In the late 1700s, plantation owners came here to escape malaria and insects during the summer months, hence the name Summerville. Today, Summerville is still a great retreat for families looking to relax and enjoy time together in affordable, quality hotels; and it’s only 24 miles from downtown Charleston. It’s a great time for discovery and learning while having lots of fun!

Discover together:

• Givhans Ferry State Park: find rare plants and diverse wildlife while kayaking along the blackwater Edisto River – cabins and camping sites available. www.southcarolinaparks.com
• Join park staff in hands-on archaeology work at Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, a colonial village that dates back to 1697. www.southcarolinaparks.com
• See where Francis Marion, the "Swamp Fox," and General Nathaniel Green helped defeat the British in the “Four Holes Swamp” at Francis Beidler Forest -- and at the same time receive a lesson in environmental education in the Audubon Sanctuary. www.beidlerforest.com

Summer Events:

• Summerville Community Orchestra: Piccolo Spoleto Performance - A Taste of Opera - Citadel Square Baptist Church, 328 Meeting St., Charleston. Tickets $10.    (843) 873-5339

• Spoleto Finale - Bring a blanket and picnic supper to enjoy under the live oaks on the Middleton Place Greensward. Then conclude the Spoleto Festival with a concert by the Festival Orchestra performed at the Butterfly Lakes and a dazzling display of fireworks over the Ashley River . Tickets available through the Spoleto Festival Box Office or at the ticket gate the evening of the event.

• Riverfest - Paddling festival on the Edisto River in Canadys, SC. Guided trips down the blackwater Edisto River. Workshops on canoeing and displays of outdoor gear provided. (843) 549-5591

• July 4: Red, White and Blue on the Green - Summerville D.R.E.A.M.'s annual 4th of July celebration will be held from     4 - 7 p.m. on Summerville's Town Square. Join the non-motorized parade, featuring kids on bikes, in wagons, on rollerblades, in strollers - all decked out for America. Magic Show, games and activities for children of all ages, live music, jump castles and food vendors round out this fun event. Registration for the non-motorized parade begins at 4 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for Most Patriotic, Most Original and Most Patriotic Pet. Fireworks show will start at 9 pm at Gahagan Sports Complex. Music and concessions start at 7 pm. Fireworks show sponsored by Dorchester County and the Town of Summerville. (843) 821-7260 or www.summervilledream.org