We know that the nation will celebrate Independence Day on July 4, but do you know what is celebrated on June 28?
South Carolinians, and Charlestonians in particular, have been celebrating June 28 as Carolina Day for over 200 years. It was on June 28, 1776, that South Carolina achieved the first decisive victory of the American Revolution at the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, encouraging all of the colonies to mutually pledge their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor in the fight for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This year marks the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island.
Church bells will ring out across the historic city of Charleston, and there will be a commemorative service at St. Michael’s Anglican Church. Following the service, citizens, dignitaries, and costumed Revolutionary reenactors will gather in Washington Park at the corner of Meeting Street and Broad Street. They will march, accompanied by bagpipes and flags, to nearby White Point Gardens for a ceremony of speeches and commemoration.
Downtown Charleston
Carolina Day 2026
Schedule of Events
Saturday, June 27, 2026
10:00 am-11:00 am Church Service at St. Michael’s Church
11:00 am-11:30 am Gather at Washington Park
11:30 am-11:45 pm Parade from Washington Park to White Point Garden
11:45 am-12:30 pm Rick Atkinson speaks at White Point Garden
with wreath laying to follow
The National Park Service Event, Sullivan’s Island
On Saturday June 27 and Sunday, June 28, 2026, Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park in Sullivan’s Island will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island with parades, militia demonstrations, and artillery salutes. In addition to historic weapons demonstrations, ranger programs and interactive activities, Fort Moultrie will host a special ceremony on Sunday, June 28, 2026 at 10:00 am. This ceremony will officially commemorate the battle anniversary and is the Signature Event for the Carolina Day weekend.
The park is open 9:00 am – 4:30 pm, and this is a fee-free weekend. No site fees will apply during this event. Enjoy History Row, Interactive Children’s Activities, and demonstrations throughout the day. Click here for more information.
–Tidelines Editors
(Sources and image credits: Palmetto Society, National Park Service)