DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON

 

Charleston Restaurant Week (January 9–19, 2025, Various Downtown Restaurants) Charleston Restaurant Week is your chance to enjoy prix fixe menus from some of the city’s best restaurants, offering everything from Lowcountry classics to international flavors. With prices varying by restaurant, this delicious event is the perfect excuse to explore Charleston’s dynamic dining scene. Curious which restaurants are a part of Restaurant week 2025?. 

Dear Evan Hansen (January 15–16, 2025, Charleston Gaillard Center) The award-winning Broadway musical Dear Evan Hansen is coming to the Charleston Gaillard Center for two nights only (January 15–16), offering a heartfelt story and unforgettable music. Tickets start at $46, making this a must-see event for theater lovers in the Lowcountry.

MLK Day Parade (January 15, 2025, Downtown Charleston)  Downtown Charleston will host its annual MLK Day Parade on January 15th to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., featuring marching bands, vibrant floats, and community groups. This family-friendly event is free and open to all.

Charleston Winter Wine Festival (January 18, 2025, Festival Hall on 56 Beaufain St.) Sip and savor at the Charleston Winter Wine Festival on January 18th, where attendees can enjoy wine tastings, live music, and tasty bites in a lively downtown venue. Tickets are at $50 in advance, $55 after the 15th, and $65 day of event and include a souvenir wine glass to commemorate the evening.

Shucked & Sauced (February 2, 2025, 1–4 PM, Rose Pavilion, Hampton Park) Experience the ultimate Lowcountry celebration at Shucked & Sauced, where oysters, barbecue, and Charleston’s top restaurants unite under the stunning oaks of Hampton Park’s Rose Pavilion. Featuring favorites like 167 Raw, Rodney Scott’s BBQ, and Leon’s Oyster Shop, plus libations from Graft Wine Shop and Poggio Costa Prosecco, this foodie event is a must. Enjoy live music, fresh oysters, and smoky barbecue while supporting the enhancement of Charleston’s parks. Tickets start at $175. 

Culture Shock: A Night of Magic, Comedy, & Mind Reading (February 8, 2025, Charleston Music Hall)  Prepare to be amazed at Culture Shock, an unforgettable night of magic, comedy, and mind-reading at the Charleston Music Hall. Tickets start at $20 , offering an entertaining and interactive experience for all ages.

Charleston Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven’s Fifth (February 7–8, 2025, Charleston Gaillard Center)  The Charleston Symphony Orchestra will perform Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony at the Gaillard Center, delivering one of classical music’s most iconic masterpieces. Tickets start at $26 for this captivating evening of musical excellence.

MOUNT PLEASANT

Oysters on the Point (January 11, January 25, February 8, March 1, Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina) Spend your afternoons by the water at Oysters on the Point, a winter series happening from 2–6 PM at the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina. Tickets start at $10 and include access to locally steamed oysters, live music, a Bloody Mary bar, and a wide selection of beers. It’s the perfect way to savor the season with friends and family.

History Day at Patriots Point (January 18, 2025, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum) Immerse yourself in history at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, where you can meet World War II veterans, explore historic vessels, and take part in interactive exhibits. Admission starts at $27 , offering an educational and engaging experience for all ages.

Sweetgrass Basket Weaving Workshop (January 25, 2025, Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park) Discover the rich tradition of Gullah sweetgrass basket weaving during this hands-on workshop led by a local artisan. Tickets are $110 for members, and all materials are included. Space is limited, so secure your spot early for this one-of-a-kind cultural experience.

Lowcountry Oyster Festival (February 2, 2025, Boone Hall Plantation) Don’t miss the world’s largest oyster festival at Boone Hall Plantation! The Lowcountry Oyster Festival features endless oyster options, live music, and a fun day outdoors. General admission is $25 ($225 for VIP), with food and drinks sold separately.

Patriots Point "Pay What You Can" Day (January 25th, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum) Explore history on a budget at Patriots Point with their annual "Pay What You Can" Day. This special event allows visitors to tour the museum’s historic ships, exhibits, and grounds for whatever price fits their budget—a perfect outing for the whole family.

FOLLY BEACH

Taste of Folly (January 17–18, 2025, Center Street) Taste of Folly brings the best of Folly Beach’s food and fun with two packed days of activities. Kick off Friday night with the Cocktail Competition at the Tides Pavilion Ballroom from 6–8:30 p.m., featuring craft cocktails and appetizers (tickets $45 in advance, $55 day-of). On Savory Saturday, Center Street transforms with food vendors, live music on three stages, cooking demos, and family fun like the Hot Dog Eating Contest, Oyster Shucking Contest, and the One Pot Showdown. Admission is $10 in advance, $15 at the door, and free for Folly residents and kids under 12. 

Save the Light Annual Oyster Roast (January 5, 2025, Bowens Island Restaurant) Support the preservation of the Morris Island Lighthouse while enjoying a classic Lowcountry experience at the

Save the Light Annual Roast from 2–5 PM. Tickets start at $75 and include live music, all-you-can-eat oysters, chili, hot dogs, and chicken bog. Head to Bowens Island Restaurant for a delicious afternoon benefiting a cherished Charleston landmark.

Save the Light Half Marathon & 5K (February 8, 2025, Folly Beach) Lace up your running shoes to support the Morris Island Lighthouse! This annual race takes you through scenic Folly Beach, with Registration starting at $45. Proceeds benefit the preservation of this iconic structure.

 Folly Beach Bird Walks (February 21, 2025, Folly Beach Pier) Connect with nature during a guided bird walk along Folly Beach’s shores and marshes. Led by local birding experts, this $7 event kicks off at 8 a.m. and is perfect for bird enthusiasts of all levels. Don’t forget your binoculars!

JAMES ISLAND & WEST ASHLEY

Family Movie Night at the Terrace Theater (January 28th & February 7th, 2025, James Island) Bring the family to the Terrace Theater for a cozy night of classic films. January features The Craft, while February’s lineup includes Rocky Horror Picture Show. Tickets are $15, with showtimes starting at 7:30 p.m.

James Island Vikings 14th Annual Bo’s Roast & Chili Cookoff (January 25th, 2025, James Island County Park) The 14th Annual Bo’s Roast & Chili Cookoff is a flavorful celebration for a cause, supporting Islands Against Cancer and the Clear Cell Sarcoma Foundation. Enjoy chili tastings from 

25+ contestants, live music from three local bands, a silent auction, and activities for kids. Choose from ticket options: VIP ($60 online, $70 at the door) for full access including craft beer, Semi-VIP ($40 online, $50 at the door) for oysters or beer/wine, or General Admission ($30 online, $40 at the door) for live music and chili (alcohol and oysters not included). Bring a chair or blanket to relax, and remember, pets are welcome on a leash!

NORTH CHARLESTON

South Carolina Stingrays Hockey Games (January 13, 20, 27 & February 3, North Charleston Coliseum) Cheer on the Stingrays as they hit the ice for high-energy matchups at the North Charleston Coliseum. Grab some snacks and enjoy the thrill of hockey. Tickets start at $59, with all games starting at 7 p.m.

Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and Celebration (January 15, Park Circle) Honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a vibrant parade through Park Circle, followed by a celebration at the Felix Davis Community Center. Enjoy food vendors, live music, and activities for the kids. This free event begins at 10 a.m. and the parade route runs from Burke High School down King Street to Emanuel AME Church.

Bring Your Own Shuckers Oyster Roast (January 19, February 23, March 30, Firefly Distillery) Head to Firefly Distillery from 11 AM–5 PM for the Bring Your Own Shuckers Oyster Roast. Tickets start at $45 and include all-you-can-eat oysters paired with tunes from local DJs. Bring your favorite shucking tools and enjoy a relaxed day of delicious seafood and good vibes.

Charleston Boat Show (January 24–26, Charleston Area Convention Center) Explore the latest in boating and marine technology at this annual event. From sleek yachts to fishing gear, there’s something for every boating enthusiast. Tickets are 14 at the gate and $12 online.

DANIEL ISLAND

Daniel Island Academy Southern Social + Fundraiser (January 31, 2025, Pierce Park Pool and Pavilion) Get ready for a shuckin’ good time at the 2nd Annual Daniel Island Academy Southern Social + Fundraiser from 6–9 PM on January 31. Adults are invited to enjoy a pig and oyster roast, drinks (beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options), live music, activities, and a silent auction supporting PADIA. Early bird tickets are $40 for PADIA members and $50 for non-members until December 31. Regular pricing increases to $50 for members and $60 for non-members, with day-of tickets available for $65. 

4th Annual Valentine Making Party (February 1, 2025, 1–3 PM, Pierce Park Pavilion, Daniel Island) Bring your creativity to this free community event and craft heartfelt valentines for your loved ones and local community members in need of extra cheer. A perfect way to spread love and kindness this season!

How to Host the Perfect Charleston-Style Oyster Roast

Hosting an oyster roast is a quintessential Lowcountry tradition, blending delicious seafood, good company, and a laid-back atmosphere. Here's a step-by-step guide to throwing a memorable oyster roast, Charleston-style:

1. Start with the Right Oysters

Always choose local oysters. Mt Pleasant Seafood, Crosby's, Lowcountry Oysters, Captain Harry's and Marvin's are great local options. Varieties like the briny and sweet clusters harvested from the South Carolina coast are perfect for roasting. Plan for 1–2 dozen oysters per guest, depending on appetites.

2. Gather Your Tools

You'll need:

A large steamer or a flat steel roasting plate over an open fire or propane burner.

Burlap sacks to cover the oysters while they steam, keeping them moist and evenly cooked.

Oyster knives for shucking.

Towels or gloves to protect hands while shucking.

3. Set the Scene

Keep it simple and casual. Cover long tables with newspaper or butcher paper for easy cleanup and provide buckets for oyster shells. Add a festive vibe with string lights or a fire pit for chilly evenings.

4. Cook Your Oysters

Lay oysters in a single layer on the roasting plate or steamer. Cover them with a wet burlap sack and steam for 8–10 minutes, or until the shells start to pop open. Rotate the sack to ensure even cooking.

5. Offer the Essentials

Set up a condiment station with lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, mignonette, hot sauce, and saltine crackers. A chilled bottle of beer or a crisp white wine makes the perfect pairing.

6. Make It a Feast

An oyster roast isn’t complete without sides. Think Lowcountry classics like coleslaw, cornbread, or red rice. You can even add shrimp boil ingredients—corn, sausage, and potatoes—for variety.

7. Shuck and Savor

Encourage your guests to dive in, using oyster knives to shuck the shells and savor the freshly steamed oysters. Offer a quick shucking tutorial for newcomers—it’s all part of the fun.

8. Keep It Sustainable

Collect oyster shells for recycling. We have plenty of places like Reds Ice House and Islander 71 that return shells to the water to support oyster reef restoration efforts. 

By following these steps, you’ll host a Charleston-style oyster roast that’s sure to become an annual tradition. Whether it’s a backyard gathering or a beachside feast, the simplicity and charm of this time-honored tradition make it an event everyone will enjoy.

What is Weather Like in Charleston, SC in January?

January in Charleston brings mild temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-40s to the low 60s, making it a great escape from winter’s chill. Expect sunny days perfect for strolling through historic neighborhoods, exploring plantations, or enjoying waterfront views without the summer crowds. Unless there's a cold front coming in. Then you go to Frannie & The Fox for dinner by their fireplace. It’s also oyster season, so you can warm up at one of the many local oyster roasts. With comfortable weather and plenty to do, January is a fantastic time to visit Charleston!