Things to Do This Weekend in Charleston
It’s time to plan your weekend! Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor soaking up the Southern charm, there’s something for everyone this weekend! Charleston offers a delightful smorgasbord of activities to create unforgettable memories. This post is your curated guide to the best things to do in Charleston this weekend, so dive in and start planning your fun-filled Charleston adventure!
Holiday 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!
Aquarium Aglow
When: November 15-December 30, 2024 | 7:30pm
Where: South Carolina Aquarium | 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston
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.
Holy City Christmas 2024
When: November 29- December 22, 2024
Where: Holy City Brewing | 1021 Aragon Avenue, North Charleston
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind holiday experience at Holy City Brewing! Their annual Holy City Christmas event transforms the brewery into a winter wonderland. Wander through a magical forest, encounter festive characters, and enjoy complimentary treats and surprises. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends and family. Get your tickets now!
Skate the Stadium
When: November 29- December 30, 2024
Where: Credit One Stadium | 161 Sevens Farms Drive. Charleston, SC 29492
Credit One Stadium transforms into a winter wonderland this season with the arrival of Skate The Stadium, a custom-built synthetic ice rink! Lace up your skates and join the festive atmosphere as you glide across the ice amidst the twinkling lights and holiday cheer.
Warm up by cozy fire pits, indulge in delicious concessions, and create lasting memories with loved ones. Skate The Stadium offers a unique and affordable way to celebrate the season, with tickets priced at only $10 per person, including skate rental and a 45-minute skating session.
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!
Bulldog Holiday Tours
When: December 3, 2024- January 4, 2025
Where: Various Locations in Downtown Charleston
Get into the holiday spirit with Bulldog Tours’ festive offerings! Their Charleston Strolls Holiday Walking Tour takes you through the historic district, adorned with twinkling lights and holiday cheer. Immerse yourself in Charleston’s rich history and learn about its unique Christmas traditions. For a more spirited experience, join their Holiday Strolls Cocktail Tour, where you’ll sip on festive cocktails at three of the city’s most charming historic inns. Tickets are on sale now!
Christmas on the Battery
When: Thursday, December 5-Friday, December 6, 2024
Where: EDMONDSTON ALSTON HOUSE - 21 E BATTERY
Step back in time and experience a truly magical evening at the historic Edmondston-Alston House. Wander through the festively decorated rooms illuminated by candlelight, and listen to the enchanting melodies of the Charleston Caroling Company. As you warm yourself in the cozy courtyard, sip on wine or hot cider while a local storyteller shares captivating Gullah Christmas tales.
Home for the Holidays
When: December 6- January 6, 2024 | 9:00am - 4:30pm
Where: Magnolia Plantation | 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC, 29414
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.
Light the Lake 2024
When: Friday, December 6, 2024 | 5:00-7:00 pm
Where: Colonial Lake | 46-54 Ashley Ave Charleston
The annual Light the Lake event is a magical holiday celebration at Colonial Lake Park. This free event features a stunning tree lighting ceremony, live music, food vendors, and festive activities for the whole family. As the sun sets, the lake is illuminated with thousands of luminaries, creating a breathtaking atmosphere for the holiday season.
First Friday Artwalk
When: Friday, December 6, 2024
Where: Various locations in Downtown Charleston
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.
Illumination Charleston
When: Friday, December 6- Saturday, December 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.
Holiday Swing-Charleston Jazz Orchestra
When: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Where: Charleston Music Hall | 37 John St, Charleston
Get ready to swing into the holiday season with the Charleston Jazz Orchestra’s annual Holiday Swing concert! This festive event features the talented musicians of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra performing classic holiday tunes with a jazzy twist. The concert will be held at the historic Charleston Music Hall, creating a magical atmosphere for the entire family. So grab your loved ones and join us for an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer and soulful music!
Weekend Wine Down
When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 | 10:00am - 5:00pm
Where: Deep Water Vineyard | 6775 Bears Bluff Rd, Wadmalaw Island, SC
Unwind every Saturday rain or shine at our winery’s weekend “wine-down” (10am-5pm)! Enjoy hourly tastings ($15), a patio bar with diverse drinks (wine, mimosas, slushies, mead), and live music by Dallas Baker. Food trucks (like today’s Lib’s Diner) and yard games keep everyone entertained. Leashed dogs and well-behaved kids are welcome!
Today’s Live Music: Dallas Baker
Today’s Food Truck: Lib’s Diner
Food Truck and Music at Firefly
When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 | 1:00-6:45pm
Where: Firefly Distillery | 4201 Spruill Ave, North Charleston
Firefly Distillery is hosting their weekly Food Truck and Music Festival this Saturday! Enjoy a day of live music, delicious food, and refreshing cocktails. This Saturday features:
Music: Super Reggae Man
Food Truck: Hibachi King
Charleston Holiday Parade
When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 | 3:00pm
Where: Parade starts on Broad Street
Get ready for some holiday cheer! The Charleston Holiday Parade is coming to town on Saturday, December 7th. This festive event features marching bands, floats, dancers, and more, all decked out in holiday splendor. The parade will wind its way through the heart of Charleston, ending with a tree lighting ceremony in Marion Square. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the season with your family and friends!
Holiday Market at Marion Square
When: Saturday, December 7-Sunday, December 8, 2024 | 9:00am -3:00pm
Where: Marion Square
Get ready to deck the halls with the Charleston Holiday Market at Marion Square! This festive event features a wide array of local vendors offering unique gifts, holiday decorations, and delicious treats. From handcrafted jewelry to fresh produce, you’re sure to find something special for everyone on your list. Enjoy live music, kid-friendly activities, and the holiday spirit as you shop ’til you drop at this beloved Charleston tradition.
Annual Deck the Hall Oyster Roast
When: Sunday December 8, 2024 | 2:00 - 5:00pm
Where: Drayton Hall | 3380 Ashley River Road, Charleston
Wine Under the Oaks
When: Sunday, 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.
We hope this list of things to do in Charleston this weekend will get you excited to add some things to your calendar!