2024

Fall Events Guide

Fall in Charleston is the perfect time to enjoy cooler weather and a variety of events, festivals, and celebrations. We have put together a list of some of our favorites that you won’t want to miss!

Charleston Farmers Market

Charleston Farmers’ Market

When: Saturdays beginning April 2024

Where: Marion Square-329 Meeting Street

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.

Artwalk

First Fridays Artwalks

When: September 6, October 4, November 1 | 5-8 pm

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.

Taco & Margarita Festival

When: Saturday, September 7, 2024 | 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.

Where: Riverfront Park | 1045 Everglades Ave, North Charleston

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!

lowcountry-jazz-festival-charleston

Lowcountry Jazz Festival

When: Dates TBD

Where: Charleston Gaillard Center

This annual two-day music festival is a Charleston Labor Day weekend tradition. The Lowcountry Jazz Festival is a harmonious celebration of soulful rhythms and musical brilliance that captivates the hearts of music enthusiasts. From smooth melodies to lively improvisations, the festival showcases a diverse lineup of talented artists, creating an atmosphere of pure musical magic. Attendees immerse themselves in the soulful sounds, creating unforgettable memories under the Southern skies.

fall tours

The Fall Tours

When: October 9- November 2, 2024

Where: Historic Downtown Charleston

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.

boone hall pumpkin patch

The Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze

When: September- October 2024

Where: Boone Hall Plantation

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.

moja-art-festival

MOJA Art Festival

When: September 26-October 6, 2024

Where: Various Locations

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.

food & wine classic

Food and Wine Classic

When: September 27-29

Where: Various locations in Charleston

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!

Riverfront Revival Festival

When: October 11-12, 2024

Where: Riverfront Park

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.

2nd sunday on king

2nd Sunday on King Street

When: September 8, October 13, November 10

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.

Beer flight

Charleston Beer Week

When: October-November TBD

Where: Various Locations

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.

literary-festival

Charleston Literary Festival

When: November 1-10. 2024

Where: Multiple Venues

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.

Holiday Festival of Lights

Holiday Festival of Lights

When: November- December 2024

Where: James Island County Park

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!

steeplechase

Steeplechase of Charleston

When: November 2024

Where: The Stono Ferry Racetrack

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.

aglow

Aquarium Aglow

When: November-December 2024

Where: South Carolina Aquarium

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.