In 2002, a few wooden boat enthusiasts at the South Carolina Maritime Foundation decided to create an event to highlight Charleston’s rich maritime history and bring folks to the waterfront. The success of this event has blossomed over the last five years into an annual, harbor-wide celebration of the sea. What in past years was called the Charleston Maritime Festival has now been renamed to reflect the increased scope of attractions and the expansion of the festival grounds. Charleston HarborFest will be held May 16-May 18, 2008.
The Charleston Maritime Center will serve as the hub to this three-day extravaganza, with activities and attractions stretching north to Liberty Square, south to the Passenger Terminal at the foot of Market Street, and west into Ansonborough Field (depending on construction schedules). As evidence that this event will truly permeate the harbor, plans are being developed for additional attractions across the Cooper River in Mt. Pleasant as well as on the water between the two municipalities.
The event will continue its tradition of offering opportunities to sail, row and peruse a large collection of classic wooden boats. The Palmetto state’s very own Spirit of South Carolina tall ship will be joined by the recently launched Schooner Virginia and the Corwith Cramer, both beautiful tall ships measuring more than 125 feet. Additionally, HarborFest’s authentic pirate camp will prompt children and adults alike to bellow their best “Argh!,” while those desiring a true hands-on experience can choose to spend the weekend building their own 12-foot Charleston Bateau as part of the family boat building program. The Education Village at Charleston HarborFest will provide interactive experiences for children to learn more about sail training, South Carolina’s maritime history, coastal conservation, and aquatic life. Great food, live music and the chance to walk the docks and admire the classic beauty of traditional boats-grand and petite-will draw a crowd from near and far.
In contrast to the historic aspect of the vessels docked at the Charleston Maritime Center, HarborFest will host the 463-foot Guided Missile Frigate at the Passenger Terminal. The USS Stephen W Groves (FFG 29) is a Navy ship designed to provide local area protection to battle groups, underway replenishment groups, amphibious forces, military and merchant ships, and to conduct Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) operations. Docked at the Passenger Terminal, this immense, modern marvel will open its gangway to the public while servicemen and women provide tours throughout the three days of Charleston HarborFest.
Charleston HarborFest is an event of the South Carolina Maritime Foundation. Proceeds from this festival support educational programs for South Carolina youth aboard the Spirit of South Carolina tall ship. The foundation’s mission is to offer effective, unique educational opportunities for the students of South Carolina, focusing on history, science, math and literature within the context of our state’s coastal region and encouraging personal responsibility, contribution to community and stewardship of environment. For additional information and event updates, visit www.charlestonharborfest.org or call (843) 722-1030 ext. 12.
Maritime Center & Ansonborough Field
Phone: 843-722-1030
www.charlestonharborfest.org