The Holiday Festival of Lights features over 750 light displays along a three-mile drive through James Island County Park. Guests can park their car and explore other areas of the park to enjoy family activities, holiday shopping, delicious treats, and so much more including:
A ride on the magical Festival Express train
Marvel at the 50-ton sand sculpture
Take a spin on the old-fashioned carousel
Scale the climbing wall
Roast marshmallows over an open fire
Shop for the perfect holiday gift
Savor pretzels, popcorn, and sweet treats
Enjoy special entertainment on select evenings, including a New Year’s Eve fireworks display on Dec. 31 at 8 p.m.
Tucked just beyond Charleston’s bustling downtown, the Hampton Park neighborhood offers a quieter, greener side of the city — one where Spanish moss sways overhead, neighbors wave from porches, and the air carries the scent of something good cooking nearby. While the park itself is the area’s namesake and heartbeat, the streets surrounding it have blossomed into one of Charleston’s most satisfying culinary enclaves. Anchored by Herd Provisions, Park & Grove, and Moe’s Crosstown Tavern, this corner of the city has become a local favorite for those who crave exceptional food served with heart and character.
Each restaurant reflects a distinct flavor of Charleston’s dining identity — refined yet approachable, creative yet rooted in tradition. Together, they showcase why Hampton Park is fast becoming one of the city’s most delicious destinations.
Just steps from the park’s northern edge, Herd Provisions is a thoughtful ode to sustainable dining. Housed in a warm, contemporary space on Grove Street, the restaurant sources much of its meat directly from its own farm in Virginia, ensuring a dining experience that is as transparent as it is flavorful.
The menu celebrates pasture-raised meats prepared over open flame, with dishes that highlight both craftsmanship and care — from tender grass-fed beef and roasted lamb to an unforgettable burger that has earned a loyal following. Seasonal vegetables and locally grown sides bring balance and color, reflecting the rhythms of the Lowcountry’s growing seasons.
The bar follows the same philosophy, featuring wines from biodynamic vineyards, small-batch spirits, and cocktails infused with local herbs and citrus. Whether seated indoors beneath exposed wood beams or outdoors beneath string lights, dining at Herd Provisions feels like an elevated yet grounded celebration of honest ingredients.
A few blocks away, Park & Grove captures the spirit of Charleston’s new culinary generation — vibrant, approachable, and deeply in tune with local produce. Located at the corner of Rutledge Avenue and Grove Street, the restaurant combines a fresh, seasonal menu with a breezy, botanical atmosphere that feels both modern and timeless.
Park & Grove
The dishes shift constantly to reflect what’s in season — from heirloom tomato salads and local seafood to rich, comforting pastas and brunch plates bursting with color and texture. Every ingredient feels purposeful, allowing the natural flavors to shine without pretense.
Inside, the airy dining room glows with natural light, accented by greenery and soft neutral tones. The patio, shaded and welcoming, is a neighborhood favorite for afternoon cocktails or a lingering weekend brunch. Park & Grove radiates an energy that feels communal — a place where the food is elegant but the experience remains unhurried and warm.
Across from the park, Moe’s Crosstown Tavern stands as one of Charleston’s most beloved local institutions — the kind of place where everyone feels at home the moment they walk through the door. For more than two decades, this unassuming corner pub has served as a community hub for hearty food, cold drinks, and good company.
Moe’s menu is pure comfort — generous burgers, perfectly crisp wings, and rotating specials that surprise regulars without straying from the tavern’s humble roots. It’s the kind of spot where the kitchen turns out food that far exceeds expectations, and the only thing better than the meal is the conversation at the bar.
Moe’s Crosstown Tavern
Beyond the menu, Moe’s is about connection. It’s where friends gather after softball games, neighbors catch up over a pint, and Charleston’s chefs come for late-night bites after their own shifts. In a city known for fine dining, Moe’s proves that great food doesn’t need fuss — just passion and a welcoming spirit.
A Neighborhood That Feeds the Soul
Together, Herd Provisions, Park & Grove, and Moe’s Crosstown Tavern embody the essence of Hampton Park — a neighborhood where creativity meets community and every meal feels like an invitation to linger a little longer. Whether it’s a grass-fed steak under the stars, a garden-fresh brunch surrounded by friends, or a casual burger after a walk in the park, Hampton Park’s dining scene captures the authentic, easy charm that makes Charleston such a special place to eat — and to live.
Photo Credit: Park & Grove, Herd Provisions and Moe’s Crosstown
East Coast Warehouse will be celebrating the grand opening of our newest building in North Charleston, South Carolina on October 27th! Ribbon cutting will begin at 4:00 PM in front of the building and will be followed by a huge celebration!
You will also have the chance to tour our brand new facility. If you are interested in attending, make sure to RSVP following the link. You won’t want to miss it!
Location: Shipyard Creek Logistics Center – 2040 Sewanee Road, North Charleston, South Carolina
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Keel, a defense manufacturer, today announced it is expanding its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $67 million investment will create 170 new jobs at Keel’s Yonges Island shipyard.
Headquartered in Ladson, Keel is an advanced manufacturer of submarine modules and components, aircraft carrier components, and other complex structures for the U.S. Navy and broader defense industry.
Located at 4194 Highway 165 in Meggett, Keel’s expansion includes a new state-of-the-art prep and paint facility to support the manufacture of components and modules for submarines and aircraft carriers for the U.S. Navy.
Work has started on the first phase of the project, including the prep and paint facility. Individuals interested in joining the Keel team should visit the company’s careers page.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.
QUOTES
“Keel’s expansion at Yonges Island emphasizes our commitment to supporting the U.S. Navy, our national defense and Charleston County. The expansion will enable Keel to add much-needed capacity and better help our U.S. Navy meet its stringent shipbuilding requirements. We are proud of the crucial work we do to help build America’s defense and will continue to identify ways we can expand our capabilities to best support our valued warfighters and global security.” -Keel Chief Executive Officer Brian Carter
“Today, we recognize another significant win for our state’s manufacturing and defense industries. Keel’s substantial investment in the Lowcountry is further proof that South Carolina’s workforce continues to be a foundation for our existing companies to find sustained success.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“The defense industry is an integral part of South Carolina’s economy, and we are proud to be home to companies like Keel that support the U.S. military. This expansion in Charleston County is a strong testament to our state’s pro-business climate, as well as our commitment to the success of our companies from launch to legacy.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“Keel’s decision to expand its critical operations, backed by a $67 million investment, is a resounding affirmation of the skilled workforce, strategic assets and supportive business environment we have built in Charleston County. The company’s growth signals confidence in our workforce.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Rev. Dr. Kylon Jerome Middleton
FIVE FAST FACTS
Keel is expanding its operations in Charleston County.
The company’s $67 million investment will create 170 new jobs.
Keel is a defense manufacturer.
The company is located at 4194 Highway 165 in Meggett, S.C.
Individuals interested in joining the Keel team should visit the company’s careers page.
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. – The Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce (MPCC) will host a Mayoral and Town Council Candidate Forum on Thursday, October 23 at Christ Episcopal Church in Mount Pleasant, offering residents a crucial opportunity to engage directly with those seeking to represent them. This event is free and open to the public and will provide a platform for candidates to articulate their vision for the future of Mount Pleasant and for citizens to make informed decisions at the ballot box.
Event Details:
What: Town of Mount Pleasant Town Council Candidate Forum
When: Thursday, October 23 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Christ Episcopal Church Mount Pleasant, 2304 N. Hwy. 17, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
Who: All candidates vying for a seat on the Mount Pleasant Town Council will be invited to participate.
Why: Help voters get informed and involved in the upcoming local elections.
This forum is designed to be an interactive experience. Attendees will have the invaluable chance to:
Meet the Candidates: Engage face-to-face with the individuals who aspire to lead our community.
Hear Their Visions: Listen as candidates present their platforms, priorities and solutions for the challenges and opportunities facing Mount Pleasant.
Ask Questions:Submit questions to the candidates on topics that matter most to you, ensuring your concerns are addressed directly.
We encourage Mount Pleasant residents to mark their calendars and join us for this important free event. Citizens interested in attending can register on the Mount Pleasant Chamber website here.
About MPCC: Since 1992, the Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce has been bringing together business leaders from the East Cooper community for mutually beneficial purposes. The membership is a mix of professions including advertising, publishing, finance, health care, food and beverage, hotel, retail, insurance, legal, and service businesses of every description. The MPCC’s mission is to encourage business and community success East of the Cooper. MPCC was named a 2023 Noteworthy Network in the Lowcountry Diversity Leadership Awards by the Charleston Regional Business Journal, Best Activist Group or Effort three years in a row by the Moultrie News, and most recently recognized by SC Biz News as one of the 2025 Empowering Women Companies Leading the Way.
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.
Explore the “Christmas on The Battery” event Attend caroling, candlelight, and Gullah Christmas storytelling along The Battery waterfront.
See a holiday performance at Dock Street Theatre Catch a seasonal play or musical—past years have included holiday editions of local shows.
Enjoy hot cider and Gullah Christmas stories Local storytellers often host evening events combining history, culture, and holiday spirit.
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.
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)
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
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.
Shop Marion Square Holiday Market Local artisans and vendors set up in Marion Square for holiday shopping, crafts, and festive ambiance.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Andrew Zimmern
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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