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

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Thursday, May 2, 2024

Stem Day Camp High School registration open

May 2 all-day

Spartanburg Community College Giles Campus

Open to incoming 9th-12th graders.

2024 High School STEM Camp

July 8^th – 12^th

Please complete form by June 15^th

Categories: Education

Summer Zoo Camp registration open

May 2 all-day

Greenville Zoo

Join us for a fun-filled summer where art and nature collide at the Greenville Zoo! Conservation is explored through activities, crafts, games, animal encounters, keeper chats, and more! Campers ages 5 – 14 are invited to use nature as their canvas to paint a picture of the animal world right here in Greenville.

5-6 year old Camps

Colorful Creatures

Embark on a whimsical journey through the zoo, where each animal showcases the incredible pallet of the animal world.

June 3rd – 7th
June 17th – 21st
July 8th – 12th
July 22nd – 26th

Nature Explorers

Calling all little explorers! Join us to find a place where friendships blossom, imaginations run wild, and a love of the natural world begins.

June 10th – 14th
June 24th – 28th
July 15th – 19th
July 29th – August 2nd

7-8 year old Camps

Paws & Paintbrushes

Immerse your child in a week-long adventure where creativity and curiosity come together to capture the imagination.

June 3rd – 7th
June 17th – 21st
July 8th – 12th

Jr. Naturalist

Join us for a week of laughter, discovery, and wild fun as we explore the incredible world of animals and embark on a mission to keep them thriving in their natural habitats.

June 10th – 14th
July 15th – 19th
July 29th – August 2nd

9-11 year old Camps

Animal Artists

Unleash your inner artist and ignite your passion for wildlife as we dive into the animal kingdom through the lens of creativity and art.

July 22nd – 26th

Eco Enthusiasts

This is no ordinary summer camp; it’s a steppingstone for the next generation of conservationists as they become stewards of the wild!

June 24th – 28th

12 – 14 year old Camp

Jr. Zookeeper

Join the Greenville Zoo crew as you get an exclusive peek at what a day in the life of a zookeeper is all about! (Full-day Camp)

July 1st – 2nd

Categories: Family Fun

GCCA Summer Art Camp registration open

May 2 @ 9:00 am

online w/ GCCA

Weekly art camps at GCCA are designed to let kids ages 5-12 explore their creativity through a range of materials and concepts. Each week features a different engaging theme for children to explore through multiple mediums and includes professional guest artists who demonstrate technique and discuss what makes their work unique.

Monday-Friday
9am-12pm

Multi-Color Magic, June 3-7
Animation and Creation, June 10-14
Dive into (Water)color, June 17-21
Homegrown Art, June 24-28
ARTcycling, July 8-12
Out of this World Art!, July 15-19
Jurassic ART, July 22-26
Back to School is COOL!, July 29-August 2

Categories: Art & Craft Family Fun

Hello Family: network + support

May 2 @ 9:00 am – 10:00 am

online w/ Hello Family

Hello Family Proves “It Takes a Village” in Spartanburg

Hello Family believes that all parents and caregivers deserve a network of support. That’s why this unique organization is providing Spartanburg families with key resources and services focusing on care ranging from prenatal to age 5.

With services ranging from text based assistance to community baby showers, to preschool readiness support, Hello Family is helping “Spartanburg’s youngest residents” get the best possible start to their journey! Find out more below!

Categories: Community Family Fun

NC Arboretum Hiking Trails

May 2 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

NC Arboretum

Located within the wildly-popular and botanically beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains, The North Carolina Arboretum offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails that connect to many other area attractions such as Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy their hiking experience at the Arboretum as trail options include easy, moderate, and difficult challenge levels. All trails are dog-friendly and visitors are asked to adhere to the proper waste disposing procedures for pets.

Part of a running group that would like to use the Arboretum as a starting point or parking location? Please review our Running Group Guidance and email [email protected] with any questions.

Categories: Family Fun Hike Hiking Outdoors

TCMU Tots

May 2 @ 9:30 am – 11:30 am

TCMU Spartanburg

Skill-building and community-building for toddlers and their caregivers! Little ones ages 2-5 will explore role-playing, storytelling, and interactive activities, fostering early social skills and a world of make-believe adventures that could include an ice cream shop, car wash or post office!

Categories: Family Fun

Story Time + More

May 2 @ 12:30 pm – 1:00 pm

TCMU Spartanburg

Listen, respond and imagine during Story Time & More! Young learners can listen and respond to a story and participate in enrichment activities designed to ignite fun, discovery and learning.

Categories: Family Fun

Ephemerals, Mosses, + Ferns

May 2 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Bullington Gardens

Want to learn more about mosses and ferns? What are the most common spring ephemeral plants?, their pollinators and some of the interesting history of these special plants. Henderson County Extension Agent and host of the Gardening in the Mountains Radio Show Steve Pettis will discuss the many flowers that grow in the Spring time in the forests of Western North Carolina.

Categories: Community Education Garden Garden Events Workshops

steamWORKS jr.

May 2 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

TCMU Spartanburg

Step into TCMU-Spartanburg’s STEAM based classroom! Young minds can explore weekly themes through science activities designed to encourage creative problem solving and hands-on learning. We’ll even get a little messy sometimes!

Categories: Family Fun

Bridgeway Farmers Market (Opening Day!)

May 2 @ 4:00 pm

Bridgeway Station

Bridgeway Farmers Market

Bridging Local Community & Agriculture Together

Local Produce & Artisanal Goods: Explore booths overflowing with farm-fresh fruits and vegetables handmade crafts artisan cheeses and more all sourced from local growers and creators.

At Bridgeway Farmers Market we’re more than just a place to shop; we’re a vibrant community gathering designed to bring people together in celebration of the rich agricultural heritage of our region. Nestled in the heart of South Carolina our market is a unique evening destination where families foodies and friends can connect and enjoy the best of local culture.

Categories: Art & Craft Family Fun Farmers Market Food & Drink Music

Sewing for Beginners

May 2 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Headquarters Library

Sewing for Beginners is open to the first 4 people. Patrons will make a reusable grocery bag while learning the basics of sewing. Class is limited to 4 people, ages 12 and up.

Categories: Art & Craft Education

Disney’s The Little Mermaid

May 2 @ 7:30 pm

Mauldin Cultural Center

Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea.

Categories: Family Fun Music Theatre

Friday, May 3, 2024

BRING ON SPRING w/ Nantahala Outdoor Center

May 3 all-day

Nantahala Outdoor Center

BRING ON SPRING

A spring break spent outdoors is a break well spent!

From hiking the Appalachian Trail to rafting down iconic southeastern rivers, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors this spring. Our rivers are opening and we can’t wait to take you on your next adventure!

Find My Next Adventure

SPRING ADVENTURES

Whitewater Rafting

Hit the river while the water is high!

Let’s go! >>

Mountain Biking

Lake views from the bike are phenomenal!

Let’s go! >>

Zip Lining

Look down into a blooming forest!

Let’s go! >>

Packages

More adventures=More fun. Book a package!

Let’s go! >>

Categories: Family Fun Outdoors Sports

Great Anderson County Fair

May 3 all-day

Anderson County Fair

THE GREAT ANDERSON COUNTY FAIR WILL BE BACK MAY 2-12, 2024. GET READY FOR RIDES, FUN & FAIR FOOD!

$10.00 general admission, free for children 10 years and under.

Free Parking!

CLICK HERE FOR THE 2024 BROCHURE!

Categories: Community Family Fun Outdoors

Learn a New Language and Broaden your Horizons with Upstate International!

May 3 all-day

Upstate International

Registration for Spring 2024 language classes at Upstate International is open!
Embark on a transformative journey with Upstate International’s language classes designed to elevate your career and broaden your horizons. With eight language options available our small classes provide an intimate learning environment where you can progress at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the richness of cultural diversity while acquiring valuable language skills that will open doors to new opportunities.
This 15-week semester beginning January 22nd offers Finnish French Spanish Russian etc. Whether you want to learn a language for work, expand your resume, play, travel, or stimulate your brain, UI has a class for you.
Classes are conducted in an informal relaxed atmosphere and are limited to no more than ten people. There are two types of classes: Regular classes meet once a week for 75 minutes costing $180 per semester and Intensive classes meet twice a week for 90 minutes each costing $480 per semester. Annual memberships are required for all students and cost from $75 to $100.
Classes are held both online and in person at Upstate International 9 S. Memminger Street Greenville SC.
For more information please visit www.upstateinternational.org

Categories: Community Education Workshops

Mile High Swinging Bridge

May 3 all-day

Grandfather Mountain

One of the top highlights and memories of visits to Grandfather Mountain nature park is walking across the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Since 1952, visitors have “oohed” and “aahed” at the bridge’s 360-degree panoramic views. America’s highest suspension footbridge gives easy access to the spectacular views atop Grandfather Mountain’s Linville Peak, elevation 5,305 feet.

The 228-foot suspension bridge spans an 80-foot chasm at more than one mile in elevation (hence the name!). To reach the Mile High Swinging Bridge, drive the two-mile, winding scenic road up the mountain to the summit parking area by the Top Shop. Climb 50 stairs adjacent to the parking area or inside the Top Shop to reach the short pathway to the bridge. Also, an elevator in the Top Shop takes you to the third floor for a level walk to the bridge.

Top Shop

Located adjacent to the Bridge, the Top Shop features a gift shop, snacks, restrooms, elevator and second-floor exhibition area. Also get the latest park information and trail maps. Read more.

Accessibility

Inside the Top Shop, an elevator makes the Mile High Swinging Bridge accessible to people with mobility challenges, including those in wheelchairs. From the Top Shop, there is a paved 50-yard path to the bridge. Read more about our accessibility.

Tickets & Hours

Walking across the Mile High Swinging Bridge is included in your Grandfather Mountain admission ticket that includes many other things to do in our nature park. Buy tickets online and book a reservation time to enter the park. You do not need a separate reservation for the bridge. It’s open, weather permitting, every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. See hours.

More to Explore

Before or after visiting the Mile High Swinging Bridge, allow time to enjoy other parts of the mountain: wildlife habitats, Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, restaurant, hiking trails, roadside overlooks, picnic areas and more. See more Things to Do.

Nearby Hiking Trails

Trailheads to many of the Grandfather Mountain hiking trails are located near the Swinging Bridge. In fact, the 0.4 mile Bridge Trail takes you beneath the bridge, starting from the Black Rock parking area just below the summit. For details on our nearby trails, go to our Hiking Guide.

Bridge Tips & Tidbits

Does it really swing? Very little — unlike the original one. Today’s bridge is made of steel and reinforced with cables and springs. It has railings on the sides to ensure safety.
We suggest you wear rubber-soled shoes and walk with care when crossing the rocks on the far side of the bridge.
If heights give you pause, you can still enjoy Blue Ridge Mountain views from the ground before you reach the bridge and even from the parking area.
Due to periodic extreme weather conditions at the bridge, it closes when there is area lightning, high wind or icy conditions.
The official U.S. Weather Service Reporting Station atop the Mile High Swinging Bridge has provided daily weather observations since 1955. The temperature is usually 10 to 20 degrees cooler than in the flatlands you see below. It’s also one of the windiest locations in North Carolina, with a 124-mph record set in winter 2019. Learn more about our weather.
Pets are allowed on the bridge if well behaved and on a leash.
Photographs and videos to remember your visit are encouraged. Be mindful of sharp drop-offs along the Linville Peak ridge. Drones are not allowed. See our photography policies.
The Singing Bridge? When the wind blows, the Mile High Swinging Bridge “sings” in the same way as a harmonica.
In April through October, join Grandfather’s expert naturalists by the Bridge for Interpretive Talks about the our unique weather, climate, flora and fauna. Read more.
Need driving directions? The address for Grandfather Mountain’s entrance gate is 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC 28646 (click link for Google Maps). There are no shuttles, so you must have your own vehicle to explore our nature park. No RVs longer than 28 feet in length or hinged vehicles are allowed through the Entrance Gate. See detailed directions.
To see much more info, see our Plan Your Visit section.

Mile High Swinging Bridge History

Former North Carolina Tourism Director Charles J. Parker coined the name “Mile High Swinging Bridge” at the Bridge’s dedication in 1952. The term “mile high” refers to the structure’s elevation above sea level (5,280 feet). The term “swinging” refers to the fact that suspension bridges are free to sway.

The original 1952 bridge was designed by Charles Hartmann Jr. of Greensboro, N.C. It was fabricated in Greensboro and then reassembled on top of the Mountain. Erecting the bridge took three weeks, a process slowed by inclement weather created by a hurricane off the North Carolina coast. Cost was $15,000. It was dedicated on Sept. 2, 1952 by North Carolina Gov. William B. Umstead.

The bridge was rebuilt in 1999 using the original towers. The cables, floor boards and side rails were all replaced using galvanized steel. One of the main advantages of the modern building materials is that they do not have to be painted. Now, Grandfather Mountain employees will not have to hang out over the gorge to paint the span. It was redesigned by Sutton, Kennerly & Associates Engineering of Asheville, N.C., and rebuilt by Taylor & Murphy Construction Company of Asheville. The cost of rebuilding was $300,000.

Categories: Family Fun Outdoors

Raft + Rail A Fully Guided Experience

May 3 all-day

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

The original Raft & Rail© since 1988: enjoy the two best adventures in the region in one day, great for families. Southern Living Magazine calls this “an ideal adventure for families, first-timers, young or old.” This full-day guided adventure starts with a Wildwater staff member greeting you at the train depot, followed by a scenic train trip, deli lunch with all the fixings, and a Nantahala River whitewater trip with a guide in every boat. Hot showers and a photo show follow immediately after your 8-mile Nantahala River trip. All transportation is included to and from the Bryson City Train Depot. Available April–October with the morning departure of the Nantahala Gorge Excursion departing Bryson City, NC. Train seating in Open Air Gondola. 2024 bookings starting soon!

Ticket fares subject to 7% Historic Preservation Fee and 7% North Carolina sales tax. Schedules, fares, motive power, equipment, seat selection, and meals are subject to change without notice. We guarantee the class of service you select. You will be notified if a change in schedule or motive power affects your reservation. Payment in full at booking by major credit card is required to finalize a reservation. You may cancel your reservation in full or in part and receive a refund less a $14.00 fee per adult ticket and $7.00 fee per child ticket as late as 5 days before departure, except The Polar Express Train Ride; The Polar Express Train Ride is as late as 60 days before departure. Within 5 days of the departure, or 60 days in the case of the Polar Express Train Ride, the reservation becomes nonrefundable. You may reschedule any time prior to your originally scheduled departure with a $7.00 fee per ticket for another date within the same calendar year. You may not reschedule a reservation after the scheduled departure.

Categories: Family Fun Outdoors

Spring 2024 Language Classes

May 3 all-day

Upstate International Center

Stimulate your brain this Spring by learning a new language or building on your current foreign language skills at Upstate International, a 501(c)(3), empowering people and businesses of all nations to thrive in the Upstate by connecting them through programs, events, and initiatives that foster the dynamic exchange of international cultures and ideas.

Registration for Spring language classes at Upstate International will be open in a few weeks! The 15-week semester, beginning on January 22nd and ending on May 3rd, will offer classes in English, French, Italian, German, Russian, and Spanish. Whether you want to learn a language for work, expand your resume, play, travel, or stimulate your brain, UI has a class for you.

Classes are conducted in an informal, relaxed atmosphere and are limited to no more than ten people. There are two types of classes: Regular classes meet once a week for 75 minutes, costing $180 per semester, while Intensive classes meet twice a week for 90 minutes, costing $480 per semester. UI language classes are only available to UI members. Annual memberships are required for all students and cost $75 to $100.

Classes are held online and in person at Upstate International, 9 S. Memminger Street, Greenville, SC.

For more information, please visit www.upstateinternational.org

If you are interested in being notified when registration opens for the Spring semester, sign up on our Spring Semester Interest Sheet. https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/1PZ24MutkpKyTSJj7JwT4w

Categories: Education

Summer Zoo Camp registration open

May 3 all-day

Greenville Zoo