If you’ve never attended the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, also known as "SEWE" you are missing out on the experience of a lifetime. This one-of-a-kind event brings together the best of art, nature, and wildlife. It attracts thousands of visitors year after year! Come experience the Lowcountry through fine art displays, sporting demonstrations, and exciting social events. Read on to learn more about this three-day celebration. Then, start making plans to attend!
Charleston's best winter weekend is February 16-18, 2024. With mild temps and many free events it is a great family activity.
The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) is the largest event of its kind. This celebrated event is hosted each February. Are you looking for recommendations about things to do during your stay? Request our free Sea Island vacation guide. The guide is full of suggestions about the best local events, maritime parks, museums, and more!
Your Guide to the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
What Is the Southeastern Wildlife Expo?
The Southeastern Wildlife Expo started in 1983 as a small sporting event during Charleston’s slow season. Today, it is one of the Lowcountry’s most anticipated yearly happenings! Here, you'll learn from talented artists, exhibitors, and wildlife experts from around the world.
Not only will you have a great time, but you can also take heart in knowing that your participation supports conservation efforts. SEWE‘s mission is to provide the public with easy and affordable access to informative wildlife programs.
When Is the Southeastern Wildlife Expo?
The Southeastern Wildlife Expo (SEWE) takes place annually each February. Enjoy three full days of art, demonstrations, wildlife shows, delicious food, and kid’s activities. Check out the SEWE website for a complete schedule of events! View the event brochure for 2023 and get ready for an unforgettable Charleston SC weekend.
The Most Anticipated SEWE Events
Lace up your duck boots! It’s time to celebrate wildlife, nature, and the environment. The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition brings together artists, art lovers, sportsmen, conservationists, and families. While there are many amazing events, some of our favorites include:
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Center for Birds of Prey Flight Demonstrations
This SEWE event is a crowd favorite every year. Marion Square is the location for viewing live raptors handled by the amazing folks from the Center for Birds of Prey. Do you love owls? These nocturnal feathered friends are always a fan favorite! Red-tailed hawks, falcons and majestic eagles soar around on command. The Birds of Prey Flight Demonstrations is an event not to be missed!
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SEWE Dock Dogs Competiton
SEWE hosts several wildlife demonstrations. Don’t miss the coveted Dock Dogs competition. This is always a favorite among locals and visitors alike! Watch as dogs jump, dive, and splash in the water during this fun-filled retrieving contest. Located at Brittlebank Park.
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Sheep and Duck Herding Demonstration
This exciting event is also held at Brittlebank Park. Watch master trainer Bill Coburn guide his Border Collies and Collies with just a few commands and a whistle. It's fascinating to see the dogs' natural instincts to herd! The Sheep and Duck Herding Demonstration is a favorite SEWE Charleston event!
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Retriever Demonstrations
Sporting dog demonstrations will be conducted at 11:30 am and 3:00 pm on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Come out to Brittlebank Park and witness them in action as Mike Steward of Wildrose Kennels puts them through a series of demonstrations. As one of the most popular breeds in the Lowcountry, we know the Retriever Demonstration will be popular!
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Education Workshops
At SEWE, artists, activists, and conservationists speak on various environmental topics. Learn about local reptiles and amphibians or take the kids to an interactive puppet show. Choose from conservation education workshops, cooking demonstrations, lectures, children’s classes, and more!
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SEWE Artwork
Browse countless galleries, exhibitions, and auctions all weekend long at Charleston Place and the Gaillard Center. Take home your favorite masterpieces or a few Southeastern Wildlife Exposition posters to keep as a memento.
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Social Events at SEWE
Along with workshops and demonstrations, you’ll want to mark your calendar for SEWE’s fabulous celebrations. Not-to-miss festivities include the Ducks Unlimited Oyster Roast, the South Carolina Waterfowl Association Sportsman’s Ball, and the Lowcountry Social.
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Special Performance by Ian Munsick
In partnership with SEWE, the Gaillard Center is excited to host country musician Ian Munsick. Touted as one of Spotify's top 100 new musicians to watch this a show not to be missed. Get tickets and more information here.
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Charleston Foodie Events at SEWE
Certified SC hosts a foodie tent in Marion Square with special demonstrations featuring the Palmetto State’s finest specialty food vendors. South Carolina chefs partner with their favorite farmers for a weekend of demonstrations and tastings showcasing local ingredients. See the event schedule for more information.
Plan Your Lowcountry Getaway Today
After a day of fun at the Southeastern Wildlife Expo, head home to one of Charleston’s beautiful sea islands. Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island are home to some of Charleston’s most diverse and beautiful ecosystems. Here, you will find miles of pristine beaches, serene salt marshes, maritime forests, and abundant wildlife.
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