October 2024 Events with Charleston County Parks
Lowcountry Trail Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk and Kids Dash
Sat, Oct. 5. Half marathon stats at 8 a.m.; 5K starts at 8:15 a.m.
Johns Island County Park – Trailhead and Show Area.
Join us on the scenic trails of Johns Island County Park for our annual Lowcountry Trail 5K Run/Walk. Let’s not forget the littles: after the 5K, we invite children ages 3-7 of all abilities to dash across the finish, too. Registration is available for a separate fee of $5 and includes a finisher medal. Registration is required. Parent or guardian must be present. This is an untimed event. What to expect: The 5K is open to runners and walkers of all levels, including beginners. Accessible parking is available near the event site. All trails are of a natural, unimproved surface. Loop course with water stations.
Fee: $38 for the 5K; $55 for the half marathon; $5 Kids Dash
Ages: 10 and up; 3-7 for the Kids Dash. Chaperones required.
https://ccprc.com/1712/Lowcountry-Trail-Half-Marathon-5K
Latin American Festival
Sunday, Oct. 6, 12 – 5 p.m.
Wannamaker County Park
This annual tradition brings people together to celebrate Charleston’s vibrant Latin and Caribbean cultures at one of the Lowcountry’s favorite county parks. Festivities include non-stop music, traditional dance performances, folkloric artwork and crafts, and authentic food and beverages. Visit charlestoncountyparks.com or call 843-795-4386 for more information.
Fee: $25 per vehicle; Gold Pass holders are free
Ages: any
https://ccprc.com/1699/Latin-American-Festival
Cast Off Fishing Tournament
Saturday, Oct. 12, 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Folly Beach Pier
Join us at the Folly Beach Pier for a fun day of fishing during the Cast Off Fishing Tournament. Prize categories include Biggest 3 by Weight, Biggest youth catch (12 & under), and Best 5 Fish Total Weight. No preregistration required. Register on site the morning of each tournament. For more information, call the Folly Beach Pier at 843-762-9516.
Fee: $10 for ages 13 and up; $9 for members of the military; $8 for youth and seniors; $5 for fishing pass holders
Ages: 3 and up (adult chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
https://ccprc.com/2038/Cast-Off-Fishing-Tournaments
Palmetto Park Jam
Sunday, Oct. 13, 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Palmetto Islands County Park
Come out to Palmetto Islands County Park to enjoy live music from local Allman Brothers tribute band, Idlewild Revival! Gates open at 11am. Live music begins at 12pm.You are encouraged to bring your own tables and chairs to set up. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. No outside food, alcohol, or coolers permitted.
Fee: $20 – $30 per vehicle; Gold Pass holders are free
Ages: any
https://ccprc.com/3352/Palmetto-Park-Jam
Starlight Yoga
Thursday, Oct. 17, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Wannamaker County Park
The moon and stars enhance this flowing yoga class. Participants will receive a special glow in the dark prize. What to expect: This class is open to all levels, including beginners. Accessible parking and restrooms available. Class is on a grassy meadow.
Fee: $10
Ages: 10 and up
https://ccprc.com/2079/Starlight-Yoga
Fall Family Fest
Saturday, Oct. 19, 1 – 4 p.m.
West County Aquatic Center/Hollywood Town Hall: 5150 SC-165, Hollywood, SC 29449
Charleston County Parks provides a day of fun, food trucks, live music entertainment, jump castles, face painting, and more. This event is free to the public.
Fee: FREE
Ages: ANY
https://ccprc.com/3758/Fall-Family-Festival
Cast Off Fishing Tournament
Saturday, Oct. 26, 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mount Pleasant Pier
Join us at the Mount Pleasant Pier for a fun day of fishing during the Cast Off Fishing Tournament. Prize categories include Biggest 3 by Weight, Biggest youth catch (12 & under), and Best 5 Fish Total Weight. No preregistration required. Register on site the morning of each tournament. For more information, call the Mount Pleasant Pier at 843-762-9946.
Fee: $10 for ages 13 and up; $9 for members of the military; $8 for youth and seniors; $5 for fishing pass holders
Ages: 3 and up (adult chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
https://ccprc.com/2038/Cast-Off-Fishing-Tournaments
Trick Treat and Trail Family Fun Run/Walk and Stroll
Sat, Oct. 26, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Wannamaker County Park – Small Meadow
Get ready to be treated during our first annual Spooktacular family fun run/walk and stroll chock full of ghoulish entertainment, face painting, mind bending interpretation and science, carnivalesque drinks and refreshments. The event begins with a 5K fun run/walk and stroll. Be on the lookout for friendly goblins along the way. Then stick around for the Boo Fest where the entertainment will flow, food will be served, and a costume contest will be held.
Fee: $20
Ages: any
https://ccprc.com/3715/Trick-Treat-and-Trail
October Programs
Lowcountry Senior Series: Archery
Tuesday, Oct. 1, 1 – 3 p.m.
Lincoln Regional Center
This program empowers adults 50+ to continue to explore, discover, and grow. Come out and fling some arrows! We’ll start with the basics of archery and you’ll soon find that inner child. as you start hitting those bull’s-eyes.
Fee: $20
Ages: 50 and up.
Early Birding
Thursday, Oct. 3, 7 – 9 a.m.
Stono River County Park
If the early bird gets the worm, the early birdwatchers get both! We can leave the worms for the avian life and enjoy seeing birds at dawn. A birding professional will help you find birds and help you to understand their strategies for success in the natural world. What to expect: This program is open to birders of all levels, including beginners. Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available at this location. The program route is a flat loop and benches are available along the trail route. The trails are mostly unpaved. The program speed is moderately slow and contains periods of standing and gazing upwards.
Fee: $10
Ages: 12 and up.
Beginners Night at the Climbing Wall
Thursday, Oct. 3, 5 – 7 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
Embark on an exhilarating journey at our “Beginners Night” at The Climbing Wall. This event is tailored for those stepping into the climbing world for the first time, promising an evening of excitement and shared experiences. Our friendly and knowledgeable instructors will guide you through the essentials, from harnessing up to conquering your first climbing challenges. The atmosphere will buzz with positive energy as you connect with fellow beginners, creating memories and building confidence together. Join us for a night filled with laughter, encouragement, and the joy of discovering the thrill of climbing. It’s not just an introduction; it’s a vibrant and welcoming kickoff to your climbing journey. Registration includes harness and shoe rental.
Fee: $15
Ages: 18 and up.
Intro to Archery
Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Lincoln Regional Center
Enhance your archery skills on our six-target archery range and 3D course at Johns Island County Park. Bring the kids, enjoy basic instruction, and we’ll explore both ranges. Equipment will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. A registered and paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under.
Fee: $30
Ages 10 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
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Family Archery
Lincoln – Multipurpose Field at Lincoln Regional Center
Sat, Oct. 5, 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Bring the family, get a brief orientation, and fling some arrows at Johns Island County Park’s target archery range. Equipment will be provided. Each family member wishing to participate must pre-register.
Fee: $20
Ages 8 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
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A Big Sit: Accessible Birding
Saturday, Oct. 5, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
James Island County Park – at primitive camping parking area
How many birds can we identify while staying within a seventeen-foot diameter circle? Join this accessible and inclusive birding event to help answer this question! Birding enthusiasts will be there to help with species identification and information. Drop in for 20 minutes or stick around for hours, as this is sure to be a fun learning experience about and for birds of many feathers. What to expect: This program is open to birders of all levels, including beginners. Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available near the count circle. The count circle area includes a packed grassy surface that is mostly flat. Please bring your own seat, from camp chair to wheelchair. Some binoculars and chairs will be available to share among participants.
Fee: FREE
Ages 12 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
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Lighthouse Inlet Bird Walk
Friday, Oct. 11, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve
This walk focuses on the incredibly diverse northeast end of Folly Island. Once the home of a Coast Guard station, this Heritage Preserve protects maritime forest, beach, dune, and marsh habitats for wildlife. This site boasts one of the largest bird lists in South Carolina. At this time of year, we hope to see a variety of songbirds, seabirds, and shorebirds such as Painted Bunting, Sandwich Tern, Whimbrel, and much more. What to expect: This program is open to birders of all levels, including beginners. No accessible parking is available. No restrooms are available. Visit charlestoncountyparks.com for information on accessibility and what to expect during this program.
Fee: $9
Ages 12 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
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Caw Caw: Walking on History
Saturday, Oct. 12, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
The Stono Rebellion, the largest uprising of people who were enslaved in the British colonies, took place in 1739 within a 15-mile radius of the Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Come and walk on the actual ground where a key event in the rebellion occurred. After the tour, a discussion of the event and the implications will be held. The Stono Rebellion changed the face of slavery and the consequences of the uprising centered the Gullah Geechee community. Join us for this very special walk. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available at this location. The program route is a flat loop and benches are available along the trail route. The trails are unpaved. The program speed is moderately slow.
Fee: $10
Ages: 15 and up
Seashore Exploration
Saturday, Oct. 12, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Isle of Palms County Park
Fall is a great time to explore the beach, and a trained naturalist will help familiarize you with several species. Share in the discovery by learning intriguing stories about adaptations that allow for life near the ocean.What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available near the Park Center where the program begins and ends. An accessible route to a natural sand beach is present and beach wheelchairs are available for checkout on a first come, first served basis. This program takes place on a sandy beach and requires periods of slow walking, standing, and gazing upwards or downwards to observe wildlife.
Fee: $10
Ages: 9 and up.
Basic Climbing Rescues
Sunday, Oct. 13, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
Learn basic self-rescue techniques for your next outdoor trip. When things don’t go according to plan, have the skills and confidence to get you and your partner out of trouble.
Fee: $40
Ages: 16 and up.
Lead Climbing Essentials
Sunday, Oct. 13, 1 – 4 p.m..
James Island County Park – Climbing Wall at Outdoor Zone
Embark on the next level of climbing mastery with our “Lead Climbing Essentials” class, tailored for those ready to elevate their skills and conquer new heights. This dynamic course delves into the intricacies of lead climbing, focusing on advanced techniques, risk management, and mental resilience. Our expert instructors will guide you through the fundamentals of clipping, rope management, and route reading, preparing you to take the lead on both indoor and outdoor climbs. Join a community of aspiring lead climbers, push your boundaries, and experience the exhilaration of ascending vertical challenges with confidence. Gear up for a transformative journey into the world of lead climbing where each ascent becomes a personal triumph! In order to gain the most knowledge from this class, you should be able to climb a 5.9 route
Fee: $40
Ages: 14 and up.
Seashore Exploration
Thursday, Oct. 17, 10 AM – 12 p.m.
Beachwalker Park
Fall is a great time to explore the beach, and a trained naturalist will help familiarize you with several species. Share in the discovery by learning intriguing stories about adaptations that allow for life near the ocean.What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available near the Park Center where the program begins and ends. An accessible route to a natural sand beach is present and beach wheelchairs are available for checkout on a first come, first served basis. This program takes place on a sandy beach and requires periods of slow walking, standing, and gazing upwards or downwards to observe wildlife.
Fee: $10
Ages: 9 and up.
Homeschool in the Parks: Web Weavers
Friday, Oct. 18, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Spiders are misunderstood creatures that play a vital role in our habitats. We will learn about unique spider adaptations, look for spiders in the field and discuss the many ways they contribute to a healthy environment.What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available at this location. The program route is a loop, and benches are available along the trail route. The trails are unpaved. The program speed is moderately slow to medium, and portion of this program will be spent in an air-conditioned classroom.
Fee: $ 7
Ages: 7 – 12 years
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Better Birding: How to Sharpen Your Skills
Friday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Master Naturalist advanced training opportunities provide exposure and skill development in areas such as natural history, natural resource management, and nature interpretation. In order to keep a Master Naturalist certification current, you must take at least eight hours of advanced training per year. Dive deeper into bird identification, observation, and behavior interpretation. Hone your listening skills too, as an emphasis will be placed on birding by ear through several distinct habitat types ranging from blackwater swamp to salt marsh. Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available at the park Welcome Center. Visit charlestoncountyparks.com for information on accessibility and what to expect during this program.
Fee: $50
Ages: 18 and up
Intro to Archery
Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Johns Island County Park – Archery Range
Enhance your archery skills on our six-target archery range and 3D course at Johns Island County Park. Bring the kids, enjoy basic instruction, and we’ll explore both ranges. Equipment will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. A registered and paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under.
Fee: $30
Ages 10 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
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Family Archery
Saturday, Oct. 19, 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Johns Island County Park – Archery Range
Get your bull’s-eye! Bring the family, get a brief orientation, and fling some arrows at Johns Island County Park’s target archery range. Equipment will be provided. Each family member wishing to participate must pre-register.
Fee: $20
Ages 8 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
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High on the Hog
Saturday, Oct. 19, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Join food historian and documentarian Julian Gooding as he shares pork recipes from the big house to the slave quarters. Through these recipes, the stories of the people who prepared these dishes will be shared and explored. What to expect: This program will take place at the McLeod Plantation Historic Site Pavilion where seating is available for all participants. The program location is outside in a shaded area. A small, tasting portion of food will be provided to each participant. A list of ingredients will be available during the program. McLeod Plantation Historic Site has accessible parking, restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables. Trails throughout the property are of a natural, unpaved surface. Thanks to the generous support of the Charleston County Parks Foundation, this program is free. Registration is strongly recommended to guarantee you have a spot.
Fee: FREE
Ages: 16 and up
Gator Tales
Tuesday, Oct. 22, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Wannamaker County Park
Join us as we search for alligators and separate fact from fiction to learn why these large reptiles carry the special title of “keystone species.” What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available at this park. The trails are paved and flat and the program speed is moderate to slow. Benches are located along the program route.
Fee: $10
Ages 12 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
Family Archery
Saturday, Oct. 26, 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Schroder Community Center
Get your bull’s-eye! Bring the family, get a brief orientation, and fling some arrows at Johns Island County Park’s target archery range. Equipment will be provided. Each family member wishing to participate must pre-register.
Fee: $20
Ages 8 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
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Intro to Archery
Saturday, Oct. 26, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Schroder Community Center
Enhance your archery skills on our six-target archery range and 3D course at Johns Island County Park. Bring the kids, enjoy basic instruction, and we’ll explore both ranges. Equipment will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. A registered and paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under.
Fee: $30
Ages 10 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
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Belay Basics
Sunday, Oct. 6 and 20, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
Learn the ropes with our “Belay Basics” class, a comprehensive guide to the essential skill of top rope belaying in rock climbing. In this hands-on session, our experienced instructors will walk you through the fundamentals of belaying techniques, equipment usage, and safety protocols. Whether you’re a novice or looking to refresh your skills, this class is designed to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to securely manage the rope for your climbing partner. Join us for a practical and engaging session, where you’ll master the art of belaying, enhancing your climbing experience for you and your partner. Gear up and get ready to elevate your climbing skills!.
Fee: $25
Ages: 14 and up.
Climbing Technique Essentials
Sunday, Oct. 6 and 20, 12 – 2:30 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
Learn the ropes with our “Belay Basics” class, a comprehensive guide to the essential skill of top rope belaying in rock climbing. In this hands-on session, our experienced instructors will walk you through the fundamentals of belaying techniques, equipment usage, and safety protocols. Whether you’re a novice or looking to refresh your skills, this class is designed to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to securely manage the rope for your climbing partner. Join us for a practical and engaging session, where you’ll master the art of belaying, enhancing your climbing experience for you and your partner. Gear up and get ready to elevate your climbing skills!.
Fee: $25
Ages: 14 and up.
North Carolina Rock Climbing Adventure
Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 19 and 20, 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.. 2 -Day Session
Off-Site – Destination at Off-Site Location
Embark on a vertical adventure in the stunning mountains of North Carolina. Join our experienced guides for an immersive journey that seamlessly blends the thrill of rock climbing with the tranquility of camping in the heart of nature. Scale rock faces suited to all skill levels and unwind at our campsite surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Share stories around the campfire, stargaze, and immerse yourself in the perfect blend of outdoor exploration and camaraderie. Join us for an unforgettable escape, where every climb is accompanied by the natural wonders of North Carolina. Transportation, camping gear and rock-climbing gear provided. Participants should bring their own food but we will provide stoves and cookware. A suggested packing list will be sent out a few days prior to the trip. The last day to register for this program is Friday Oct. 11th
Fee: $300
Ages: 18 and up.
Community Events
Baptist Hill Community Halloween Celebration
Wednesday, Oct. 30, 5: 30 – 7 p.m.
RR Complex at Schroder Community Center
Trick or treat! Dress up in your Halloween costume and come join us for an evening of family fun, food, including free candy, kid-friendly games, and music. Don’t miss out on all the fun! Registration not required to attend.
Fee: FREE
Ages: ANY
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Johns Island Community Halloween Celebration
Thursday, Oct. 31, 5: 30 – 8 p.m.
Rural Rec Complex at Haut Gap Middle School
Trick or treat! Dress up in your Halloween costume and come join us for an evening of family fun, food, including free candy, kid-friendly games, and music. Don’t miss out on all the fun! Registration not required to attend.
Fee: FREE
Ages: ANY
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McClellanville Fall Festival
Thursday, Oct. 31, 5: 30 – 7 p.m.
Basketball Gymnasium at Lincoln High School
Trick or treat! Dress up in your Halloween costume and come join us for an evening of family fun, food, including free candy, kid-friendly games, and music. Don’t miss out on all the fun! Registration not required to attend.
Fee: FREE
Ages: ANY
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Charleston Daily
Charleston Daily is a concept in community. Its mission is to promote, assist, and celebrate in everything Charleston, South Carolina. By partnering with businesses, community leaders, volunteers and events, we are spreading the love that is Charleston. As this city continues to grow and prosper, we want to help spread the message to all about how wonderful this community is. Charleston is about the people, community, water, land, history, heritage and the true southern warmth it brings with each and every day.