Author: Charleston Daily

By Mark A Leon

November

1. Attend the Food & Wine Classic (Nov 14–16, 2025)
   This three-day culinary celebration will showcase local chefs, cooking demos, tastings, and Southern Living’s Lowcountry Tailgate.  
2. Kick off the Holiday Festival of Lights (starting Nov 14)
   At James Island County Park, drive or stroll through millions of twinkling lights, holiday displays, and themed nights.  
3. Go on a “Christmas in Charleston” holiday walking tour
   Several local tour companies run festive walking tours in November and December, with decorated historic homes, stories, and lights.  
4. Explore the “Christmas on The Battery” event
   Attend caroling, candlelight, and Gullah Christmas storytelling along The Battery waterfront.  
5. Visit the South Carolina Aquarium during “Aquarium Aglow”
   A holiday lighting and aquatic display event that usually takes place in December—but you can check for early previews or off-peak nights.  
6. See a holiday performance at Dock Street Theatre
   Catch a seasonal play or musical—past years have included holiday editions of local shows.  
7. Enjoy hot cider and Gullah Christmas stories
   Local storytellers often host evening events combining history, culture, and holiday spirit.  
8. Attend the city’s December holiday lineup announcement & preview events
   The City of Charleston typically unveils its seasonal parade, market, and lighting schedule in November.  
9. Drive through decorated neighborhoods & light displays
   After dark, stroll or drive through South of Broad, historic districts, and local streets to enjoy festive decor. (Locals often mention “decorations south of Broad” as a favorite)  
10. Roast oysters & enjoy Lowcountry holiday food traditions
    November marks the start of oyster season in the Lowcountry. Host or join a holiday oyster roast, serve red rice, and share Lowcountry holiday dishes.  

December

11. Celebrate the City Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting (e.g., Dec 7, 2025)
    The city’s official parade and lighting of the Christmas tree is often held in early December.  
12. Shop Marion Square Holiday Market
    Local artisans and vendors set up in Marion Square for holiday shopping, crafts, and festive ambiance.  
13. Attend Southern Living Illumination Charleston (Dec 5–6, 2025)
    A festive weekend of a holiday market, workshops, cooking demos, and seasonal inspiration curated by Southern Living editors.  
14. Go to the Holy City Holiday Market (Dec 19–21, 2025)
    Head to Old Park Circle in North Charleston for over 200 local vendors, live music, food trucks and a festive atmosphere.  
15. Catch “The Charleston Christmas Special” concert
    On December 14, enjoy a holiday music event at the Charleston Music Hall.  
16. See “A Christmas Carol” at Dock Street Theatre
    The classic Dickens tale is a perennial favorite during December in Charleston.  
17. Visit the lifesize gingerbread house & sip hot chocolate (e.g. Hotel Bennett)
    Many Charleston hotels and luxury venues erect large gingerbread displays or decorative holiday installations offering treats.  
18. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus at The Dewberry or Charleston Visitor Center
    Special Santa appearances are scheduled at local hotels and the Visitor Center during December.  
19. Attend a Gullah Christmas Concert (e.g. at Boone Hall Plantation)
    Local concert series highlight Gullah music, holiday traditions, and storytelling.  
20. Ring in New Year’s Eve in Charleston
    Participate in fireworks, special dinners, and waterfront celebrations to cap off the holiday season.  

Tips & Notes

• Check exact dates & ticketing: Many events change annually. Always verify on official Charleston or event sites.
• Book early: Popular performances, dinner events, and market previews often sell out.
• Dress in layers: December in Charleston can be mild but chilly at night.
• Mix indoor & outdoor: Enjoy both cozy theater or music events, and outdoor lighting displays and evening strolls.
• Support local: The holiday markets, artisan booths, and performances help support Charleston makers, musicians, and culture.

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By Mark A Leon

Each fall, Charleston’s cobblestone streets and ocean breezes become the backdrop for one of the most anticipated culinary events in the country — the Food & Wine Classic Charleston. Returning November 14–16, 2025, the festival will once again draw top chefs, vintners, and food lovers from across the globe to celebrate the flavors, creativity, and community that make the Lowcountry such a special destination.

This year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular, featuring an exciting blend of rising stars, culinary icons, and cultural innovators. From soulful Southern flavors to bold global fusions, these chefs will take the stage to share their passion, techniques, and personal stories that shape their dishes. Among the impressive roster, four chefs stand out for their creativity, leadership, and ability to inspire — two women and two men whose culinary journeys reflect the spirit of Charleston itself: warm, inventive, and deeply rooted in tradition.

1. Maneet Chauhan

An energetic presence in the culinary world, Maneet Chauhan brings her Indian heritage and fearless creativity to every plate. Known for her vibrant personality and frequent television appearances on Chopped, Chauhan has built a reputation for reimagining Indian flavors with Southern charm — a perfect fit for Charleston. As one of the festival’s marquee chefs, she will lead a cooking demonstration blending spice, color, and culture, offering a taste of her acclaimed Nashville-based restaurant, Chauhan Ale & Masala House. Expect an inspiring mix of tradition and innovation from this James Beard Award–winning chef.

2. Melissa King

Melissa King, winner of Top Chef: All-Stars LA and one of the most celebrated Asian American chefs in the industry, brings a modern, minimalist approach rooted in precision and sustainability. King’s cuisine showcases delicate balance and refined technique — hallmarks that have earned her both critical praise and a devoted following. At Food & Wine Charleston, she’s expected to highlight the beauty of local produce and coastal ingredients while sharing her personal journey of creativity and identity in the culinary world. Her presence reinforces the festival’s commitment to diversity and representation among its culinary voices.

3. Emeril Lagasse

No name in American cuisine is more instantly recognizable than Emeril Lagasse, the beloved New Orleans chef whose “Bam!” catchphrase helped bring restaurant cooking into millions of homes. A longtime Food & Wine favorite, Emeril returns to Charleston alongside his son, E.J. Lagasse, to share stories, recipes, and a lifetime of culinary wisdom. His cooking demonstrations are known for their warmth, humor, and deep respect for flavor — blending comfort and sophistication with ease. For festivalgoers, seeing Emeril on stage is both a nostalgic treat and a reminder of the enduring power of culinary passion.

4. Andrew Zimmern

Completing this year’s highlighted quartet is Andrew Zimmern, the Emmy-winning host, chef, and food explorer whose insatiable curiosity has taken him around the globe. Zimmern’s sessions are equal parts storytelling and culinary adventure, weaving together food anthropology, sustainability, and cultural appreciation. At the Charleston Classic, he’ll shine a light on global ingredients and techniques that expand how we think about food. His approachable, authentic energy makes him a festival favorite and an ideal complement to Charleston’s own globally inspired culinary scene.

A Taste of What’s to Come

Together, these four chefs represent the heart of what Food & Wine Charleston 2025 celebrates — diversity, creativity, and connection through food. Maneet Chauhan and Melissa King embody the future of modern cuisine, championing innovation and representation, while Emeril Lagasse and Andrew Zimmern bridge tradition and exploration, reminding us how food can both comfort and challenge us.

When the festival returns to the Holy City this November, these culinary powerhouses will take audiences on a flavorful journey — one that celebrates not just great cooking, but the shared joy of gathering, tasting, and discovering something new in every bite.

Related: Food & Wine Classic in Charleston Adds More Star Power to 2025 Talent Lineup — Here’s What’s New

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CHARLESTON, SC – The Charleston RiverDogs will host two games of the 2026 Banana Ball World Tour on April 10 and 11, 2026, at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park. The two contests will be between the Loco Beach Coconuts and Indianapolis Clowns, the two newest teams in the Savannah Bananas’ recently established Banana Ball Championship League.

The RiverDogs’ winning bid to bring Banana Ball to Charleston was announced during the Bananas’ Selection show Thursday night on ESPN2.

Banana Ball is an adapted version of baseball invented by the Savannah Bananas, with rules specifically designed to increase entertainment and fan engagement by eliminating some of the game’s traditional rules. Some of these include a two-hour game time limit, no walks, batters stealing first base and fan foul ball catches resulting in outs.

Since their founding in 2016, the Bananas have taken the baseball and entertainment world by storm with trick plays, in-game dance routines and more. The organization boasts over 10 million social media followers. Their 2025 world tour included 40 cities, multiple sellouts at Major League stadiums and a crowd of 81,000 at Clemson’s Memorial Stadium in April.

A pre-game party will be held prior to both games in Brittlebank Park, beginning at 3:30.

Tickets are available exclusively through the Bananas’ website, via a lottery process. Answers to frequently asked ticket questions are listed below.

*TICKET FAQ: *

*How can I get tickets? *

Join the Ticket Lottery List before it closes on November 1, 2025.  Joining the list doesn’t guarantee the opportunity to buy tickets. A random drawing will take place before the event for the chance to purchase available tickets. If you’re drawn, you’ll have an opportunity to continue through the verification process.   You can find the Ticket Lottery List at bananaball.com.

*How much are tickets? *

Standard tickets start at $35 with Meet and Greet tickets starting at $100. No hidden fees, no tax, all bananas.  We only sell tickets through our official lottery on FansFirstTickets.com. Any tickets for sale outside of this platform are likely fraudulent. 

*I thought tickets were $35. Why am I finding some online for way more than that? *

Tickets start at $35 when you purchase them directly from FansFirstTickets.com. If you find some that are way more than $35, those tickets may have been bought from Banana Ball and are now being sold on a third-party platform that we cannot control or are completely fake listings. These third-parties include StubHub, VividSeats Ticketmaster, etc.  

Warning: Tickets purchased through 3rd party sites are often fraudulent and will not be accepted. An overwhelming majority of people selling tickets on social media platforms are fraudulent. Please use extreme caution if you choose to go this route. Please know Banana Ball staff, cast, players, and coaches would never sell tickets through social media. We recommend reporting fake accounts impersonating others trying to do so. 

*Does when I join the Lottery List affect my chances at getting tickets? *

The Lottery List is completely random so when you join the list will not affect your chance at getting tickets.

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Academy Award winner Regina King, Grammy Award winner Ciara, and CBS Mornings’ Tony Dokoupil join the festival, alongside new Dine Arounds & Style Stroll programming

WHAT: Food & Wine, Southern Living, and Travel + Leisure today announced new talent and programming details forthe highly anticipated second annual Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, taking place November 14–16, 2025, in Charleston, South Carolina.

This year’s event expands its already star-studded lineup with appearances by Academy Award–winning actress ReginaKing, Multi-Platinum Grammy Award-winning artist Ciara, and CBS Mornings cohost Tony Dokoupil.

For the full list of talent, including Emeril and EJ Lagasse, Gail Simmons, Kwame Onwuachi, Trisha Yearwood, Tyler Florence, AndrewZimmern, Melissa King, Phil Rosenthal, Rodney Scott, Mike Lata, and many more, visit https://foodandwineclassicincharleston.com/talent.

NEW PROGRAMMING HIGHLIGHTS:

• Food & Wine Classic in Charleston’s Dine Around Charleston

Back by popular demand, this hit series of one-night-only dining experiences pairs local and national chefs for collaborative tasting menus, intimate chef’s tables, and lively late-night parties. Running November 13–16, Dine Around Charleston features exclusive menus, rare vintages, and cross-cultural collaborations at beloved localrestaurants, including Bintü Atelier, By The Way, Kultura, Merci, Palmira Barbecue, Sorelle, Zero George, and more. Tickets are available to the public and can be booked through the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston website.

●      Food & Wine Classic in Charleston’s Style Stroll

Curated by Travel + Leisure Editor in Chief Jacqui Gifford, this self-guided shopping tour invites festivalgoers to explore Charleston’s most stylish streets. With stops at premier boutiques and specialty shops, includingCroghan’s Jewel Box, Madison Mathews, M. Dumas & Sons, HART, The

Tiny Tassel, Ibu Movement, and Marsh & Magnolia, the Style Stroll blends Southern hospitality with world-class shopping, complete with exclusive perks along the way.

• WHEN: November 14–16, 2025
• WHERE: Historic Charleston, South Carolina
• TICKETS: Weekend Consumer Passes and special event tickets are available at foodandwineclassicincharleston.com.
• SPONSORS: Presented by Explore Charleston, with additional sponsors including Discover South Carolina, Lexus, SKS, and S.Pellegrino.

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$280 million investment will create 155 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Carolina Renewable Products (CRP), a clean energy company, today announced it is establishing operations in Orangeburg County. The company’s $280 million investment will create 155 new jobs.

CRP converts sustainable wood biomass into renewable diesel, biochar and wood vinegar. The company offers a modular and cost-effective design, delivering low-carbon fuel solutions while supporting local agriculture and forestry.

CRP recently purchased its inaugural site, located at 546 Prosperity Drive in Orangeburg, which will be a next-generation biomass-to-renewable diesel facility and serve as the company’s headquarters and training hub.

Operations are expected to be online in late 2026. Individuals interested in joining the CRP team should contact jobs@carolinarenewableproducts.com.  

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $750,000 Closing Fund grant to Orangeburg County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.

QUOTES

“South Carolina has a rich forestry and agricultural tradition, and we are proud to harness that strength to fuel a cleaner, more resilient future. Our facility will not only provide a reliable outlet for local forestry but also create products that aid South Carolina’s energy independence and help farmers, growers and businesses thrive while advancing the state’s leadership in renewable energy.” -Carolina Renewable Products CEO Robert Bryan

“In South Carolina, agribusiness is a major economic driver, and today’s announcement from Carolina Renewable Products is further proof of the industry’s strength. This $280 million investment, creating 155 new jobs, will greatly impact Orangeburg County, and we look forward to seeing the company succeed in the years ahead.” -Gov. Henry McMaster 

“Today, we celebrate Carolina Renewable Products’ decision to invest $280 million in the Orangeburg County community. This project underscores South Carolina’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, as well as the strength of our state’s agribusiness industry.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Carolina Renewable Products is making a major investment in our state and our agribusiness industry, and it couldn’t come at a better time. This new facility and training hub will support South Carolina timber growers and local farms while protecting natural resources.” -Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers

“We’re very excited to welcome Carolina Renewable Products to the Palmetto State’s forestry community. The need to diversify markets for sustainable forest products has never been greater in South Carolina, and this announcement fills a unique niche that will also generate a sizable economic impact. CRP’s decision to establish operations is a testament to the strength and resilience of our state’s forest resource and the many private landowners who sustainably manage their woodlands.” -State Forester Scott Phillips

“Today’s announcement is a testimony to the strength of our people in Orangeburg County –– their talent, their work ethic and their determination. A $280 million investment creating 155 quality jobs shows the confidence that businesses have in our county’s workforce, our infrastructure and our shared future. We welcome Carolina Renewable Products and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our community for years to come.” -Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Carolina Renewable Products (CRP) is establishing operations in Orangeburg County.
• The company’s $280 million investment will create 155 new jobs.
• CRP is a clean energy company.
• The company will be located at 546 Prosperity Drive in Orangeburg, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the CRP team should contact jobs@carolinarenewableproducts.com.

Source: Office of the Governor of South Carolina

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Scenic entrance, iconic live oaks, and new public green space protected for future generations

Charleston, SC, October 7, 2025 – Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit committed to preserving Lowcountry landscapes and waterways for current and future generations, is proud to announce the permanent protection of a key landmark property at the gateway to McClellanville. In partnership with the Town of McClellanville, Lowcountry Land Trust has safeguarded 745 feet along N Highway 17 and 415 feet along North Pinckney Street, the scenic entrance to town, transforming it into a public green space that honors McClellanville’s rural character and natural beauty.

The property features two grand live oaks at the North Pinckney Street/Hwy 17 entrance—one stretching 59 inches in diameter, the other an impressive 78 inches—that not only stand as lasting symbols of McClellanville’s heritage but also define the scenic gateway into town. Along with protecting these natural giants, the project safeguards nearly 1,200 feet of road frontage, ensuring that the scenic views welcoming residents and visitors will remain untouched for generations.

“Lowcountry Land Trust is honored to continue our work with the Town of McClellanville and help protect a valuable piece of land that not only preserves the scenic and rural character of the community but also expands the town’s growing network of public green spaces,” said Sam Seawell, Lowcountry Land Trust’s community lands director. “The protection of the McClellanville gateway property is a meaningful step in preserving the unique character of the town.” 

For McClellanville and its residents, this project is more than a land deal; it’s a continuation of a shared story that protects scenic beauty, strengthens community identity, and secures a lasting legacy of open space. Guided by the Town’s Comprehensive Plan, which prioritizes safeguarding its gateway as a public green space, this vision was made possible through the support of the Charleston County Greenbelt Program and the South Carolina Conservation Bank. 

“McClellanville is an iconic fishing community defined by centuries old live oaks and shrimp boats,” commented Raleigh West, director, South Carolina Conservation Bank. “We commend the town and Lowcountry Land Trust for working proactively to protect this scenic entrance to their community.”

In a unique arrangement, the property will transfer directly from Lowcountry Land Trust to the Town of McClellanville, which will immediately place a conservation easement on the land, ensuring its permanent protection. This project builds on a series of recent conservation successes in McClellanville, including projects like the Deerhead Oak (2023), Silver Hill Plantation (2023), and the Farm at McClellanville (2025).

Stay connected by following @LowcountryLandTruston social media and signing up for their email newsletter to receive the latest updates on conservation efforts and ways to get involved.

ABOUT LOWCOUNTRY LAND TRUST

Lowcountry Land Trust—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—permanently protects land throughout coastal South Carolina that is foundational to the area’s ecosystem and residents’ quality of life. Having protected over 163,000 acres since 1986, Lowcountry Land Trust is one of the most impactful land trusts in the country. Its work includes the stewardship of privately owned land and iconic public places, such as the future Angel Oak Preserve—a 44-acre passive park and living museum in partnership with the City of Charleston. More information about Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org. 

Interactive America 250! event brings history to life with Francis Marion, colonial games, and cannon fire

SUMMERVILLE, S.C. – On Friday, October 3, the Susannah Smith Elliott (SSE) Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) hosted a vibrant America 250! celebration at the Ashley River branch of the Dorchester County Library, located on Bacon’s Bridge Road in Summerville. Sixty local children attended the event, which highlighted the Revolutionary War history of the Bacon’s Bridge area and honored the legacy of General Francis Marion.

The event centered around the dedication of a new Liberty Tree—a young oak planted in tribute to the legendary “Marion’s Oak,” where Marion and his troops once camped while guarding the bridge. Children in attendance honored the Swamp Fox by placing a spoonful of soil from Marion’s home and burial site around the tree. The Fort Dorchester Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) served as Color Guard, and the ceremony concluded with three musket shots fired by SAR member Ted Walker.

“This event is about helping children connect with the land and the legacy of those who fought for our freedom,” said Beth Pantone, Regent of the SSE Chapter. “We want them to understand that history isn’t just in textbooks—it’s right here under their feet.”

Inside the library, children enjoyed presentations by Carolyn Nations, SCDAR America 250! State Chair, who spoke on the legacy of Liberty Trees, and Michael Glazier, a Francis Marion portrayer from Georgetown, SC, who brought the Swamp Fox’s story to life. Participants signed an oath of allegiance with quills, donned tricorn hats, and viewed Revolutionary War artifacts.

“Liberty Trees were powerful symbols of resistance and unity during the Revolution,” said Nations. “By planting one today, we’re passing that spirit on to a new generation.”

Outside, the adjacent field transformed into a hands-on history hub. Children rotated through interactive stations including colonial games, SAR and CAR (Children of the American Revolution) displays, and a storytelling table hosted by Cynthia Putman, portraying Susannah Smith Elliott. Cathy Akers introduced the Oakbrook America 250! Trail brochure, highlighting eight local Revolutionary War sites for families to explore. 

The SSE Chapter also launched two new projects at the event: a donation of over 40 Revolutionary War books to the library’s children’s section, and the unveiling of the Oakbrook America 250! Trail brochure. The event concluded with a cannon blast at 2:20 p.m., marking a memorable end to a day steeped in patriotism, education, and community spirit.

ABOUT AMERICA 250: America 250 is the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, led by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission. The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) was the first heritage society to formally partner with America 250, launching initiatives to honor Revolutionary War Patriots, engage youth through educational programs and contests, and spotlight the contributions of underrepresented and diverse individuals who helped secure American independence. Learn more at www.america250.org.

ABOUT THE SUSANNAH SMITH ELLIOTT CHAPTER, DAR: The Susannah Smith Elliott Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), based in Summerville, South Carolina, is dedicated to preserving American history, promoting patriotism, and supporting education. Named for a courageous Revolutionary War heroine, the chapter actively engages in community outreach, historic preservation, and youth programming. Members participate in local and national DAR initiatives, including America 250!, and work to honor the legacy of those who fought for independence—especially through storytelling, educational events, and support for veterans and active-duty military. Learn more at summervillescdar.org.

October 3, 2025

PRESS RELEASE: Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s Visit to IAAM

Contact: Paul Holston, IAAM Marketing & Communications Manager,paul.holston@iaamuseum.org; IAAM Marketing, media@iaamuseum.org

Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson Visits the International African American Museum (IAAM), Marking First Official SCOTUS Visit

Charleston, S.C. – Prior to the Supreme Court of the United States beginning its new term for 2025, Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson made an exclusive visit to the International African American Museum (IAAM) on Monday, September 1, along with her husband Dr. Patrick Jackson, Judge Richard Gergel of the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina and his wife Belinda Gergel.

Justice Jackson, the first African American woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court, met with the museum’s executive team and experienced firsthand the profound historical significance of the site, which tells the untold stories of the African American experience across generations. Justice Jackson’s visit offered a moment of reflection and historical connection at the museum, which opened its doors just a year after her historic confirmation.

Dr. Tonya M. Matthews, IAAM’s CEO and President, shared her perspective on the significance of the visit:

“Every generation carries the responsibility to preserve our shared history and witness history as it unfolds. The appointment of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson marked a defining moment for our nation. While every Supreme Court appointment is consequential, Justice Brown Jackson’s – as the first African American woman on the Court – will forever shape our country’s story. Justice Brown Jackson’s appointment came just one year before IAAM’s opening, a moment that crystallized our belief: if she is possible, then we are possible. When Justice Brown Jackson walked through IAAM’s doors, we knew we were not just sharing history withher, but also making it. As a Black woman, hosting her was deeply personal. I smiled until my cheeks hurt, and from that day forward, Iwalk with my head held a little higher. I am profoundly proud of our team for building an institution worthy of such a visit.”

To honor the occasion, the IAAM executive team presented Justice Jackson with a sweetgrass necklace—a profound symbol of African American heritage and resilience in the Lowcountry. This particular piece was crafted by Corey Alston, a celebrated fifth-generation sweetgrass artist. Adding to its significance, the sweetgrass incorporated into the design was harvested directly from IAAM’s African Ancestors Memorial Garden, thus linking the gift directly to a sacred ground of African American history. Jackson also received cherished items from our IAAM Collection, as well as the children’s book “Your Crown Shines: For Ketanji Brown Jackson and You” written by Jessica Care Moore and illustrated by Dare Coulter.

Justice Jackson’s visit continues the museum’s tradition of welcoming esteemed individuals—including former President Joe Biden, Charlamagne Tha God, and Chris Rock—who seek a deeper understanding of African American and African Diaspora history through an international lens.

IAAM stands as a vital, permanent institution dedicated to preserving and sharing the untold narratives of this history, inviting visitors from around the globe to connect with this profound legacy. IAAM remains committed to being a sacred, educational space where every visitor can learn about the resilience, culture, and countless contributions of African Americans to the world.
  _________________________________________________________________________
About the International African American Museum

As one of the nation’s largest African American museums, the International African American Museum (IAAM) explores the history, culture, and impact of the African American journey on Charleston, South Carolina, the nation, and the world. IAAM shines light and shares stories of the diverse journeys, origin, and achievements of descendants of the African Diaspora. Located at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf, IAAM honors the untold stories of the African American journey. Learn more about IAAM at www.iaamuseum.org and follow IAAM on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, TikTok, andLinkedIn.

Become an IAAM member today at www.iaamuseum.org/membership. Support the International African American Museum and learn more about IAAM’s “Road to 500K” Campaign.

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By Mark A Leon

In the heart of Charleston’s historic district, change is quietly rising. On a 1.9-acre lot that once held a Days Inn motel, Four Seasons, in partnership with Strategic Property Partners, is building the first Four Seasons hotel in South Carolina. Expected to open in 2028, this eight-story structure is poised to bring a refined touch of hospitality to Meeting Street, just a short walk from King Street, the Charleston City Market, and the Gibbes Museum of Art.  

⸻

Architecture & Design: History Meets Modern Elegance

The architectural vision aims to bridge Charleston’s rich heritage with contemporary luxury. Key players include:

• Morris Adjmi Architects handling the building’s architecture and the design of the private residences.  

• Lark Design Studios in charge of the hotel interiors, crafting public spaces, guest rooms, and amenity areas.  

• Hollander Design overseeing the landscape architecture, bringing gardens, green spaces, and subtle outdoor features that draw on local climate and character.  

Renderings and descriptions suggest design elements that nod to Charleston’s historic architecture: shaded arcades, deep-set windows, balconies or terraces on many residences, and a layout that respects pedestrian access and the city’s street life.  

⸻

Amenities & Living: More than Just a Hotel

The Four Seasons property will combine luxury hospitality with private residential living. Highlights include:

For Guests:

• 139 guest rooms, all designed to the high standard of Four Seasons service and comfort.  

• Four restaurants and bars.  

• Outdoor pool with private cabanas.  

• Full-service spa with private treatment rooms and hydro-thermal facilities.  

• A top-tier fitness center.  

• Curated retail offerings.  

• Event space: about 7,000 square feet (≈650 square meters) suitable for weddings, corporate gatherings, celebrations.  

For Residents:

• 36 branded private residences, ranging from ~2,000 square feet (≈185 m²) with two bedrooms, up to ~3,700 square feet (≈343 m²) with two-three bedrooms. Many with balconies or terraces.  

• Dedicated services: in-residence dining, housekeeping, concierge, private entrance.  

• Access to the same amenities as hotel guests: spa, fitness, event space, etc.  

• Views over the downtown Charleston skyline.  

• Residences begin at approximately US$5 million.  

⸻

What This Means Locally

For Charleston, the Four Seasons represents more than a luxury hotel: it’s a statement that global luxury hospitality continues to see value in the city’s heritage, its tourism draw, and its potential for high-end residential living. It may also spur further development, both in high-service residential properties and in the kinds of amenities visitors seek: refined dining, wellness, indoor/outdoor event venues, etc.

There will likely be challenges to balance: preserving Charleston’s character and scale, traffic and parking issues, resident concerns, and ensuring that new development adds to rather than detracts from public access and neighborhood authenticity.

⸻

The Big Picture

By 2028, if all goes to plan, Charleston will have its first Four Seasons hotel — a building designed with care, amenities that cater to both visitors and local residents, and residences that promise service, luxury, and a lifestyle integrated with one of America’s most cherished cities. For those who love the blend of history, beauty, walkability, and refined comfort, this should be a welcomed addition.

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Charleston, SC — Local Habitat for Humanity affiliates, including Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester, announce their annual Playhouse Project presented by Lowe’s Home Improvement, a hands-on event designed to bring joy to local children while advancing the vital mission of affordable homeownership throughout our community.

This uplifting initiative invites sponsored teams of volunteers to build and decorate custom playhouses for children ofHabitat homeowners and other local families. Each colorful playhouse becomes a special gift that sparks imagination and teaches the pride and joy of homeownership at an early age.

“Through The Playhouse Project, volunteers aren’t just building playhouses — they’re building hope, imagination, and afuture for children and families right here at home,” said Duane Thompson, Lowe’s Store Manager and Dorchester HFH Board Member. “Every nail, every brushstroke represents a step toward stronger families and stronger communities.”

Building Awareness and Strengthening Communities

Habitat for Humanity has a long-standing commitment to eliminating substandard housing and making safe, affordableshelter a reality for families. Local Habitat affiliates work alongside homeowners to build or improve homes, providing an opportunity for families to achieve the stability and independence they need to thrive.

Locally, the need for affordable housing continues to grow as home prices and rents outpace wages for many workingfamilies. Habitat’s work addresses this critical challenge by creating pathways to homeownership that foster long-term financial security, healthier communities, and brighter futures for children.

The Playhouse Project extends this mission beyond bricks and mortar. By engaging businesses, faith groups, civicorganizations, and individual volunteers, the event not only raises crucial funds but also builds awareness about the importance of affordable housing in our region. Participants experience firsthand the joy of service, the power of teamwork, and the life-changing impact of Habitat’s work.

How It Works:

Each team receives a pre-cut kit containing all the materials needed to assemble and paint a one-of-a-kind playhouse. In just six hours, volunteers will construct the walls, door, windows, trim, and roof before painting and personalizing their creation. At the end of the build day, teams will proudly present their completed playhouse to its young recipient.

Team registration costs $3,000, and all proceeds from The Playhouse Project directly support local Habitat for Humanity affiliates in building both big and little houses across the Lowcountry.

Space is limited for this joyful volunteer experience. To register your team or learn more, contact your local Habitat Affiliate.

The Playhouse Project will take place on Saturday, December 6,  2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Lowe’s Distribution Center (1701 Charleston Regional Pkwy, Suite B, Charleston, SC 29492).

Berkeley County Habitat for Humanity Dawn Bohanan, Development Manager development@berkeleyhabitat.org Berkeley HFH Website

Phone: 843-377-8323

Charleston Habitat for Humanity Kristen Jewell, Director of Development jewell@charlestonhabitat.org Charleston HFH Website

Phone: 854-275-2031

Dorchester Habitat For Humanity Erin Roach, Director of Development erin@dorchesterhabitat.org Dorchester HFH Website

Phone: 724-331-9243

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