CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The 2025 Charleston Sternwheel Regatta is set to bring high-energy performances to downtown Charleston, with Carly Pearce, KC and the Sunshine Band, Busta Rhymes, and Jefferson Starship headlining the event.
Charleston Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin, the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta Commission, and the Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) announced the lineup at Encova Insurance, the event’s title sponsor since its revival in 2022.
“Bringing the Regatta back was something that almost everyone told me we needed to do when I first ran for Mayor back in 2018,” said Goodwin.
“It took a lot of planning and hard work, but the energy the Regatta brings to Charleston lasts the entire year, and the return on our investment is unlike anything else we do in the city.”
The headlining performances will take place as follows:
- Carly Pearce – Thursday, July 3
- KC and the Sunshine Band – Friday, July 4
- Busta Rhymes – Saturday, July 5
- Jefferson Starship – Sunday, July 6
“There’s nothing like the energy of the Regatta to bring people together, creating moments that turn into lifelong memories,” Goodwin added.
“Our musical acts are the heart of our event, and this year’s lineup brings an incredible mix of talent. We cannot wait to welcome everyone for another year of amazing music.”
Regatta Commission Commissioner Andy Richardson emphasized the importance of sponsors in making the event possible.
“The Charleston Sternwheel Regatta would not be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors, whose partnership allows us to create unforgettable experiences for all of our attendees and visitors. Through their generosity, we are able to bring an outstanding entertainment lineup, exciting activities, and so much more.”
Richardson recognized major sponsors, including the City of Charleston, Kanawha County Commission, Encova Insurance, Moses Auto Group, USI Insurance Services, WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals, WesBanco, Vandalia Health, and WV Corp.
CVB CEO Tim Brady highlighted the Regatta’s significant economic impact.
“The Regatta is one of, if not, the largest event drivers of economic impact throughout West Virginia,” Brady said.
“The 2024 Regatta generated an economic impact of close to $40 million, positively impacting our local businesses, hotels, and residents. With over 200,000 people coming to the City of Charleston for this amazing four-day event, our hotels are full, our businesses are packed, and we get a chance to showcase everything our amazing City has to offer to folks from all over the East Coast.”
The Charleston Sternwheel Regatta will take place July 3-6, 2025, in downtown Charleston.
For more information, visit charlestonregatta.com.
