As if you needed an excuse to visit Charleston, we’ve rounded up 17 events happening this autumn in the Lowcountry. Scroll on and begin planning your Fall Break escape!
1. MOJA FESTIVAL
SEPTEMBER 28 – OCTOBER 8
Moja is a Swahili word meaning “one.” The MOJA Festival is a celebration of harmony among all people in the community. The festival highlights the many African-American and Caribbean contributions to western and world cultures through visual arts, classical music, dance, gospel, jazz, poetry, storytelling, theatre ethnic food and more.
2. GATHER CHARLESTON
SEPTEMBER 29 – OCTOBER 1
Experience Charleston’s favorite chefs, local goods, cultural experiences and more.
3. BOONE HALL PUMPKIN PATCH
SEPTEMBER 29 – OCTOBER 29
For fun for the whole family, visit the Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch and enjoy a hayride before strolling through the corn maze and picking out your perfect pumpkin to take home!
4. INDIGO DYEING WORKSHOP
SEPTEMBER 30
Learn the process and techniques for dyeing fabric with CHI Design Indigo at historic Drayton Hall.
5. AUTUMN ON THE ASHLEY WINE STROLL
SEPTEMBER 30
Explore the beautiful gardens of Magnolia while sampling wine, local brew and mocktails along with light bites.
6. FALL GARDEN STROLL & WINE TASTING
OCTOBER 4, 11, 18, 25
Wander through the historic grounds of Middleton while enjoying wine tastings and light hors d’oeuvres in the gardens.
7. THE FALL TOURS
OCTOBER 11 – NOVEMBER 4
Explore beyond the garden gates of some of the most beautiful homes in America during The Preservation Society of Charleston’s Fall Tours. Embark on an Insider’s Garden Tour and learn all about the Holy City’s rich horticultural heritage and the latest gardening trends.
8. MAGNOLIA BEAUTI-FALL FESTIVAL
OCTOBER 21
Face painting, cotton candy, s’mores, pumpkin painting, autumn-inspired snacks, live music and more await you at this fall festival!
9. HALLOWEEN PARTY: TRICK OR TREAT AT THE MUSEUM
OCTOBER 27
Kick off your Halloween celebrations at the Charleston Museum with crafts, activities, spooky snacks and a guided trick-or-treat trail.
10. SWEETGRASS WEAVING WORKSHOP
NOVEMBER 4
Drayton Hall welcomes Charleston’s beloved Henrietta Snype for a hands-on sweetgrass weaving workshop, where guests will learn the historical significance of this unique craft.
11. HARVEST FESTIVAL
NOVEMBER 4
Enjoy live bluegrass music, pumpkin decorating, hayrides and more at the Harvest Festival at Johns Island County Park. Savor Carolina BBQ, kettle korn and all of your favorite festival foods before heading to the crafters market to get a jump start on your holiday shopping!
12. MASHFEST
NOVEMBER 5
Lewis Barbecue and Holy City Brewing are joining forces to bring you a Bourbon, Barbecue and Beer Festival unlike any other! Meet us there for live music, art installations, live cigar rolling and more.
13. A SWEET SHINDIG
NOVEMBER 5
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this dessert-focused festival, including endless decadent desserts, rich bourbons, craft beers and more.
14. THANKSGIVING AT MIDDLETON PLACE
NOVEMBER 23
Spend Thanksgiving Day at Middleton Place with a traditional buffet meal prepared by the Middleton Place Restaurant in the Pavilion with sweeping views of ancient live oaks.
15. ILLUMINATION CHARLESTON
DECEMBER 1 – 2
Join Explore Charleston, Southern Living and the Historic Charleston Foundation for a series of events that celebrate the holiday season through Southern culture, preservation and design inspiration.
16. WINE UNDER THE OAKS
DECEMBER 3
Sip on wine from a variety of winery partners while enjoying complimentary oysters and desserts, wine and cooking demonstrations and live musical entertainment.
17. OYSTER ROAST AT DRAYTON HALL
DECEMBER 3
Kick off the holiday season with an oyster roast – including all-you-can-eat oysters, a chili bar, local beverages and more – at the historic Drayton Hall!
Ready to plan your visit? Explore our curated itineraries to get started!
