by Mark A Leon

Charleston and the surrounding Lowcountry are gearing up for an exciting November weekend filled with culinary celebrations, live music, community festivals, holiday traditions, sporting events and opportunities to explore the region’s vibrant arts and shopping scene.

From the highly anticipated Food & Wine Classic in downtown Charleston and the opening of the Holiday Festival of Lights on James Island to the Holy Smokes Barbecue Festival in North Charleston, YALLFest, the Steeplechase of Charleston and the Summerville Italian Feast, there is something happening throughout the region for nearly every interest.

Shoppers also have a reason to head downtown, with Look Up Charleston offering 50% off select gifts and clothing throughout the weekend.

Whether you are looking for a family-friendly afternoon, an evening of live entertainment, a culinary experience or an opportunity to discover something new, here is your guide to events taking place November 13–15, 2026.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13

1. Food & Wine Classic in Charleston

Location: Multiple venues throughout downtown Charleston
Dates: November 13–15
Admission: Ticketed

One of the weekend’s biggest attractions, the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston returns for three days celebrating the culinary traditions, celebrated chefs and hospitality of the Lowcountry.

The festival brings together nationally recognized culinary personalities, celebrated local chefs, winemakers, distillers and food enthusiasts.

The 2026 lineup includes Tyler Florence, Nancy Silverton, Maneet Chauhan, Mike Lata, Katie Button and Rick Martinez, among other distinguished culinary talents.

Attendees can experience Grand Tastings featuring restaurants and beverage brands, chef demonstrations, beverage seminars and exclusive culinary experiences.

More information and tickets: https://foodandwineclassicincharleston.com/

2. Charleston Literary Festival

Location: Dock Street Theatre and other downtown Charleston venues
Dates: November 6–15
Admission: Individual event tickets

Literature, conversation and storytelling take center stage as the Charleston Literary Festival enters its final weekend.

The internationally recognized festival brings together acclaimed authors, journalists, historians and literary voices for conversations covering contemporary culture, history, fiction and the written word.

With events taking place throughout Charleston’s historic district, the festival offers readers an opportunity to hear directly from celebrated writers and participate in thoughtful discussions.

Friday and Saturday provide opportunities to catch additional programming before the festival concludes Sunday.

More information and tickets: https://charlestonliteraryfestival.com/

3. YALLFest – Young Adult and Middle Grade Book Festival

Location: Historic King Street and surrounding downtown venues
Dates: November 13–14
Admission: Free general admission; select events require tickets

Charleston welcomes readers, authors and publishers for YALLFest, one of the country’s recognized young adult and middle-grade literary festivals.

Friday programming includes YALLCrawl, featuring author signings at participating King Street businesses and cafes, along with additional author appearances and activities.

Saturday brings a full schedule of author panels, book signings and special presentations.

The festival’s paid headliner events include keynote conversations and the popular YA Smackdown.

For readers, aspiring writers and families with young adult book enthusiasts, this is a wonderful opportunity to meet favorite authors and discover new literary voices.

More information and schedule: https://www.yallfest.org/

4. The Wrecks – Finally: OUTSIDE Tour

Location: Music Farm, 32 Ann Street, Charleston
Date: Friday, November 13
Time: 8 p.m.
Admission: Ticketed

Alternative rock fans can head to Music Farm for a Friday night performance by The Wrecks.

The band brings its Finally: OUTSIDE Tour to Charleston, with Worry Club and Kid Sistr also appearing on the bill.

Tickets and information: https://www.musicfarm.com/

5. Paula Cole – THIS FIRE: 30

Location: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John Street, Charleston
Date: Friday, November 13
Time: 8 p.m.
Admission: Ticketed

Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Paula Cole brings her THIS FIRE: 30 tour to Charleston Music Hall.

Celebrating three decades of her acclaimed album This Fire, the performance offers audiences an opportunity to revisit a defining collection of songs from the 1990s.

Rett Madison joins the evening’s lineup.

Tickets and information: https://charlestonmusichall.com/

6. Holiday Festival of Lights – Opening Night

Location: James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Drive, Charleston
Dates: November 13–December 31
Hours: 5:30–10 p.m. nightly
Admission: Per-vehicle admission

One of the Lowcountry’s most beloved holiday traditions returns Friday evening as the Holiday Festival of Lights opens its 2026 season.

The annual celebration transforms James Island County Park into a spectacular holiday destination featuring hundreds of illuminated displays, festive decorations and seasonal attractions.

Visitors can experience the traditional driving route, making it an ideal evening activity for families, couples and holiday enthusiasts.

The festival continues nightly through December 31.

Tickets and information: https://www.ccprc.com/holidayfestivaloflights

7. Fossil Friday at The Charleston Museum

Location: The Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting Street, Charleston
Date: Friday, November 13
Admission: Check museum program details

History and natural science enthusiasts can enjoy Fossil Friday with Matthew Gibson, curator of natural history at The Charleston Museum.

The special program provides an opportunity to learn more about fossils and the region’s natural history from a museum expert.

It is a particularly appealing outing for families, students and anyone interested in discovering more about the natural world.

More information: https://www.charlestonmuseum.org/

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14

8. Holy Smokes Lowcountry Barbecue Festival

Location: Riverfront Park, 1061 Everglades Avenue, North Charleston
Date: Saturday, November 14
Time: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Admission: Ticketed

Barbecue lovers have a major reason to head to North Charleston as the Holy Smokes Lowcountry Barbecue Festival returns to Riverfront Park.

The festival brings together pitmasters and chefs, showcasing a variety of barbecue traditions and regional cooking styles.

Guests can enjoy an extensive selection of barbecue, live entertainment and an atmosphere celebrating Southern food culture.

The event also supports charitable causes, including Ronald McDonald House Charities of Charleston and Hogs for the Cause.

Tickets and information: https://holysmokesfest.com/

9. 14th Annual Hanahan Red, White & Blue Fall Festival

Location: Hanahan Amphitheater, 3100 Amphitheater Avenue, Hanahan
Date: Saturday, November 14
Time: 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Admission: Free

The City of Hanahan welcomes residents and visitors for its 14th Annual Red, White & Blue Fall Festival.

This family-friendly community celebration features live music, carnival rides, jump castles, face painting, a balloon artist, food trucks, craft vendors and guest speakers.

The festival provides an opportunity for families to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment while supporting local vendors and experiencing the community spirit that makes Hanahan a special part of the Lowcountry.

More information: https://www.cityofhanahan.com/recreation-parks/page/hanahan-red-white-and-blue-fall-festival

10. Fall Pickin’ in the Corner

Location: Main Street and Unity Park, Moncks Corner
Date: Saturday, November 14
Time: 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Admission: Free

Head to Berkeley County for Fall Pickin’ in the Corner, a community event celebrating antiques, vintage treasures, handcrafted goods and local creativity.

Visitors can browse vendors offering antique finds, upcycled merchandise and crafts while enjoying food trucks and live music.

Antique tractors and additional activities add to the small-town atmosphere, making this a worthwhile Saturday excursion for shoppers and families.

More information: https://monckscornersc.gov/special-events/pickin-in-the-corner

11. Charleston Farmers Market

Location: Marion Square, 329 Meeting Street, Charleston
Date: Saturday, November 14
Admission: Free

Saturday mornings in Charleston are not complete without a visit to the Charleston Farmers Market.

Located in historic Marion Square, the market brings together local farmers, food vendors, artisans and makers offering fresh produce, prepared foods, specialty products and handcrafted merchandise.

Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, browse local goods and experience one of downtown Charleston’s most recognizable community traditions.

More information: https://www.charlestonfarmersmarket.com/

12. A Very Merry Oyster Roast

Location: James Island County Park, Charleston
Date: Saturday, November 14
Admission: Ticketed; check event listing for details

Nothing says Lowcountry quite like an oyster roast, and this seasonal celebration brings together two favorite traditions: oysters and holiday festivities.

A Very Merry Oyster Roast offers guests an opportunity to enjoy a classic Charleston-area gathering as the holiday season begins.

Event information: https://www.ccprc.com/

13. Colonial Trades and Harvest Day

Location: Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, 1500 Old Towne Road, Charleston
Date: Saturday, November 14
Admission: Check event details

Step back into the past at Charles Towne Landing for Colonial Trades and Harvest Day.

This living-history experience highlights the crafts, skills and everyday activities associated with the colonial period.

Visitors can explore demonstrations of traditional trades, historical activities and elements of early Lowcountry foodways.

More information: https://southcarolinaparks.com/charles-towne-landing

14. Shakedown Jam – Park Circle Block Party

Location: Park Circle, North Charleston
Date: Saturday, November 14
Admission: Check event listing

Park Circle welcomes the second annual Shakedown Jam, bringing a block-party atmosphere to one of North Charleston’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

The event offers an opportunity to enjoy music, community connections and the energetic local culture that has helped make Park Circle a popular destination for residents and visitors.

More information: https://www.charlestoncvb.com/events/this-week/

15. Magnolia Plantation Workshops and Wine Stroll

Location: Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston
Date: Saturday, November 14

Magnolia Plantation offers several opportunities to experience the gardens and enjoy a creative afternoon.

The Make, Dip & Dye for Adults workshop runs from 1–2:30 p.m. and introduces participants to textile dyeing and creative techniques.

Later in the afternoon, Magnolia’s Wine Stroll Series takes place from 3–5 p.m. Guests can explore the gardens while enjoying a glass of wine or beer and live music from Raven Station.

Workshop and ticket information: https://www.magnoliaplantation.com/

16. Live at Firefly with Hudson Westbrook

Location: Firefly Distillery, North Charleston
Date: Saturday, November 14
Time: 6 p.m.
Admission: Ticketed

Country music fans can head to Firefly Distillery for an evening with Hudson Westbrook.

The performance features special guests Kenny Whitmire and Ethan Burdick, bringing a country music lineup to one of the region’s popular outdoor entertainment venues.

Tickets and information: https://www.fireflydistillery.com/

17. Travis Tritt Live

Location: North Charleston Performing Arts Center, 5001 Coliseum Drive, North Charleston
Date: Saturday, November 14
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Admission: Ticketed

Country music legend Travis Tritt brings his music to the North Charleston Performing Arts Center.

Known for his distinctive Southern rock influence and a catalog of country hits, Tritt’s performance offers an evening of familiar favorites for longtime fans and country music enthusiasts.

Tickets and information: https://www.northcharlestoncoliseumpac.com/

18. Charleston Southern Buccaneers Football

Location: Buccaneer Field, Charleston Southern University, North Charleston
Date: Saturday, November 14
Time: 2 p.m.
Admission: Ticketed

College football returns to the local sports calendar as the Charleston Southern Buccaneers host Southeast Missouri State.

For sports fans, the game offers an opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of college football and support the local university.

Tickets and information: https://www.csusports.com/

19. Half-Price Shopping Sale at Look Up Charleston

Location: Look Up Charleston, 128 Meeting Street (upstairs), Charleston, SC
Dates: Friday, November 13–Sunday, November 15
Admission: Free

Looking for something unique while exploring downtown Charleston? Make a stop at Look Up Charleston, a creative marketplace featuring the work of local artists, artisans and designers.

Located upstairs at 128 Meeting Street in the heart of downtown, Look Up offers a distinctive collection of gifts, clothing, accessories, art and locally inspired merchandise.

For this weekend only, shoppers can take advantage of a 50% OFF SALE on select gifts and clothing. It’s a great opportunity to discover something special, find an early holiday gift or add a unique piece to your wardrobe while supporting Charleston’s creative community.

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for a gift with a distinctly Charleston feel, Look Up is worth adding to your weekend itinerary.

Special offer: 50% off select gifts and clothing
Visit: Look Up Charleston, 128 Meeting Street, upstairs, Charleston, SC.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15

20. Steeplechase of Charleston

Location: Stono Ferry Racetrack, 5000 Old York Course Road, Hollywood, SC
Date: Sunday, November 15
Admission: Ticketed

One of the Lowcountry’s signature social and sporting traditions returns Sunday as the Steeplechase of Charleston takes place at Stono Ferry Racetrack.

The annual event combines the excitement of steeplechase horse racing with fashion, tailgating, live entertainment, shopping and social gatherings.

Guests can enjoy a full slate of races, the popular Corgi Cup, a Merchant Market and a variety of hospitality experiences.

Whether attending for the competition, the fashion or the festive atmosphere, Steeplechase remains a distinctive Charleston-area tradition.

Tickets and information: https://steeplechaseofcharleston.com/

21. Summerville Italian Feast

Location: Hutchinson Square, Historic Downtown Summerville
Date: Sunday, November 15
Time: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Admission: Check the event website

Summerville brings a taste of Italy to the Lowcountry with its annual Summerville Italian Feast.

The celebration highlights Italian-American heritage through authentic cuisine, local arts, crafts and community entertainment.

More than 100 vendors and food trucks are expected, offering everything from pasta and pizza to cannolis, gelato and other Italian-inspired favorites.

Beyond the food and festivities, the event has a meaningful community purpose. Proceeds benefit the Dorchester Two Educational Foundation, supporting teachers and students throughout the school district.

More information: https://summervilleitalianfeast.org/

22. Brad Williams – The Tall Tales Tour

Location: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John Street, Charleston
Date: Sunday, November 15
Time: 7 p.m.
Admission: Ticketed

Comedy takes center stage Sunday evening as Brad Williams brings his Tall Tales Tour to Charleston Music Hall.

Known for his energetic stage presence, observational humor and storytelling, Williams has established himself as one of the recognizable performers in stand-up comedy.

The performance provides a great opportunity to close out the weekend with an evening of live entertainment.

Tickets and information: https://charlestonmusichall.com/

23. Charleston Vintage Market

Location: Charleston; check the organizer’s event listing for the specific venue
Date: Sunday, November 15
Admission: Check event listing

Vintage enthusiasts and shoppers can explore the Charleston Vintage Market, featuring opportunities to discover unique merchandise and one-of-a-kind finds.

Markets of this kind are a great way to support independent vendors, discover vintage fashion and accessories, and find distinctive additions for the home.

Event information: https://www.charlestoncvb.com/events/this-week/

24. Park Circle Art Walk

Location: Park Circle, North Charleston
Date: Sunday, November 15
Admission: Check event listing

Art and creativity take the spotlight with the Park Circle Art Walk.

The event celebrates local artists and makers, providing an opportunity to explore original artwork, handmade goods and the creative community that continues to grow throughout North Charleston.

More information: https://www.charlestoncvb.com/events/this-week/

25. Charleston Literary Festival – Closing Weekend

Location: Dock Street Theatre and participating downtown venues
Date: Sunday, November 15
Admission: Individual event tickets

Sunday marks the final day of the Charleston Literary Festival.

Readers still have an opportunity to take in the festival’s closing programming, hear from participating authors and enjoy the unique atmosphere of one of Charleston’s respected cultural events.

Program and tickets: https://charlestonliteraryfestival.com/

A WEEKEND OF LOWCOUNTRY EXPERIENCES

From downtown Charleston to the communities of Berkeley and Dorchester counties, November 13–15 offers a wonderful snapshot of what makes the Lowcountry such a special place to live and visit.

Food enthusiasts can choose between the Food & Wine Classic, Holy Smokes and the Summerville Italian Feast. Music fans have opportunities to see touring performers at Charleston’s established venues, while families can enjoy the Hanahan Fall Festival, Colonial Trades and Harvest Day and the opening of the Holiday Festival of Lights.

For those who enjoy shopping, arts and local culture, YALLFest, Fall Pickin’ in the Corner, the Park Circle Art Walk and the special half-price sale at Look Up Charleston offer plenty of reasons to get out and explore.

And, of course, the weekend would not be complete without the excitement of the Steeplechase of Charleston.

Whatever your interests, the Lowcountry has something worth experiencing this weekend. Get out, explore and enjoy everything Charleston and its surrounding communities have to offer.

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