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 â" Charleston and Seabrook Island â" come alive with an array of events and activities perfect for a fall family trip or romantic autumn getaway. Whether youâre 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. Hereâs a guide to some of the must-attend events happening September through November 2024.
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 â" 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 â" 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 Summervilleâs 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 â" 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 â" 21st, 2024 Over 40 different songwriters will perform at various venues throughout Historic Downtown Summerville.
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!
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.
This renowned festival brings together chefs, sommeliers, and foodies for a week of tastings, cooking demonstrations, and special events. Itâs 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 Charlestonâs legendary ingredients with some of the countryâs 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!
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 âœOne,â� 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. MOJAâs wide range of events include visual arts, classical music, dance, gospel, jazz, poetry, R&B music, storytelling, theatre, childrenâs 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.
Charleston Gaillard Center â" 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.
Charleston Music Hall â" 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.
Charleston Library Society â" 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.
Music Farm â" 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.
Charleston Gaillard Center â" Actor, producer, comedian, writer and film director Marlon Wayans brings the Wild Child Tour to Charleston.
MOJA Festival Finale
October 6th, 2024 @ 4:00PM â" 7:00PM
Hampton Park â" 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.
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 waysâ"from traditional New Mexican fare to inventive local twists that showcase Charlestonâs 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, youâll 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.
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.
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 Carolinaâs Lowcountry. The two-day festival will be loaded with unforgettable live music, engaging culture and delicious tastes inspired by the regionâs unique foodways. Guests will leave feeling revived â" deep in their souls â" 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
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!
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
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, itâs an event that should not be missed. When you step onto the fairgrounds, youâre not just attending an event; youâre immersing yourself in a cultural experience that celebrates the heart and soul of the region.
Local's Tip: One of the fairâs 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!
Come on out to Johns Island County Park for foot-stompinâ live music, pumpkin decorating, kids crafts, hayrides, and more! Feast on Southern delights like finger-lickinâ Carolina barbeque, kettle korn, and all of your favorite festival foods! Once youâve eaten your fill, head on over to the crafters market for some great for holiday shopping!
Join in on the fun at Holy Smokes BBQ Fest on November 9th at Riverfront Park - over 50 of the countryâs 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.
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!
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!
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 effortâ"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!
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!
