The Charleston Parks Conservancy raises $275,000 at its 15th Annual Party for the Parks
November 20, 2025
The Charleston Parks Conservancy raised $275,000 at its 15th annual Party for the Parks on Saturday, November 8, 2025, supporting the care and enhancement of 26 public parks, gardens, and trails throughout the Charleston area. Set against the backdrop of Colonial Lake and attended by approximately 1,500 people, the event embraced a “Down the Rabbit Hole” theme, blending bold fashion, whimsical décor, and creative details into a lively celebration of the region’s beloved green spaces. The Accountally VIP tent featured live watercolor painting of guests, exclusive bites from the Charleston Caviar Company and others, and a Don Julio bar.
Each year, Party for the Parks generates vital funding that powers the Conservancy’s mission. This includes more than 180 hours of free public programming and ongoing maintenance of over 26 parks, gardens and trails throughout the city. Free community events, like the Teddy Bear Picnic, Music in the Parks, and Bird Walks, bring families and neighbors together while promoting the value of accessible green spaces.
“Events like Party for the Parks are more than just memorable nights out,” said Kathryn Becker, co-chair of the Party for the Parks committee. “They’re how we bring the community together to support the free programming, community initiatives, and park improvements that make these spaces truly special for everyone in the community.”
With 90 percent of its funding coming from private donations and sponsorships, the Conservancy relies on Party for the Parks to advance citywide initiatives, such as the Mulberry Park Food Forest, Charleston Trees, and Art in the Parks. This year’s funds will help triple the organization’s free educational programming in 2024 and 2025.
“The enthusiasm and generosity we saw this year show just how deeply Charleston cares about its parks,” said Rebecca Ramsay, co-chair of the Party for the Parks committee. “Colonial Lake was the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night. The décor was stunning, the energy was unmatched, and I’m already looking forward to next year’s theme. The excitement only grows.”
The celebration also featured two public fundraising opportunities. Raffle for the Parks, sponsored by Rockwell Construction and Vincent and Bullwinkel Orthodontics, offered a chance to win a fully electric Moke vehicle. Meanwhile, Auction for the Parks, sponsored by National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions, featured high-value prizes, including a Galápagos expedition, a luxury yacht cruise from Barton & Gray Mariners Club, a Coastal Cruising Cart LSV and more.
The Conservancy thanks our exclusive sponsors, Accountally, Zimpel Granite and Marble, Beemok Hospitality Collection and UBS, TCG & Associates along with the many volunteers, staff, and local businesses that made the event possible.
Up next, the Conservancy invites the community to Shucked & Sauced, a celebration of oysters, barbecue, and parks, presented by UBS, TCG & Associates. The event returns to the Rose Pavilion at Hampton Park on February 1, 2026. Tickets go on sale December 5 at 10 a.m. at charlestonparksconservancy.org/shuckedandsauced-2.
To be the first to know when tickets go on sale for Party for the Parks 2026 and other upcoming events, visit charlestonparksconservancy.org/subscribe.
About the Charleston Parks Conservancy
The Charleston Parks Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring the people of Charleston to connect with their parks and create stunning public places and a strong community. The Conservancy secures 90% of the funding required to maintain 26 parks, gardens and trails across the city through private and corporate donations, while the City of Charleston covers 10% of costs. The Conservancy team provides year-round park care, with a focus on strategic seasonal plantings, major park revitalizations, and sustainable maintenance. In 2024 alone, the organization planted over 46,000 plants and 1,000 trees, donated two tons of fresh produce and 1,200 fresh flower bouquets grown in its parks and gardens, and advocated for the vital role of parks in urban life. Through 180 hours annually of free programming, including popular events like the Teddy Bear Picnic, the Conservancy cultivates vibrant, welcoming green spaces that serve as hubs for recreation, relaxation, and community connection. For more information, visit www.charlestonparksconservancy.org.
