Charleston SC Events September October 2016

01 Sep 2016

The Big Build

Sept 1 - 24

The Children's Museum of the Lowcountry is excited to present The Big Build special exhibit. The exhibit is an exciting, hands-on and play-based exhibit where children are invited to "Be the Builder" and construct endless structures using KAPLA, LEGO and Imagination Playground blocks and many more. In addition to manipulatives, The Big Build will feature a catenary arch, special toddler area, literacy connections and opportunities for children to explore engineering, design and construction concepts through play. 843-853-8962, explorecml.org

 

Charleston Night Market

Sept 1 - Dec 31

Spend your weekends at the market with more than 75 artisans, music, and artists! Open Friday and Saturday nights through December. The Night Market provides the opportunity to discover unique, local and handcrafted items, and is one of the largest and most diverse Artisan markets stretching 3 blocks! Join us each weekend with live music, exciting artists and a whole lot of Charleston. 6:30-10:30pm. thecharlestoncitymarket.com

 

Wild Blue Ropes After School Explorers Program

Sept 1 - Oct 27

The Wild Blue Ropes Explorers program is purposefully designed to help increase working memory & promote academic success, through physical activity and outdoor experience. For Fall / Winter 2016 our outdoor high climbing adventure programs will run on Thursday afternoons- for 5 week periods- with three available sessions. The After School Adventure program helps to develop students' skills in critical thinking, problem solving, motor planning, agility, stamina, self awareness & confidence. Wild Blue Ropes After School Program will run from 4 to 6 pm and is available for children 8 to 14 years old. 843-225-1555, wildblueropes.com

 

8th Annual Charleston Lowcountry Jazz Festival

Sept 2 - 4

The 2016 Lowcountry Jazz Festival features so many award-winning, genre-crossing jazz-soul-R&B-pop artists that organizers had to add an extra day to the schedule. Jazz superstars Marcus Miller, Richard Elliot, Jonathan Butler and Gerald Albright will headline the 2016 Greater Charleston Lowcountry Jazz Festival on Labor Day Weekend. Other artists for this year’s festival include Pieces of a Dream, Euge Groove, Sax Pack, Charlton Singleton and the Smooth Jazz Orchestra, BK Jackson, Mike Phillips & Karen Briggs, and Jose Valentino Ruiz. Additional artists will be announced as they are confirmed. North Charleston Performing Arts Center, 843-529-5000. lowcountryjazzfest.com

 

Charleston Restaurant Week

Sept 7 - 18

The next installments of Charleston Restaurant Week are set! The event, executed by the Greater Charleston Restaurant Association, is one of the most highly anticipated culinary events in the Charleston area. It is an opportunity to enjoy the world-renowned cuisine of the Lowcountry as participating restaurants offer prix fixe lunch and dinner menus. For a full list of participating restaurants, please visit the website. charlestonrestaurantassociation.com

 

7th Annual Dog Day Afternoon

Sept 10

Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark at North Charleston Wannamaker County Park will be open to canines and their owners from 12 - 5 p.m. Dogs can splash around the 27,000-sq. ft. Big Kahuna wave pool and the Rollin’ River lazy river. The refreshing Otter Bay kiddie pool area, recommended for smaller pooches, will also be open for frolicking. To maximize canine fun, owners will not be allowed in the water at Dog Day Afternoon. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at park concession stands to cool down the humans. Also on site at Dog Day Afternoon will be dog-related vendors as well as several non-profit rescue groups, so pet owners are encouraged to stop by to support these great organizations. Dogs must be up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations to enter the event. 843-795-4386. ccprc.com

43rd Annual S.C. International Trade Conference

Sept 12 - 14

Held at the Wild Dunes Resort on the beautiful Isle of Palms. With over 500 attendees present last year, the Conference expects an even greater registration demand for the 2016 Conference and encourage you to reserve early once the registration system is open. The South Carolina International Trade Conference will present an informative program of nationally recognized speakers again this year, as well as the networking opportunities you have come to expect. scitc.org

 

3rd Annual Charleston Water SportsFest

Sept 12 - 18

A marketing initiative of the Charleston Area Sports Commission, Charleston Water SportsFest includes seven days of continuous activities on the Lowcountry's greatest asset, water! CWSF includes businesses, organizations and individuals providing a number of “on the water” options for visitors ready for a get-away vacation: COMPETITIVE SPORTS, RECREATIONAL SPORTS, INSTRUCTIONAL LESSONS, LEISURE ACTIVITIES – Excursions, exhibitions, tours and cruises throughout the Charleston region. charlestonwatersportsfest.com

 

Yoga and Brewsday

Sept 13, 27 and Oct 11

Old Towne Creek County Park opens on select weekdays this fall, inviting the public to turn their Tuesday into a “Brewsday!” This fall’s event features not only craft beer, food trucks and live music, but also a free yoga program. 5-7 pm. All-levels yoga class from 6-6:45pm. 843-795-4386

 

Yappy Hour

Sept 15 and Oct 13

Dog owners are invited to pick up man’s best friend after work and join the fun at James Island County Park. Charleston County Parks invites pets and their people to enjoy the popular Yappy Hour series. Yappy Hour features live music and beverages for sale in the off-leash dog park. Best of all, Yappy Hour is free with park admission! Gate admission to James Island County Park is $2 per person or free with the Charleston County Parks Gold Pass. You and your dog can mingle with friends old and new, while enjoying a pet-friendly atmosphere in the park. Beverages, including beer and Coke products, are available for an additional fee. Outside alcohol and coolers are prohibited. 843-795-4386, ccprc.com

 

Scottish Games & Highland Gathering

Sept 17

Held on the back lawn of Boone Hall Plantation, this award-winning “Scotland for the Day” event is the second oldest Scottish Games in the Southeast and is known nationwide as one of the nicest and friendliest Games around. Enjoy a variety of competitions which originated in Scotland, including feats of strength such as tossing the caber (telephone pole) and high-stepping highland dancers. Scottish foods and music will be provided, and groups performing Scottish and Irish folk songs during the day. Children can participate in organized children’s games, and have their faces painted. Boone Hall Plantation. 9am-5pm. 843-884-4371. charlestonscots.org

 

Fam Jam Festival

Sept 17

Although sometimes dismissed as "just fun,"PLAY is fundamental for children to learn about and interact with their world and gain mental, physical and social skills necessary to succeed in their adult lives. As professor Karen Hutchinson of Rowan University says, "PLAY is actually the work of a child in which they are preparing themselves for adult roles and society at large." For a child, PLAY is the vehicle for exploring and learning, developing new skills and connecting with others. Through self-directed PLAY, children can follow their interests, explore the unknown, link outcomes with choices, conquer their fears and make friends. PLAY also has important links to developing key skills that serve as a foundation for lifelong success, including critical thinking, communication, problem solving and collaboration. 10-2pm. Marion Square, 843-853-8962. explorecml.org

 

4th Annual Kiawah Island Triathlon

Sept 18

Tri-Kiawah will be a USAT sanctioned intermediate distance competition featuring a .7-mile swim, 25.1-mile bike and 6.1-mile run. This race is currently the only intermediate distance triathlon in the Charleston area to feature an ocean swim. The Triathlon will not only test beginner triathletes, but seasoned competitors alike in a unique environment that showcases Kiawah’s diverse natural habitats and unparalleled beauty.Night Heron Park. 843-768-2121, kiawahtriathlon.com

 

36th Annual Taste of Charleston

Sept 23 - 25

This three-day culinary celebration of Lowcountry cuisine has been named one of the "Top 20 events in the Southeast" by Southeastern Tourism Society. Check website for specific listings and participants. Starting Friday is the Iron Chef Competitionat the Culinary Institute of Charleston, Palmer Campus, which showcases local sheds in a heated head-to-head battle in the kitchen. The 2nd day of the event, Saturday, is the Sweet & Southern on Charleston Harbor, which will feature a singer/songwriter showcase with delicious Southern fare from local caterers. The main event on Sunday, will be held at Boone Hall Plantation, where it is transformed into a sea of culinary enchantment! 50 of the Lowcountry's favorite casual and fine dining restaurants will be serving sample size portions + beer and wine.843-577-4030. charlestonrestaurantassociation.com

 

Southern Women's Show

Sept 23 - 25

The Southern Women's Show is finally coming to Charleston! On Sept. 23-25, national and local exhibitors will fill the Charleston Area Convention Center to share fashion, food, fitness, fun and more with thousands of guests. Come enjoy cooking demos, fashion shows, special guest appearances and much more. Bring your friends, mothers, sisters and grandmothers for entertainment for a special girls day out! Fri 10-7pm, Sat 10-5pm, Sun 11-5pm. southernshows.com

 

MOJA Arts Festival

Sept 29 - Oct 9

Selected as one of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 events, the Festival promises an exciting line-up of events with a rich variety of traditional favorites. The Festival highlights the many African-American and Caribbean contributions to western and world cultures. MOJA’s wide range of events include visual arts, classical music, dance, gospel, jazz, poetry, R&B music, storytelling, theatre, children’s activities, traditional crafts, ethnic food, and much more. Nearly half of the events are admission free. Multiple Venues. 843-724-7305. mojafestival.com

 

Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch

Oct 1 - 31

The Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch is the Lowcountry's most popular fall festival family fun event. In addition to a large corn maze, attractions include two of the largest jump pillows in the state, a Family Friendly Monster Hayride, Giant Slide Tower, Hay Mountain, two rock climbing walls, playground area, giant rope spider web, goat walk and rabbit enclosure, and of course, there will be plenty of pumpkins.Mon-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 11am-6pm. 843-884-4371, boonehallpumpkinpatch.com

 

Isle of Palms Connector Run and Walk

Oct 1

The Isle of Palms Connector Run and Walk for the Child returns on October 3, 2015. Proceeds benefit the prevention and healing of child abuse in the Charleston area. $35 for race registrations received by 9/30/2015, and $40 for all race entries received between 10/1/2015 to 10/3/2015. ioprun.com

 

14th Annual Scrumptious Summerville Kitchen Tour

Oct 2

The Kitchen Tour is a unique delight for the senses as patrons tour grand homes in Summerville. This year, the route is on the edge of town in the traditional Southern neighborhood of Guilford Gates. This unique tour will include eleven homes, each uniquely built and decorated. In addition, the Kitchen Tour would not be complete without the opportunity to sample an array of dishes, pastries, and beverages prepared by premier Lowcountry chefs and offered in kitchen and garden settings.Local musicians perform in each home or garden, and area florists will grace the interior décor with floral arrangements. 1-5pm. 843-875-1551. scrumptioussummerville.com

25th Annual Latin American Festival

Oct 2

Experience sensational sounds and vibrant performances at the Latin American Festival at Wannamaker County Park! This annual event celebrates Latin American music, dance, art, food and children’s activities and is highlighted by amazing performances inspired by culture from around the globe. All ages are invited to come groove to live Latin music from seven-piece band Banda Tecno Caliente from 12–1 pm. The high energy Bachata Flow will bring merengue and bachata music to the stage from 2–3 p.m., and guests will end the day dancing along with the 11-piece dance group Orquesta K’Che from 4:30–6 pm. The festival’s stages will also feature high-energy performances and demonstrations. Charleston-based Buen Ache Dance Company will take the stage at 1 pm. This group specializes in telling stories though vibrant performances, focusing on the African contribution to Latino culture, music and dance. Members dress in brilliant costumes and draw on the folkloric dances of Cuba, Puerto Rico and other Caribbean nations. Captivating Capoeira Charleston, a Brazilian martial arts group, will perform at 1:30 pm. This ensemble’s folkloric presentation uses 500-year-old acrobatic movements, interactions and musical instruments to engage the audience and teach the Capoeira art form. After visitors work up an appetite on the dance floor, they’re invited to indulge in authentic cuisine from Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean, along with traditional festival foods and beverages. Kids will enjoy jump castles, crafts and the Charleston County Public Library’s educational area at Cypress Hall. 843-795-4386, charlestoncountyparks.com

 

40th Annual Fall Tour of Homes & Gardens

Oct 6 - 23

The historic beauty and charm of Charleston comes alive this October as friends of the Preservation Society of Charleston welcome you inside the private interiors of some of the nation’s most exceptional historic houses. Experience firsthand the rich history of Charleston's culture, architecture and hospitality on The Fall Tours. Discover the stories of these magnificent residences and the people who have lived in them for centuries and learn why visitors from all over the world are still drawn to this special place today. Different properties are featured each day, so whether you wish to learn about great periods in early American history or simply want to enjoy the ambience of Charleston living, these tours allow you experience the best of historic Charleston. Proceeds from The Fall Tours support the Society’s mission to preserve and respect the unique material and culture of Charleston. 843-722-4630. thefalltours.org

 

Dining for A Cause: A Benefit for Feed the Need

Oct 9

Steve Palmer, Jeremiah Bacon and Mickey Bakst invite you to join them for this year's Dining for a Cause: A Benefit for Feed The Need on Sunday, October 9. A number of local chefs are coming together to raise money for Feed The Need, a local organization committed to helping eliminate some of the economic burden that area soup kitchens and shelters face in today's economic environment. The Charleston chapter specifically serves approximately 500 meals per week using different service venues, including Tri-Country Family Ministries, Neighborhood House and 180 Place. The goal of the evening is to raise funds to ensure the program's success throughout 2016. All of the money will remain in Charleston, improving the lives of locals through community outreach. 6-10pm. The Cedar Room, 701 East Bay St.

 

Wild at Wingswood

Oct 15

Wild at Wingswood 2016 will be enhanced by the presence of a wonderful variety of live birds of prey including hawks, falcons, kites and owls. Nestled against the incredible backdrop that is the natural beauty of the Lowcountry, guests will relish each aspect of the evening’s activities, from ample dining options and premium open bar, to exclusive, handpicked auction items and experiences. Center for Birds of Prey, 843-971-7474. thecenterforbirdsofprey.org

 

28th Annual Children's Day Festival

Oct 16

From time-honored festival games and old-fashioned pony rides to enormous inflatable slides, live entertainment, wall climbing, face painting, and many other activities. Admission, all activities and parking are free. Food concessions are offered by East Cooper schools as a fundraising opportunity for their programs. Park West Recreation Complex. 12 - 5pm. 843-884-8517, comeonovermp.com

 

March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction

Oct 20

The Lowcountry’s top chefs show off their culinary talents in support of the March of Dimes. Come enjoy a night of giving with friends and community members featuring delectable tastings and exciting silent and live auctions. Every dollar raised supports the March of Dimes mission for stronger, healthier babies. Charleston Marriott. 6:00pm. 843-571-1776. marchofdimes.com/southcarolina

 

12th Annual Oyster Roast and Silent Auction

Oct 21

Good times, good food, good cause! With live music by the Shem Creek Boogie Band and all-you-can-eat BBQ and oysters, the Friends of the Hunley fundraiser has become one of the best annual events in Charleston. The event also features a popular silent auction filled with weekend getaways, Lowcountry arts, gift certificates and more. 7-10 pm. Visitor Center Bus Shed Downtown Charleston. hunley.org

 

Southern Fried Chicken Challenge

Oct 22

It's time to crown the best southern fried chicken in Charleston. Join us for our first annual Fried Chicken Challenge! This inaugural event will host 25 local vendors as they compete to make the best, most delicious fried chicken in the area. Sample tasty dishes from top chefs and restaurants, listen to live music, and help give tribute to our love of this Southern comfort dish. The Grove at Patriots Point, 843-277-0609. southernfriedchickenchallenge.com

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