Social Events




Icebreaker at Lowndes Grove Plantation
Monday, April 8, 6:30 - 9:30 pm

You are invited to wander under the live oaks at one of Charleston's most beautiful historic sites, Lowndes Grove Plantation.  Watch the sun set over the Ashley River as you sip your drink, listen to local music, and experience our legendary southern hospitality all with the backdrop of a plantation home on the waterfront.

Transportation will be provided to and from the Lowndes Grove Plantation.  Buses will leave from the Embassy Suites at approximately 6:00 pm.  One ticket to the Icebreaker is included with a full or 3-day registration (when Monday is selected).  Additional tickets can be purchased for $30.

Aquarium Day at the South Carolina Aquarium
Tuesday, April 9, 2:30 - 8:30 pm

Located in downtown Charleston, the South Carolina Aquarium overlooks beautiful Charleston Harbor.  Enjoy an all-access look Behind-the-Scenes at how we operate one of the deepest tanks on the East Coast and manage our Sea Turtle Hospital.  Drinks and heavy hors d'oeuvre stations will be available in the evening, as we watch the night fall over the water.

Transportation will be provided to and from the South Carolina Aquarium.  Buses will leave from the Embassy Suites at approximately 2:15 pm.  One ticket to Aquarium Day is included with a full or 3-day registration (when Tuesday is selected).  Additional tickets can be purchased for $45.

Post-Conference Tour to Riverbanks Zoo & Garden 
Friday, April 12, 8:00 am - 8:00 pm

Following the conference, we invite you to hop on the bus and visit Riverbanks Zoo & Garden in Columbia, SC. The Riverbanks staff is anxious to roll out the red carpet and extend some of its world famous southern hospitality. A relaxing, fun-filled and engaging experience is in store for all who attend. Experience behind the scenes tours of the Elephant Barn, Animal Health Center, Bird Conservation Center, Birdhouse (including the penguin exhibit), Aquarium Reptile Complex, Commissary, and Education Building along with a full slate of special presentations by animal keepers and educators. Lunch will be served at the zoo and a snack box and drink will be provided for the bus ride back to Charleston. We look forward to seeing you in Columbia!

Tour is not included with registration.  Tickets can be purchased during online registration for $75.