Turning 50 years old isn’t just a major milestone for people. But for a community — especially one on the edge of America? It’s a pretty big deal.
The city of Folly Beach will celebrate its 50th anniversary Sept. 22 to Oct. 1 with a series of fun community events.
“It’s not a sleepy little beach town anymore,” said Mark Patrick, an assistant director for Charleston County Parks and Recreation. “It’s a vibrant part of Charleston on a daily basis.”
The calendar of events includes a 1920s-themed black tie gala on Sept. 22 at the Tides hotel with a formal dinner, craft cocktails and live music. The next day, a fleet of cars will take over Center Street for an outdoor car show, and local bars will represent a different decade with food and drink offerings. The Sept. 23 festival also includes vendors, food, drinks and live music on three stages, plus a Ferris wheel and carousel.
Head to the beachfront from 3rd West Street to the Tides to enjoy beach games from 11 a.m to 3 p.m. Sept. 24 with bocce, volleyball and kids’ activities before the after-party kicks off with live music and drink specials. For a full calendar of events, go to visitfolly.com/50-years-of-folly.
Patrick started working for the parks department on the island in 2011 and has seen the city flourish in both culture and business, he said. Folly Beach County Park has been a staple for residents and visitors for decades, and the Folly Beach Pier, which was originally built in 1995, has become iconic.
“The pier instantly became a Charleston landmark,” Patrick said, “and that version of the pier was great for its 25 years of service before it closed in 2021. The new pier opened last December, and it’s been very well received and is making its own place in the Charleston area.
“You never knew on a daily basis what you were going to encounter out there,” Patrick said.
“There’s always something exciting going on in Folly Beach and that’s the way it’s always been.”
Remembering simpler times
Folly Beach city councilman D.J. Rich has operated Planet Follywood eatery and bar since 2005.
“My favorite memories of Folly are pre-Follywood, pre-hotels, pre-stop lights,” Rich told the Charleston City Paper.
Some of his favorite memories include crabbing with his grandfather under the Atlantic House, learning to shoot pool at the old tackle shop and climbing rocks with his brother on the beach to watch the waves crash.
“I love being a part of this community,” he said. “I love being able to help steer the city as a member of the city council. Everything progresses, and change is inevitable, I get it. But it would be nice to go back to simpler times.”
For Rich, Folly Beach is a mecca for diversity and relaxation.
“Folly Beach is special because it is a melting pot,” he said. “The community is very diverse and relaxed. You could be sitting at the bar next to a multi-millionaire and a surf bum and may not be able to tell who is who.
“We have surfers, musicians, doctors, first responders, freaks, geeks and everything in between. It’s a very eclectic mix of culture, background and history. This community has always been willing to give, no matter the cause. We take care of each other.”
Help keep the City Paper free.
No paywalls.
No subscription cost.
Free delivery at 800 locations.
Help support independent journalism by donating today.