Things to Do This Weekend in Charleston

The Charleston Literary Festival is a boutique literary festival that highlights and celebrates unique authors in unique settings. Venues this year include the Dock Street Theatre and the new International African American Museum. Against the backdrop of Charleston’s charming streets and rich history, guests have the chance to learn more about the history of the Holy City as they enjoy their love for literature.

Enjoy a relaxed evening on the water aboard the Charleston Princess, featuring live music, sweeping views of the Holy City, and a casual BBQ buffet. This fun, social cruise offers a laid-back alternative to a traditional dinner, complete with pulled pork, herb-marinated chicken, classic sides, and banana pudding, plus a full bar with beer, wine, and cocktails available for purchase.

Guests can expect a fast-paced mix of short- and long-form improvisation, all fueled by audience suggestions and delivered by Theatre 99’s quick-witted ensemble. A beloved Charleston tradition, these high-energy performances promise plenty of laughter and unforgettable unscripted moments.

Coffee lovers are invited to a complimentary tasting each Friday at 10 a.m. at Counter Culture Coffee Training Centers. This longstanding weekly tradition offers guests the chance to sample beautifully brewed coffees while learning about the company’s high-quality, sustainably sourced selections—from classic blends to the latest micro-lots—and the journey each coffee takes from seed to cup.

Conversations with a Curator allows visitors a chance to have an in-depth look at an object or exhibit in the Museum galleries, ask questions and spark conversations. The Charleston Museum’s collections are both extraordinary and diverse and each Curator-led talk and tour allows participants to immerse themselves in a different aspect of Charleston’s rich history.

The College of Charleston’s musicians return for the second installment of this special concert series, led by Director of Piano Tom Hicks. Featuring an inviting program for all ages and experience levels, the late-morning performance celebrates music and the partnership between two of Charleston’s oldest institutions.

Guests are invited to create a custom bracelet featuring tarnish-resistant chain, a curated selection of charms, freshwater pearls, and natural stone accents. This beginner-friendly workshop includes all materials and guidance, allowing each participant to design a personal piece for everyday wear.

Guests are invited to explore the Gibbes Museum’s collection and current exhibitions during a weekly public tour from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. The tour offers engaging insight and opportunities for questions. The tour is free for Members and included with Museum admission for non-Members.

Enjoy 50+ celebrity chef demos and beverage seminars, 4 grand tastings with 100+ brands and restaurants, and access to exclusive events!

Embrace the magic of the holiday season at the Charleston Holiday Festival of Lights, a cherished annual event held at James Island County Park in Charleston, South Carolina. This enchanting festival transforms the park into a winter wonderland, bedecked with millions of dazzling lights. Visitors can stroll or drive through a three-mile tour featuring the city’s finest light displays. They also feature a sculpture made from 50 tons of sand, a holiday train, an enchanted walking trail, a Victorian carousel, Santa Claus, Santa’s sweet shop, gift shops, marshmallow roasting, and more!

The Mount Pleasant Recreation Department hosts its annual Old Village 5K, welcoming runners, walkers, and dogs to explore the neighborhood’s scenic streets, historic architecture, and harbor views. The race begins and ends at Alhambra Hall, with post-race music, refreshments, and a raffle to follow.

Catch live music at The Windjammer! With a rotating lineup of artists every weekend, it’s the ultimate beachside escape for music lovers and weekend adventurers alike.

Drayton Hall invites guests to explore the history of tea and its role in the American Revolution through a guided tour, presentation and curated tasting of traditional Chinese teas. Led by curator Amber Satterthwaite and tea expert Richard Kligler, the experience explores how tea shaped global trade, colonial life and the growing movement for independence.

The Charleston Parks Conservancy and Charleston Trees are offering free native trees to City of Charleston residents on November 14 at Magnolia Park and Community Garden. Residents can choose from several native varieties, with staff available to answer planting and care questions. Each household may receive up to two trees.

Sweat on the Ship offers an all-levels strength and movement class on the USS Yorktown’s flight deck. Combining functional training, breathwork, and mobility, participants enjoy a unique workout with sea breezes, golden skies, and historic surroundings, leaving them strong, centered, and energized.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens hosts its Wine Stroll Series with live music by Raven Station, four wine or beer samplings and light bites. Guests can explore the gardens, enjoy views of the Ashley River and take in the seasonal camellia blooms during a fall afternoon in the Lowcountry.

Holy Smokes BBQ Fest returns to Riverfront Park on November 8, bringing together 50+ top pitmasters and chefs for a celebration of American barbecue. Set on the Cooper River, the festival features four barbecue villages—Texas, Traditional, New School, and Coastal—alongside live music, great food, and riverside views.

Join Charleston Candle Co. for a hands-on experience where you’ll learn to mix and create your own custom fragrance, and pour your own soy wax candles! Each ticket includes two 8 oz. candles per person. Perfect for crafting a personalized gift or treating yourself.

Join Barrier Island EcoTours for a boat-accessible saltmarsh cleanup behind Capers Island, followed by a sunset beachside gathering with homemade chili and an oyster roast. The $60 ticket includes cleanup supplies and dinner, with guests invited to bring their beverage of choice.

Join Deep Water Vineyard for their Weekend Wine-Downs every Saturday, rain or shine! Enjoy $15 wine tastings (hourly, includes a souvenir glass), sip fun drinks from their patio bar, and relax with live music and rotating food trucks. Bring the whole crew: kids are welcome, and well-behaved, leashed dogs can roam the grounds with you.

Founded in 1989, the Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square is a beloved community event. You will find a variety of local produce, plants, herbs, and cut flowers as well as breakfast and lunch vendors, live entertainment, and an assortment of juried arts and crafts from local artisans every Saturday at the Market.

Join Taylor Grant of Taylor Grant Pilates for an intimate, engaging Pilates class at the Gibbes Museum. This session offers a focused and fun workout surrounded by inspiring art. Participants should bring their own mats.

Charleston Vintage Market returns to The Refinery one Sunday each month from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring more than 30 vendors offering vintage clothing, antiques, vinyl, art, home décor, and unique finds, along with local food and coffee trucks.

The Sunday Brunch Farmers Market takes place year-round behind The Charleston Pour House, featuring 40+ local vendors, live music, delicious food, and a full bar. Open Sundays from 11am–3pm, with free live music on the deck stage until 9.

The Steeplechase of Charleston offers a thrilling day of horse racing, live entertainment, local food trucks, and holiday shopping at the Merchant Market. With tailgating, VIP access, and family-friendly fun—including the beloved Corgi Cup—it’s a Sunday not to miss.