What’s New in Charleston, South Carolina This Winter (2025/26)

With its vibrant culture, rich history, exquisitely-preserved architecture, idyllic coastal location, celebrated dining scene and friendly locals, Charleston is one of America’s best loved travel destinations. Come, experience what’s new in the Charleston area this season!

Accolades
New Restaurants
Restaurant News
Retail
Accommodations
Tours & Attractions
Highlighted Special Events

ACCOLADES

The Top 15 Luxury Travel Destinations Across the U.S. You Don’t Want to Miss
AOL.com 

12 Southern Stays With Front Porches You’ll Never Want To Leave
SouthernLiving.com

The Best Cities in the United States: 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards
CNTraveler.com

Celebrating the Best of the U.S.A.
JRNYMag.com

NEW RESTAURANTS

VINEA COURTYARD KITCHEN
115 River Landing Drive, #101, Charleston
vineakitchen.com 

Restaurateurs Nick and Kelly Ruhotina from Nick’s German Kitchen in Mount Pleasant introduce their new concept Vinea, which translates to vineyard in Latin. Its vision is to  bring fresh energy and a new story to Daniel Island space that was once home to the renowned Sermet’s Courtyard. Vinea will be rooted in European flavors, heartfelt hospitality and the same spirit of connection that always made Sermet’s Courtyard so loved. Opening September 2025.

ANNIE MAE’S BAKESHOP
185 Saint Philip Street, Charleston
anniemaesbakeshop.com | @anniemaesbakeshop

Founded by Jason and Annie Vieira, Annie Mae’s Bakeshop is a Southern-inspired bakery that has evolved from a micro-bread operation into a charming pink brick-and-mortar café. The Vieiras, who currently supply breads and desserts to more than 30 Charleston restaurants, will continue their wholesale business while expanding their offerings in the new bakeshop. Patrons can expect Southern staples like bacon-egg-and-cheddar biscuit sandwiches, key lime pie, coconut cream cake, apple caramel sticky buns, hand-blended teas and imaginative coffee and espresso flavors like vanilla date and raspberry pistachio. At night, the space also transforms into a dessert-driven espresso martini bar offering cocktails crafted with vermouth, sherry and sake, alongside wine and beer. Opened December 2025.

BAR WEEMS
1921 Reynolds Avenue, North Charleston
barweems.com | @weemsramen 

Weems Ramen, the latest concept from owner Weems Pennington, has opened a brick-and-mortar location in North Charleston after operating as a pop-up at spots like Sweatman’s Garden and Estadio. Alongside its housemade noodles and flavorful broths, the restaurant features a craft cocktail menu with creatively named drinks such as Everynight Fireworks, You’d Prefer an Astronaut and Searching for a Former Clarity. Opened December 2025.

BELLEROSE HOTEL BAR
158 Church Street, Charleston
bellerosehotelbar.com | @bellerosehotelbar 

Bellerose is an intimate, European-inspired cocktail bar and dining destination tucked into Charleston’s historic district that channels the timeless glamour of a classic hotel bar, without actually being part of a hotel. With just a handful of tables, the space feels cozy and refined, setting the tone for lingering conversations over expertly crafted martinis, classic cocktails and elevated steakhouse-style fare. Opened December 2025. 

BRUNCHES
735 Coleman Boulevard, Mount Pleasant
mimosasmademedoit.com | @brunchesilm

The North Carolina brunch chain is ready to pop the Champagne in Mount Pleasant. The spot known for its tagline “Mimosas made me do it,” will offer a lineup of brunch favorites, including burritos, bowls and Benedicts, with standouts such as the Chicken Biscuit Supreme, Notorious BLT, breakfast tacos, Carolina Sunrise and shrimp and grits. All dishes are made with Vital Farms eggs for exceptional quality and beverage options range from classic mimosas—available by the glass, carafe or eye-catching tower—to Bloody Marys, coffee cocktails, brunch shots and playful adult juice pouches. Opening Winter 2026. 

CACHITA’S KITCHEN
6 North Market Street, Charleston
cachitaskitchenchs.com | @cachitaskitchen

After winning over the city from the streets, this popular Charleston food truck has brought its flavors to a downtown storefront. Named Mount Pleasant Magazine’s Best of Mount Pleasant in 2024, this Mexican restaurant offers a creative take on classic street tacos filled with chicken, beef, al pastor, chorizo, carnitas, shrimp or fish. Menu highlights include the Fishin’ in the Dark, featuring blackened mahi-mahi topped with jalapeño tartar, black bean and corn salsa and crispy onion straws; the Mexican Sushi Burrito Roll, a tempura-coated seaweed wrap filled with crab, shrimp, mango, asparagus, jalapeño, carrots, cream cheese and cilantro, served with yum yum sauce; and the Mexican Cuban Sandwich, made with a Gigante bakery roll layered with carnitas, ham, sliced avocado, pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapeños, pickles and yellow mustard. Opened November 2025.

COOPER COFFEE & WINE
176 Concord Street, Charleston
thecooper.com | @thecoopercharleston

Overlooking The Cooper’s marina, Cooper Coffee & Wine will offer a dynamic day-to-night experience. During the day, it will serve as a refined café, featuring artisanal coffee, freshly baked pastries and a bright, welcoming atmosphere perfect for breakfast or a morning pick-me-up. As evening falls, the space will transform into an intimate wine bar reminiscent of a European boulangerie, highlighting curated charcuterie boards, select wines and a cozy ambiance. Whether visiting for a morning coffee or an evening toast by the water, Cooper Coffee & Wine will provide a versatile and inviting destination for both guests and locals. Opening March 2026.

THE CROSSING
176 Concord Street, Charleston
thecooper.com | @thecoopercharleston

The Cooper’s signature restaurant will serve as a vibrant meeting point between land and sea, blending classic Lowcountry flavors with coastal Mediterranean influences. Featuring locally sourced seafood and seasonal ingredients, the menu will highlight fresh, refined dishes that celebrate Charleston’s culinary heritage through a global lens. Designed by Meyer Davis, the restaurant’s sophisticated interiors will pair seamlessly with sweeping harbor views, creating an atmosphere as captivating as the cuisine. A stunning raw bar and exceptional wine program will also further elevate the dining experience. Opening March 2026. 

CURRENTBURGER
176 Concord Street, Charleston
thecooper.com | @thecoopercharleston

Perched at the edge of Waterfront Park, CurrentBurger will offer a fast-casual spin on the classic soda shop experience, serving an all-day menu of smash burgers, golden fries, fountain sodas, creamy hand-spun milkshakes and soft-serve ice cream. As one of The Cooper’s signature dining spots, the restaurant will bring a fresh yet nostalgic take on the traditional burger joint — blending old-fashioned charm with modern coastal flair. Guests will be able to enjoy their meal inside or pick up from the convenient walk-up window overlooking the park. Opening March 2026. 

GIANNONE EATERY & ITALIAN MARKET
216 Scott Street, Mount Pleasant
giannoneeatery.com | @giannonechs 

Giannone Eatery and Italian Market will bring a taste of Italy to Charleston with a warm, European-inspired atmosphere and an enticing mix of offerings. Part sandwich shop, part restaurant and part wine bar, the new concept will feature a curated wine and charcuterie bar, a bakery with housemade breads and a menu rooted in fresh, artisanal ingredients. Designed to be both a neighborhood gathering spot and a destination for authentic Italian flavors, Giannone will invite guests to linger over a glass of wine and savor the simple pleasures of good food. Opening Winter 2026.

JOHNNY’S GARAGE
1256 Yeamans Hall Road, North Charleston
johnnysfullservice.com | @johnnysgaragechs

From the owners of The Royal American and The Bounty Bar comes Johnny’s Garage, a new restaurant in North Charleston serving thin-crust Northeast-style pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, “dirty sodas” and boozy milkshakes. The venue features a spacious barroom and a large covered patio with a stage for live entertainment. With its laid-back atmosphere, Johnny’s Garage offers a family and dog-friendly environment, perfect for watching sports, enjoying a meal with friends or gathering the kids around for delicious pizza. Opened October 2025.

MIX N’ MELODIES
2021 Reynolds Avenue, North Charleston
@mixnmelodies 

North Charleston is set to welcome Mix N’ Melodies, a new creative hub that will blend food, music and art into one vibrant gathering space. Designed as a place for socializing, networking and collaboration, Mix N’ Melodies will also introduce The Coffee Table, an extension of the hub that highlights local talent through professionally recorded mini-concerts. Opening Winter 2026.

NEAT BOURBON BAR
440 Coleman Boulevard, Mount Pleasant
neatbourbonbar.com 

NEAT Bourbon Bar, the popular concept from husband-and-wife team Lisa and Howard Dozier, is expanding to Mount Pleasant. With existing locations across South Carolina, NEAT is known for its elevated bar snacks, small plates and inventive cocktails. Menu favorites will include roasted Brussels sprouts, a signature charcuterie board, Hot Brown Sliders on King’s Hawaiian buns and the indulgent Tuxedo Bomb dessert. The cocktail list will be equally creative, featuring drinks like The Parent Trap with chili-ginger–infused bourbon and prosecco, Honey I Shrunk the Kids with honeydew boba and muddled oranges and You’re Killin’ Me Smalls with housemade blueberry limoncello. Opening February 2026.

ODD DUCK MARKET
637 Rutledge Avenue, Charleston
oddduckmarkets.com | @oddduckmarket 

Park Circle’s quirky café and retail spot is opening a second location in downtown Charleston. Steps away from Hampton Park, the new Odd Duck Market location will offer a mix of coffee, matcha, wine cocktails, bagels, vegan options and seasonal flavors for breakfast and lunch. The new spot will have a massive wrap-around patio and a walk-up window. Shelves will be stacked with local favorites like Second State Coffee, Ruby’s Bagels, Little Peanut Bakery, Storey Farms and more. Opening Winter 2026.

SMALLS SLIDERS
2280 Ashley Phosphate Road, North Charleston
smallssliders.com | @smalls_sliders

A bright orange two-story shipping container is set to make a bold debut in North Charleston as Smalls Sliders opens its first Lowcountry location. The Atlanta-based franchise, backed by 10 Point Capital and former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, will bring its signature “can” design–a modular stack featuring walk-up ordering, a shaded AstroTurf patio and plenty of eye-catching curb appeal–to one of the area’s busiest corridors. Known for its crave-worthy menu of perfectly grilled sliders, seasoned waffle fries and thick shakes, Smalls Sliders offers a modern, fast-casual twist on the nostalgic burger joint. Opening January 2026.

SUSHI | BAR
158 Church Street, Charleston
sushibarhospitality.com | @sushibarrestaurants

Sushi | Bar is an Omakase Speakeasy that serves up a whimsy of its namesake fare in 17 courses. Behind an unmarked door lies an intimate counter housing 10-12 prized seats where you will sit right up to the chef’s cutting boards. Sushi | Bar Charleston will be the group’s sixth location. Relax and enjoy as the chefs prepare a playful reverie on new-wave nigiri and other delicacies from both land and sea in a free-form interpretive take on the traditional sushi counter experience, where you can expect unexpected riffs on beloved standards. Opened December 2025.  

SWEET PALM COFFEE
471 King Street, Charleston
sweetpalmcoffee.com | @sweetpalmcoffee

Sweet Palm Coffee is a locally owned and operated café located in downtown Charleston. Founded and run by husband-and-wife team Jonathan and Aylin, the shop combines culinary expertise with a love for community. Jonathan, a professional chef with experience in Michelin-starred restaurants, brings his background to the menu, crafting signature coffee drinks and house-made sauces for their breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Focused on fresh, high-quality ingredients and partnerships with local suppliers, Sweet Palm Coffee offers guests a distinctive and vibrant Lowcountry Charleston experience. Opened October 2025.

UNDERGROUND CHUCK’S
2126 Henry Tecklenburg Drive, Charleston
undergroundchucks.com | @undergroundchucksrestaurant 

Underground Chuck’s has opened its first South Carolina location, bringing genuine hospitality, elevated bar fare and a laid-back atmosphere to the neighborhood. Enjoy craveable American-style burgers, USDA steaks, hand-breaded tenders, craft beers and signature cocktails, all served with a friendly smile. This new spot aims to become a go-to for delicious comfort food and good times. Opened November 2025. 

RESTAURANT NEWS

ELI’S TABLE REOPENS
129 Meeting Street, Charleston
elistable.com | @elistable

Eli’s Table, a longtime Charleston favorite, has reopened with a refreshed look and updated menu. Owned by Sam Mustafa of Charleston Hospitality Group, the renovation features a larger 15-seat bar, high exposed ceilings and a redesigned courtyard filled with greenery. The menu will showcase returning favorites like Duck and Waffle alongside new dishes crafted by the culinary team. Reopened November 2025.

MONDO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT EXPANSION
915 Folly Road, James Island
eatatmondos.com | @mondositaliancuisine

Mondo’s Italian Restaurant, a beloved James Island staple for 27 years, has unveiled a major renovation and expansion at its longtime location in the Shoppes of Folly Road. The refreshed space features an expanded dining room with additional bar seating, larger tables for families and groups and a brand-new kitchen outfitted with a hybrid wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza oven. This marks the first time Mondo’s will serve pizza, adding a new layer to Charleston’s Italian dining scene. Unveiled October 2025.

PROPHET COFFEE NEW LOCATION
194 Jackson Street, Charleston
prophet-coffee.com | @prophet_coffee 

Prophet Coffee has expanded into downtown Charleston. The founders, Bryson and Savanna Purcell, originally opened the smallest café in the Charleston area, serving craft coffee inside a 1996 Subaru Sambar Classic that was parked in North Charleston. A few months later, they debuted Prophet Coffee as a brick-and-mortar cafe at 4411 Spruill Avenue, a space they then traded for a larger one next door. Prophet Coffee patrons can expect coconut cold brews, lattes and masala chai at the shop’s first peninsula location. Opened October 2025.

THE PASS NEW LOCATION
976 Houston Northcutt Boulevard, Mount Pleasant
thepasschs.com | @thepasschs

Chef Anthony Marini’s beloved downtown Charleston sandwich shop is set to open a second location in Mount Pleasant’s Northcutt Plaza. Known for its unapologetically interesting sandwiches, antipasto platters, Italian snacks and wines, The Pass has built a devoted following since opening in 2021 in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood. The new 1,100-square-foot space will bring the same flavor-packed menu, including the viral Such a Nice Italian Boy sandwich, plus new additions created just for Mount Pleasant area guests. The Pass Mount Pleasant will also expand catering and delivery options to reach Mount Pleasant, Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms. Opened January 2026.

RETAIL & BUSINESS

LADYBIRD BOOKS
229 King Street, Charleston
ladybirdbooks.org | @ladybirdbooks_chs

Ladybird Books has arrived in Charleston, with every shelf featuring bestselling literary fiction, contemporary Southern fiction and nonfiction, culture-driven cookbooks, a “How to Be a Human” section for memoirs and other thought-provoking works. Ladybird Books is the vision of Summer Anderson, whose life and career have long centered on a passion for stories. Before bookselling, she worked in events in New York but found her true calling at Books-A-Million, the company her husband’s grandfather founded. Over the past 15 years, she has curated, read, reviewed and recommended titles through her platform, Summer Says. Beyond books, this shop also carries an eclectic selection of greeting cards, wrapping paper and gifts. Opened October 2025.

LA COQUETA
130 Market Street, Charleston
us.lacoquetakids.com | @lacoquetakids

La Coqueta, the British children’s wear brand renowned for its timeless, Spanish-inspired designs, has opened its first U.S. retail location in Charleston. The long-term pop-up at The Charleston Place marks a key and exciting milestone in La Coqueta’s continued international expansion. It is a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship and thoughtful design – key values that resonate deeply with the Charleston community. The Charleston store showcases a carefully curated selection of La Coqueta’s signature collections for babies and children, including best-selling styles and seasonal favorites. With interiors reflecting the brand’s elegant and nostalgic aesthetic, the space is designed to offer a warm, family-friendly environment infused with the brand’s heritage-inspired sensibility. Opened October 2025.

MODERN MOVEMENT YOGA OPENS
140 East Bay Street, Suite B, Charleston
modernmovementyoga.com | @modern_movement_yoga

Modern Movement Yoga is a locally-owned boutique fitness studio dedicated to building strength, resilience and community. Offering yoga, pilates, strength, sculpt and meditation classes, the studio will focus on helping individuals nurture both mind and body. Founded by women and rooted in Charleston, Modern Movement Yoga provides an experience that both challenges and supports every participant. Each detail of the studio’s thoughtfully designed space is intended to guide guests on their personal journey toward balance, strength and peace. Opening January 2026.

PINK CHICKEN RELOCATES
202 King Street, Charleston
pinkchicken.com  | @pinkchickenny

For more than a decade, King Street has been the Lowcountry home of Pink Chicken. The Charleston community has embraced the brand, celebrated with it and grown alongside it and now Pink Chicken is taking the next step. The beloved children’s clothing boutique is moving just across the street into a larger, brighter space designed to host more events, create lasting memories and spread even more sunshine. This exciting new chapter reflects Pink Chicken’s love for Charleston’s charm and its commitment to providing a welcoming space where families, children and friends can gather. Opened October 2025. 

RANCHER HAT BAR
309 King Street, Charleston
rancherhatbar.com | @rancherhatbar 

Rancher Hat Bar is now open on King Street. Specializing in high-quality, customizable hats, the new boutique offers guests the chance to design their own look through a variety of trims, bands, charms, branding and embellishments. This will be a new go-to for hat lovers and anyone who enjoys personalizing their accessories. With its stylish workshop-inspired atmosphere and emphasis on creativity, Rancher Hat Bar will add a unique, hands-on retail experience to one of the city’s most iconic streets. Opened November 2025. 

SLOANE BOUTIQUE
409 King Street, Suite 101, Charleston
sloaneboutiquemtp.com | @sloaneboutique_

Sloane Boutique has opened a new location on King Street. Elevate any everyday look at the ultimate destination for curated selections of clothing, jewelry and accessories. Shoppers can discover a handpicked lineup featuring stylish tops, versatile bottoms, eye-catching dresses and statement accessories. Whether one is exploring historic streets or unwinding by the scenic waterfront, Sloane Boutique embodies the charm of Charleston, ensuring effortless style throughout the Lowcountry and wherever else the journey leads. Opened October 2025. 

SOCCER5
3297 Pacific Street, North Charleston
soccer5usa.com | @soccer5charleston

Soccer5, the premier indoor soccer complex, has made its debut in North Charleston, introducing a new level of sports entertainment to the region. Located just outside the heart of the city, this state-of-the-art facility features full-size indoor fields, turf rentals, league play, pick-up matches and training sessions, ideal for players of all ages and skill levels. With flexible booking options, a modern design and amenities geared toward both serious athletes and casual players, Soccer5 aims to become a central hub for the local soccer community. Opened December 2025.

STONEY CLOVER LANE
316 King Street, Charleston
stoneycloverlane.com | @stoneyclover

Stoney Clover Lane, the beloved accessories brand known for its customizable bags, pouches and patches, has opened its first South Carolina location in the Charleston area. The new store offers the signature Stoney Clover experience, on-site customizations, exclusive events and a full range of travel and lifestyle essentials. Bright, playful and endlessly personal, the boutique brings the brand’s signature blend of style and self-expression to the Charleston area. Opened October 2025.

THE WORKS
1137 Savannah Highway, Suite 620, Charleston
theworkschs.com | @theworkschs

The Works has opened a sixth studio which will be a non-heated space offering mat sculpt, yoga and cardio classes. Founded in 2018 by Sarah Frick, The Works, A Sweat Studio has grown into a vibrant community with multiple locations across Charleston’s peninsula and Mount Pleasant. The new West Ashley location is dedicated exclusively to The Works Renew, a lower-impact yoga and sculpt concept first introduced in Mount Pleasant in 2024. Opened December 2025. 

ACCOMMODATIONS

FAIRFIELD BY MARRIOTT® HOTEL
144 Bee Street, Charleston
fairfieldinn.com | @fairfieldhotels

The 129-room Fairfield by Marriott in Charleston opened with a new décor that provides guests with a feeling of warmth and calm while traveling. The new guestroom design is impactful, unique and addresses the functional needs of the Fairfield guest for a seamless experience. The rooms were designed with the modern traveler’s needs to stay productive on the road in mind, without overcomplicating the guestroom. Additional hotel amenities include a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, complimentary hot breakfast and free Wi-Fi. Opened November 2025.

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT CHARLESTON PATRIOTS POINT
15 Harry M. Hallman Jr. Boulevard, Mount Pleasant
marriott.com | @marriottbonvoy

Residence Inn by Marriott Charleston Patriots Point will be a new 100-room all-suite hotel offering stunning views of the harbor, historic downtown Charleston and the College of Charleston Athletic Complex, including the Cougars Baseball Stadium. This newly built property will feature beautifully appointed suites with fully equipped kitchens, perfect for short or extended stays. Guests will be able to enjoy the comfort of modern amenities while taking in the charm of Charleston’s scenic surroundings. The gorgeous lobby and Patriots Bar will provide a welcoming space to relax or socialize. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, Residence Inn Charleston Patriots Point will combine comfort, convenience and unforgettable views to create a memorable stay in the heart of the Lowcountry. Opening February 2026.

THE MILLS HOUSE SEASONAL PACKAGES
115 Meeting Street, Charleston
millshouse.com | @the_mills_house

The Mills House has introduced Events by Iron Rose, a highly personalized private dining experience for every event, from cocktail receptions to seated dinners for 30 to 200 guests. Groups can choose from distinctive venues like the historic outdoor courtyard, accommodating up to 150 guests; Iron Rose’s private dining room, accommodating up to 120 guests; or a full restaurant buyout, accommodating up to 200 guests. In addition, Events by Iron Rose now offers a Taste of Charleston group experience which highlights iconic Southern staples like Mini Tomato Pies, Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs, a Lowcountry Grits Bar, Biscuit Bar or Oyster Bar so groups can enjoy the bounty of the Lowcountry against the sophisticated backdrop of The Mills House. Offerings can now be booked year-round. Debuted November 2025.

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS

AMERICAN GARDENS OPENS
141 Meeting Street, Charleston
americangardenschs.com | @americangardens

American Gardens, now open on King Street beside the Charleston Library Society, introduces a fresh, thoughtfully designed green space to downtown Charleston. From BHC of The Charleston Place and the new Cooper Hotel, this one-acre garden offers an urban retreat complete with year-round community programming, gathering areas and quiet corners to unwind. Envisioned as a living reflection of the city’s role in shaping the American story, the space honors Charleston’s layered past while embracing its dynamic present. American Gardens adds a meaningful new chapter to the city’s public landscape, an inviting stop for travelers exploring what’s new in the Charleston area. Opened November 2025.

CHARLESTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT NEW FLIGHT TO CANCUN
5500 International Boulevard, North Charleston
iflychs.com | @iflychs

Breeze Airways is going international! The Seriously Nice™ airline will commence its first-ever flights beyond the U.S., with nonstop service from Charleston to Cancun, Mexico. The new route begins in January 2026, just in time for a winter beach escape. This is a historic first for Breeze and for Charleston: the airline’s first international destination and Charleston’s inaugural nonstop connection to the Caribbean. Launching January 2026. 

INTERNATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM UNVEILS SPEAKING TRUTH EXHIBITION
14 Wharfside Street, Charleston
iaamuseum.org | @iaammuseum

The new Speaking Truth exhibit serves as a national archive of family oral histories reflecting on the lasting impact of slavery, emphasizing that reconciliation begins with truth, facing the realities of slavery and its enduring effects, while offering a path toward understanding, healing and collective renewal. Permanently housed in the museum’s Center for Family History, Speaking Truth features 52 testimonials from Americans sharing their families’ connections to enslavement, its ongoing legacy and efforts toward reconciliation. The short videos capture personal discoveries made through family stories, letters, plantation ledgers and wills that inspired participants to confront their family histories and work toward atonement. With connections to early American colonists, prominent slave traders and signers of the Declaration of Independence, these accounts reveal a more complete and unflinching history of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and chattel slavery in what became the United States. Opened October 2025. 

HOLIDAY CARD PAINTING WITH REBECCA ILLUSTRATED AT THE MILLS HOUSE
115 Meeting Street, Charleston
millshouse.com | @the_mills_house

Guests and locals alike are encouraged to let their creativity shine at the holiday card painting station at Rebecca Illustrated, located on the ground floor of The Mills House. Priced at $15, the holiday card painting kit includes a custom Mills House postcard, painting supplies and a stamp. Once complete, postcards can be dropped into the pink mailbox outside the Rebecca Illustrated shop and The Mills House will take care of mailing them. Launched December 2025.

MIDDLETON PLACE WELCOMES CONVERSATIONS OF FREEDOM EXHIBITION
4300 Ashley River Road, Charleston
middletonplace.org | @middletonplace

Middleton Place Foundation received a grant from the SC250 Commission to support a new exhibition in the historic South Flanker, the surviving portion of the original house complex. The exhibition will explore the Revolutionary era through stories that inspire reflection, dialogue and shared understanding, while highlighting South Carolina’s pivotal yet often underrecognized role in the American Revolution. As the home of Arthur Middleton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a National Historic Landmark with deep Revolutionary ties, the House Museum will provide a unique Lowcountry setting for examining the layered meanings of liberty and independence. Featuring carefully interpreted period rooms, personal narratives and historical objects, the exhibition will examine the ideological, political and personal struggles of the era, encouraging reflection on the complexities and contradictions of freedom in the nation’s founding and will be accompanied by a year-long series of public programs, special tours and educational initiatives as part of the statewide 250th commemoration. Opening April 2026.

MUSEUM MILE MONTH
charlestonmuseummile.org  

During the month of January 2026, enjoy access to participating Museum Mile sites for the purchase of one low ticket price. With the Museum Mile Month pass, visitors can spend an entire month learning about Charleston’s rich history and culture while visiting six museums, five historic houses, four scenic parks and many other historically significant sites., in the order that best fits your schedule. January 1 – 31, 2026.

THE CHARLESTON MUSEUM PRESENTS RINGLEADERS OF REBELLION
360 Meeting Street, Charleston
charlestonmuseum.org | @charlestonmuseum

The Charleston Museum presents a major special exhibition, Ringleaders of Rebellion: Charleston in Revolt, 1775 – 1783. The exhibition will explore Charleston and the Lowcountry’s pivotal role in the American Revolution, from early resistance against the Crown to the final victory for independence, with major topics including the causes of the war, the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, the Siege and British occupation of Charleston and the crucial roles played by enslaved people in the conflict. Featuring highlights from the Museum’s extensive collections along with significant national and international loans, the exhibit will include rare items such as the HMS Bristol logbook and one of the first copies of the Declaration of Independence printed in Charleston by Peter Timothy, both displayed for limited engagements. Additional objects range from weapons and military gear to garments belonging to Thomas Heyward, Henry Laurens, Thomas Sumter and Eliza Lucas Pinckney, as well as artifacts associated with Revolutionary War figures William Washington and George Washington. Archaeological materials recovered from key battles and sieges across South Carolina will also be on view. Runs January 31 – September 20, 2026. 

HIGHLIGHTED SPECIAL EVENTS

LOWCOUNTRY OYSTER FESTIVAL
1235 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant
lowcountryhospitalityassociation.com

The Lowcountry Oyster Festival is the world’s largest oyster festival. Highlights include live music on the main stage, raw oyster eating and shucking contests, a children’s area (Pluff-a-Palooza) and a food court showcasing a variety of local favorite restaurants to satisfy everyone’s taste. There will also be wine, specialty cocktails and a selection of domestic and imported beers available for purchase. February 1, 2026.

SOUTHEASTERN WILDLIFE EXPOSITION RETURNS
sewe.com | @sewe

SEWE is a three-day showcase of everything to love about wildlife and nature. It brings together people of all ages, men and women, sportsmen and conservationists, artists and artisans, fans and families. Through an incredible lineup of events including fine art exhibits, conservation education, sporting demonstrations and parties, SEWE invites all to explore their “wild” side and pay tribute to the naturally beautiful world. February 13 – 15, 2026.

CHARLESTON WINE + FOOD CELEBRATES 20 YEARS
1061 Everglades Avenue, North Charleston
charlestonwineandfood.com | @chswineandfood

Charleston Wine + Food returns, marking the festival’s 20th anniversary. This milestone year will be reflected in programming that celebrates the past, present and future of Charleston’s culinary community, with five days of signature events, chef demos, beverage tastings and one-of-a-kind dinners. March 4 – 8, 2026. 

THE CHARLESTON FESTIVAL
thecharlestonfestivalsc.org | @historiccharlestonfoundation

Since 1947, Historic Charleston Foundation has celebrated houses, history and culture through its annual Spring festival, originally titled the Festival of Houses and Gardens. As the Foundation’s longest-running fundraising and educational event, the Festival has evolved into a celebration of Charleston’s history, architecture, culture and community. Known as The Charleston Festival since 2025 to reflect this evolution, the annual event continues to present House & Garden Tours and exclusive programming, in addition to a variety of new experiences to enjoy. March 18 – April 11, 2026.

Source: Explore Charleston

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