Travel

Events in South Carolina

Chris Rand
| October 9, 2024 | 4 Minute Read
Illustration of landmarks in South Carolina Adam Grason

Editor’s Note: Some events may be affected by recent storms in various South Carolina counties, please call ahead before traveling to any of the events listed.

Get ready for an exciting adventure through vibrant South Carolina! From late October 2024 to mid-February 2025, the Palmetto State offers a dazzling array of festivals, sports competitions, cultural celebrations, and holiday extravaganzas that will delight locals and visitors alike.

For example, the Lowcountry Oyster Festival on February 2nd in Mount Pleasant is a seafood lover's paradise. Attendees can shuck and slurp fresh oysters to their heart's content while enjoying live music and sampling delicious offerings from local restaurants, all in support of worthy charities.

Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor activities, mouthwatering culinary experiences, or enriching cultural events, South Carolina has something for everyone in this action-packed winter season.

Calendar of Events

Here's a list of popular and interesting events in South Carolina from late October 2024 to mid-February 2025:

Oct. 26 | MCCLELLANVILLE

Legends and Lore at Hampton Plantation

Step back in time at this historic plantation in McClellanville. Visitors can enjoy spooky storytelling and guided tours that bring the plantation's rich history to life.

Oct. 27 | COLUMBIA

Howl-O-Ween at Sesquicentennial State Park

Bring your furry friends for a Halloween celebration at this Columbia park. The event features a costume contest for pets and their owners, as well as trick-or-treating and fun activities for the whole family.

Oct. 28 | LEXINGTON

Drive for Gold: Golf Tournament

Tee off for a good cause at this Special Olympics South Carolina fundraiser. Golfers of all skill levels can enjoy a day on the green while supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Nov. 7–10 | MYRTLE BEACH

Dickens Christmas Show & Festival

Step into a Victorian Holiday Marketplace at this award-winning event in Myrtle Beach. Visitors can find unique gifts for everyone on their holiday shopping list while enjoying the festive atmosphere and entertainment.

Nov. 15 – Dec. 31 | CHARLESTON

Holiday Festival of Lights

Enjoy a magical winter wonderland at James Island County Park in Charleston. Visitors can drive through a dazzling 3-mile display of twinkling lights and explore Santa's Village, Winter Wonderland and other festive attractions.

Nov. 16 | CHARLESTON

2024 Gala: A Special Night for Special Olympics

Dress up for an elegant evening in support of Special Olympics South Carolina. Attendees can enjoy fine dining, entertainment and a silent auction while celebrating the achievements of Special Olympics athletes.

Nov, 25, 2024 – Jan. 1, 2025 | HILTON HEAD ISLAND

Harbour Town Lights

Ring in the New Year with this dazzling holiday light display on Hilton Head Island. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment and activities while supporting a good cause through donations of canned food and unwrapped toys.

Nov. 30, 2024 – Jan 5, 2025 (Select Days) | MURRELLS INLET

Brookgreen Gardens' Nights of a Thousand Candles

Experience a magical evening at Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet. Over 2,700 hand-lit candles and sparkling lights illuminate the gardens, while visitors can enjoy live performances, music and delicious food in this enchanting setting.

Dec. 5–8 | COLUMBIA

Holiday Market

Shop till you drop at this festive event held at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds in Columbia. This Junior League fundraiser offers a wide variety of holiday gifts and decorations while supporting local community projects.

Dec. 7 | COLUMBIA

Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade

Get into the holiday spirit at this annual parade in Columbia. Spectators can enjoy colorful floats, marching bands, and performances as the procession makes its way along Bull and Gervais streets.

Dec. 22 | HILTON HEAD ISLAND

Jingle Jingle Bridge Run

Lace up your running shoes for this festive 5K and 10K event on Hilton Head Island. Participants are encouraged to don their best holiday costumes as they race across the island's scenic bridges.

Jan. 25 | HILTON HEAD ISLAND

Hilton Head Snow Day

Experience a winter wonderland on Hilton Head Island, complete with a snowfield and inflatable rides. This unique event supports the Hilton Head Island Recreation Association Children's Scholarship Fund.

Jan. 25 | CHARLESON

Bo's Roast and Chili Cook Off

Indulge in delicious oysters and chili at this culinary event on James Island in Charleston. Attendees can enjoy live bands and kids' activities while supporting Islands Against Cancer and the Clear Cell Sarcoma Foundation.

Feb. 1–2 | MYRTLE BEACH

Ice Breakers Competition

Young performers take center stage at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. This event showcases talented youth in various performance categories, creating memorable experiences for participants and audiences alike.

Feb. 2 | CHARLESTON

Lowcountry Oyster Festival

Shuck and slurp at this beloved Charleston event in Mount Pleasant. Visitors can enjoy fresh oysters, live music, and a food court featuring local restaurants, all while supporting local charities.

Feb. 8 | COLUMBIA

Cupid's Chase Columbia

Run, walk, or roll in this 5K event in Columbia. Participants can get their hearts pumping while supporting Community Options' work with people with disabilities.

Feb. 14–16 | CHARLTESON

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition

Nature and art enthusiasts flock to Charleston for this annual expo. Visitors can enjoy wildlife art, exhibits, presentations, and demonstrations at various sites throughout the city.

Feb. 19–23 | HILTON HEAD ISLAND

Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival

Seafood lovers rejoice at this week-long celebration on Hilton Head Island. The event showcases local chefs, fresh seafood and live music while benefiting local charities.

Feb. 18–23 | BEAUFORT

Beaufort International Film Festival

Cinema enthusiasts gather in Beaufort for this acclaimed film festival. The event features screenings of animations, shorts, features, documentaries and student films.

Feb. 19–23 | AIKEN

Heart Show in Aiken

Music and philanthropy come together in this annual show benefiting the Aiken Women's Heart Board. Attendees can enjoy live performances while supporting a good cause.

Feb. 22 | GREENVILLE

Sweetheart Charity Ball

Greenville hosts this elegant gala benefiting Meals on Wheels. Guests can enjoy dinner, cocktails, live music, dancing and auctions at this adults-only event.

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