to include nothing but TikTok rizz parties, influencer product launches and other nonsense my generation is famous for. Instead, we’re once again focused on America as we approach her 248th birthday.
Perhaps some are a bit exhausted with the patriotic fun and antics we experienced last week with Carolina Day (and, depending on who you ask, that presidential debate), but surely that’s nothing a hot dog and a few fireworks can’t fix.
Even so, July 4 is but one day of what will be an exciting week, and with so many fantastic events on the Fourth, I’ll let you choose what suits your fancy. Instead, we’ll sample some history, play some pickleball and meet Santa Claus a little early this year.
Declare independence with Arthur Middleton while learning more on Charlestonian’s role on July 4, 1776
Middleton Place, 4300 Ashley River Rd., Charleston, July 1 - Sept. 27
July 4th for Middleton Place means more than just a star-spangled cookout, it presents an irresistible opportunity to share some Southern history. Head out to the grounds and experience the new exhibition at the Museum House, which opens just in time for America’s birthday and continues for nearly three months. A Continental Congress member, soldier and signer of the Declaration of Independence, Middleton played a critical role in formative years of the United States. The exhibition will include a comprehensive history of the Charleston native, several Revolutionary War artifacts and a copy of the Declaration of Independence.
Guests will need to purchase general admission tickets plus House Museum tickets to view this exhibit. For more information, visit here.
Raise a teacup to Christmas in July. (No, really this time.)
Hotel Bennett, 404 King St., downtown Charleston, July 3, 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.; tickets for adults are $95 and for children under 12 are $65
Many will know the Hotel Bennett’s Tea with Santa event, taking place around Christmastime. Now, the event is back early this year to save us all from this ungodly heat. Bring a child and let them run wild as you sit back and enjoy some refreshing tea each Wednesday this July. Children and adults alike are welcomed to participate in sharing some holiday-themed treats and some elaborate pineapple decorating!
For tickets, visit here.
Is it Wimbledon? No, but close.
The Backyard at Little Palm, The Ryder, 237 Meeting St., downtown Charleston, July 1 - 14
Can’t afford a flight to London for Wimbledon? Still feel like you belong courtside sitting next to a Jonas brother sipping a Pimm’s Cup? Fear not, grab your whites and head to the Backyard for Wimbledon with A Wink, an exclusive pickleball court pop-up in partnership with Short Court and Volley. Visitors and players alike can expect giveaways, opportunities to talk and play with pros and, of course, strawberries with cream.
To play, simply check in with a host at Little Palm who will provide you with paddles and a ball and head to The Backyard. Singles and doubles matches are available. Reservations first come first serve and have a 1-hour time limit, with courty reservations available onm Resy. The courts will be available from 3 - 6 p.m., on Saturdays from 3 - 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 - 4 p.m. both this weekend and next.
For information, visit here.
Bonus: Make it to James Island Town Market — or unfurl vexillology at Charleston Towne Landing
James Island Town Market, 1122 Dills Bluff Rd., James Island, Fri., July 5, 6 - 9 p.m.
Your favorite local businesses will be back en masse as the James Island monthly market returns this Friday. Enjoy local craft vendors, food trucks, fresh produce, music, lawn games, kids activities and more. The day, like all days in this sweltering midsummer month, promises to be hot. Make sure to pack your lawn chair and some water.
For information, visit here.
Charles Towne Landing, 1500 Old Towne Rd., West Ashley, Thurs., July 4, 2 p.m.
Also, our friends at Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site are featuring a one-of-a-kind free class on the wonders of flags in all their forms (or vexillology, for those etymologically inclined). Join a park educator and learn about the colors that flew all across the British Empire, including the province of Carolina, during the late 17th century. Participants should meet in the Adventure wharf area on Thursday. The class and tour will approximately one hour.
For information, visit here.
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