Things to Do This Weekend in Charleston

Check out the South Carolina Aquarium from a whole new perspective with Aquarium Aglow. Aquarium Aglow is an intricate light show that stretches throughout the aquarium. Using thousands of lights and an array of colors, the aquarium transforms its space into something truly magical. This memorable event is ticketed, with prices varying depending on the day you plan to attend.

Charleston Stage revives its beloved original adaptation of A Christmas Carol, inviting audiences back to Victorian London for a timeless holiday journey with Ebenezer Scrooge. Featuring classic carols and a professional cast portraying more than 50 characters, this long-standing Lowcountry tradition fills the season with warmth and wonder.

Holiday Strings at the Library Society offers an intimate, festive evening of chamber music to welcome the season. Guests can enjoy a cherished tradition featuring a selection of seasonal works, announced from the stage.

On Friday, December 12, enjoy two family-friendly holiday movies outdoors on a 14-foot giant TV at 6 PM and 8 PM. Free hot chocolate and snacks will be provided for children.

Guests are invited to join Candlefish Charleston for an immersive fragrance-blending workshop. Participants will craft two 9-oz candles, choosing either from the shop’s 100-fragrance library or by blending a custom scent with guidance from expert chandlers. Finished candles can be picked up the next day or shipped. Reserve a spot for a uniquely hands-on candle-making experience.

Join us for an intimate Pilates Class at the Gibbes. We will work through a focused, challenging, and fun Pilates class with Taylor Grant of Taylor Grant Pilates. Max of 25 people. Please bring your mat to class. We look forward to working out together surrounded by the beauty and art collection at the Gibbes!

The Holiday Parade of Boats transforms Charleston Harbor into a dazzling display of holiday cheer. Watch as a glittering fleet of boats, adorned with twinkling lights and festive décor, sails across the water in a magical procession that has become one of the Lowcountry’s most beloved seasonal traditions.

Join Deep Water Vineyard for their Weekend Wine-Downs every Saturday, rain or shine! Enjoy $15 wine tastings (hourly, includes a souvenir glass), sip fun drinks from thier patio bar, and relax with live music and rotating food trucks. Bring the whole crew: kids are welcome, and well-behaved, leashed dogs can roam the grounds with you.

Founded in 1989, the Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square is a beloved community event. You will find a variety of local produce, plants, herbs, and cut flowers as well as breakfast and lunch vendors, live entertainment, and an assortment of juried arts and crafts from local artisans every Saturday at the Market.

The annual Holiday Market & Craft Show offers a festive shopping experience with fresh produce, baked goods, hot food, and homemade preserves, along with unique handcrafted gifts from local artisans. Browse a beautiful selection of Christmas ornaments, glasswork, whimsical crafts, and original art from talented potters, artists, and photographers.

Experience Charleston’s 42nd Annual Holiday Spirituals Concert at Drayton Hall on December 14, 2025, from 3:30–5:00 PM. Held in the historic cellar, Ann Caldwell and The Magnolia Singers perform soulful spirituals and hymns, accompanied by a light wassail reception and access to Drayton Hall’s historic grounds.

Bowen’s Fa La La Fest takes place December 14 from 12–5 PM EST at Bowen’s Island Sunset View Dock. This festive coastal market features live music, food trucks, hot cocoa, s’mores, local vendors, artists, and oyster shell decorating—perfect for a holiday outing by the water.

This festive workshop at the Charleston Museum invites participants to create their own Lowcountry-inspired holiday swag using seasonal evergreens, native grasses, and palms. Hosted by Roadside Blooms, the event includes a self-guided tour of the decorated Joseph Manigault House before crafting in its outdoor garden. All materials are provided for a creative, seasonal experience.

This feel-good event features a mat Pilates session led by Isa Pilates, followed by plenty of cuddles with adoptable pups from Dusty Tails, a local foster-based rescue. Participants can meet the dogs, learn about fostering opportunities, and enjoy an uplifting workout with a heartwarming mission.

The Sunday Brunch Farmers Market takes place year-round behind The Charleston Pour House, featuring 40+ local vendors, live music, delicious food, and a full bar. Open Sundays from 11am–3pm, with free live music on the deck stage until 9.

Every second Sunday of the month from noon until 5 pm, the City of Charleston shuts down King Street from Queen to Calhoun to through traffic. In addition, no cars are allowed to park, giving pedestrians the ability to stroll through the street and visit businesses they might not have known about. There are also artists displaying their work on the street and unique food vendors tempting guests with their fare.

This family-friendly holiday event invites children to meet Santa, enjoy two professional photos, and decorate their own sugar cookie at a festive cookie-decorating station. Held on Sunday, December 14 from 10:00am to 1:30pm, the celebration also offers food and coffee drink specials for purchase. Tickets are $25 per child and include photos and cookie-decorating access.

This vibrant festival brings together the Jewish community and the wider community to commemorate the holiday season. This year’s event will feature live entertainment, a variety of food stations, and various children’s activities for families. The event also includes the lighting of the menorah candles at sundown.