Fall Major Events Guide

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.

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.

Taco ’bout a fiesta! Indulge in Charleston’s 1st Taco & Margarita Festival. Savor mouthwatering tacos from diverse vendors, sip on authentic tequilas, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere with live music and cultural flair. It’s a feast for the senses you won’t forget!

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.

Celebrate the beauty of autumn at the Magnolia Beauti-Fall Festival! This family-friendly event takes place on September 21st and features live music, delicious food, and fun activities for all ages. Explore the stunning fall foliage of Magnolia Plantation & Gardens while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Boone Hall Fright Nights offers terrifying yet thrilling experiences for brave souls. Our attractions feature spine-chilling creatures and special effects designed to scare and entertain. Please note that our events are not suitable for guests under 12 or those easily frightened. All guests under 12 must be accompanied by a ticketed adult, and children under 6 are unable to attend for safety reasons.

Moja meaning “individual” in Swahili, is a multi-disciplinary festival that highlights the rich history of African-American and Caribbean Arts and their contributions to Western and International Cultures. Festivities will include visual arts, classical music, dance, gospel, jazz, poetry, music, storytelling, theatre, children’s activities, crafts, ethnic food, and more.

This September launches the inaugural Food and Wine Classic! Sample delicious bites from world-class chefs and local stars, sip amazing wines and attend insightful seminars and cooking demos. It’s the perfect way to indulge your taste buds and discover something new. Beyond the plate, discover mixology secrets, groove to live music, and soak up Charleston’s Southern charm. Tickets for this new festival will go on sale in the spring, so be sure to secure your spot as soon as you can!

Are you looking for the perfect family-friendly fall activity? Look no further. Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch has something for everyone. Since 1997, this nearly one-month-long fall festival has become an autumn tradition that brings people of all ages together for a day of good old-fashioned fun on the farm. Enjoy a Halloween tractor tour, corn maze, petting zoo, pony rides, inflatable slide and obstacle course, and more! Before you go home, don’t forget to pick out a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch.

Don’t miss Evening at McLeod, a captivating night of music and history featuring the Charleston Symphony Brass ensemble. Through the powerful story of Mr. William Dawson’s journey from slavery to military service, the evening will showcase rich cultural heritage with live performances, local African American artists, and delicious Lowcountry cuisine from Carolina’s. Enjoy drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and support a great cause—the Charleston County Parks Foundation’s Cultural History Fund.

Savor dishes from some of Charleston’s best spots like Basic Kitchen, Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit, Husk, Delaney Oyster House, Minero, and more, along with delicious bites from local favorites like Ma’am Saab, Miller’s All Day, and Pink Bellies. Enjoy drinks from EO Brewing, Cathead Vodka, Lunazul, and CocaCola while grooving to live music by Solid Country Gold. There’s even a kiddie corral for the little ones!

Enjoy the display and sale of Indian Cuisine, arts, clothing, jewelry etc. Free entry and parking!

• Henna Art
• Jump Castles
• Balloon Art
• Face Paint
• Try Indian attire
• Classical dance
• Bollywood dance
• Instrumental music

Experience the vibrant rhythms and flavors of Latin America at the annual Charleston Latin American Festival. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and family-friendly fun on October 6th at Wannamaker County Park.

Now in its 47th year, the Fall Tours offerings are designed to maximize the educational experience for guests while minimizing impacts on the historic district. Guests taking the Piazzas and Garden Tour will go beyond the garden gate and onto the porches and piazza of some of Charleston’s finest homes. The Insider’s Garden Tour is designed for the garden enthusiast and will be led by notable professionals such as landscape architects, garden designers, and horticulturalists. Other tours include Insider’s Architecture Tours, Specialty Tours, Historic Walking Tours, and more.

Discover Belle’s magical world, sail the open sea with Moana, and follow the rhythm with Miguel. Experience the heartwarming bond between Anna and Elsa, and cheer on Rapunzel and Flynn as they chase their dreams. Let Disney on Ice ignite your imagination with courage, love, and unforgettable moments.

Darius Rucker curated this popular event that features the country’s hottest new artists. Past performers include Lainey Wilson and Band of Horses. Riverfront Revival is poised to become a heartfelt ode to both the vibrant world of country music and the rich tapestry of South Carolina’s Lowcountry. This exhilarating two-day festival promises a journey filled with unforgettable live performances, immersive cultural experiences, and flavors deeply rooted in the region’s distinctive culinary traditions. Guests will depart with a deeper appreciation for Charleston.

The 11th Annual Charleston Beer Week will promote Charleston’s craft beer community as a whole and be comprised of 50+ different events, over 10 days, taking place all over the Charleston tri-county area. Guests can expect a little bit of everything: beer dinners, special releases, brewery events, educational events, food pairings, meet the brewers, outdoor events, style showcase, tap takeovers, festivals, and charity fundraisers.

Don’t miss the final Garden Stroll and Wine Tasting of the season! Immerse yourself in the beauty of America’s oldest landscaped gardens while sipping on delicious wine. Add a touch of mystery by donning your finest masquerade or Halloween attire (optional). Enjoy wine tastings, light bites, and breathtaking views. Get your tickets now!

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.

Head to Johns Island County Park for a day of live bluegrass, pumpkin decorating, kids’ crafts, hayrides, and more! Savor Southern delights like Carolina barbecue and kettle corn, and browse the crafters market for holiday gifts. Gates open at 11 am, with music starting at 12 pm. Bring chairs or blankets, but leave coolers and outside alcohol at home. Dogs on leashes are welcome, and smoking or vaping is prohibited. Stay tuned for ticket details!

This year’s theme, “Palm Royale,” invites you to experience the glamour and opulence of 1960s Palm Beach. Enjoy a night of elegance, luxury, and unforgettable entertainment surrounded by swaying palms, chic cabanas, and the shimmering waters of the lake.

Watch history as collegiate wrestling takes place on the USS Yorktown’s flight deck! Eight teams, including The Citadel, Army West Point, and UVA, will compete in six duals. In case of bad weather, matches will move to the hangar or Bishop England High School.

• Ticket Price: $50 (includes ship access and duals)
• Parking: $5 at Patriots Point
• Space limited to 1,100 spectators
• No refunds

Get ready for another unforgettable weekend at the AfroSouth Film Festival! Join us in historic Charleston this November as we celebrate the rich tapestry of African American and Southern culture through film, music, and panel discussions. From a dazzling tribute to The Wiz to exploring the roots of jazz, this year’s festival promises something for everyone. Discover groundbreaking independent films, connect with talented filmmakers, and immerse yourself in the heart and soul of the Lowcountry.

Celebrate Middleton Place’s 50th Anniversary with a night of Southern charm featuring live bluegrass music, gourmet food, premium drinks, and silent auction. Enjoy oysters, bourbon tastings, and culinary delights inspired by the Lowcountry. All proceeds benefit Middleton Place Foundation. Dress: Fall Lowcountry Chic.

Head to Park Circle for the 11th year of action-packed fun in the Park Circle neighborhood, North Charleston. The main event is on Saturday, November 9th, with a Kickoff Party on Friday and a Pool Party on Sunday. Enjoy an expanded Car & Bike Show, more national and international music acts, plus the return of the Pinup, Tattoo, and Beard & Mustache Contests. Don’t miss the Vendor Market and special events throughout the year, including a record release party and holiday celebration! Free to attend, day and night.

The 4th annual Holy Smokes BBQ Fest promises another fun day featuring 50 of the country’s most talented pitmasters along with live music! Expect to enjoy slow-smoked whole hot, pork and beef ribs, Texas-style brisket, and more!

Rally a group of friends or family and spend the at the Steeplechase of Charleston. Originally opening its doors in 1792, this Lowcountry tradition is the perfect opportunity to dress up in big hats and bow ties, grab a drink, and observe some world-class horse races. The event starts at 8 am, with five races taking place throughout the day. Whether you’re a horse racing enthusiast or just want to get out and mingle, the Steeplechase of Charleston is the perfect way to connect with some deep-rooted southern heritage. Click here for race times, event details, and ticket options.

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!

Check out the South Carolina Aquarium from a whole new perspective with Aquarium Aglow. This one-of-a-kind event has quickly become a Charleston holiday tradition. Aquarium Aglow is an intricate light show that stretches throughout the aquarium. Using thousands of lights and an array of colors, the aquarium transforms its space into something truly magical. This memorable event is ticketed, with prices varying depending on the day you plan to attend.