Fall is a great time of the year to visit the Charleston coast, and there's plenty to do from the Hot Air Balloon Festival to the MOJA Arts Festival. Use our guide to some of our favorite events in Charleston, SC.
Charleston’s Hot Air Balloon Festival & Victory Cup Polo Match
Charleston’s Hot Air Balloon Festival & Victory Cup Polo Match at Johns Island County Park is more than just polo and balloons. Set Nov. 15-16, the event is also a networking and social destination that’s all about tradition, fashion, food and family fun.
Enjoy the majestic horses, heart-pounding polo action and (weather permitting) beautiful hot air balloons. The Victory Cup, also known as “America’s Polo Match,” is a national tournament held at various equestrian centers around the country. The Charleston Match, combined with the Hot Air Balloon Fest, has quickly become a must-do on the Carolina coast.
After all, when else are you going to be able to don your garden hat, stomp divots and get in on a tethered balloon ride - all in one place? In addition, there are alcohol tastings in the VIP areas, a fashion contest, live music, kids’ activities and more.
Mark your calendar now for this colorful, action-packed weekend. Make your stay a truly memorable one by booking one of our beach rentals. Kiawah Island is less than 20 minutes from the polo grounds. 101 Goldeneye Drive is a four-bedroom home with a private pool, spacious deck and room for up to 10 guests. It's perfect for a post-polo bash. Or, sip mint juleps on the grand porch at 239 Fish Hawk, overlooking the Osprey Point Golf Course.
Flights and Bites
Ghost Monkey Brewery in Mount Pleasant is one of the venues for the 7th Charleston Beer Week: Flights and Bites, set Sept. 7-14. The Charleston craft beer scene has grown the last few years, now boasting 30 breweries and brewpubs. Ghost Monkey Brewery offers a dozen beers on tap, rotating the locally made brews.
Celebration of Africa-American Arts
The MOJA Arts Festival on Sept. 26-Oct. 6 celebrates African American and Caribbean arts. Nearly half of MOJA’s events are free. The remainder is offered at modest prices. It's truly an event that celebrates a range of endeavors, from the junior tennis tournament to the Charleston African American Book Festival to the theatrical production, “When I First Remember.” Exhibits at the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art celebrate visual arts. Musical performances include A Tribute to Stevie Wonder, Good Old-Fashioned Gospel Music, Real Woman Blues, The Gullah Lady and more.
Make a Connection (Run)
The 27th Isle of Palms Connector Run on Oct. 15 is a 5k and 10k event for runners and walkers of all experience levels. It also offers one of the most scenic views in the South. After you work up an appetite, stick around for the beer garden, live entertainment, and children’s activities.
Autumn on the Ashley
The 12th Arts and Crafts Fair takes place Oct. 12-13 at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. The Fair features dozens of Lowcountry artisans exhibiting their handcrafted items, including wood carvings, paintings, textiles, jewelry, photography and more. An Autumn plant sale is held in conjunction with the Craft Fair. Free admission to the Craft Fair, though a ticket is required for admission to Magnolia Gardens.