Thinking about traveling to the Lowcountry area of South Carolina? Experience the local charm of Kiawah Island and surrounding areas this fall! Kiawah Island and its neighboring areas — Charleston and Seabrook Island — come alive with an array of events and activities perfect for a fall family trip or romantic autumn getaway. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this season offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the natural beauty, cultural richness, and festive spirit of our stunning corner of South Carolina. Here’s a guide to some of the must-attend events happening September through November 2024.
SEPTEMBER 2024
1. SWEET TEA FESTIVAL
WHEN: September 14th – 21st, 2024
LOCATION: Historic Downtown Summerville Hutchinson Square, SC
PRICE: FREE!
The Sweet Tea Festival is a celebration of the birthplace of sweet tea, right here in Summerville SC. Enjoy artisans, live music, food, and of course, lots of sweet tea!
The historic downtown area is transformed into a massive open house/street fair with different food trucks, artisanal vendors, and entertainment. And, of course, there is plenty of sweet tea and you can help select the Tea of the Year by sampling and voting for your favorite!
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
Sweetest Sidewalk Sale
September 14th, 2024
10:00AM – 6:00PM
Shop local boutiques, eclectic shops and restaurants throughout Historic Downtown Summerville for the one of a kind special item, gift or fine cuisine.
Sweetest Farmers Market
September 21st, 2024
8:00AM – 1:00PM
The Summerville Farmers Market features over 70 vendors which include farmers, artisans, and specialty foods. Grab your coffee, breakfast, home decor and veggies all in one place!
Hold My Tea Bar Crawl & Sweet Tea Cocktail Contest
September 16th – 22nd, 2024
A variety of bars are competing in the Summerville Sweet Tea Cocktail Contest. You get to explore various venues and indulge in the entries of Summerville’s most talented bartenders! Vote for your favorite during the 6-day-long Hold My Tea Bar Crawl.
Sweet Tea Cocktail Contest
September 19th, 2024
5:30 PM-8:30 PM
Celebrate the Sweetest Third Thursday ever! Bring your favorite people, and celebrate this wonderful community with local artisans, crafters, merchants, and food!
2024 Sweet TEE Golf Outing
September 13th, 2024
Tee Time: 12:00PM
Golf outing to support Summerville DREAM mission to improve small business opportunities & entrepreneur development.
2024 Sweet Tea Contest
September 21st, 2024
2:00 PM – until supplies last
Pick up your ballot at the DREAM vendor booth on West Richardson. Tea is positioned at multiple merchant and vendor locations, you can sample 3oz of tea at each vendor. Select the BEST OF THE FEST and return the ballot to the DREAM tent located on West Richardson. Awards are announced at the end of the festival and posted on social media.
Southern Songwriter Festival
September 19th – 21st, 2024
Over 40 different songwriters will perform at various venues throughout Historic Downtown Summerville.
2. MAGNOLIA BEAUTI-FALL FESTIVAL
WHEN: September 21st, 2024
TIME: 12:00PM – 4:00PM
LOCATION:
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
3550 Ashley River Road
Charleston, SC 29414
PRICE: Included with Garden Admission
Join in on the fun with your family or group for a festive fall festival at the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens.
This vibrant autumn festival will feature stunning seasonal garden displays, lively music, local craft beer, and fun-filled activities for the whole family. Celebrate the beauty of autumn with a day of community, creativity, and entertainment! Plus, there will be mini pumpkin painting, face painting, and all the tours will be running as usual.
Local’s Tip: Download the Magnolia Plantation app HERE to plan your visit! And, make sure to pack bug spray, sunscreen and water!
3. PICKLE PALOOZA
WHEN: September 21st, 2024
TIME: 1:00PM – 7:00PM
LOCATION:
Ferry Wharf
Ferry Wharf Road
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
PRICE: Buy Tickets HERE!
Calling all pickle lovers! Charleston is excited to welcome a brand new festival featuring a pickle eating contest, pickled food vendors, pickle drinks, pickle activities, a pickleball tournament. Whether you’re a pickle enthusiast or just curious to explore the tangy world of pickles, Pickle Palooza is the perfect event for you! This will be a festival-style atmosphere with live music featuring multiple bands/DJs, food trucks, beer tents, liquor vendors, games, and more.
And did we mention Pickleball? Yes! This event will host Pickleball as a way to build the community and spread the love of the game. Including temporary courts, coaches, and experienced players on hand to help folks get a taste for the game.
Local’s Tip: Check out the Best Places To Play Pickleball On Kiawah Island!
4. DRINK PINK: ROSE FESTIVAL
WHEN: September 22nd, 2024
TIME: 1:00PM – 7:00PM
LOCATION:
Joseph P. Riley Park
360 Fishburne Street
Charleston, 29403
PRICE: Buy Tickets HERE!
Drink Pink – A Charleston Rosé Festival! Celebrate the last day of summer and Drink Pink rosé at Charleston’s Joe Riley Park (home of the Riverdogs!) The Joe will transform into a pink and white field of dreams with tons of Instagram-worthy photo ops, ornate floral décor, Slate 360 photo booths, and more incredible custom-made surprises. All guests are invited to dress in their finest pink and white attire and accessories. A pink carpet will guide you to the field where we will be serving rosé and traditional cocktails all while bands and DJs set the vibes for the fête.
The festival will feature an incredible music lineup, rosé samples, and a full bar serving liquor, beer, seltzers, rosé and non-alcoholic beverages.
LINE-UP:
Vavo
Midnight City
Charleston’s Starr Queen and The Crew that you know and love from the Commodore
More to come!
5. FOOD & WINE CLASSIC
WHEN: September 27th – 29th, 2024
LOCATION:
Various Locations
Charleston, SC 29403
PRICE: Buy Tickets HERE!
This renowned festival brings together chefs, sommeliers, and foodies for a week of tastings, cooking demonstrations, and special events. It’s a culinary adventure not to be missed! Experience three extraordinary days of captivating cooking demonstrations, wine/spirits tastings, and panel discussions led by renowned chefs and beverage connoisseurs.
Learn how to be a better cook and taste Charleston’s legendary ingredients with some of the country’s most iconic chefs. Sip world-class wines and level up your beverage game with pairing and pouring tips from national wine, beer, and spirits experts.
In addition to our grand tastings and seminars, guests are able to buy tickets to a series of intimate experiences from the editors of Food & Wine, Southern Living, and Travel + Leisure.
Local’s Tip: Learn more about Food & Wine Classic in Charleston HERE!
6. MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL
WHEN: September 26th – October 6th, 2024
LOCATION:
Various Locations
Charleston, SC 29403
PRICE: FREE!
MOJA Arts Festival is an annual celebration of Black arts and culture and the contributions to the world through visual arts, classical music, dance, gospel, jazz, poetry, R&B music, storytelling, theatre and
more!
Moja, a Swahili word meaning “One,” is the appropriate name for this festival celebration of harmony among all people in our community. The Festival highlights the many African-American and Caribbean contributions to western and world cultures. MOJA’s wide range of events include visual arts, classical music, dance, gospel, jazz, poetry, R&B music, storytelling, theatre, children’s activities, traditional crafts, local foodways, and much, much more. In addition to its myriad arts presentations, MOJA also includes an active and busy educational outreach component of workshops in the public schools and senior outreach in community centers.
LINE-UP:
Jazz at the Dock Street Theatre
September 27th, 2024 @ 7:00PM – 10:30PM
Dock Street Theatre – An evening of Jazz featuring Hank Bilal and Willie Bradley.
Gospel at the Gaillard
September 28th, 2024 @ 7:00PM – 10:30PM
Charleston Gaillard Center – Join us for Gospel at the Gaillard, a concert of soul-stirring gospel music on Saturday, September 28, featuring performances by Mike Brown & F.O.C.U.S., Kelontae Gavin, and Grammy Award-winning Tasha Cobbs Leonard.
Lalah Hathaway – The VANTABLACK Tour
September 28th, 2024 @ 8:00PM – 10:00PM
Charleston Music Hall – Five-time Grammy Award winner Lalah Hathaway brings the VANTABLACK Tour to Charleston via the MOJA Arts Festival.
Conversations in Black and White with Deborah Roberts
September 30th, 2024 @ 7:00PM – 8:30PM
Charleston Music Hall – New York Times bestselling authors Victoria Christopher Murray and Marie Benedict team up with award-winning ABC News journalist and 20/20 co-anchor Deborah Roberts to kick off a brand-new discussion series.
Establishing Roots – Osei Chandler with Charlton Singleton
October 1st, 2024 @ 6:00PM – 7:00PM
Charleston Library Society – Hosted in conversation with MOJA Arts Festival Director Charlton Singleton, Brooklyn-born Chandler will speak to his early experiences establishing roots in Charleston, the process of building his cornerstone radio program and the importance of this foundation in more than 30 years of creating opportunities to give back to his adopted Lowcountry community.
Gangstagrass in Concert
October 2nd, 2024 @ 8:00PM – 10:00PM
Music Farm – A true example of the belief that we are better together, Gangstagrass combines great American traditions of bluegrass, hip-hop, and beyond to create a whole new musical genre that is more than the sum of its parts.
Marlon Wayans: Wild Child Tour
October 4th, 2024 @ 7:30PM – 9:30PM
Charleston Gaillard Center – Actor, producer, comedian, writer and film director Marlon Wayans brings the Wild Child Tour to Charleston.
MOJA Festival Finale
October 6th, 2024 @ 4:00PM – 7:00PM
Hampton Park – Close out the Festival in style! Everyone in your family will enjoy this free-to-attend celebration of all that the MOJA Arts Festival has to offer.
OCTOBER 2024
7. LEWIS HATCH CHILE ROAST
WHEN: October 6th, 2024
TIME: 1:00PM – 5:00PM
LOCATION:
Pacific Box & Crate
1505 King St.
Charleston, SC 29405
PRICE: FREE!
Discover the vibrant charm of the Lewis Hatch Chile Roast, a must-attend event for both locals and tourists alike! This celebration of community is a flavor explosion featuring food trucks, pop-up stalls, and local vendors, each bringing their own unique take on the star ingredient, the hatch chile.
Hatch chiles, renowned for their distinct flavor profile that balances sweetness and heat, take center stage. Roasting these chiles brings out their rich, smoky undertones, making them a perfect addition to a range of dishes. Expect a feast of roasted chiles prepared in various ways—from traditional New Mexican fare to inventive local twists that showcase Charleston’s culinary creativity. The festive atmosphere, complete with live music and entertainment, makes it a fantastic opportunity to mingle and be a part of the community.
Also, The Lewis Hatch Chile Roast is an all-inclusive family-friendly event! Families with children will find plenty of activities to keep the little ones entertained. To make the most of your experience at the Lewis Hatch Chile Roast, arrive early to sample a wide array of dishes and enjoy the full range of activities.
Locals’ Tip: With the event running from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, you’ll have plenty of time to explore, taste, and mingle. Parking is available at the venue, but consider using alternative transportation if you’re planning on enjoying some adult beverages.
8. LATIN AMERICAN FESTIVAL
WHEN: October 6th, 2024
TIME: 12:00PM - 5:00PM
LOCATION:
North Charleston Wannamaker County Park
8888 University Blvd.
North Charleston, SC 29406
PRICE: FREE!
Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Latin and Caribbean cultures at our annual Latin American Festival. Dance to the infectious beats of merengue, reggaeton, bachata, and salsa, while exploring a world of colorful folkloric art and crafts. Savor the authentic flavors of Latin America and the Caribbean, from delectable empanadas to comforting arroz con pollo. The festival promises a day of music, food, and culture.
STAGE SCHEDULE:
1 p.m. – Samba lessons
1:30 p.m. – NC Brazilian Arts Project
2:30 p.m. – Salsa Contest with DJ Luigi
3:15 p.m. – Billo’s Caracas Boys
9. RIVERFRONT REVIVAL
WHEN: October 11th – 12th, 2024
TIME: Music Begins at 12:00PM Each Day
LOCATION:
North Charleston Riverfront Park
1061 Everglades Ave
North Charleston, SC 29405
PRICE: Buy Tickets HERE!
Curated by Darius Rucker, of Hootie and The Blowfish, and produced by a seasoned team, Riverfront Revival will be a love letter to country music and to South Carolina’s Lowcountry. The two-day festival will be loaded with unforgettable live music, engaging culture and delicious tastes inspired by the region’s unique foodways. Guests will leave feeling revived – deep in their souls – about the music, the location, and the community.
LINE-UP:
Hootie & The Blowfish
Tedeschi Trucks Band
The Revivalists
Jamey Johnson
Collective Soul
Arrested Development
Paul Cauthen
Hailey Whitters
Sister Hazel
Southall
Shane Profitt
Grace Bowers & The Hodge Podge
Gritty Flyright
Brady Smith
July Moon
Elizabeth Covington
10. SUMMERVILLE ITALIAN FESTIVAL
WHEN: October 13th, 2024
TIME: 11:00AM – 6:00PM
LOCATION:
Hutchinson Square
Summerville, SC 29483
PRICE: FREE!
A taste of the Old Country in the Lowcountry! Come and celebrate Italian Heritage at Hutchinson Square in Historic Downtown Summerville. Experience authentic Italian cuisine, as well as food of all types from the Lowcountry that will have everyone in your group leaving full, happy, and satisfied. Sample the food selection as you like and also enjoy Italian wines and beer. Enjoy the entertainment of local artists celebrating Italian Culture and Heritage throughout the day.
Local’s Tip: The festivities start at 11:00AM and ends when the last grape is stomped at 6:00PM, so make sure to plan accordingly!
11. CHARLESTON BEER FEST
WHEN: October 26th, 2024
TIME:
1:00PM – 7:00PM
VIP Early Access at 12:00PM
LOCATION:
Riverfront Park
1061 Everglades Ave
North Charleston, SC 29405
PRICE: Purchase Tickets HERE!
Drink beer & do good! Charleston Beer Fest is back and expanding even further with more breweries, more music, bigger acts, more food and more games and activities! Join in on the fun at Riverfront Park in North Charleston for the best beer festival in the Lowcountry – all for a great cause, helping those living with HIV/AIDS here in the community.
Pair your beer with great food from a variety of food trucks, shop for that perfect gift in the vendor village, compete for glory in the beer games, groove on the river with awesome music acts, or just enjoy great beer for a good cause!
LINE-UP:
Dustbowl Revival
Empire Strikes Brass
Certainly So
Kanika Moore & the Brown Eyed Bois
12. COASTAL CAROLINA FAIR
WHEN: October 31st – November 10th, 2024
LOCATION:
Exchange Park
9850 Highway 78
Ladson, SC 29456
PRICE: Buy Tickets HERE!
The Coastal Carolina Fair in Ladson, SC, is an annual extravaganza that has been delighting families and thrill-seekers alike for decades. Nestled in the heart of the Lowcountry, this beloved fair has become a cherished tradition, drawing people from all over the region to experience the magic, excitement, and unforgettable moments it has to offer. With its rich history, family-friendly fun, thrilling rides, live entertainment, delectable food, and strong community ties, it’s an event that should not be missed. When you step onto the fairgrounds, you’re not just attending an event; you’re immersing yourself in a cultural experience that celebrates the heart and soul of the region.
Local’s Tip: One of the fair’s most iconic moments is the nightly fireworks display. As the sun sets over Charleston, the sky comes alive with a breathtaking burst of colors, so make sure to arrive early-ish and set up your group’s chairs & blankets!
NOVEMBER 2024
13. HARVEST FESTIVAL
WHEN: November 2nd, 2024
TIME: 11:00AM – 5:00PM
LOCATION:
Johns Island County Park
2662 Mullet Hall Road
Johns Island, SC 29455
PRICE: Buy Tickets HERE!
Come on out to Johns Island County Park for foot-stompin’ live music, pumpkin decorating, kids crafts, hayrides, and more! Feast on Southern delights like finger-lickin’ Carolina barbeque, kettle korn, and all of your favorite festival foods! Once you’ve eaten your fill, head on over to the crafters market for some great for holiday shopping!
14. HOLY SMOKES BBQ FESTIVAL
WHEN: November 9th, 2024
TIME: 11:00AM – 4:00PM
LOCATION:
Riverfront Park
1061 Everglades Avenue North Charleston, SC 29405
PRICE: Buy Tickets HERE!
Join in on the fun at Holy Smokes BBQ Fest on November 9th at Riverfront Park – over 50 of the country’s most renowned pitmasters and chefs will be gathering once again in North Charleston to celebrate the culture, history and traditions of American barbecue.
With live music playing on stage against the backdrop of the Cooper River at Riverfront Park, guests will have a unique opportunity to sample a range of barbecue styles from an incredible group of pitmasters and chefs.
A ticket to Holy Smokes gives you ALL YOU CAN EAT access to four barbecue villages: Texas, Traditional, New School and Coastal. General admission tickets will include food from all four villages, musical entertainment, with beverages available for purchase (or complimentary with a VIP ticket). The all-inclusive VIP area will feature additional exclusive food and drinks.
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL PITMASTER AND CHEF LINE UP!
15. PICKER’S HULLABALOO FLEA MARKET
WHEN: November 16th, 2024
TIME: 10:00AM – 4:00PM
LOCATION:
Firefly Distillery
4201 Spruill Avenue
North Charleston, SC 29405
PRICE: FREE!
Welcome to Charleston’s most funkadelic flea Market A flea market featuring vintage/antique vendors and local artisans. Pickers Hullabaloo is a quarterly flea market in the beautiful Lowcountry of Charleston, SC. We feature leading vintage & antique vendors and local artisans offering up an eclectic array of furniture, housewares, fashion, art, jewelry, rugs, vinyl records, nostalgic collectibles & more!
16. MASH FEST
WHEN: November 17th, 2024
TIME: 1:00PM – 6:00PM
LOCATION:
Holy City Brewing x The Porter Room
1021 Aragon Avenue
North Charleston, SC 29405
PRICE: Purchase Tickets HERE!
Two of Park Circle’s premier establishments, King BBQ and Holy City Brewing are joining forces on this gorgeous waterfront venue, The Porter Room, to bring you a Bourbon, Barbecue, and Beer Festival unlike any other. Featuring three BBQ Tasting stations with a variety of taproom specialty beers, this festival will be unlike any other.
Additionally, Holy City’s Raw Bar will have specialty oysters available for purchase, Prophet Coffee Truck will offer specialty coffee drinks. Also, enjoy live music, art installations, a sculpture garden, and a live cigar rolling seminar.
Local’s Tip: This event is 21 and over, so leave the kiddos at home!
12. Kiawah Island’s Thanksgiving FEAST & Celebration
WHEN: November 28th – 30th, 2024
LOCATION:
The Sanctuary
Kiawah Island Golf Resort
One Sanctuary Beach Drive
Kiawah Island, SC 29455
PRICE:
The Sanctuary Thanksgiving Buffet
Adults: $184
Children 4-12: $98
Seatings start at 12:00PM & Pricing is inclusive of food, tax, and gratuity.
Year-after-year, families have made Kiawah Island Golf Resort the host of their favorite holiday traditions. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather on the island with friends and loved ones as the resort rings in the festive season with lavish buffets and home-cooked meals to enjoy in your vacation rental, without any of the effort–a true foodie paradise.
Additionally, there will be other festive activities for all ages around the resort. From biking on the beach to improv comedy, arts and crafts, and a Thanksgiving morning Turkey Trot fun run, there is much to be thankful for on Kiawah Island during the holiday season.
Local’s Tip: Learn more about Thanksgiving festivities on Kiawah Island HERE!
STAY with Kiawah Exclusives
Autumn on Kiawah Island and in the surrounding areas offers an idyllic blend of mild weather, breathtaking scenery, and a packed calendar of events. From food festivals to holiday celebrations, each event provides a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re indulging in culinary delights, exploring festive markets, or enjoying outdoor activities, Kiawah Island and its neighboring towns promise a fall season filled with memorable experiences.
So pack your bags, set your itinerary, and immerse yourself in the charm of this Lowcountry paradise this fall. We look forward to welcoming you to Kiawah Island and beyond! Book your Kiawah Exclusives vacation home today!
