The holidays are right around the corner, which means tons of amazing events here in the Charleston area. Make the most of the fall season with our tips for what to see and do this month. Join us in our holiday countdown and prepare for the many exciting adventures to come this month.
November Events
Enjoy bluegrass music, hayrides, pumpkin decorating, archery and a crafters market along with plenty of Carolina barbecue and cold drinks at Johns Island County Park.
Join the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry for a free family festival in Marion Square featuring live music, entertainment and hands-on activities.
Scottish Games & Highland Gathering: Nov. 2-3
Boone Hall Plantation is home to this annual event with traditional Scottish sports, fiddling competition, Highland dancing, and a sheep dog demonstration.
YALLfest: Charleston Young Adult Book Festival: Nov. 8-9
70 of the country’s top young adult authors host presentations and signings at various locations around Charleston.
One of America’s largest equestrian events at Mullet Hall at Johns Island County Park. This event is kid- and pet-friendly with food, drinks and (weather permitting) hot air balloons.
Lights of Magnolia: Nov. 15 – Jan. 25
At Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, this is a 9-acre experience of larger-than-life Chinese lanterns in the shapes of flowers, animals, traditional Chinese symbols, and more.
Holiday Festival of Lights: Nov. 15 – Dec. 31
With more than 700 displays and 2 million lights, this event has become a holiday tradition for many families throughout Charleston and beyond. Enjoy marshmallow roasting, train rides, gift shop, carousel and photos with Santa (select evenings).
Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble 5K: Nov. 28
Head to Marion Square for a run through the streets of downtown Charleston followed by live music, family activities, free food and drinks.
Holiday Market at Middleton Place: Nov. 29-30
Kick off the shopping season with an open-air market including local artisans and vendors, live musicians performing festive carols, complimentary hot cider and treats, and featured items in the Garden Market & Nursery and Museum Shop.
“A Doublewide, Texas Christmas”: Nov. 29 – Dec. 14
After being double-crossed by the county and having their township papers put in jeopardy, the residents of Doublewide look to prove their legitimacy by winning the county-wide “Battle of the Mangers” competition with their “Nativity at the Alamo” display. But can new mayor keep everything afloat as the circumstances grow more and more ridiculous?
Plan Ahead for the Holidays
A visit to Charleston is the perfect time to do some holiday shopping for friends and family. Choose from specialty food items, arts and crafts, jewelry and other items completely unique to Charleston. We’ve selected a few favorites for our Holiday Gift Guide we think would make great presents. And be sure to pick up a little something for yourself!