Things to Do in December in Charleston

While Charleston is known for its renowned hospitality, tis the season to be extra merry and bright (and make the obligatory annual drive through the Festival of Lights)! As you treat yourself to the cashmere coat you’ve been eyeing on King, take it out on the town to one of our top recommendations of enjoying the holidays in Charleston.

1. Wine Under the Oaks at Boone Hall Plantation — December 3rd; This year Boone Hall Plantation is hosting a gathering complete with wine sampling from a number of distributors and partners while sipping on complimentary Biltmore Estate champagne, complimentary desserts, food and of course vino paired perfectly with gourmet selections from Boone Hall Farms. Wine and cooking demonstrations top off the evening as you marvel at the stellar Christmas decorations that the plantation home is adorned with.
2. “A Christmas Carol” at Dock Street Theatre – Nov. 29th – Dec. 20th; This Dickens Classic features incredible musicians, favorite carols, and brilliant sets and costumes that are sure to delight friends and family of all ages. Head over to Husk after the show for a Praline Tart or Heirloom Pumpkin Panna Cotta with a barrel-aged Manhattan for a perfect night cap!
3. Charlotte’s Ballet Nutcracker at the Gaillard — Dec. 2nd & 3rd; Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with this sophisticated ballet performance and be inspired to start going back to barre! The fantastic number is choreographed by Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux, features live music, and professional dancers from the Charlotte Ballet as well as student dancers from the local Charleston community.
4. Holiday Shop & Stroll on King Street — Dec. 15th; If you are looking to get all your Christmas shopping done in one place at one time, look no further than King Street for a night of holiday shopping and celebrating at a select number of downtown Charleston retailers. The evening will feature special pricing and sales, complimentary refreshments, makeovers, trunk shows, specials and gifts.
5. Jingle Bell Run at Riverfront Park — Dec. 9th; For those looking to work off some of that extra energy from all the tempting holiday treats, sign up for this fun race that offers options to run and walk. Throw on your most festive costumes and elf-ify yourself, from striped tights to tying bells to your laces! On top of spreading the holiday cheer, it is an event you can feel good about with 100 percent of your registration fee and fundraising efforts going towards the Arthritis Foundation.