Scout out your spot to watch the fireworks blast off over the Lake Murray Dam. | Photo by COLAtoday
Lake Murray’s 37th annual Independence Day Celebration lights up the sky Saturday, June 28, with SC’s largest fireworks show. At dark (around 9:15 p.m.), twin displays will launch from Spence and Dreher Islands, set to patriotic music on 93.1 The Lake and streamed live on WIS News 10.
Best views? By boat or from Dreher Island State Park ($3 adults, $1.50 seniors, $1 kids). The fireworks highlight a weekend of “Spirit of Americana” events, including the Great Race Grand Finish in Irmo the following day, Sunday, June 29, where vintage cars will roll into Moore Park.
Heads up: The annual boat parade is on pause this year due to dam construction. In case of thunderstorms, the fireworks will shift to Sunday. If you Google Lake Murray fireworks and see something about a cancellation, that’s San Diego. Ours in the Midlands is full steam ahead.
“Avengers: Endgame” The Exhibition | Saturday, June 28-Sunday, Jan. 18 | Times vary | Upcountry History Museum, Greenville | $0+ | See original costumes, props, and memorabilia from the Marvel Universe.
Fourth Anniversary Festival | 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. | Pangaea Brewing, Greenville | Free | Enjoy a free pilates class with beermosas to follow, build-your-own boquets, a dunk tank, dino races, $5 pints, scavender hunts, and a community mural.
The Community Tap Anniversary Party | 4:30-9 p.m. | The Community Tap, Greenville | Free | Toast to 15 years with food trucks, live music, and drink specials.
Greenville Triumph vs. Miami FC | 7 p.m. | Paladin Stadium, Greenville | $25+ | Celebrate Greenville’s first Cup match versus a Championship club with a flag giveaway to the first 500 fans.
Hot in Herre: 2000’s Dance Party | Radio Room Greenville, Greenville | $15+ | Dance the night away to the top hits from the 2000s.
Live Music: Charlie Sleeth | Monday, June 30, Tuesday, July 1 | 5:30-8:30 p.m. | The Piano Lounge at Westin Poinsett, Greenville | Free | Listen to live piano and singing while enjoying dinner and a drink.
Wednesday, July 2
Irish Music Session | 6:30-9 p.m. | The Pub for What Ales You, Greenville | Free | Spend the evening with a gathering of acoustic musicians sharing Irish-traditional music.
Thursday, July 3
The Spark Before The 4th | 12-10 p.m. | PKL PARK, Greenville | $0+ | Kick off Independence Day early with live music, giveaways, a special cookout menu, and prime fireworks views.
Friday, July 4
4th of July Float-a-Palooza | Friday, July 4-Sunday, July 6 | 12-7 p.m. | Saluda Lake Landing, Greenville | $15+ | Float from noon to night with live DJ sets, discounted rentals, cookout bites, and prizes at this pet- and family-friendly lake party.
Saturday, July 5
5th of July | 2-10 p.m. | BridgeWay Station, Simpsonville | Free | Keep the party going with fireworks, live music, line dancing, superheroes, and more family fun.
According to recent surveys, Gen Zers (primarily teen boys) are spending more on personal fragrances — and not just Axe body spray. If you’re looking for a personalized fragrance, we recommend checking out Palmetto Scent Studio, where you can craft a custom scent. (CO)
Number
72.2 million. That’s how many Americans are expected to travel for the Fourth of July, a 2.4% increase from last year. This includes an estimated 5.84 million people traveling by air — if you’re one of those flyers, familiarize yourself with Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport before departure. (AAA)
Watch
ESPN is launching Vibe Check, its first all-female-led sports show on Monday, June 30. The panel show will feature analysis and commentary on all sports, including the Carolina Panthers, with a little comedy in the mix. Check out new episodes on Disney+ Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
State
It looks like South Carolinians believe in the power of collard greens (we know we do). That’s the most popular superfood in the state, based on Google search data compiled by Eachnight. If you want to buy some, or see what other goodies are growing in the Upstate, head to a local farmers market.
Finance
New or used? With summer car sales heating up, Greenville Federal Credit Union’s car-buying guide breaks down what makes the most sense for your wallet. From budgeting tips and insurance costs to pros vs. cons, it’s a one-stop read for your next big decision. Shop smarter.*
The Buy
An anti-slip bath mat. Built with a strong rubber backing, the mat is engineered not to lose its grip even after repeated cycles in the wash — and its soft chenille fabric feels great under feet.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
While the humans in our house have always loved a big fireworks display, our dogs never enjoyed them. A friend recommended the Thundershirt to help with their anxiety during holidays and storms, and I have to say — it worked.