Things to Do in Charleston SC for Thanksgiving: Food, Fun & Festivities
A Charleston Thanksgiving: Where Tradition Meets Southern Charm
Thanksgiving in Charleston, South Carolina, is more than just turkey and pumpkin pie, it’s an experience wrapped in history, hospitality, and heartwarming Southern charm. Imagine cobblestone streets lined with twinkling lights, the salty breeze from the harbor, and tables overflowing with Lowcountry flavors.
Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic escape, or a friendsgiving getaway, you’ll find countless things to do in Charleston SC for Thanksgiving, from food festivals and scenic strolls to historic tours and waterfront dining.
And if you’re looking for the perfect place to stay while soaking it all in,YourPad on Folly Beach is your cozy
coastal retreat, offering peaceful mornings, breathtaking sunsets, and the true taste of Southern hospitality.
1. Feast Like a Local, Thanksgiving Dining in Charleston
Food is the heartbeat of Charleston’s Thanksgiving celebrations. Many local restaurants craft special holiday menus that blend classic Southern dishes with festive favorites.
Here are some must-try dining experiences:
- Halls Chophouse: Known for its exceptional service and holiday menu that includes prime cuts, sweet potato casserole, and pecan pie.
- Magnolias: A Charleston staple serving upscale Lowcountry cuisine, think shrimp and grits with a Thanksgiving twist.
- Poogan’s Porch: Enjoy Thanksgiving dinner in a historic Victorian home with comforting classics and warm hospitality.
- The Charleston Place Hotel: Offers an elegant buffet spread with seafood, carving stations, and decadent desserts.
If you’re staying at Yourpad, you can also enjoy a more relaxed Thanksgiving morning on Folly Beach, followed by a candlelit dinner in the city or at a cozy local spot nearby.
2. Watch the Charleston Holiday Parade
One of the most festive things to do in Charleston SC for Thanksgiving weekend is catching the annual Charleston Holiday Parade.
This family-friendly event features marching bands, dancers, floats, and even a special appearance from Santa himself. The parade usually takes place the Sunday after Thanksgiving, kicking off the city’s Christmas celebrations in grand style.
Grab a warm drink, find a spot along King Street, and enjoy the show, it’s a Charleston tradition that brings the whole community together.
3. Take a Stroll Through the Historic District
There’s no better way to walk off a Thanksgiving feast than exploring the Charleston Historic District. The cobblestone streets, antebellum homes, and oak trees draped in Spanish moss create the perfect post-meal backdrop.
Make sure to visit:
- Rainbow Row: The city’s most colorful and Instagram-worthy landmark.
- Battery Promenade: Stunning harbor views lined with historic mansions.
- Charleston City Market: Great for local crafts and early holiday shopping.
As you wander, you’ll feel the city’s history come alive, and the mild fall weather makes it even more enjoyable.
4. Spend Thanksgiving by the Beach
If you’d rather swap snow for sand, Folly Beach, just minutes from downtown, is where you’ll want to be. It’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for a Thanksgiving getaway that’s both relaxing and refreshing.
Start your morning with a sunrise walk, watch dolphins play in the distance, and unwind as the day fades into a spectacular sunset.
AtYourPad, you can enjoy all this right from your private balcony. It’s the perfect mix of holiday comfort and coastal calm.
5. Visit a Historic Plantation
Charleston’s history runs deep, and visiting one of its breathtaking plantations is a must during Thanksgiving week. The mild weather makes it a great time to explore sprawling gardens and historic homes.
Top recommendations include:
- Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: Known for its romantic gardens and centuries-old oak trees.
- Boone Hall Plantation: Famous for its “Avenue of Oaks” and cultural exhibits.
- Middleton Place: A National Historic Landmark with stunning landscaping and a Thanksgiving buffet.
These tours are both educational and visually stunning, a great way to connect with Charleston’s past while enjoying the present holiday spirit.
6. Take a Thanksgiving Cruise or Harbor Tour
Another unforgettable way to celebrate is by taking a Thanksgiving dinner cruise along Charleston Harbor.
Companies like SpiritLine Cruises offer elegant dinners aboard their boats, complete with live music, panoramic views, and festive menus. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Charleston SC for Thanksgiving if you want to mix tradition with adventure.
You’ll sail past the USS Yorktown, Fort Sumter, and the Ravenel Bridge, all illuminated by the soft evening glow.
7. Shop Local on King Street and City Market
If you’re the type who starts holiday shopping early, Thanksgiving weekend in Charleston is perfect. On King Street, you’ll find everything from designer boutiques to charming local stores offering one-of-a-kind gifts.
At the Charleston City Market, vendors sell handmade jewelry, Gullah art, woven sweetgrass baskets, and locally made treats, perfect for gifting or keeping as a memory of your trip.
After shopping, unwind with coffee or cocktails at one of the nearby cafés or rooftop bars.
8. Attend the Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble
Charleston’s annual Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble 5K is a Thanksgiving morning tradition for locals and visitors alike.
The run winds through downtown Charleston’s scenic streets, with live music, costumes, and post-race festivities. It’s a fun and healthy way to kick off your holiday, and a great excuse to enjoy an extra slice of pie later.
Even if you don’t run, cheering on participants is a lively way to feel part of the community spirit.
9. Enjoy Thanksgiving Weekend Events & Lights
After Thanksgiving Day, Charleston begins to sparkle with holiday magic. Some must-see events include:
- Festival of Lights at James Island County Park: Over 700 dazzling light displays, a holiday train, and marshmallow roasting.
- Holiday Market on Marion Square: Browse local vendors and enjoy festive food and drinks.
- Christmas Tree Lighting in Marion Square: Usually held the Sunday after Thanksgiving, a beautiful kickoff to the Christmas season.
These events make late November in Charleston truly enchanting.
10. Stay at YourPad, Your Thanksgiving Home by the Sea
After a full day of food, festivities, and exploration, there’s no better place to unwind thanYourPad, one of Charleston’s most loved boutique B&Bs.
Here’s why it’s the perfect Thanksgiving stay:
Coastal Comfort: Spacious rooms, spa tubs, and serene waterfront views.
Delicious Breakfasts: Start your mornings with gourmet meals prepared fresh daily.
Breathtaking Sunsets: Enjoy them from your private balcony or the inn’s viewing deck.
Personal Touch: The staff makes you feel like family, Southern hospitality at its finest.
deal Location: Just minutes from downtown Charleston yet tucked away in peaceful Folly Beach.
Regatta Inn blends luxury and warmth, making it the ultimate destination for your Thanksgiving getaway in Charleston SC.
11. Relax and Reflect, Lowcountry-Style
Thanksgiving isn’t just about celebration, it’s also about gratitude and reflection. And Charleston provides the perfect setting for both.
Spend your morning walking along the beach, your afternoon exploring charming streets, and your evening toasting under the stars atYourPad.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the city’s welcoming energy makes you feel right at home.
12. Plan Ahead for the Perfect Thanksgiving in Charleston
To make the most of your trip, keep these tips in mind:
- Reserve early: Thanksgiving week is popular in Charleston, so book restaurants and accommodations ahead of time.
- Pack for mild weather: Expect sunny days and cool evenings, perfect sweater weather.
- Arrive early for parades: Crowds build quickly downtown.
- Take advantage of local events: Charleston’s Thanksgiving weekend is filled with free and family-friendly activities.
- Don’t skip the sunsets: Especially at Folly Beach, they’re unforgettable.
Experience Thanksgiving the Charleston Way
Thanksgiving in Charleston isn’t just a holiday, it’s a memory in the making. Between the delicious food, vibrant culture, and warm Southern spirit, it’s a celebration unlike any other.
Whether you’re walking through the historic streets, dining on fresh seafood, or simply relaxing by the water at YourPad, every moment here feels meaningful.
So this year, trade the ordinary for the unforgettable, and experience the best things to do in Charleston SC for Thanksgiving with a side of sunshine, sea breeze, and soul.
FAQs
Q. What are the best things to do in Charleston SC for Thanksgiving?
A. Enjoy festive dining at local restaurants, the Charleston Holiday Parade, beach walks, and the Festival of Lights. Visiting plantations, harbor cruises, and staying atYourPad are also top Thanksgiving experiences.
Q. Are restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Charleston?
A. Yes! Many restaurants like Halls Chophouse, Magnolias, and Poogan’s Porch offer special Thanksgiving menus featuring Lowcountry classics and traditional favorites. Reservations are recommended.
Q. Is Charleston a good place to visit during Thanksgiving?
A. Absolutely! Charleston’s mild weather, vibrant events, and charming atmosphere make it one of the best Thanksgiving destinations in the South.
Q. What’s the weather like in Charleston for Thanksgiving?
A. November temperatures in Charleston average between 55°F and 70°F, perfect for outdoor dining, walking tours, and beach sunsets without the summer crowds.
Q. Where should I stay in Charleston for Thanksgiving?
A. YourPad on Folly Beach is a top choice. It offers serene waterfront views, cozy luxury, and easy access to both the beach and downtown Charleston.


