🌴 Outdoor Ideas, Sewe Fest, Hometeam Bbq

Hi Palmetto Parents,

…And happy no school Friday or Monday. If you forgot, we’ve got you covered on what to do!

Congratulations to the Seahawks and all their loyal fans! I was looking forward to a fun game to watch - with the patriots miraculously pulling out a victory in the fourth quarter. That didn’t happen and it was a slow burn/dumpster fire for the Patriots!

Their QB, Drake Maye, is from North Carolina and played for the Tar Heels. His wife, Ann Michael Maye, has taken over the internet for her baking talents and I was mostly rooting for her! You and your kids can enjoy this short video of her and Dave Portnoy HERE.

Speaking of professional football, did you her that there is a pro football league coming to Charleston? The South Carolina Sea Wolves will be one of four other teams to compete in Apex Pro Football League. Their home stadium will be at the Citadel and their logo will be announced February 27. From what I can tell this league will be more like Banana Ball and less like traditional football. We can’t wait!

Do you love receiving Palmetto Parents every week? For only $5/month (less than a cup of coffee!) you can become a Palmetto Parents Supporter, which is a practical way you can support us and help keep this labor of love free forever.

I am always looking for simple outings that feel special without requiring tickets, lines, or an all day commitment and Angel Oak on Johns Island checks every box.

Located in Angel Oak Park, this massive Southern live oak is estimated to be 400 to 500 years old. Standing 66 feet tall with a trunk circumference of 28 feet and shade covering an incredible 17,200 square feet, its longest branch stretches an astonishing 187 feet. It is truly one of those places that makes kids stop and say, “Whoa.”

The tree gets its name from the Angel family, who once owned the land, and over the years local folklore has added to its mystique. Though often rumored to be the oldest tree east of the Mississippi, it is not quite that title holder, but it is absolutely one of the most impressive and beloved natural landmarks in the Lowcountry.

Angel Oak survived significant damage during Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and has continued to thrive. Today, the City of Charleston owns the park, and additional surrounding acreage has been preserved to protect the tree from development. In 2018, an acorn from the tree was even planted nearby and lovingly named “Baby Angel.”

For families, this is an easy and meaningful weekend activity. Pack a picnic, let the kids walk beneath the sweeping branches, and use it as a chance to talk about history, nature, and how long 500 years really is. It is free to visit, stroller friendly, and perfect for a relaxed afternoon outdoors.

Sometimes the best family memories are made under the shade of something that has been standing long before us. Angel Oak is one of those places.

I rarely like to promote an event I have never personally attended, especially with little kids because I usually try to avoid big crowds, but after researching SEWE this weekend you can catch us there.

The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition is a celebration of the great outdoors through fine art, live entertainment, and special events where artists, craftsmen, collectors, and sporting enthusiasts come together over a shared passion for wildlife.

Since its inaugural event in February 1983, when 100 artists and 5,000 attendees gathered, SEWE has grown into a highly anticipated Presidents’ Day weekend tradition welcoming around 500 artists, exhibitors, and wildlife experts and nearly 40,000 attendees each year, generating an estimated $33 million in economic impact for Charleston annually.

Most events require tickets, which can be purchased in person by following this link. If you would like to experience SEWE without purchasing tickets, there are several free exhibits perfect for families.

Marion Square will host a variety of free demonstrations on Friday the 13th including the Birds of Prey Flight Demo at 10:30am and 2pm, the K9 Demo at 12pm, the Purina Pro Plan Flying Disc Dog at 1pm and 4:30pm, and the Turtle Survival Alliance Demo at 3:30pm. Chef demonstrations will also take place in Marion Square with Kevin Mitchell at 12pm, Jordan Heyd at 1pm, Chef Micah Pearson at 2pm, and Carolina’s Chefs Emma Cromedy and Sameka Jenkins at 3pm.

On Saturday, Hotel Bennett will host a Duck Calling event from 9am to 5pm. Additional free events include the Birds of Prey at 10:30am, a K9 demo at 12:30pm, and a chef demo in Marion Square with Hugh Weathers and Blanche Weathers at 12pm.

If you have been curious about SEWE like I have, this might be the perfect year to check it out and experience a Charleston tradition that truly kicks off the season.

If you are looking for a laid back, family friendly spot that delivers solid barbecue and a fun atmosphere, Home Team BBQ is always a dependable choice around Charleston.

In 2006, Aaron Siegel transformed a mid 1900s gas station into the first Fiery Ron’s Home Team BBQ in Charleston, building it from the ground up with the support of friends, family, and a lot of hard work. Since then, Home Team has expanded to multiple Charleston locations, one in Aspen, and a thriving catering business, all rooted in their mission to serve elevated yet approachable barbecue with genuine hospitality and strong community ties.

Menu favorites include the pulled pork and brisket, which may not top Charleston’s legendary BBQ spots but come in a very close second. They also serve pork cracklings, loaded nachos, a solid kids menu, and plenty of craft beer and whiskey. It is loud and vibrant, and perfect for families who need a quick sit down meal with fussy kids, especially at the downtown location where open seating gives little ones space to move around. You can visit their West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, Downtown, or Sullivan’s Island locations daily from 11am to 12am.

Whether you are grabbing dinner after practice or meeting friends for a casual night out, Home Team BBQ makes it easy to enjoy good food without overcomplicating family dinner.

In the age of DoorDash, Amazon and UberEats, it is easy to buy everything you need for Valentine’s Day. But nothing says, “I love You.” like a homemade card or gift. Here are some ideas for you and your kids!

However you choose to spend the long weekend, we hope it is filled with fresh air, good food, and a few simple moments that remind you why raising kids is so special!

Don’t forget to celebrate you this weekend too!

Love, Jenna