From Parades to Oyster Roasts Charleston's November and December Events & Festivals

Downtown Charleston Events

YALLFest is back in Charleston this November 15-16, 2024, bringing the best of young adult literature to the historic King Street district. With over 70 authors in attendance, this annual festival features engaging panels, book signings, photo booths, giveaways, and more.

Whether you're a fan of fantasy, romance, or contemporary YA, you'll find something to spark your literary interests. Don’t miss out on the chance to meet your favorite authors and dive into the world of books at this exciting, fan-filled event! Grab your tickets and get ready for a weekend of literary magic!

Join the Merci Pop-up at Babas on Meeting Event on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Baba's on Meeting. Expect a night filled with epic dishes, flowing cocktails, and great vibes. Merci will be offering its signature menu items, making for an unforgettable evening. No reservations are needed—it's first come, first served!

Get ready for a night of laughter and chills with "And That’s Why We Drink" live at the Charleston Music Hall on November 21, 2024! Hosted by New York Times bestselling authors Em Schulz and Christine Schiefer, this award-winning comedy podcast blends true crime and paranormal stories. With over 200 million downloads and multiple awards under their belt, Em and Christine’s "Pour Decisions" tour promises to be a night full of humor, spooky tales, and plenty of laughs. Tickets start at $27, doors open at 7pm and the event starts at 8pm.

The Turkey Day Run, held on Thanksgiving morning in downtown Charleston's Marion Square, is the largest 5K in South Carolina and the 9th largest timed 5K in the U.S. With over 8,700 participants and thousands of spectators, this annual event is a beloved tradition. The Race Expo and packet pick-up take place the day before. It's a great way to kick off the holiday with family, fitness, and fun. Register now and join the celebration!

Garden & Gun's Winter Market returns November 22-24 to celebrate the fifteenth anniversary of the Made in the South Awards. Held at the magazine's Cigar Factory headquarters, the market features pop-up shops, creative cocktails, and spirits tastings. Meet the winners and finalists from G&G’s Annual Made in the South Awards, and explore an array of items in food, drink, style, home, and crafts. Enjoy live demonstrations, conversations, and "Meet the Maker" opportunities while savoring festive food and drinks that celebrate Southern craftsmanship.

Aquarium Aglow is back and brighter than ever! This holiday season, the South Carolina Aquarium transforms into an immersive light spectacular, featuring larger-than-life installations, festive photo ops, and the most unique Santa encounter in Charleston. Experience the magic on select nights throughout November and December. Grab your friends, family, or a date and enjoy a one-of-a-kind holiday celebration. Tickets start at $26.

Get into the holiday spirit with A Christmas Carol at the Historic Dock Street Theatre, running from November 30th to December 22nd! This timeless classic is sure to warm your heart, but don't wait too long to get your tickets—last year's performances sold out fast! Tickets start at $61.25, so be sure to secure yours early and enjoy this festive holiday tradition.

Experience the magic of the season with The Nutcracker at the Charleston Music Hall on December 3rd! South Carolina Ballet brings this timeless holiday classic to life, promising a night full of romance, adventure, and wonder. Whether you're enjoying a family outing or a special date night, this enchanting performance is sure to captivate all ages. Tickets start at $35.

Celebrate the season at Christmas on the Battery: Carols, Candlelight, and Gullah Christmas Stories on December 5-6, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the historic Edmondston-Alston House. Stroll through the beautifully decorated home by candlelight, accompanied by the sounds of the Charleston Caroling Company. In the courtyard, warm up with wine or hot cider and enjoy captivating Gullah Christmas stories from a local storyteller. Tickets must be purchased in advance and include two drink tickets. General admission is $55, with a special rate of $50 for members.

Get ready to laugh your way through the holidays with A Christmas Story at the Queen Street Playhouse, running December 6-22! With tickets starting at $52, this festive play is a perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends! 

The Holiday Parade on December 7th brings festive cheer to downtown Charleston! The parade begins at 3pm on Broad Street at Rutledge, travels up Meeting Street, and concludes at Calhoun Street. The fun culminates with a tree-lighting ceremony in Marion Square, so be sure to stick around and watch the holiday magic unfold. Check out more City of Charleston December events here.

Charleston Place is bringing festive cheer this holiday season with a fantastic lineup of events. The celebrations kick off on November 29 at 5pm with a magical tree lighting ceremony in Market Street Circle, complete with snowfall, cookies, cocoa, and a performance by The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra. Enjoy "Let It Snow," presented by American Express, with daily snowfalls at 5pm, 6pm, and 7pm (plus a 4pm show on weekends). Don’t miss the Nutcracker Tea on select dates, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus every Saturday, with special sessions dedicated to pets and visitors with special needs.

West Ashley 

Fall Music in the Park Series returns on November 14 from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Magnolia Park and Community Garden in West Ashley. Enjoy a free evening of live music, delicious food trucks, and laid-back vibes under the stars. Bring your friends and family for this special community event. If you can't make it, another concert will be held on December 12th.

And on November 15, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the Charleston Parks Conservancy and Charleston Trees will host a Native Tree Giveaway at the same location. City of Charleston residents can register to receive a free tree, with selections like Southern Magnolia and Eastern Redbud available!

Celebrate Thanksgiving at Middleton Place on November 28, 2024, with a traditional buffet prepared by the Middleton Place Restaurant. Enjoy your meal in the Pavilion, offering beautiful views of ancient live oaks, with seatings available from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM. General Admission to Middleton Place is included, so guests can stroll through “America’s Oldest Landscaped Gardens” before and after the meal. Tickets start at $89 for adults and $40 for children, making it a great way to enjoy the holiday without the hassle of cooking.

The Annual Deck the Hall Oyster Roast at Drayton Hall on December 8th is a must-attend event for oyster lovers! Enjoy all-you-can-eat oysters, a chili bar, and local beverages while surrounded by the historic charm of Drayton Hall. This festive event supports the mission of Drayton Hall, offering a unique way to indulge in local delicacies and history. Tickets start at $85.

Folly Beach

Light Up The Holidays runs from November 15 to December 30 at Tides Folly Beach. This festive package includes a car pass to the Holiday Festival of Lights, two insulated tumblers with hot chocolate, and a keepsake ornament. It’s the perfect way to add some seasonal cheer to your holiday stay.

Isle of Palms

The Holiday Street Festival on December 7th at Front Beach on Isle of Palms runs from 2 PM to 7 PM. The event features arts and crafts, local vendors, live entertainment, children’s activities, and a visit from Santa Claus. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit by the beach!

Get ready for a festive night of shopping at the Holiday Market at Wild Dunes Resort on December 5th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This evening event brings together local vendors offering handmade goods, unique jewelry, and artisanal products—perfect for checking off your holiday gift list. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and discover one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting local artisans in this charming holiday shopping experience.

Mount Pleasant

Get ready for something truly unique at the Charleston Punk Flea Market on November 16-17, 2024, at the Omar Shrine Club in Mount Pleasant. This alternative market is a haven for fans of underground art, quirky fashion, and all things offbeat. From vinyl records to vintage clothes and strange collectibles, there’s something here for every taste. Whether you're into weirdo art or just looking for something out of the ordinary, this event is a perfect place to explore, discover, and support local creators. Don’t miss out on this cool chance to find something truly one-of-a-kind!

Get crafty this holiday season at the Holiday Wreath Workshop on November 26, 2024, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Two Blokes Brewing in Mt. Pleasant. Sip on a handcrafted local beer while you create a festive, organic wreath with guided instructions. Your ticket includes your first drink, a grapevine wreath form, fresh seasonal greenery, and all the materials and tools needed to craft a unique 14" wreath. Celebrate the holidays with a creative twist and enjoy a Holly Jolly time at this fun, hands-on workshop!

Kick off the holiday season at Wine Under the Oaks on December 1st at Boone Hall Plantation! Enjoy an unforgettable evening of wine tastings, complimentary desserts, and fresh oysters, all set under the beautiful oaks. With wine samples from top distributors, live entertainment, and more, it's the perfect way to sip, savor, and celebrate. General Admission tickets are available for $80. Don't miss out on this festive event—secure your spot today!

The Pitt Street Stroll takes place every third Thursday of the month from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, featuring local shops and eateries in the charming Old Village. Enjoy specialty light bites and drinks at The Post House Inn or Wine Shop Old Village, and then stroll down Pitt Street to explore Out of Hand, Pitt Street Pharmacy, and more. Each stop offers unique activations and specials, making it the perfect way to spend an evening out in the heart of the Old Village!

James Island

Shuck Cancer of Charleston is happening on Sunday, November 17, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Bowens Island Restaurant. This event will feature oysters, drinks, and plenty of local support for a great cause. Don’t miss out on an afternoon of fun, food, and fundraising for cancer research. Tickets start at $85 and if you can’t make the event but would like to donate to the cause, you can do so here. 

Step into the magic of the season at the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park! From November 15 to December 31, enjoy a dazzling display of lights, holiday sand sculptures, festive shopping, Santa visits, and more. The fun starts every evening at 5:30 PM and runs until 10 PM—perfect for creating unforgettable holiday memories!

North Charleston

Get ready for holiday magic with Mannheim Steamroller at the North Charleston Coliseum! On November 19th, experience the top-selling holiday act of all time, led by composer Chip Davis. With tickets starting at $56.50, enjoy a festive night of dazzling music, snow machines, dancers, and plenty of seasonal spirit.

Skip the shopping madness and head to Holy City Brewing on November 29, 2024, for their Black Friday Oyster Roast! Starting at 11:00 am, enjoy all-you-can-eat roasted oysters paired with a can of Holy City’s flagship beer. Live music by Skycats will set the vibe from 12-3 pm, and don’t miss the local vendor market while you’re there. Want to level up your experience? Grab a VIP Picnic Table for you and up to 9 friends and enjoy oysters and beers brought right to your table. Limited VIP spots available, so book by November 20th. Can't make it on Black Friday? Join in for their 6th Annual Fall Fest on November 30th, full of games, activities, and fall fun for all!

Ready for a treasure hunt? Head over to Firefly Distillery on November 16th for the Pickers Hullabaloo Flea Market! Tickets start at just $10, with early bird tickets available. Explore over 100 vintage dealers and artisans offering everything from unique furniture and nostalgic collectibles to jewelry and vintage clothing. While you shop, enjoy tasty beverages from Firefly Distillery and grab a bite from a variety of food trucks. With live music and a fun, eclectic atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to spend your Saturday!

Experience Avatar: The Last Airbender like never before on December 10th at the North Charleston Coliseum! Watch the beloved film on the big screen with a live musical performance that brings the world of bending to life. This unique concert event is a must for fans of the series and film enthusiasts alike. Tickets start at $35.

Catch Steve-O live on December 11th at the North Charleston Coliseum for his Super Dummy Tour! Known for his wild antics and fearless humor, Steve-O brings his comedic energy to the stage for an unforgettable night of laughs. Tickets start at $32.75, with the show starting at 7:30 PM.

What is weather like in Charleston during November?

November in Charleston offers cooler temps, but with highs around 70°F and plenty of sunshine, it’s still great for outdoor exploring. Enjoy the city's historic plantations, cemeteries, and charming streets—just pack some layers for those crisp mornings and evenings. And while November is usually dry, an umbrella might come in handy. Don't forget, it's the end of hurricane season, so a little extra preparation never hurts!