EVENT CALENDAR

Learn how to protect and preserve our natural environment at the sixth annual Ladybug Release, where you can help release 200,000 ladybugs into Magnolia’s rambling, romantic-style gardens to stave off harmful insects. Visitors can look forward to crafts and interactive activities, including face painting and educational nature displays. Enthusiastic environmentalists of all ages are invited to dress up as a ladybug and compete for prizes in the costume contest. Ladybugs will be distributed at 10 a.m.; the festivities last until 2 p.m. Visitors can purchase food at Magnolia’s Peacock Cafe. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, 3550 Ashley River Rd. Saturday, 9am-2pm. $20; $10 ages six-12; free for child under six. (843)571-1266, www.magnoliaplantation.com

Meet local creatives and shop original pieces at this annual festival which celebrates independently published work from comic book writers, illustrators, and visual artists. Hosted at the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, this event features an array of vendors showcasing their craft—last year’s fest featured new local publication 9 to 5 Magazine, the Graveface Records, and former Charleston City Paper comic Joe Chang’s “On Tour” and “On the Scene” zines. The fest will also include printmaking workshops and zine-binding tutorials. Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, 161 Calhoun St. Saturday, 11am-6pm. Free. www.charlestonzinefest.wixsite.com/zinefest

Since 1995, Brad and Jennifer Moranz––both former Broadway performers––have entertained Charleston audiences of all ages with their own choreographed musicals that turn classic popular music into rollicking revues. This summer, they bring us the Charleston Variety Show, an annual world-class musical performance that promises to have the whole family dancing and singing along to their favorite pop, country, and Broadway songs. This show will feature songs from 2018’s Hollywood-hit ”A Star is Born” and a medley of Elton John classics. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. Satuday, 2pm & 7pm; & Sunday, 3pm. $40-$18. (843)853-2252, www.charlestonmusichall.com

The Gibbes Museum of Art and Charleston Jazz are collaborating once again for their third summer music series. In The Art of Jazz, musicians and composers perform original compositions inspired by works of art on display. For this installment, Charleston native Lee Barbour will bring his varied experience as a guitarist and composer to the stage for this eclectic musical performance. As a composer for documentaries, animations, and feature films, Barbour is no stranger to experimentation––for example, last year he released Ultrasound, an ambient exploration of what music might sound like in the womb, a project inspired by his experience as an expectant father. Enjoy refreshments from The Daily at the Gibbes while you take in the Lee Barbour Trio’s original and exploratory performance. Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St. Wednesday, 6-7pm. $25; $20 member; $10 student & faculty with ID. (843)722-2706, www.gibbesmuseum.org

In honor of Shark Week, submerge yourself into The Charleston Museum’s Natural History Collection with curator Matthew Gibson. Beneath the depths of the collection lie artifacts from the Lowcountry’s most legendary predators. Learn more about the importance of these feisty fish in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, as well as the ”shark war” that perhaps caused the extinction of the megalodon. Children are welcome to attend, but must be accompanied by an adult. The Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St. Thursday, 3:30-4:30pm. $35; $20 member. (843)722-2996, www.charlestonmuseum.org

Actor and composer siblings Kevin and Michael Bacon may be renowned within their respective fields, but they also comprise the Bacon Brothers—a soul- and folk-inflected Americana rock band. Kevin and Michael Bacon have produced nine albums together since 1997 and have been critically lauded for their glitz-free, heartfelt performances; deft technical skills; and amalgam of rock and roll sounds that can’t be confined to one genre. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. Thursday, 8pm. $60-$40. (843)853-2252, www.charlestonmusichall.com

The Miller Gallery hosts writer, photographer, and singer-songwriter Daje Morris for a live reading and workshop. Through spoken-word and jazz performances, the Knoxville, Tennessee-based artist focuses on exposing beauty in all forms. Her sound has folk influences, along with soulful R&B and jazz melodies—inspired by Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, and Corinne Bailey Rae. Listen to Morris’s original work while seated amongst the gallery’s contemporary art displays. Her writing workshop on June 27 is for those either new to poetry or those interested in the form as a wellness practice. Miller Gallery, 149 ½ East Bay St. Saturday, 10am-noon for workshop; 6pm-7pm for reading. $25 for workshop; free to attend reading. (843)764-9281, www.millergallerychs.com

Celebrate summer at this month’s Moonlight Mixer: the third installment of this summertime shag series at the Folly Beach Pier. People of all ages are invited to jam out to music from DJ Jim Bowers as he spins oldies and beach tunes into the night. Food and snacks will be available for purchase at Pier 101 restaurant and the Gangplank Gift & Tackle Shop. Folly Beach Fishing Pier, 101 E Arctic Ave., Folly Beach. Friday, 7-11pm. $10; $8 advance; free for child under three. (843)795-4386, www.ccprc.com

The second annual youth triathlon at James Island County Park offers a multisport race for participants ages seven to 15. This event, presented in conjunction with Palmetto TRIbe, gives young athletes the unique opportunity to practice open-water swimming in a monitored and safe course. Competitors ages seven to 10 will complete a 100-yard swim, three-mile bike, and one-mile run, while those ages 11 to 15 will take on a 200-yard swim, six-mile bike, and two-mile run. The top three males and females in each age category will receive an award. James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr. Saturday, 7:15am. $45. (843)795-4386, www.ccprc.com

Embrace summer with a run along the Isle of Palms shore. Adults can enter either a 5K run/walk, or a 10K run, beginning at 8 a.m. Shortly afterwards, the Youth Fun Runs begin— kids ages four and under will race 100 yards, ages five to eight a half-mile race, and ages nine to 14 a one-miler. An awards ceremony for all age groups will follow behind the Windjammer. The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms. Saturday, 8am; 9am youth run. $35 5K walk/run & 10K run; $15 youth fun run. (843)886-8294, www.iop.net

This West-Australian roots and jam band has toured with the likes of Dave Matthews and John Mayer and holds numerous ARIA awards. The Trio will perform their seventh studio album Home, which layers electronic flourishes onto the band’s characteristic folk sound. South Carolina’s own Trevor Hall will open with music informed by roots, reggae, folk, and mysticism. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. Sunday, 8pm. $50-$40. (843)853-2252, www.charlestonmusichall.com

Danceable grooves and psychedelic organ riffs are peppered with James Brown-esque screams and howls in the Afrobeat music of Super Yamba, the funk band led by legendary Afrobeat singer, guitarist, and percussionist Leon Ligan-Majek, a.k.a Kaleta. Born in Benin and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, the birthplace of Afrobeat, Kaleta took the helm of Super Yamba in 2017, three years after the group formed in Brooklyn and began dabbling in West African sound. Kaleta lends his roots and decades of world music experience to the band, often singing in a number of West African and French languages and dialects. Charleston Pour House, 1977 Maybank Hwy. Tuesday, 8:30pm. $12; $10 advance. (843)571-4343, www.charlestonpourhouse.com

“When the world changes, fashion changes.” Consider this vital connection at The Charleston Museum’s fun and informative exhibition on war and politics’ historical impact on clothing. When women won the vote, they threw out their corsets. When women entered the workforce during World War II, they were also equipped with pockets; however, this utilitarian function was quickly dashed when troops returned and women were once again relegated to the home. Explore cheeky displays, preserved gowns, shoes, and accessories––and don’t forget to try on a hoop skirt and snap a picture. Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St. Monday-Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. $12; $10 ages 13-17; $5 ages three-12; free for child under three. (843)722-2996, www.charlestonmuseum.org

Since receiving his first camera through the kindness of a high school teacher, photographer John Galgano has shaped his career around paying it forward. Now battling cancer, he aims for his current work––sweeping nature scenes and thoughtful portraits––to inspire others to live life to the fullest, even in the face of hardship. Saul Alexander Gallery, 68 Calhoun St. Monday-Thursday, 9am-8pm; Friday & Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday 2-5pm. Free. (843)805-6930, www.ccpl.org

Assemblage artist Robin Howard works with a myriad of materials––reclaimed wood, textiles, metal, found objects, and vintage collectibles––to build childlike and imaginative sculptures. Her latest series, “The Wanderers,” consists of salvaged elements from Charleston homes dating back to the 1700s. The human-sized sculptures take on lives of their own from the debris of yesteryear, imbuing their surroundings with an uncanny sense of time and place. Explore Howard’s totemic assemblages and check out Miller Gallery’s collection of other playful contemporary art. Miller Gallery, 149 ½ East Bay St. Monday-Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. Free. (843)764-9281, www.millergallerychs.com

To close out the 2019 Lowcountry Mental Health Conference, Broadway star Jennifer Holliday will grace audiences with her powerful vocals for a one-hour concert; afterwards, she will discuss her battle with depression to raise awareness for mental health. The soulful performer was the first to play her eventual reprisal role, Effie White, in the hit Broadway musical Dreamgirls—not only did her performance win her a Tony Award for Best Actress, but also a Grammy for her rendition of the show’s heart-wrenching ballad, “And I’m Telling You, I’m Not Going.” Charleston Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St. Friday, 4-5:30pm. $28. (843)724-5212, www.gaillardcenter.org

Bring blankets and chairs to enjoy local music, then kick back to watch an outdoor movie at sunset with views brought to you by the Ravenel Bridge and Charleston Harbor. Last year’s series featured the Sandlot, Grease, Jumanji, and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Moviegoers dined on treats from Mac Daddy, Wally Gyros, and the Ice Cream Team. With free parking and food available for purchase, this waterfront event provides a hassle-free way to unwind from the summer heat. Memorial Waterfront Park, 99 Harry M. Hallman Jr. Blvd., Mount Pleasant. Friday, 6:30pm. Free. (843)884-8517, www.experiencemountpleasant.com

In its second year, Providing Resources of Mercy presents a benefit prom,⎼but without the awkward dancing that characterizes high school functions. Celebrate their restorative work, and enjoy live music from The Palmetto Dance Band, drinks, and hearty appetizers. All proceeds help Dorchester County Community Outreach—an organization that has provided a safe environment and support services for over 300 individuals facing homelessness—in their mission to ensure that all citizens have the basic necessities of life. Doar Hall at St. Paul’s Summerville, 316 W. Carolina Ave., Summerville. Friday, 7-10pm. $60; $4,000-$250 sponsor. (843)900-4315, www.dcco4homeless.org

Saturdays at Folly’s Shaka Surf School are dedicated to women of all skill levels looking to catch waves with confidence. Students learn proper surf techniques, including the pop-up, as well as safety tips, paddling, and how to wax a board. Sessions also include beach yoga designed to make participants stronger surfers. Plus, all equipment is provided, including a soft surfboard, wax, and wetsuits if needed, making Wemoons Weekends’ all-inclusive surf lessons accessible even for beginners. Shaka Surf School, 6th St. East, Folly Beach. Saturday, 9-11:30am. $90. (843)607-9911, www.shakasurfschool.com

Swim alongside an Olympian at this annual, nationally coordinated event that raised $50,000 last year for Hollings Cancer Center. Snag a photo with Olympian Jenny Thompson before the swim, and stay afterwards for concluding festivities. Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Kiawah Island Pkwy., Kiawah Island. Sunday, 6:30am registration; 8:30am 1.5 mile; 9:00am half mile. $400 fundraising minimum; $100 registration fee; $200 fundraising minimum for swimmer under 18. (843)768-6001, www.swimacrossamerica.org

Beer lovers, avid runners, and reluctant exercisers alike are invited to run, jog, walk––and drink, of course––in one of Fleet Feet’s three mile runs, each beginning and ending at a different pub. Every run also has a different theme—meet up at Montreux in Summerville and indulge in some sweet treats for the “Donut Run” on August 7, the RiverDogs Stadium for a “RiverDogs Run” on August 14, and at Fleet Feet’s Summerville and Mount Pleasant locations for “End of Summer Luaus” on August 21 and 28, respectively. Locations, days, and times vary. Free. (843)606-2546, www.fleetfeet.com

Bring some friends, blow off some steam, and get moving after your workday with a Happy Hour 5K. The races commence at the Daniel Island Trail under the 526 Connector and conclude with much-deserved post-race drinks during happy hour at a local restaurant. Awards are given for the top three male and female runners overall, as well as the top three male and female runners in each age category. 161 Seven Farms Dr., Daniel Island. Thursday, 6:30pm. $25. www.timinginc.com

Learn the fundamentals of composition, color, and texture with acrylic paint, then create your own abstract landscape painting in this two-part studio course. Students will hone their skills through demonstrations and group critiques facilitated by Charleston-based abstract painter Cory McBee, who holds an MFA from Savannah College of Art and Design. Beginners are welcome, and a suggested supplies list can be found on the website. The Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St. Saturday, 10am-1pm. $150; $125 member. (843)722-2706, www.gibbesmuseum.org

Before Raven McKevlin moved next-door to Sam Hazeltine, she had never been close to someone with Down Syndrome. That was 18 years ago. Since then, the neighbors have developed a friendship that inspired McKevlin to create a documentary on her friend’s experience growing up with Down Syndrome in Charleston. The feature-length film explores the obstacles those living with disabilities must overcome to simply be themselves at work, school, and in life. Through a lens of love and advocacy, Fix My Eyes proposes that neurodiversity and social inclusion should be the norm, not the exception. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. Saturday, 7pm. $10. (843)853-2252, www.charlestonmusichall.com

Stephen Marley—son of legendary singer-songwriter Bob Marley—is an accomplished reggae musician and producer in his own right, having garnered eight Grammy awards throughout his career. He got his start in the professional music scene young, with his first recording debut at age six alongside his brother Ziggy on the track “Children Playing in the Streets.” The New York Times says that Stephen uses ”his father’s Roots Reggae as a springboard” from which to blend hip-hop, dance, and R&B into one eclectic sound. Music Farm, 32 Ann St. Saturday, 8:30pm. $31. (843)577-6969, www.music-farm.com

Listen as the Charleston Jazz Orchestra pays tribute to the Beatles’ enduring legacy by transforming the band’s hits into a harmony of trumpets, saxophone, bass, and drums. This special concert on Kiawah Island will feature guest vocalist Kanika Moore—lead vocalist for the Charleston electro-funk band Doom Flamingo, often described as a “soulful powerhouse”—alongside the orchestra onstage as they perform jazz renditions of “All You Need is Love,” “Yesterday,” “Eleanor Rigby,” and many more. East Beach Conference Center, Kiawah Island Golf Resort, 55 Town Ctr., Kiawah Island. Sunday, 7:30-9:30pm. $25. (843)641-0011, www.charlestonjazz.com

Author, illustrator, and educator Clare Pernice of the Museum of Illustration in New York, who has worked with Disney and Paramount, will teach campers how to turn their wild imagination into a captivating narrative at this artistic program. Children from ages eight to 11 can step into the world of an illustrator and explore the storytelling process—from developing characters to designing a book jacket. In one week, campers discover how to capture childhood memories in a lively and inspirational way. Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St. Monday-Friday, 9am-noon. $250; $225 member. (843)722-2706, www.gibbesmuseum.org

As the end of summer approaches, bring your friends to the Park West Recreation Complex for one last hang-out filled with water slides, dance music, and swimming. The Mount Pleasant Recreation Department hosts its annual summer send-off party where the whole family is invited to grab their swimsuits and spend an afternoon enjoying free games and activities. Concessions will be available for purchase to refuel throughout the evening. Park West Recreation Complex, 1251 Park West Blvd., Mount Pleasant. Wednesday, 2-7pm. Free. (843)856-2196, www.tompsc.com

In this Wonderland, bingo is spelled LGBTQ. Amidst laughter, outlandish outfits, and a mad take on the classic game, Palmetto Community Care hopes to raise awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and advocate for greater unity between the LGBTQ+ and straight communities. Charleston Convention Center, 5000 Coliseum Dr., North Charleston. Thursday, 5 p.m. VIP; 6-10 p.m. $50; $75 VIP. (843) 747-2273, www.charlestongaybingo.org

Prepare for a thrilling night filled with poodle skirts and slicked back hair at this ‘50s sock-hop-themed event. Wear your favorite gown or suit and dance to the DJ’s selection of popular hits and classic throwbacks as residents from all across the Lowcountry come out for an evening to remember. People of all ages and need levels are welcome and encouraged to invite friends, family, and chaperones to dance the night away. R.L. Jones Recreation Center, 391 Egypt Rd., Mount Pleasant. Saturday, 6-8pm. $5; $4 advance; free for chaperone. (843)795-4386, www.ccprc.com