Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish celebration that honors the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem more than two thousand years ago. At its heart is the miracle of the menorah, when a small amount of oil—enough for just one day—burned for eight nights, symbolizing faith, resilience, and divine light. Today, families around the world commemorate Chanukah by lighting the menorah each night, enjoying traditional foods like latkes and sufganiyot, playing dreidel, and sharing in the warmth of community and hope that shines brightly through the darkest days of winter.
On Sunday, December 14, 2025, join the annual Chanukah in the Square celebration at Marion Square in Charleston from 4:00–6:00 p.m., where the community comes together for a free, family-friendly evening of live music, festive foods and the official menorah lighting.
Here is what you need to know:
We are thrilled to return to Marion Square for the annual Chanukah in the Square celebration. Please plan on being there with your neighbors, friends and family. Bring an appetite and your Chanukah spirit. We will supply the hot food, the live music and the festive atmosphere! There will be no shortage of treats for everyone. Family-friendly and free!
Entertainment: -Live Music -Hot Latkes -Donuts -Hot Pretzels -Hotdogs -Burgers -Kettle Corn -Chicken Soup -Soft drinks -Chanukah Treats and Giveaways -Kids Crafts -Giant Menorah Lighting -Children’s Entertainment
Easton Porter Group restaurants bring Michelin recognition home to Charleston as the American South earns its first stars
CHARLESTON, SC – November 4, 2025 – Wild Common, one of Charleston’s most acclaimed fine dining destinations, proudly announced that Executive Chef Orlando Pagán and his team have been awarded a coveted Michelin star in the inaugural MICHELIN Guide American South. The recognition was revealed during the guide’s debut awards ceremony held on November 3 at the Peace Center in Greenville, South Carolina.
The event marked a historic milestone as Michelin unveiled its first-ever guide to the American South, encompassing Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, in addition to the existing guide for Atlanta. Wild Common’s inclusion among the inaugural class of Michelin-starred restaurants underscores Charleston’s growing influence as a premier culinary destination and celebrates Chef Pagán’s remarkable artistry and leadership.
Chef Orlando Pagán is a Puerto Rico–born chef whose culinary journey blends deep cultural roots with global influences and fine dining precision. After graduating from Johnson & Wales University in Miami, he began his career at The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove’s Bizcaya Grill in Florida before moving to San Francisco, where he refined his craft in several Michelin-starred kitchens. His formative experience includes time at acclaimed restaurants such as Restaurant Gary Danko and the James Beard Award-winning State Bird Provisions, as well as leadership roles as Executive Chef at Ame and The Village Pub, Chef de Cuisine at Aziza, and Executive Sous Chef at Spruce. These experiences, combined with the flavors and traditions of his Puerto Rican heritage, shaped a culinary philosophy defined by balance, seasonality, and bold, expressive flavors.
In 2017, Chef Pagán relocated to Charleston to join Chef Sean Brock at McCrady’s Tavern, where he served as Executive Chef. Two years later, in 2019, he opened Wild Common, a modern tasting-menu restaurant in downtown Charleston. There, he cultivated a culinary identity that is both personal and progressive, rooted in authenticity while seamlessly incorporating global inspiration. His cooking emphasizes thoughtful technique, vegetable-forward creativity, and locally sourced ingredients that highlight the region’s agricultural bounty.
“Receiving a Michelin star is profoundly humbling and deeply gratifying,” said Chef Pagán. “This recognition reflects the collective effort of our team, our purveyors, and our guests who share in the experience of Wild Common each night. It is an honor to bring this level of recognition to Charleston and to represent the city’s vibrant and ever-evolving culinary community.”
Beyond his achievements in the kitchen, Chef Pagán’s journey is also one of resilience. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2011, he has channeled the challenges of living with a chronic illness into a more intentional, wellness-focused lifestyle, advocating for a sustainable and balanced approach to the culinary profession.
Adding to Easton Porter Group’s achievements, The Restaurant at Zero George, led by Executive Chef Vinson Petrillo, was also recognized as Michelin Recommended in the same inaugural guide, a distinction that highlights the restaurant’s enduring excellence and innovation in Charleston’s fine dining landscape.
“We are incredibly proud of Chef Orlando Pagán and the entire Wild Common team,” said Dean Porter Andrews, co-founder of Easton Porter Group. “This Michelin star is an honor we accept with deep gratitude and humility. It is a proud moment for Charleston and for the South. To have both Wild Common earn a star and The Restaurant at Zero George recognized as Michelin Recommended in the same guide is an extraordinary affirmation of our team’s passion, creativity, and commitment to excellence.”
The Michelin recognition stands as a testament to Easton Porter Group’s philosophy of crafting memorable, ingredient-driven dining experiences that celebrate creativity, precision, and genuine hospitality. With Wild Common’s Michelin star and Zero George’s Michelin Recommended distinction, the group continues to elevate Charleston’s culinary reputation on a national and global stage.
About Wild Common
Wild Common is a modern, tasting-menu restaurant located in downtown Charleston, South Carolina, offering an elevated dining experience that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and connection. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Orlando Pagán, Wild Common showcases globally inspired cuisine rooted in the ingredients and traditions of the Lowcountry. The restaurant’s intimate setting, precision-driven culinary approach, and dedication to exceptional hospitality have earned it national acclaim and a place among the region’s top fine dining destinations. Wild Common is a venture of Easton Porter Group, a Charleston-based luxury hospitality company with an award-winning portfolio of boutique hotels, restaurants, vineyards, and event venues in Charleston and Virginia. Visit www.EastonPorter.com.
Charleston, South Carolina, November 3, 2025 – The Cassina Group is proud to announce the sale of 51 East Bay Street for $21,575,000, establishing it as the highest-priced residential sale in Charleston, South Carolina. Robertson Allen, Founding Partner and Broker in Charge of The Cassina Group, represented the buyer of this astounding sale. Charles Sullivan, Founding Partner of Carriage Properties, represented the seller.
Positioned on Charleston’s iconic Battery, 51 East Bay Street is one of the city’s most admired and architecturally significant private residences. Known as the Casper Christian Schutt House, it stands as one of the largest single houses in the historic district and captures panoramic views of the Charleston Harbor. This record-breaking sale further underscores the strength of Charleston’s real estate market.
Originally constructed circa 1800 by successful German merchant Schutt, the property encompasses four distinct structures totalling over 15,700 square feet, which include a main residence, a guest house converted from an original stable, a second guest residence, and an indoor pool. Known for its three-and-a-half–story masonry design, intricate plasterwork, and a signature elliptical staircase, the residence has long been a landmark of Charleston architecture. Throughout the 19th century, it was home to several prominent families, including the Lowndes family who expanded the grounds with tiered piazzas and elegant formal gardens. The Lowndes family called 51 East Bay Street home for 50 years.
In the late 1990s, the estate was purchased by the late businessman and philanthropist, Wayland H. Cato, Jr. His purchase saved the home from being converted into condominiums and pioneered the path of restoring and preserving historic estates South of Broad and throughout the Peninsula. During Mr. Cato’s ownership, the property underwent a thorough restoration led by preservation specialists Richard Marks Restoration, Glenn Keyes Architects, and Reggie Gibson Architects, who honored its historic integrity while seamlessly updating it for modern living. Today, its expansive, manicured gardens, designed by Sheila Wertimer of Wertimer and Cline, and its collection of meticulously maintained structures continue to make it one of Charleston’s most distinguished and storied addresses.
Robertson Allen shares, “My clients were searching for a truly iconic home on the Lower Peninsula, somewhere that could grow with their family and reflect the character of Charleston. The moment they stepped inside 51 East Bay, they were captivated by its profound sense of history. They are honored to become stewards of this remarkable property and look forward to honoring its legacy while creating memories of their own.”
Robertson Allen’s 2025 year has been defined by record-breaking achievements. By solidifying this $21.575 Million sale and the sale of 202 Bank Street for $14 Million one week prior, Allen has not only surpassed personal milestones but also helped redefine what is possible in Charleston’s real estate landscape. His continued success is built on persistence, expertise, and a genuine passion for serving his clients. Allen’s portfolio contains many significant transactions including 5 East Battery at $18.25 Million, 202 Bank Street at $14 Million, 13 & 15 Meeting Street at $12.6 Million, 13 & 15 East Battery for $12.45 Million, 2411 Atlantic Avenue for $10.1 Million, and now 51 East Bay Street for over $21 Million. His clientele ranges from long-time local families to national, and international, executives drawn to Charleston’s timeless architecture, coastal beauty, and lifestyle. His deep knowledge of Charleston’s most sought after neighborhoods, paired with his thoughtful and “client first” approach, continues to position him as a leader in the residential luxury market.
To reach Robertson Allen, contact 843.442.6534 or visit RobertsonAllen.com. The Cassina Group is the leading luxury real estate brokerage with offices in Charleston, SC and Mount Pleasant, SC. The firm is managed by founding partners and Brokers-In-Charge, Jimmy Dye and Robertson Allen. For media inquiries, contact The Cassina Group at 843.628.0008 or visit TheCassinaGroup.com.
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster today announced the activation of the Central Carolina Community Foundation’s One SC Fundand directed the South Carolina State Guard (SCSG) to assist food banks statewide in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement that federal funding for SNAP benefits (food stamps) will be halted beginning November 1, 2025, due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
“While South Carolina cannot fully replace federal SNAP benefits, we can and we will step up to help our neighbors,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “By activating the One SC Fund and with the assistance of the State Guard, we’re supporting South Carolina families in need. In times like these, South Carolinians are eager to help, and I encourage those who are willing to donate to the One SC Fund or volunteer at your local food bank.”
The activation of the One SC Fund will allow for a coordinated charitable giving campaign dedicated to providing direct monetary assistance to regional food banks and local feeding partners across the state.
“The suspension of SNAP benefits will hit our children, seniors, and people with disabilities hardest,” said Georgia Mjartan, President and CEO of Central Carolina Community Foundation. “We are asking every corporation, foundation, and individual to step up now—so food banks can respond before the gap becomes a catastrophe.”
The SCSG, an all-volunteer organization separate from the S.C. National Guard, will assist food banks and pantries with distribution operations, traffic flow, and in any other ways necessary to ensure these sites remain safe, orderly, and efficient as demand increases over the coming days.
“This is an opportunity for all of us to work together and take care of those in our state who need our help,” said Sheriff Leon Lott, Commander of the South Carolina State Guard. “The State Guard includes more than 400 men and women, trained and ready for missions like this. Our soldiers will be on the ground assisting food banks and ensuring operations are carried out safely and efficiently.”
The One SC Fund is administered by the Central Carolina Community Foundation in Columbia. Established in 2015 following Hurricane Joaquin with support from Governor Nikki Haley, the fund serves as South Carolina’s coordinated philanthropic response to disasters. Since its creation, the fund has been activated in response to Hurricanes Matthew, Florence, and Helene, and the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Those who wish to contribute can donate directly to the One SC Fund by visiting www.yourfoundation.org.
According to the South Carolina Department of Social Services, there are more than 556,000 South Carolinians, representing 266,000 households, who received federal SNAP benefits in September 2025, totaling approximately $104 million. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Health, there are more than 900 food banks and pantries statewide.
The Eureka Day School in Berkeley, California, is a bastion of progressive ideals: representation, acceptance, social justice. In weekly meetings, its five board members develop and update policy to preserve this culture of inclusivity, reaching decisions only by consensus. But when a mumps outbreak threatens the Eureka community, the board realizes with horror that they’ve got to do what they swore they never would – make a choice that won’t please everyone.
Here is all you need to know to secure an absolutely memorable live theater experience in the heart of downtown Charleston, South Carolina:
What: Eureka Day by Jonathan Spector
Where: Pure Theatre – 134 Cannon Street, Charleston, South Carolina
After 7 years on Upper King Street, Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill, located at 585 King Street, has announced it will permanently close
In a social media message today, the team at Fuji said:
”After 7 wonderful years serving the Charleston community, we share with heavy hearts that Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill at 585 King Street has permanently closed.
This decision comes after circumstances beyond our control related to the location and lease, despite our extensive efforts to continue operating at this site. We are incredibly grateful for every guest who supported us, dined with us, and helped make Fuji Upper King a beloved part of downtown Charleston.
This is not goodbye — only a transition. We are already exploring opportunities to relocate and bring Fuji back to the downtown Charleston area in the future.
In the meantime, we warmly invite you to visit any of our other Fuji locations throughout the Lowcountry, where our teams remain committed to delivering the same hospitality, flavors, and experience you’ve grown to love.
Thank you, Downtown Charleston, for 7 unforgettable years of support, memories, and community. We look forward to welcoming you again soon in our next chapter.
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster today was joined by North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess, members of the General Assembly, and other local leaders for a ceremonial bill signing of H. 3333, the Tax Increment Financing Act, which allows redevelopment authorities (RDAs) at former federal military installations to use Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds for the development of affordable housing projects.
“With this signing, our local municipalities will be able to make significant investments in infrastructure, workforce housing, security, and economic development,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “By giving these redevelopment authorities the flexibility to use TIF funds for affordable housing projects, we are helping to strengthen our communities and generate additional investment and opportunity in South Carolina.”
A TIF is a public financing tool that allows local governments to invest in redevelopment and pay for it over time using the increased property tax revenues generated by the improvements.
“This law sets the redevelopment of the former Navy Base on a new path, one that strengthens our connection to the military, supports infrastructure, and creates opportunities that will benefit families, businesses, and communities across the state,” said Mayor Reggie Burgess. “It gives cities like North Charleston the ability to plan boldly and invest wisely, ensuring that redevelopment serves not just the land it touches, but the people who call this region home.”
Military redevelopment authorities were created in 1994 to oversee the redevelopment of former military installations and guide public infrastructure improvements. There are currently three military redevelopment authorities in South Carolina –the Charleston Naval Complex Redevelopment Authority, the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base Redevelopment Authority, and the Savannah River Site Redevelopment Authority.
“I am proud to support an initiative that gives our community a meaningful boost,” said Senator Sean Bennett. “This work will revitalize the area and restore it to the special place it once was. I look forward to continuing our work to improve this great community.”
Affordable housing is defined as residential housing for rent or sale that is appropriately priced for a person or family whose income does not exceed 80 percent of the median income for the local area, according to figures released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
“This new legislation reflects a shared commitment to breathe new life into the former Naval Base and will ultimately generate economic opportunity for North Charleston and the state. It will also preserve history while creating homes and providing public spaces that will enrich the community,” said Jay Weaver, Founder and President at Weaver Capital Partners. “We envision a neighborhood where people from all walks of life will live, work, and thrive, and we look forward to bringing that vision to life in the years ahead.”
The law also extends the deadline for the issuance of debt associated with the eligible redevelopment project from 15 to 35 years.
Eating well doesn’t have to eat into your budget. We uncover the top U.S. cities and neighborhoods where dining out and dining affordably go hand in hand.
For many Americans, stretching a food budget can feel like a juggling act — balancing taste, nutrition, and the clock. With rising costs, it’s easy to fall back on drive-thru value menus.
But eating well doesn’t have to mean eating expensively.
We wanted to know the best U.S. cities and neighborhoods that are serving up affordable dining options. See if your hometown made the list.
“Eating well isn’t just about what’s on the plate — it’s about access, affordability, and real-life schedules,” says Laura McCutcheon, VP of Marketing at Advance America. “These spots show that enjoying good food doesn’t need to be complicated or costly; it just needs to be part of the community fabric.”
From college towns to historic districts, we discovered that eating well isn’t just about location — it’s also about finding places where local food culture thrives.
Here are the top 10 spots proving that you don’t need to be earning a top salary to eat well:
Athens, Georgia
Riverside, Jacksonville, Florida
Downtown Greenville, South Carolina
East Nashville, Tennessee
North Charleston, South Carolina
Downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee
East Austin, Texas
Old Town Albuquerque, New Mexico
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Downtown Asheville, North Carolina
View our complete list of the top 110 cities and neighborhoods where you can eat well for less:
This study is based on an online panel survey of 3,024 foodies, conducted to find out where people across America feel they can eat well on a budget. Participants were selected to reflect a balanced mix across age, gender, and geography. To ensure statistical reliability, internal data sources were used to establish population benchmarks, and a two-step process was applied: stratified sampling followed by post-stratification weighting. This ensured the survey results accurately aligned with the broader U.S. population. The survey was carried out in September 2025.
About Advance America
Founded in 1997, Advance America is a leading online state-licensed consumer lender in the US. It operates over 800 storefronts in communities across 22 states, along with online lending operations, and has approximately 2,500 employees. Advance America seeks to help each customer achieve their version of financial stability in the moment and in the future through a variety of personal credit options. Please visit AdvanceAmerica.net for more information.
Embrace the holidays and enjoy favorite traditions with a Thanksgiving farmers market, outdoor movies, letters to Santa and more
KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C. (October 29, 2025) – Freshfields Village, the premier shopping and dining destination 30 minutes from downtown Charleston, announces a festive lineup of holiday activities that the whole family can enjoy this season. From charming décor throughout the Village to classic holiday movies under the Lowcountry sky, the destination will bustle with holiday activity. Beginning Thanksgiving week and continuing through December, visitors and locals alike are invited to enjoy a variety of free events at Freshfields, the perfect backdrop for celebrating the season and creating lasting memories with family and friends. While taking in the festivities, guests are encouraged to explore the Village’s distinctive mix of local boutiques and national retailers to discover thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on their holiday list.
“From our shops to The Village Green, Freshfields comes alive in a way that’s truly unique during the holidays,” said Herbert Ames, EDENS managing director. “This is a time when families, neighbors and the entire community come together to celebrate and support the shops and owners who make our Village so vibrant. The holidays at Freshfields aren’t just festive; they strengthen the connections that bring our community to life.”
2025 Freshfields Village holiday events include:
Thanksgiving Farmers Market Monday, November 24, 1–5 pm The Thanksgiving Farmers Market at Freshfields marks the start of the holiday season in the Lowcountry. Guests can wander through the market and explore offerings from local farmers and artisans, from fresh, seasonal produce to thoughtfully crafted gifts. Grab homemade sourdough bread from Moonrise Loaf, hand-painted pottery from Rainbow Row Fun! Designs, or fresh vegetables fromJoseph Field Farms. Individuals can cross items off their Thanksgiving feast list or get an early start on holiday gifting.
Post-Thanksgiving Holiday Entertainment Friday, November 28 – Sunday, November 30, times vary From Friday through Sunday, The Village will come alive with holiday magic, transforming into a winter wonderland for families and visitors to enjoy following Thanksgiving. The Village Green will be filled with the sights and sounds of the season, featuring live music, photos with Santa, and a cheerful craft station offering creative fun for all ages. A lively holiday market will showcase local makers with distinctive gifts and handmade treasures. Throughout the weekend, guests can take part in a variety of activities and experiences, including:
Friday, November 28
Santa Photos: 10 am – 5 pm
Live Music by Island Duo: 10 am – 1:30 pm
Live Music by Dave Landeo: 1:45 – 5 pm
Saturday, November 29
Santa Photos: 10 am – 5 pm
Tunes by DJ Ben Felton: 10 am – 5 pm
Holiday Market: 10 am – 5 pm
St Johns Fire trucks 10 am – 5 pm
Sunday, November 30
Santa Photos: 11 am – 3 pm
Letters to Santa Friday, November 28 – Friday, December 19 Freshfields Village invites families to continue a beloved holiday tradition! Children can drop their letters to Santa in a special red mailbox located near the Christmas trees on The Village Green. Santa’s elves will collect every letter and deliver it directly to the North Pole. Individuals are encouraged to leave a return address; Santa loves writing back!
Holiday Movies on The Green Saturday, December 6 & Saturday, December 13, starting at 6 pm Movies on The Green is back for two festive weekends this December! Gather the family and enjoy classic holiday favorites under the stars. On December 6, we’ll screen Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, followed by A Christmas Story on December 13. Both events are free and open to all. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, and a picnic to make it a cozy, relaxed evening outdoors with family and friends.
Freshfields Village is an open-air shopping and dining destination, ideally located at the crossroads of Kiawah, Seabrook, and Johns Islands, 30 minutes from historic downtown Charleston. From casual and fine dining to salons and services, Freshfields has much to offer those visiting and those who call Charleston “home.” The sidewalks are lined with both local shops, high-end boutiques and regional and national retailers featuring over 30 unique shops and 11 dining experiences. The Village is bookended by luxury hotel, Andell Inn, and the beautiful Kiawah Island Lowcountry landscape. Follow Freshfields Village on social media (Facebook: @FreshfieldsVillage; Instagram @FreshfieldsVillage) for upcoming events, itineraries, and more.
ABOUT EDENS
EDENS’ purpose is to enrich community through human engagement. The company owns, develops and stewards a leading real estate portfolio of more than 100 open-air retail and mixed-use places in high-growth markets coast to coast. Through intentional design, thoughtful curation and meaningful engagement, EDENS’ places reach an estimated 15 million people daily.
Opening Reception: November 20, 5:30-8:30pm Gallery Hours: Tues-Sat: 10am-5pm
The Tiny Zoo is an immersive installation created by Cara Fischer. The exhibition will open the night of November 20th at Public Works Art Center, during downtown Summerville’s Third Thursday art night.
In the 8’x10’ “Vault Gallery” space, Cara will bring her Tiny Zoo to life! This will be her first solo exhibition. Shehas received grant funding for this project from the South Carolina Arts Commission. Using paper maché to create these animals, Cara wanted to build a zoo because, for her, it is a place of conflicting emotions. Happy, core childhood memories of zoo visits are in contrast to the empathy she feels now for the captive animals. With this exhibition she is not demonizing zoos, but rather opening a dialogue about wildness versus captivity. She is very excited to share her new creatures with the public in order to inspire imagination, playfulness, and self- inquiry for each visitor.
Come join us on opening night to hold and take pictures with our eleven-foot snake, Lucky, make your ownTiny Zoo membership card, and learn about the history of our animals from the Zookeepers.
Cara Fischer is a Charleston-based artist. Her work explores the emotional presence of the human figure and the interplay between observation and imagination. A former preschool teacher, she returned to artwith a focus on bold, graphic forms, drawing daily from life and memory. She has participated inRedux’s Lightning Residency and has shown work locally at
Redux, the Grand Bohemian Gallery, and Kulture Klash. She has painted several murals around Charleston including places like the Pour House and Bar Rollins. She even painted one in Australia!
by 
