2024
Winter Major Events Guide

Winter in Charleston is the perfect time to enjoy cooler weather and various events, festivals, and celebrations.

December Events

aglow

Aquarium Aglow

When: November 21, 2024-December 30, 2024

Where: SOUTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM | 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston

Experience the South Carolina Aquarium from a whole new perspective! This unique event features an intricate light show that stretches throughout the aquarium. Using thousands of lights, the aquarium transforms its space into something magical. This memorable event is ticketed, with prices varying depending on the day you attend.

a christmas carol

A Christmas Carol

When: November 30, 2024 - December 22, 2024

Where: Dock Street Theatre | 135 Church St,, Charleston

As the holiday season approaches, Charleston’s Historic Dock Street Theatre prepares to once again immerse audiences in the timeless tale of A Christmas Carol. This beloved production, adapted by Julian Wiles and directed by Sam Henderson, is renowned for its captivating performances, stunning visuals, and heartwarming message. This show is a must-see event. Purchase your tickets today!

wine on the piazza

Christmas on the Battery

When: December 5-6 | 5:30-8 pm

Where: Edmondston-Alston House | 21 East Battery Charleston

Experience a magical evening at the historic Edmondston-Alston House, where you’ll explore the beautifully candlelit, festively adorned rooms at your own pace. Be serenaded by the Charleston Caroling Company, and then head to the courtyard to warm up with a glass of wine or hot cider while enjoying captivating Gullah Christmas stories told by a local storyteller.

illumination

Illumination Charleston

When: December 6-7, 2024

Where: Various Locations

Join Explore Charleston and Southern Living for an unforgettable holiday experience in the enchanting city of Charleston, South Carolina. This festive event will feature Southern Living editors, special guests, and a carefully curated holiday market. Highlights include the Southern Living Illumination Holiday Market, showcasing local and regional vendors selected by the editors, along with a full day of demonstrations on holiday cooking, decorating, and entertaining. Guests will also enjoy a tour of the 2024 Southern Living Idea House in Kiawah River, beautifully decorated for the season, and have the opportunity to attend book signings with notable Southern authors. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet and mingle with Southern Living editors and contributors.

Wine on the Piazza at Magnolia Gardens

Magnolia's Home for the Holidays

When: Friday, December 6, 2024-Friday, January 3, 2025 | 9 am-4:30 pm

Where: Magnolida Plantation and Gardens | 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston

Join Magnolia’s Home for the Holidays! Beginning December 6, the property will be beautifully decorated with festive holiday displays, creating a magical setting for all to enjoy.

On December 15, experience an enchanting afternoon exploring the grounds, meeting Santa from 1-4 PM, and listening to cheerful Christmas carols. This casual, family-friendly event captures the holiday spirit and is included with both membership and garden admission.

reinert gallery

First Friday ArtWalks

When: December 6, 2024 | 5-8 pm

Where: Downtown Charleston

Explore Charleston’s thriving art scene at the Charleston Gallery Association Artwalk, featuring over 40 participating galleries. Join us for the lively First Friday ArtWalks, held from 5-8 p.m. on the first Friday of each month, and enjoy an evening of creativity and culture. This free event offers an immersive experience in the city’s art world. Visit the provided website for a map of all participating galleries. Please note, there are no ArtWalks in January or July.

christmas at marion square

Charleston Farmers Market

When: Saturdays: December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21

Where: Marion Square | 329 Meeting Street

Situated in Marion Square in the heart of Downtown Charleston’s Historic District, the Charleston Farmers Market operates every Saturday from April through November, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. During the holiday season, the market extends its hours with special Holiday Markets on Saturdays and Sundays in December.

holiday-swing

Holiday Swing-Charleston Jazz Orchestra

When: December 7, 2024

Where: Charleston Music Hall | 37 John St,, Charleston

Get in the holiday spirit with the highly acclaimed Charleston Jazz Orchestra. Enjoy the sounds of holidays past and present. There are two times available to enjoy the big band—5-6:30 pm or 8-9:30 pm.

oysters

Annual Deck the Hall Oyster Roast

When: December 8, 2024 | 2–5 PM

Where: Drayton Hall | 3380 Ashley River Road, Charleston

Bring your friends and family to Drayton Hall’s annual Deck the Hall Oyster Roast and savor the historical charm of this beloved Lowcountry tradition! Enjoy all-you-can-eat oysters, a hearty chili bar, and a selection of local beverages, all while supporting the Drayton Hall mission. We encourage guests to come early to explore the exhibits at Drayton Hall before the festivities begin, as your Oyster Roast ticket includes admission to the grounds. Feel free to bring your own lawn chairs for a comfortable experience, but kindly leave pets, coolers, and outside food and drinks at home. This popular event sells out every year, so be sure to get your tickets early!

wine under the oaks

Wine Under the Oaks

When: December 8, 2024

Where: Boone Hall Plantation Back Lawn | 1235 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant

Wine Under the Oaks is a 21+ event that offers a sophisticated and enjoyable experience for wine enthusiasts and food lovers. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Boone Hall Plantation, this annual celebration features curated wine tastings, live music, and delicious culinary delights. It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind and savor the flavors of the South in a historic and elegant setting.

2nd-Sunday-on-King

2nd Sunday on King Street

When: December 8, 2024, January 12, February 9, 2025

Where: King Street from Queen to Calhoun

Every second Sunday of the month from noon until 5 pm, the City of Charleston shuts down King Street from Queen to Calhoun to through traffic. In addition, no cars are allowed to park, giving pedestrians the ability to stroll through the street and visit businesses they might not have known about. There are also artists displaying their work on the street and unique food vendors tempting guests with their fare.

charleston christmas special

The Charleston Christmas Special 2024

When: December 12 - 22, 2024

Where: Charleston Music Hall | 37 John St, Charleston

Enjoy this Charleston staple—a musical show featuring some of the country’s most talented singers, dancers, and musicians— now in it’s 29th year!

holiday boat parade

Holiday Boat Parade

When: December 14, 2024 | 6 pm

Where: Charleston Harbor

This holiday spectacle transforms the Charleston Harbor in an array of dazzling lights and decorated boats. Participants, ranging from private boat owners to local businesses, transform their vessels into floating masterpieces, adorning them with thousands of twinkling lights, festive ornaments, and creative holiday scenes. The parade route winds its way through the Ashley River, past the iconic Battery Park, and into the Cooper River, offering spectators a mesmerizing view of the illuminated vessels. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Charleston, this enchanting spectacle is sure to leave you feeling dazzled and filled with holiday cheer.

festival of lights

Festival of Lights

When: November 15-December 31, 2024

Where: JAMES ISLAND COUNTY PARK | 871 Riverland Dr, Charleston

Embrace the magic of the holiday season at the Charleston Holiday Festival of Lights, a cherished annual event held at James Island County Park in Charleston, South Carolina. This enchanting festival transforms the park into a winter wonderland, bedecked with millions of dazzling lights. Visitors can stroll or drive through a three-mile tour featuring the city’s finest light displays. They also feature a sculpture made from 50 tons of sand, a holiday train, an enchanted walking trail, a Victorian carousel, Santa Claus, Santa’s sweet shop, gift shops, marshmallow roasting, and more! Get your tickets today for this heartwarming, family-friendly experience that captures the true spirit of the season!

New Years Eve at the Aquarium

New Years Eve With Family at the Aquarium

When: December 31, 2024

Where: SOUTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM | 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston

Create unforgettable memories this New Year’s Eve at Aquarium Aglow. Immerse yourself in a dazzling underwater world illuminated by thousands of lights. Enjoy festive music, delicious treats, and a special countdown to midnight.

JANUARY-FEBRUARY EVENTS

Charleston Museum

Museum Mile Month

When: January

Where: Charleston Museum | 360 Meeting St., Charleston

Experience the Museum Mile sites throughout January 2024 with a single ticket purchase! The Museum Mile Month pass grants a month-long opportunity to immerse yourself in Charleston’s vibrant history and culture by visiting various sites along the route.

For only $35 per adult and $10 per child, access 13 different sites. Don’t miss out on exploring, discovering, and savoring all the wonders Charleston presents during Museum Mile Month!

chamber music

Piano Quintets

When: January 12, 2025 | 3 pm

Where: Dock Street Theatre | 135 Church Street Charleston

Join us for our annual January concert at the Dock Street Theater, featuring returning guest violinist Anthea Kreston and pianist Phillip Bush. This year’s program includes two Romantic-era quintets, starting with a lively arrangement of three Hungarian dances by Czech violinist and composer Franz Drdla (1868-1944) and concluding with Schumann’s renowned Quintet in E-flat Major.

taste of folly

Taste of Folly

When: January 17-18, 2025

Where: Folly Beach

Head to Folly Beach and start with the Cocktail Competition on Friday evening at the Pavilion Ballroom, where Folly Beach’s best mixologists will compete to create craft cocktails. On Saturday, Center Street will be filled with Folly’s top eateries serving up their best dishes, live cooking demos, and competitions like the Hot Dog Eating Contest, One Pot Showdown, and Oyster Shucking Contest. Enjoy local bands, over 50 vendors, and a fun-filled kid’s area. Stay tuned for more details!

oyster fest

Lowcountry Oyster Festival

When: Sunday, February 2, 2025

Where: Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens | 1235 Long Point Rd. Mt. Pleasant

Love oysters? If so, grab your oyster knives and look no further than this year’s Lowcountry Oyster Festival. Claiming to be the world’s largest oyster festival, this family-friendly event features live music, shucking and eating contests, imported beers, a children’s area, a food court, and—best of all—45,000 pounds of oysters! More information coming soon!

reinert gallery

Lowcountry Oyster Festival

When: February 7, 2025 | 5-8 pm

Where: Downtown Charleston

Explore Charleston’s thriving art scene at the Charleston Gallery Association Artwalk, featuring over 40 participating galleries. Join us for the lively First Friday ArtWalks, held from 5-8 p.m. on the first Friday of each month, and enjoy an evening of creativity and culture. This free event offers an immersive experience in the city’s art world. Visit the provided website for a map of all participating galleries. Please note, there are no ArtWalks in January or July.

dog jumping at SEWE

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE)

When: February 14-15, 2025

Where: Various locations

SEWE is the largest event of its kind in the United States that celebrates wildlife and nature through fine art, live entertainment, and special events. Be sure to visit the SEWE Marketplace located inside the Gaillard Center. There, you’ll find dozens of artisans, craftsmen, and tastemakers from across the country! More information coming soon!

sea and sand

Sea & Sand Festival

When: February 22-23, 2025

Where: Folly River Park | Center Street Folly Beach,

Celebrating its 33rd year, the annual Sea & Sand Festival, Folly Beach’s longest-running event, returns for a weekend of family-friendly fun. Stretching from Folly River Park to the beach, the festivities will feature an artisan street fair and some lively sand competitions on Sunday.

March Events

Wine and Food

Charleston Wine + Food

When: March 5-9, 2025

Where: Various locations

Since 2005, this iconic week-long festival has been one of the area’s premier events. Originally started to promote and elevate Charleston’s culinary brand, the Charleston Wine and Food Festival brings out the best of the best to truly showcase the Charleston culinary scene. Those looking to participate can buy tickets to different unique events throughout the week. Ticket prices vary based on the event.

*Please note that all information included in this blog, such as times, ticket prices, and ticket availability, is subject to change.

🎉Happy 35th anniversary @johnrutledgehouseinn!🎉

For 35 years, John Rutledge House Inn® has been offering guests unforgettable experiences and true Southern Hospitality within its historic wall. Since 1989, the Inn has hosted travelers from far and wide and continues to do so today.

This milestone is possible only because of our loyal guests, dedicated staff, and support from the Charleston community!

Here`s to many more years of enchanting stays and cherished experiences! 🥂 ❤️#JohnRutledgeHouseInn #historichotelsofamerica
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We’re popping the champagne! 🍾 We are incredibly proud to announce that @wentworthmansionsc has been named the No. 2 Best Hotel in Charleston and No. 5 Best Hotel in South Carolina by @usnews & World Report! This recognition is a testament to the dedication and passion of the Mansion’s incredible team! We are grateful for all they do to create unforgettable guest experiences! 🥂 #wentworthmansion #besthotels #usnews #explorecharleston ...

🎉 Happy New Year from Downtown Charleston! Wishing everyone a happy and healthy year of travel and adventure! #Hospitality #Travel #ExploreCharleston ...

We wish to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Jim, who has been awarded the esteemed title of Employee of the Year! His unwavering dedication, exemplary work ethic, and positive impact on the team have not gone unnoticed.

Here`s to celebrating his well-deserved success! 🎉

#appreciation #charleston #thankyou
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Check out September in the #1 city! Come be a part of a month brimming with events ranging from an indigo dyeing workshop to music concerts at Credit One Stadium. Explore our handpicked selection of September`s finest offerings through the link in our bio.

#charleton #explorecharleston #history #september #blog #coastal
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Celebrate August in the #1 city! Join us as we try various events in town, such as the Charleston Farmers Market which takes place every Saturday!

For more events this August, check out the link in our bio!

#august #blog #charleston #explorecharleston #farmersmarket
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We are excited to announce the newest member of the Charming Inns team, Grace Miller!

Grace was an intern last summer, making her transition to the team a seamless one.

You might see her out and about taking photos and videos to share with our followers!

We are happy to have her on board as the Sales & Marketing Coordinator! Welcome Grace! ❤️🎉
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Food drive for @eccocharleston at @chshoteliers meeting!
With the help of everyone, we were able to donate over 400 pounds worth of food!
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We are honored that @wentworthmansionsc has been nominated for Best Hotel, @circa1886 for Best Date Night and Best Fine Dining Restaurant, and @kingscourtyardinn for Best Bed & Breakfast and Best Boutique Hotel! We are grateful to our amazing past guests for the nominations! Click the link in our bio if you would like to vote! 😍 #charlestonschoice #finedining #bedandbreakfast #boutiquehotel #besthotel ...

Happy #4thofjuly from your friends at Charming Inns! We hope your holiday is filled with fun and laughter! 🎆🇺🇸 ...

Good morning ☀️ and Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there! We hope you have a wonderful day of rest and relaxation! ❤️ #happyfathersday ...

With summer in full swing, we put together a short list of spectacular events the Holy City gets to play host to. Check out the link in our bio to get a glimpse of what this city has to offer in July. ⁠

#charleston #holycity #visitsc #explorecharleston
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Cheers to 15 years of remarkable service! 🥂 Thank you, Rondell for being an integral part of our Kings Courtyard Inn family and for continuously going above and beyond to ensure our guests feel welcomed and cherished. 🤗 Your dedication and commitment are truly inspiring, and we congratulate you on this remarkable accomplishment!
#EmployeeAppreciation #charleston #explorecharleston
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We are thrilled that every one of the properties in our collection received a Travelers` Choice award from @tripadvisor! Wentworth Mansion is in the top 1% of hotels with a Best of the Best Luxury award, Circa 1886 Restaurant is the Best Date Night Restaurant, and Fulton Lane Inn, Kings Courtyard Inn, and John Rutledge House Inn are in the top 10% of hotels! A heartfelt thank you to our guests who took the time to share their stories and leave us rave reviews! 🥰 #boutiquehotels #hospitality #travelerschoice #tripadvisor ...

Hagan Fine Art Gallery is moving to a new location at 125 Church Street! Stop by their Launch Party on May 5th during First Friday Artwalk 5-8 pm! Enjoy some nibbles and bubbles and view the inaugural exhibition featuring artist Amy Dixon’s (@amydixonfineart) wonderful work. #charleston #charlestonsc #explorecharleston ...

Event season is heating up in Charleston! May has many events to choose from, including festivals, concerts, and wine strolls! Take a look at a list of a few of our favorite May events in Charleston! 😊 Check out the blog link in our bio for the full list.
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#CharmingInnsOfCharleston #charleston #charlestonsc #charlestoncharm #chs #charlestonlife #charlestonliving #discoversc #sc #holycity
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We are thrilled that @wentworthmansionsc, @johnrutledgehouseinn, and @kingscourtyardinn are in the running for a @cntraveler 2023 Readers` Choice Award! 🎉We hope you will support them by casting your vote by June 30, 2023. Also, if you vote you could win a 2-night stay at one of the Inns and/or a dream trip from Condé Nast! Click the link in our bio to vote today! 🙏 #condenastraveller #readerschoiceawards #wentworthmansion #johnrutledgehouseinn #kingscourtyardinn ...

Looking to explore the local art scene? If so, immerse yourself at more than 30 local galleries during the Charleston Gallery Association’s Artwalk. Taking place on the first Friday of most months, the Artwalk is a fantastic way to meet new people, discover local artists, and find the perfect art piece for your home! 🎨 Make sure to check it out this upcoming Friday!
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#CharmingInnsOfCharleston #charleston #charlestonsc #charlestoncharm #chs #sc #holycity #lowcountrylife #downtowncharleston #explorecharleston
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