Karen, pictured all the way to the left
Every great event has someone working behind the scenes to make it look effortless. At Freshfields Village, that someone is Karen, our Events and Marketing Manager. From coordinating local vendors to curating a full calendar of free, family-friendly programming, Karen is the heartbeat behind the moments that bring Freshfields to life.
Making It All Look Easy
Ask Karen about a typical week, and she’ll tell you it’s anything but typical. “A typical week is a blend of hands-on event work and behind-the-scenes planning,” she explains. On event days, she’s outside blocking roads, helping bands get set up, and making sure vendors can unload and get settled. When things quiet down, she’s back at her desk planning the next season or the one after that.
That’s right. While guests are soaking up summer concerts on The Village Green, Karen is already deep into fall. Most events are mapped out six to eight months in advance, sometimes a full year ahead. “While guests are enjoying the current season, I’m usually focused on finalizing the next one,” she says. It’s the kind of behind-the-scenes dedication that makes everything feel seamless because when the event day arrives, every detail has already been accounted for.
A Season Worth Showing Up For
If you’ve been waiting for a reason to visit, Karen’s upcoming calendar is it. Spring kicks off with the return of BBQ, Bluegrass & Bourbon in March, followed by a special Spring Music on The Green and Spring Movie Night on The Village Green during Easter weekend, where Peter Rabbit will be showing under the Lowcountry stars.
Come summer, the energy at Freshfields shifts into full gear. The Farmers Market returns every Monday in June through August, and the Music on The Green series takes the stage every Friday from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Wednesday nights in July are reserved for Bingo Nights and Movie Nights on The Village Green: two of Karen’s personal favorites.
“They’re fun, interactive, and create moments that connect everyone,” she says. “I love getting to connect with our guests, see families making memories, and watch people come back week after week.”
How to Make the Most of It
All events at Freshfields Village are free, open to the public, and family friendly; no tickets, no hassle. Karen’s advice? Arrive early, bring a chair or a blanket, and let the evening unfold. “It’s a great time to explore our shops or grab a treat from one of our fantastic restaurants,” she says.
For a little extra magic, she recommends grabbing a pizza from La Tela or a sweet treat from Café Eugenia for a picnic during the show. And for the adults, FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen sets up an outdoor bar during concerts, a crowd favorite that adds a festive touch to any evening.
The Moments That Mean the Most
When Karen reflects on what she’s most proud of, she doesn’t point to logistics or headcounts. She points to families.
“I am especially proud of our holiday events with Santa and our seasonal markets,” she shares. Three years ago, Freshfields added two markets during Thanksgiving week, and the response has been something special. Children meet Santa and enjoy festive crafts while parents browse retailers and explore vendors on The Village Green. “It has become a joyful tradition that brings families together year after year.”
That’s exactly the kind of moment Karen works all year to create, and why, for so many families, Freshfields Village feels like home.
You can find the full event schedule on our website or by following along on social media and signing up for our email newsletter to stay in the loop on everything happening at The Village!
