Charleston Leaders is saddling up for its biggest night of the year. The organization announced Lowcountry Lights & Country Nights, a country-themed fundraiser benefiting Charleston Leaders and its signature youth program, Leader Academy. The event will take place on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 6:30–10:00 PM at The Music Farm in downtown Charleston.
Guests are invited to dust off their boots and grab their favorite country hat for an evening built around live music, community, and giving back. The night will feature live entertainment from the Solid Country Gold Band, food and an open bar, networking with Charleston's business and community leaders, a program highlighting the impact of Charleston Leaders, and exciting fundraising moments throughout the evening, including silent and live auctions. Dress is "your best hat-wearing, boot-scooting gear," and organizers are anticipating one of their largest turnouts yet.
"This is more than a party — it's an investment in the next generation of Charleston leaders," said Ruthann Kelly Hipps, Founder and Executive Director of Charleston Leaders. "Every ticket, every sponsorship, and every dollar raised goes directly toward giving local students the tools and connections they need to lead."
Supporting Leader Academy
Proceeds from Lowcountry Lights & Country Nights directly benefit Leader Academy, a program created by Charleston Leaders for high school sophomores throughout the tri-county region. Leader Academy helps students discover leadership potential within themselves while connecting them to community needs, resources, and opportunities. Through monthly interactions with community leaders and partners, students engage in discussions that examine issues facing the Lowcountry, building skills that prepare them for future civic and professional engagement. Past sessions have brought students face to face with leaders from the SC Ports Authority, Charleston County Parks and Recreation, the City of Charleston, MUSC, Roper St. Francis Hospital, Boeing, Volvo, and more — giving them a firsthand look at the leadership and career paths shaping the region.
Sponsorship Opportunities Now Available
Local businesses and individuals can support the mission while gaining valuable visibility in the Charleston community. Sponsorship packages range from a $750 Leader Event Supporter level to the exclusive $12,500 Presenting Partner Sponsorship, with options in between including Hospitality, VIP, and Corporate Corral packages. Sponsors receive benefits such as website and social media promotion, recognition on event signage and correspondence to the Charleston Leaders membership, and reserved seating for their guests.
Learn more about sponsorship opportunities here: charlestonleaders.org/fall-fundraiser
New this year, reserved tables have a fitting country twist — they're now called Corporate Corrals. Round up your coworkers, friends, and family for a night out while supporting a meaningful cause. With sponsorship opportunities limited and one of the largest crowds in event history expected, organizers encourage businesses to reserve their corral early.
General Admission Tickets Go Live Monday, June 22
General admission tickets for Lowcountry Lights & Country Nights go on sale Monday, June 22, 2026. Tickets will be priced at their lowest point at launch, with prices increasing as the event draws closer. With a sellout anticipated, Charleston Leaders is encouraging the community not to wait — early purchasers will see the best pricing and the best chance of securing a seat at one of the year's most anticipated nights for a great cause.
Tickets will be available for purchase here: https://event.gives/chsleadersfall2026
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About Charleston Leaders
Charleston Leaders connects professionals in the Charleston metro area to create business, community, and individual success. The organization develops programming and opportunities that engage, inform, and develop leaders of all ages, while offering volunteer, committee, and leadership opportunities throughout the year. Charleston Leaders is a collective of business leaders across the region who foster future leaders, build relationships, support local youth, and harness shared knowledge to strengthen the community.
For more information, sponsorship inquiries, or media requests, contact: Ruthann Kelly Hipps rhipps@charlestonleaders.org | 843-270-2551 charlestonleaders.org