Explore family friendly events, theatres, galleries, concerts, nightlife, things to do, and more in the Greenville, SC and Upstate areas.

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Monday, January 5, 2026
Books Over Drinks with Renae Wilson
Jan 5 @ 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
J Hudson Booksellers

Delve into foodways of the United States, including testimonies from more than 30 Black chefs, restaurateurs, historians and luminaries, as well as 40 historically-rooted recipes.Equal parts historical exploration and cookbook, this rich narrative reveals the rich and indelible contributions of the Black diaspora in shaping the footprint of American cuisine. If you love Kardea Brown and Toni Tipton-Martin, you do not want to miss this Books Over Drinks with Renae Wilson!

Tuesday, January 6, 2026
In Conversation with Gilbert Allen
Jan 6 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
J Hudson Booksellers

Join us for a free poetry reading and conversation with local poet Gil Allen to celebrate his new collection, Stanzas in America! His conversation partner is fellow poet Claire Bateman.

Thursday, January 8, 2026
Books Over Drinks with Rachel Hawkins
Jan 8 @ 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
J Hudson Booksellers

The New York Times bestselling author returns with a thrilling new gothic suspense about a Gulf Coast beach motel where hurricane season can be murder. If you love Alice Feeney and Ashley Elston, you do not want to miss Lunch & Lit with Rachel Hawkins!

Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Literary Bingo
Jan 14 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
J Hudson Booksellers

It’s Bookish Game Night at M. Judson! Join us and our friends at the Greenville County Library for a night of Literary Bingo, complete with prizes. Look for this event once a month, for a regular dose of fun.

Sunday, January 18, 2026
Silent Reading Party
Jan 18 @ 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
J Hudson Booksellers

Enjoy 3 uninterrupted hours of silent reading in the M. Judson Gallery space.

Your ticket includes snacks, beverages, and most importantly: peace and quiet.

Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Books Over Drinks with Ashley Elston
Jan 21 @ 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
J Hudson Booksellers

A tense, feverish thriller about two women’s lives that are forever intertwined when a murder threatens to expose them both. If you love Riley Sagar and Shari Lapena, you do not want to miss this Books Over Drinks with Ashley Elston and special guest Megan Miranda!

Saturday, January 24, 2026
Voices of a Nation
Jan 24 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Twichell Auditorium

Kicking off 2026 and the “Festival of American Voices,” this concert presents a vivid survey of American classical music, highlighting voices from different cultural backgrounds. From the rhythmic energy of Chokfi’ by Chickasaw composer Jerod Tate to Florence Price’s evocative Mississippi River Suite, which weaves together spirituals into symphonic form, the program reflects the richness of American heritage. Aaron Copland’s Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo, with its iconic “Hoe-Down,” captures the spirit of the American West, while a new work by composer Peter B. Kay adds a fresh local perspective. Together, these pieces create a musical patchwork celebrating the diversity and depth of American artistry. Presented by the Spartanburg Philharmonic.

Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Edgar Allan Poe Talk led by Tim Helwig
Jan 27 @ 7:00 pm
Hughes Main Library

Free admission. This event is a discussion, not an in-character performance. Hughes Main Library and online.

Ernest Hemingway – Novelist, journalist and short story writer,
Hemingway revolutionized all three literary forms, earning him
the 1954 Nobel Prize in Literature. His life was as rebellious and
noteworthy as his writings.

Friday, January 30, 2026
Locally Sourced
Jan 30 @ 5:30 pm
Chapman Cultural Center

Farm Fresh Tunes from the Upstate

Celebrate Spartanburg’s rich musical heritage with Locally Sourced, a concert dedicated to showcasing the incredible talent of composers and musicians from our very own community. This intimate performance features works crafted by native artists from the Piedmont region of South Carolina, offering a glimpse into the creative spirit that thrives right here at home. From innovative new compositions to pieces that reflect the unique cultural tapestry of the Upstate, “Locally Sourced” is a tribute to the power of local artistry. Join us for an evening of connection, creativity, and pride in the sounds of Spartanburg.

Laugh for a Child 2026
Jan 30 @ 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, The Hall

Laugh for a Child 2026 – Celebrating 20 Years of Smiles!
Friday, January 30, 2026 | 6:30 PM | Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

Join Healthy Smiles of Spartanburg for the 20th Anniversary of Laugh for a Child, Spartanburg’s premier comedy fundraiser benefiting free dental care for local children in need. Enjoy a night of laughter and live entertainment featuring nationally acclaimed comedian Derrick Stroup, Queen City Keys and Uptown Dueling Pianos, plus exciting raffles, prizes, and surprises throughout the evening.

All proceeds support Healthy Smiles’ mission to provide free dental screenings, education, and treatment for children across Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union Counties.

Tickets and sponsorships are available now at healthysmilesonline.org
.
Don’t miss the funniest night in the ’Burg — where every laugh helps a child smile brighter!

A Taste Of Ireland
Jan 30 @ 7:30 pm
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium
After premiering Off-Broadway last season, ‘A Taste of Ireland―The Irish Music & Dance Sensation’ returns to stages across the USA in 2026, performing the show that has entertained thousands around the globe. Laugh, cry and jig into the night with a production that is Celtic, for this generation. 
Performed by former World Irish dance champions and featuring dancers from Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, ‘A Taste of Ireland’ transports the audience through the story of Ireland’s tumultuous history delivered with a pint of Irish wit. Watch world-class performers blend melodic folk mashups, live jaw-dropping acapella tap battles and heartwarming story telling. Featuring revamped classics of Danny Boy, Tell Me Ma, Wild Rover, and many more well-known songs, the show’s reimagined contemporary score blossoms alongside the brash Irish charm of the live dance cast. ‘A Taste of Ireland’ merges cultural traditions, modern flair, and craic galore, to deliver a performance that has been leaving audiences across the globe jigging on their feet for the last decade.
Saturday, February 7, 2026
Family Orchestral Concert
Feb 7 @ 6:00 pm
Covenant Church

Designed for people of all ages to learn about music and how it impacts us, this concert features classical favorites, musical surprises and audience interaction. Experience fun classics as we explore the orchestra.  Note: This show starts at 6:00PM.

Meet the Music Club of Greenville in the lobby and learn how they collect and refurbish instruments for local students and other community music support services. Want to recycle an instrument to a deserving student? Bring it to the concert or ask the representatives how to donate it.

Join us at the reception following the concert and get to know the musicians over food and conversation. Concert, reception and parking – absolutely FREE!

Family Orchestral Concert
Feb 7 @ 6:00 pm
Covenant Church

Designed for people of all ages to learn about music and how it impacts us, this concert features classical favorites, musical surprises and audience interaction. Experience fun classics as we explore the orchestra.  Note: This show starts at 6:00PM.

Meet the Music Club of Greenville in the lobby and learn how they collect and refurbish instruments for local students and other community music support services. Want to recycle an instrument to a deserving student? Bring it to the concert or ask the representatives how to donate it.

Join us at the reception following the concert and get to know the musicians over food and conversation. Concert, reception and parking – absolutely FREE!

Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Billy Strings
Feb 10 @ 7:30 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Billy Strings is a force to be reckoned with in the world of American roots music. Born William Lee Apostol, this prodigious guitarist, singer, and songwriter has captivated audiences across the globe with his virtuosic playing, heartfelt lyrics, and boundless energy on stage. With a sound that seamlessly blends traditional bluegrass, folk, country, and metal influences, Billy Strings has become a leading figure in the modern roots music revival. Hailing from the musical hotbed of Michigan, Billy Strings discovered his passion for music at a young age.

This is a four day music festival at Harrrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville.

Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Billy Strings
Feb 11 @ 7:30 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Billy Strings is a force to be reckoned with in the world of American roots music. Born William Lee Apostol, this prodigious guitarist, singer, and songwriter has captivated audiences across the globe with his virtuosic playing, heartfelt lyrics, and boundless energy on stage. With a sound that seamlessly blends traditional bluegrass, folk, country, and metal influences, Billy Strings has become a leading figure in the modern roots music revival. Hailing from the musical hotbed of Michigan, Billy Strings discovered his passion for music at a young age.

This is a four day music festival at Harrrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville.

Friday, February 13, 2026
Billy Strings
Feb 13 @ 7:30 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Billy Strings is a force to be reckoned with in the world of American roots music. Born William Lee Apostol, this prodigious guitarist, singer, and songwriter has captivated audiences across the globe with his virtuosic playing, heartfelt lyrics, and boundless energy on stage. With a sound that seamlessly blends traditional bluegrass, folk, country, and metal influences, Billy Strings has become a leading figure in the modern roots music revival. Hailing from the musical hotbed of Michigan, Billy Strings discovered his passion for music at a young age.

This is a four day music festival at Harrrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville.

Saturday, February 14, 2026
Billy Strings
Feb 14 @ 7:30 pm
Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville

Billy Strings is a force to be reckoned with in the world of American roots music. Born William Lee Apostol, this prodigious guitarist, singer, and songwriter has captivated audiences across the globe with his virtuosic playing, heartfelt lyrics, and boundless energy on stage. With a sound that seamlessly blends traditional bluegrass, folk, country, and metal influences, Billy Strings has become a leading figure in the modern roots music revival. Hailing from the musical hotbed of Michigan, Billy Strings discovered his passion for music at a young age.

This is a four day music festival at Harrrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville.

Friday, February 20, 2026
Authentic Unlimited
Feb 20 @ 8:00 pm
Chapman Cultural Center

New Old School Bluegrass

Authentic Unlimited is a dynamic bluegrass band that blends rich harmonies with skillful instrumentation to create a sound that is both timeless and innovative. Comprised of seasoned musicians, including former members of the legendary Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, the band brings a deep-rooted passion for traditional bluegrass, infused with fresh energy. Having earned recognition with IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Association) awards, IBMA nominations, and Dove Awards nominations, the band’s talent and dedication to their craft is widely celebrated in the bluegrass community. Their heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies resonate with audiences, offering an authentic musical experience that speaks to both old and new generations of bluegrass fans. With the release of their latest album So Much for Forever and Gospel Sessions Vol. 2 Authentic Unlimited continues to leave a lasting impact on the bluegrass scene.

Saturday, February 21, 2026
Going Across the Mountain Live 2026
Feb 21 all-day
Foundation Performing Arts Center

Join us for a night of bluegrass with Balsam Range and JackTown Ramblers.
Balsam Range:
Celebrating its 18th year together, bluegrass juggernaut Balsam Range is charging headlong toward the unknown horizon of what is currently unfolding as the group enters a new, promising chapter of its vast, ever-evolving musical career. Coming into 2025, the group: Caleb Smith (guitar, vocals), Tim Surrett (bass, dobro, vocals) Alan Bibey ( mandolin, vocals) and banjoist Marc Pruett — is gearing up to not only release new music, but also once again hit the road, touring majestic theaters and backwoods gatherings — all in the name of bluegrass music.
https://www.balsamrange.com/
JackTown Ramblers:
JackTown Ramblers perform bluegrass, string band, swing and gypsy jazz arrangements – often all in the same set — providing an eclectic feel to their music. Powerful instrumentation and vocals are the centerpiece of their sound and the material selection pulls from a wide array of styles, artists and genres.
The band consists of Gabriel Wiseman (Mandolin & Vocals), Brett Setzer (Banjo & vocals), Mike Street (Bass & Vocals), and Steve Bradshaw (Guitar & Vocals).
https://www.jacktownband.com/

Chamber Concert – Spotlight: Brass
Feb 21 @ 7:00 pm
Edward R. Driggers City of Greer Center for the Arts

In the intimate setting of a small music hall, Foothills Brass players take the stage to reveal the range of brass instruments from crisp to warm – bright to mellow – powerful to tender. And yes, brass players can make you weep. It’s a chance to experience how talented Foothills musicians are.

Everyone is invited to visit the art displayed at the Gallery before or after the concert. Concert, art gallery and parking – absolutely FREE!