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.

Sunday, May 12, 2024
Uncorked
May 12 @ 10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot

Passengers will enjoy a full service All-Adult First Class ride in our First Class cars with a private attendant and plush, well-appointed dining seating. A narrator will accompany the ride to present each pour to guests and share knowledge and history of the wines selected. Passengers on this specialty car will enjoy an exclusive sampling of cheeses and a surf and turf meal prepared fresh. We have carefully selected our wine samples to accompany the meal. All passengers will receive a GSMR souvenir stemless wine glass, four samples of selected wine, and a dessert that’s perfect for the season! Uncorked is offered on the Nantahala Gorge Excursion, departing on select dates. See schedule for departures. Tickets for this specialty experience starts at $169 per person (Adults 21+ only). Due to the exclusivity of this specialty car, tickets will be selling fast, so make sure to reserve your seat today!

On Your Plate

Starters
Enjoy a sampling of Cheddar, Pepper Jack & Swiss
First Course
Fresh Baby Spinach topped with Chef’s choice of dressing.
Vegetarian option: Spinach Salad with Lemon Poppyseed Vinaigrette.
Main Course
Surf n’ Turf seasonally prepared at Chefs’ discretion accompanied by a selection of vegetables and roasted potatoes.
Vegetarian option: Quinoa and grilled Tofu with seasonal vegetables and a sweet chili sauce.
Dessert
Chef choice
Tuesday, May 14, 2024
Caffeinated Conversations: Planetarium plans
May 14 @ 8:30 am – 9:30 am
Spartanburg County Library HQ

 

Our next Caffeinated Conversations will feature an update on Spartanburg’s Planetarium from Todd Stephens, County Librarian with the Spartanburg County Public Libraries. This update will provide more information on the design of the planetarium and more on its future uses.
Open Mic Night hosted by Marc Higgins
May 14 @ 6:30 pm
FR8yard

Tuesday Night
Open Mic
With Marc Higgins

Sign-up begins at 5pm. Slots are limited. Three (3) songs or 15 minutes, whichever happens first.

About our Host…

Higgins, whose brand of folk-rock has been described as a cross between the punkish energy of the Replacements and the alt-country aesthetic of Whiskeytown, has long had a reputation for producing catchy pop hooks, going back to his work in such former bands as The Turnaround and The Edmonds.

Check out an original song by Marc Higgins: “Subway Song” LIVE @ Oskar Blues

Wednesday, May 15, 2024
Ignite Greer
May 15 @ 8:30 am – 9:30 am
Cartwright Food Hall
Join us on the second floor of Cartwright Food Hall for our free monthly IGNITE Greer event. We’ll gather from 8:30-9:30am. Two founders present about their business, and the community helps them brainstorm solutions.

 

You may also like the following events from The Platform at Greer:

Business Finance Basics
May 15 @ 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Milliken Board Room OneSpartanburg, Inc.
Join us for “Business Finance Basics,” a partnership with Power Up Spartanburg and Truist. This interactive session will equip you with the essential knowledge to build, manage, and safeguard your business for long-term success.
In this course, you will delve into key elements of business finance basics, learning how to effectively manage cash flow, explore strategies for business expansion, and gain insights into business insurance.
Who Should Enroll: This session is ideal for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of business finance fundamentals.
Recommended Dress Attire: Business casual attire is recommended for this event.
Cancellation Policy: Due to limited spots, we kindly request that you provide at least 48 hours notice if you are unable to attend the event. Your cooperation is appreciated
Don’t miss out on this invaluable opportunity to enhance your business acumen and secure the future of your enterprise. Mark your calendars and join us for an enriching session!
New + Potential Funding Partner Event
May 15 @ 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
milliken
Tech After Five
May 15 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Think Tank Brew Lab

Tech After Five connects the tech community. We invite IT Professionals, Startups, Entrepreneurs and their community of support to come together and make meaningful professional connections.

You may be looking for work or looking to hire. You might be looking for customers or prospects. You may need co-founders, partners or mentors. We’ve got you covered.

Tech After Five is not like other networking events. We work particularly hard to make sure we get the right people in the room and then make sure it’s easy for you to find each other. Sign up using the right ticket type for you. We will then follow up with custom emails that let you know who you can expect to meet. We will print custom badges for the event that make it easy for you to find the people you are looking for.

We know that networking can be hard. We try to make it as easy as possible for you to meet the right people. We know that when smart people come together we can make things happen. We hope you will join us and become part of our community.

Hump Day Yappy Hour
May 15 @ 6:00 pm
FR8yard

The doggos are taking over the Yard! Dog parents, dog-friendly business owners, dog-based non-profits–basically dog enthusiasts of every stripe–are descending on FR8yard every 1st and 3rd Wednesday this Spring for live music, awesome eats & drinks, and more! We’ll issue you a $5 PUP BUCK just for bringing out your four-legged-friends … and proceeds from our special Pooch Hooch Cocktails, courtesy of Tito’s, will be benefitting the Spartanburg Humane Society. Did we mention free dog treats??? So, come join us for our Hump Day Yappy Hours and don’t forget to bring your fur babies!

Live on Stage: Jake + the Wake ‘n Bakers
May 15 @ 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
FR8yard
Hump Day

Jake & the Wake ‘n Bakers

Trivia with Andrew Fischer
May 15 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
New Groove Artisan Brewery

Trivia with Andrew Fischer

Thursday, May 16, 2024
Upstate Mobility Summit
May 16 @ 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Runway Cafe at GMU

The Upstate is one of the fastest growing regions in the fastest growing state in the nation. As this growth continues, we have to tackle the challenge of how to move more people around to more places, more often.

Join us for the first-ever Upstate Mobility Summit on Thursday, May 16 from 1:30PM – 4:00PM at The Hangar at Runway Cafe, at the Downtown Greenville Airport, for a day filled with networking, discussions, and insights on the future of transportation in the upstate region. Hear from state and regional transportation leaders, and connect with peers, policymakers, and innovators as we explore new trends and technologies shaping the way we move about our region. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to be part of the conversation!

Light refreshments will be available throughout the Summit.

PLUS – your ticket includes full admission, and early access, to Ten at the Top’s fan-favorite “Blues, Brews & BBQ” starting immediately following the Summit, right outside on the tarmac of the airport featuring live music by Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’ Blues, a Tiny Bus Concert, food trucks, and more!

SPEAKER LINEUP

  1. Welcome Remarks
    – GP McLeer, Upstate Mobility Alliance
  2. Statewide Perspective
    – Jennifer Necker, Office of Public Transportation (SC DOT)
  3. Public Transportation Panel Discussion
    – James Keel, GreenLink (moderator)
    – Kathy Jo Lancaster, Union County
    – Becky Powell Moon, McCormick Area Transit
    – Heather Lollis, CATbus
  4. An Autonomous Future
    – Brandon Cortensio, Beep
  5. The Future of Greenville’s Downtown Airport
    – James Stephens, GMU Airport
Blues, Brews and BBQ 2024
May 16 @ 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Runway Cafe at GMU

Ten at the Top and the Upstate Mobility Alliance are excited to host the fourth annual Blues, Brews and BBQ outdoor networking extravaganza at the Greenville Downtown Airport Runway Cafe Hangar & Tarmac on May 16 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.! Come meet TATT partners and enjoy Upstate BBQ, tasty beverages, and live music from Mac Arnold and Plate Full O’ Blues.

If you are a current TATT funding partner, you should have received a link to redeem your complimentary tickets. For additional questions, please contact Justine Allen at [email protected] .

PHOTOGRAPHY NOTICE: Please be advised that by participating in Ten at the Top’s events, you are automatically authorizing Ten at the Top (hereinafter “TATT”) and its employees, agents or assigns to use your photograph, company’s brand or other likeness for purposes related to the mission of the TATT, including but not limited to: publicity, marketing, websites, other electronic forms of media, and promotion of both the TATT investor program and the Upstate South Carolina region.

Dinner And A Movie: Star Wars: A New Hope (1977)
May 16 @ 7:00 pm
Eighteen Hundred Drayton Catering & Events

Enjoy a 5 course meal of out-of-this world dishes while young Luke Skywalker discovers his destiny as he joins forces with Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi and smuggler Han Solo to rescue Princess Leia from the clutches of Darth Vader and the evil Empire. Together with their droid companions R2-D2 and C-3PO, they embark on a daring mission to deliver stolen plans for the Empire’s superweapon, the Death Star, to the Rebel Alliance. Along the way, they face epic space battles, confrontations with Imperial forces, and learn the ways of the Force. With courage and determination, they ultimately succeed in destroying the Death Star and striking a blow against tyranny, setting the stage for a galaxy-spanning saga of adventure and heroism.

Tatooine Twin Suns Soup

Dashi Soup, Scallions, Ginger, Sombal, with Poached Egg Yolks

Chewbacca’s Wookie Wontons

Wonton Skins filled with artichokes, spinach, parmesan cheese

Jedi Mind Tricks Salad

Mixed Greens salad with Cucumber ribbons, Heirloom Tomato, Red Onion, in a Yoda Green Herb Dressing

Bantha Ribene (Luke’s favorite Food)

Spiced Pork Ribs, Tomo-Spice, Wookie Fries

Battle Pack Dessert

Tie Fighter Treats, Light Saber Pretzel, Chocolate Ice Cream Death Star

The Gardening Club
May 16 @ 7:00 pm
FR8yard
The Gardening Club

The Gardening Club

live music

Friday, May 17, 2024
Upstate Connect: Introducing the Upstate Downtown Academy
May 17 @ 9:00 am – 10:15 am
The Arts Center of Greenwood

Join TATT and the Urban League of the Upstate for an informal networking event to be held from 9-10:15 a.m. on Friday, May 17 at the Arts Center of Greenwood at 120 Main Street in Greenwood. The topic for the session is downtown revitalization and will also include the unveiling of the new Upstate Downtown Academy Program. This event will be limited to 30 people to allow for small group discussion.

38th annual Greek Festival
May 17 @ 11:00 am
Greenville Greek Festival

Greenville, South Carolina – Greekville returns to Greenville! Come experience Greek culture through food, dance, and music. Be sure to visit our new “Plaka” which features our Taverna and vendors … be “Greek for a Day.”  The community of Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral will celebrate our 38th Annual Greenville Greek Festival May 17 – 19, 2024.

Come experience authentic Greek food and pastries offered through both our drive-thru and onsite dining Friday and Saturday, 11 am – 9 pm and Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm. Order from the comfort and safety of your car or visit us in-person and enjoy your meal outside or inside (limited indoor seating).

Choose from three delicious combination plates featuring traditional favorites … Athenian Chicken, Pastichio, or Moussaka; or enjoy everyone’s favorite — Gyros! We will also have a smaller plate options like Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) with Orzo and Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades). Satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade Greek pastries featuring Baklava, Koulourakia, and Kourambiedes. Or take home a combination assortment plate with all your favorites.

In addition, we will be featuring Greek Pizza, Lamb Burgers, Greek Fries, Souvlaki, Greek-Style Ribs, Baklava Sundaes, Lemonade and Greek Beer, all available outside on the festival grounds. Our newly expanded “Plaka’ will feature last year’s favorite, the Taverna, with Greek Beer, Wine, and a sampling of traditional Greek appetizers or “mezedes” along with all our vendors.

Our Dance Troupe will be performing traditional Greek dances at various times throughout the festival, and we will have live Greek music every day. Church Tours and an Iconography exhibit will also be offered.

Admission is $3 with all admissions proceeds benefitting Live Well Greenville, a coalition working to advance equitable access to healthy eating and active living in Greenville County.

The annual Greek Festival has become an Upstate tradition. We believe in the importance of sharing our culture with our neighbors through this event. We appreciate the support that the community has shown us throughout the years and look forward to seeing everyone again this year.

The Saint George Greek Orthodox Community was established in Greenville in 1936. The first Greek Festival began in 1987 to share our ethnic, cultural, and spiritual culture with the community that has been so welcoming to our members over the years. This joyous tradition has continued for 37 years, and we hope to continue for many years to come. We welcome you and your family to come and experience this taste of Greece.

Greer Food Truck Rollout
May 17 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Greer City Park

Bring your blankets or chairs and join us for a fun night of great food and live music at Greer City Park! Food and beverages will be available for purchase from Greer Relief & Resources Agency, Inc. Valid ID is required to purchase alcohol. Outside alcohol and coolers are prohibited.

Food Trucks – Friday, May 17

  • Chef on the Run
  • Daddy’s Cookout
  • Street Pizza
  • Williams BBQ Smokehouse
  • O’ Taste & See Hot Mini Donuts
  • Kona Ice of E. Greer
  • Mac Attack

     

Music Provided By Kylie Odetta

Brew in the Zoo
May 17 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Greenville Zoo

The Greenville Zoo invites zoo-goers to tap into the wild at our 14th annual Brew in the Zoo. This event, set for Friday, May 17th from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., will provide attendees with the opportunity to sample an assortment of beer, lite fare, all while exploring the zoo after hours. Early admission and general admission ticket holders will receive a special souvenir shot glass, unlimited beer sampling, free food and Pepsi products. Designated drivers will receive free food and Pepsi products.

Quasi Quasar with The Derek McCoy Trio
May 17 @ 7:00 pm
FR8yard
Quasi Quasar

Quasi Quasar with The Derek McCoy Trio

Saturday, May 18, 2024
Greenville BBQ Trail Tour
May 18 all-day
Various Locations Greenville SC

While Downtown Greenville’s familiar culinary scene has some great BBQ options, this tour will take you outside of the city center to the places locals know and love. These are the types of joints with smoke stacks sticking out of the rooftops and white smoke billowing out of the chimneys–smoking the meats right on the premises.

The Greenville BBQ Trail tour is your opportunity to try back-to-back tastings of what are considered by many to be among the top BBQ spots in the city.

Tours include:

• Insights into each restaurant’s cooking processes and techniques
• Information about each restaurant’s history and how they got started
• Interesting information about Greenville BBQ history
• A drive through old textile mill villages
• And, of course, a chance to try generous portions of smoked meats and delicious sides

Locations we visit:

• Bucky’s Bar-B-Q
• Henry’s Smokehouse
• Mike & Jeff’s BBQ