Celebrate history and freedom at Brookgreen Gardens’ Constitution Day celebration
September 1, 2026
This September, step back into American history at Brookgreen Gardens(opens in new tab) for a full day of historical performances, educational activities, and patriotic tradition during the annual Constitution Day event on Thursday, September 17, 2026.
Co-sponsored with the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Carolina Gold Chapter alongside neighboring South Carolina DAR chapters, this family-friendly celebration honors the drafting of the U.S. Constitution under the shade of one of Brookgreen’s most legendary landmarks—the Constitution Oak.
Morning Featured Event 
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10:00 a.m. – Theatrical Performance (Ron Daise Auditorium): Living historian Carin Bloom of the Historic Charleston Foundation(opens in new tab) Education Center presents a compelling one-person theatrical monologue on Catharine “Caty” Littlefield Greene, wife of Continental Army General Nathanael Greene. The performance offers an intimate look into Caty’s remarkable life and a fresh perspective on the Revolutionary War.
Afternoon Festivities
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1:30 p.m. – Opening Ceremony & Parade: Festivities kick off at the Jennewein Gallery with a color guard, fife and drum music, and special appearances by George and Martha Washington leading a parade down the picturesque Oak Allée.
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1:45 p.m. – Assembly at the Constitution Oak: The parade arrives at the Constitution Oak—a magnificent tree designated by the Bartlett Tree Company that was already standing when the Constitution’s preamble was first read to the public.
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2:15 p.m. – DAR Chapter Activities & Refreshments: Explore interactive educational stations hosted by South Carolina DAR chapters, learn more about early American history, and enjoy complimentary refreshments.
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4:00 p.m. – Closing Ceremony: The event concludes with a traditional bell-ringing ceremony.
Admission is free for Brookgreen members and included with general garden admission for non-members. All attendees will receive a free Constitution insert to take home.
