Things to Do This Weekend in Charleston

Whiskey After Dark Charleston returns November 6, 2025, at Founders Hall. Presented by The Local Palate and Breakthru Beverage, the event features unlimited whiskey tastings, chef-curated dishes, and live entertainment, plus a marketplace of specialty goods. VIP guests enjoy early entry, exclusive cocktails, and added experiences.

Set sail for a lively night on the Charleston Princess with an unforgettable BBQ & live music cruise. With a fully stocked bar and plenty of open-air fun, it’s the perfect outing for date night, group gatherings, or anyone looking to enjoy Charleston from a new perspective.

Get creative at this hands-on workshop where clay meets color. Guests will craft their own air-dry clay vessels—like trays, jewelry holders, or dishes—and decorate them with mosaic tiles, beads, shells, and more. No experience required, just imagination and a love for making art.

Charleston Opera Theater and the Gibbes Museum of Art present a special program exploring the artistry behind opera. Featuring the creative team from the upcoming production of Bizet’s Carmen, this event delves into how costume, set, choreography, and design bring emotion and storytelling to life on stage.

One of Charleston’s best traditions, First Friday Artwalks are a way of debuting the city’s vibrant art scene. This special occasion occurs on the first Friday of every month (excluding January and July) and highlights dozens of art galleries and studios across the entire city. This is your chance to check out local art studios and mingle with local artists.

Head to Charles Towne Fermentory The Garden for a creative evening of crafting oyster shell ring dishes or ornaments. Guests can drop in between 5–7 p.m. to decoupage their own designs—supplies and instruction provided.

The Charleston Literary Festival is a boutique literary festival that highlights and celebrates unique authors in unique settings. Venues this year include the Dock Street Theatre and the new International African American Museum. Against the backdrop of Charleston’s charming streets and rich history, guests have the chance to learn more about the history of the Holy City as they enjoy their love for literature.

Join Taylor Grant of Taylor Grant Pilates for an intimate, engaging Pilates class at the Gibbes Museum. This session offers a focused and fun workout surrounded by inspiring art. Participants should bring their own mats.

Join the bar team for a hands-on cocktail class featuring three festive drinks perfect for Thanksgiving. Learn to shake, stir, and sip seasonal creations infused with autumn spices, fruits, and spirits ideal for holiday entertaining.

Firefly Distillery’s Fall Food Truck Feastival returns on Saturday, November 1 from 12–4 PM, celebrating the season with more than 20 local food trucks, craft cocktails, live music, and a vibrant vendor market. With free entry and plenty of space to relax by the creek, it’s the perfect fall afternoon for food lovers, families, and friends alike.

Holy Smokes BBQ Fest returns to Riverfront Park on November 8, bringing together 50+ top pitmasters and chefs for a celebration of American barbecue. Set on the Cooper River, the festival features four barbecue villages—Texas, Traditional, New School, and Coastal—alongside live music, great food, and riverside views.

Experience living history at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum every second Saturday. Meet reenactors and explore “Ask Me About History” carts for an interactive journey through the past.

Join Deep Water Vineyard for their Weekend Wine-Downs every Saturday, rain or shine! Enjoy $15 wine tastings (hourly, includes a souvenir glass), sip fun drinks from thier patio bar, and relax with live music and rotating food trucks. Bring the whole crew: kids are welcome, and well-behaved, leashed dogs can roam the grounds with you.

Founded in 1989, the Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square is a beloved community event. You will find a variety of local produce, plants, herbs, and cut flowers as well as breakfast and lunch vendors, live entertainment, and an assortment of juried arts and crafts from local artisans every Saturday at the Market.

Head to Park Circle for action-packed fun! Enjoy a Car & Bike Show, national and international music acts, and Pinup, Tattoo, and Beard & Mustache Contests.

Guests are invited to experience ELong Pilates at Middleton Place, a restorative mat class led by Elizel Long beneath the historic oaks along the Ashley River. Designed for all fitness levels, this 60-minute session blends mindful movement with the tranquility of nature. Tickets include general admission to Middleton Place, offering a full day of wellness and exploration, with proceeds supporting the Middleton Place Foundation.

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.

The Steeplechase of Charleston offers a thrilling day of horse racing, live entertainment, local food trucks, and holiday shopping at the Merchant Market. With tailgating, VIP access, and family-friendly fun—including the beloved Corgi Cup—it’s a Sunday not to miss.

Now in its 11th year, The Nosh invites the Charleston community to celebrate Jewish food, music, and culture along pedestrian-only Hasell Street. Enjoy classic favorites like corned beef and pastrami sandwiches, knishes, stuffed cabbage, bagels with lox, matzo ball soup, challah, and more—plus Dr. Brown’s sodas and homemade baked goods.

The Sunday Brunch Farmers Market takes place year-round behind The Charleston Pour House, featuring 40+ local vendors, live music, delicious food, and a full bar. Open Sundays from 11am–3pm, with free live music on the deck stage until 9.