Dive In: What to Know Before Mermaids & Mateys (October 4, 2025)

Ahoy, Folly friends! Fall is arriving, and we have something magical coming up that you won’t want to miss. Mermaids & Mateys is back on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Center Street in Folly Beach. If you’re thinking of a fun, family-friendly festival with a taste of the sea, spooky vibes, costumes, music, and food, this one’s for you.

Here’s everything you need to know so you can plan ahead and get the most out of the day.

More than 70 art, craft, and food vendors will line Center Street, making it the perfect opportunity to shop local and enjoy unique treats. The festival also features a Mermaid & Mateys Costume Contest where you can dress as a mermaid, pirate, or any under-the-sea character. Prizes will be awarded, so sign up early to save your spot. You can meet real-life mermaids and pirates for photos, sip specialty cocktails, and try themed bites from Folly’s restaurants and bars. The Kid Zone, hosted by Good Clean Fun, will keep little ones entertained with sand crafts, stilt walkers, inflatables, games, and even a dunk tank. The Fire Circus will perform at 11:00 AM on the Ashley Stage, and live music will play throughout the day on three stages. Closing out the event on the Ashley Stage is headliner Dangermuffin, whose music blends folk, jam, and rock for the perfect Folly soundtrack.

Tickets are $10 when purchased in advance and $15 on the day of the event. Kids 12 and under can attend for free, making it a perfect family outing. Folly Beach residents also get in free with a valid driver’s license, so be sure to bring your ID if you live on the island.

Streets will close at 7:00 AM and reopen at 6:00 PM, with the festival running from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Plan ahead for parking or rides since traffic will be heavier than usual. Certain items are not allowed within the festival area, including pets (except service animals), bicycles, scooters, skateboards, weapons, outside beverages, and coolers. Small bags are allowed but may be searched, while oversized bags are not permitted. Diaper bags for young children are okay, and reusable cups are welcome as long as they are empty when entering and leaving the event.

If you want to get in the spirit early, you’ll love learning about this year’s headliner, Dangermuffin. The band blends Americana, folk, jam, and rock influences to create music that feels both soulful and beachy. Their latest self-titled album (2024) mixes mindful lyrics with breezy instrumentals that are perfect for a Folly afternoon. The band features Dan Lotti on vocals, guitar, and bass, Mike Sivilli on guitar and vocals, Steven Sandifer on drums and upright bass, and Andrew Hendryx on mandolin. Their songs are warm, uplifting, and often inspired by nature, growth, and light, which makes them the ideal band for an outdoor concert by the sea.

Dress early if you are participating in the costume contest so you have plenty of time to get ready and find your spot. Bring each family member’s ID, especially if you are a Folly resident planning to attend for free. Plan for parking or rides since Center Street will be closed early and traffic may be heavier. Keep cash handy, although many vendors may accept cards. Bring layers or sun protection depending on the forecast, and check for weather updates so you are prepared.

Mermaids & Mateys is shaping up to be one of the most fun fall events on Folly. It is the perfect day to dress like a pirate or mermaid, enjoy live music, taste delicious food, and make memories with the Folly community. We can’t wait to see you there!