Charleston, South Carolina — Hundreds of residents, visitors, and local politicians gathered in downtown Charleston on Saturday to celebrate the formal opening of American Gardens, a new one-acre public space that city officials predict will become one of the peninsula’s most popular gathering spots.
The months-long effort brought together community residents, city and state authorities, and marked what many are calling a new chapter for Charleston County.
“This marks the grand opening of the American Garden, a new public space in downtown Charleston,” said Eric Mann, General Manager of The American Gardens.
“We’ll have the center speaking, the Charleston Symphony playing in the backdrop, the fire and police departments… It’s simply going to be a lovely day.”
While exploring the park, which extends from King Street to Meeting Street, guests enjoyed gourmet meals, specialty drinks, and fresh flowers. Visitors travel through what many refer to as a “majestic alley,” which is bordered with over 100 magnolia trees, eight recently planted live oaks, and four fountains that center the rich environment.
According to city authorities, the name “American Gardens” honors Charleston’s rich past by representing unity, hope, and opportunity, with the purpose of establishing a friendly environment that brings people together.
“This space in the very heart of downtown gives families and friends a place to slow down… to talk, to listen, to appreciate the joys of nature and the joys of being together,” said Charleston’s mayor, Williams Cogswell.
The project’s leaders say their objective is to support small businesses and promote community ties while also providing a lovely location for residents and visitors to enjoy all year.
“It’s called the American Gardens for a reason,” Mann pointed out. “Everything we do will be founded on the idea of assisting small businesses, partners, and people we can help. That’s what this is all about: making a lovely area for people to enjoy every day.
The park is now officially opened. Beginning November 28th and running through December, American Gardens will be transformed into a nightly Christmas Wonderland that is free and open to the public.
