November 2017 events and programs at Charleston County Parks & Recreation
November Special Events
Harvest Festival
Saturday, Nov. 4, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Mullet Hall Equestrian Center, Johns Island
Bring the family to celebrate a traditional Southern fall festival! The 16th annual Harvest Festival features down-home delights like a craft market, children’s activities, and live foot-stomping bluegrass music from five bands! Plus enjoy beverages and food for sale, including plenty of barbeque! Kids are invited to take place in an archery competition complete with prizes. No outside food or beverages permitted. Admission is $8, or free for kids 12 and under and Gold Pass holders. For a band schedule, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Holiday Festival of Lights Fun Run/Walk
Wednesday, Nov. 8 and Thursday, Nov. 9, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
James Island County Park
Pre-registration required to participate. Join us for this exclusive preview of the Holiday Festival of Lights, offered over two nights! Be the first in Charleston to experience hundreds of magical light displays. After the two-mile run/walk, participants are invited to enjoy the festival’s amenities. Socialized dogs on a short leash are welcome. Retractable leashes, bicycles, skateboards, rollerblades and scooters are not permitted. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. A registered chaperone is required for ages 15 and under. Fee: $12 before Nov. 8/$15 on Nov. 8 (if available). Ages 2 & under are free.
The 28th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights
Ongoing Nightly, Nov. 10 – Jan. 1
James Island County Park
Let your heart be light at one of the Lowcountry’s most beloved holiday events! Nightly from Nov. 10 through Jan. 1, James Island County Park hosts the award-winning Holiday Festival of Lights. Journey a three-mile driving tour packed with over 700 light displays, then stretch your legs and enjoy attractions like marshmallow roasting, gift shops and more within Winter Wonderland and Santa’s Village. Special event nights including movies, music and live performances will take place on select nights (see below). For more information, call (843) 795-4386 or visit HolidayFestivalofLights.com.
Nightly Entertainment Schedule (visit HolidayFestivalofLights.com for details and updates):
- Nov. 10: Opening night, with live music from Lowcountry Power Brass, 7-9 p.m.
- Nov. 11: The Charleston Community Jazz Band, 7-9 p.m.
- Nov. 17: Outdoor Family Movie, 6 p.m.
- Nov. 18: Outdoor Family Movie, 6 p.m.
- Nov. 22: Lowcountry Powerbrass, 7-9 p.m.; Mrs. Claus, 6-10 p.m.
- Nov. 25: The Footlight Players performing an excerpt from “Annie”
- Nov. 26: Mrs. Claus, 6-10 p.m.
Ultra Chili 10x5K and 5K
Saturday, Nov. 18, 7 a.m.
Laurel Hill County Park
Join us for the third annual Ultra Chili Run! This 10x5K and 5K multi-loop race provides the opportunity for runners to navigate through the majestic moss-draped trails of Laurel Hill County Park in Mount Pleasant. Post-race party includes chili and beer. Run as an individual participant or put together a team. Each team must consist of 2-4 participants and select a Team Manager. For ages 16 and up. Fees vary based on number of participants. Online registration ends Nov. 17 at 3 p.m. Fees vary. For more information, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Starlight Yoga at the Holiday Festival of Lights
Wednesday, Nov. 29, 6:30 p.m.
James Island County Park
Open to all fitness levels. Get your holiday spirit flowing with Starlight Yoga at the Holiday Festival of Lights. The moon and stars enhance this flowing yoga class. Online registration ends Nov. 28 at midnight. Rain date: Wednesday, Dec. 6. Photo ID required. Fee: $5 in advance; $8 on-site; Holiday Festival of Lights vehicle admission is a separate fee.
Shuckin’ on the Cooper
Saturday, Dec. 9, 5 – 9 p.m.
Mount Pleasant Pier
New event! Come out and enjoy scenic views of the Charleston Harbor and the City of Charleston’s Holiday Parade of Boats while dancing to live music from Ellen Drive and shuckin’ some oysters! Admission is $8 per person, or $10 on site (if available). Buckets of oysters will be available for $10 each. Beverages will also be available. For more information or to purchase advance tickets, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
November Programs
Advance registration required for many programs. Call 843-795-4386 or visit www.charlestoncountyparks.com to register. Many programs require that a minimum number of participants be met. CCR = Charleston County Resident rate
Ongoing Programs
Yin Yoga
Balance your job, gym workouts, and even other styles of yoga practice with yin yoga. Yin promotes stress release and improves connective and fascia tissue by holding poses for up to 4 minutes. Open to all fitness levels.
Ongoing: Sundays, Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26 5 – 6:15 p.m.
Wednesdays, Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 6 – 7:15 p.m.
Meets at: Move IT Office Age: 16 & up
Fee: $10/Free Move IT Pass Holder. Register for six or more classes for a discount. Coupon code: FITMULTI.
Walk and Restorative Yoga at James Island County Park
Join us for an invigorating walk mixed with relaxing and rejuvenating yoga in an incredibly beautiful setting. It is the perfect way to start your day in a positive and restoring way. Open to all levels, including young mothers with children in strollers.
Ongoing: Mondays and Thursdays: Nov. 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 27, 30 9:30 -10:30 a.m.
Meets at: James Island County Park Age: 16 & up
Fee: $8/Free Move IT Pass Holder. Register for six or more classes and receive a discount. Coupon code: FITMULTI
Walk and Restorative Yoga at Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Yoga professionals lead participants along short walking loops through the breathtaking natural habitat of Caw Caw. Practice gentle and restorative yoga techniques to build strength, flexibility, and balance.
Ongoing: Mondays and Thursdays: Nov. 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 27, 30 9:30 -10:30 a.m.
Meets at: Caw Caw Interpretive Center Age: 16 & up
Fee: $8/Free Move IT Pass Holder. Register for six or more classes and receive a discount. Coupon code: FITMULTI
Chair Yoga
Chair yoga is a gentle practice of traditional yoga poses performed while sitting in a chair or using a chair for support when standing. The practice improves range of motion, reduces stress and pain, and increases the overall sense of well-being. Open to all fitness levels.
Ongoing: Offered Mondays and Wednesdays: Nov. 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Meets at: Move IT Office Age: 16 & up
Fee: $8/Free Move IT Pass Holder. Register for six or more classes and receive a discount. Coupon code: FITMULTI
Creekside Yoga
Experience yoga with the sights and sounds of Horlbeck Creek in the background. Certified yoga instructors will guide you through a flowing series of yoga postures that focus on alignment and breath to build flexibility and strength. Open to all levels. Well-behaved leashed dogs and children in strollers are welcome.
Ongoing: Tuesdays and Thursdays (no class Nov. 23): Nov. 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 28, 30 8:30 -9:30 a.m.
Meets at: Palmetto Islands County Park Age: 16 & up
Fee: $8/Free for Move IT Pass Holder. Register for six or more classes and receive a discount. Coupon code: FITMULTI
Early Morning Bird Walks at Caw Caw
Our trek through many distinct habitats will allow us to view and discuss a variety of birds, butterflies, and other organisms. A paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under. Registration is not required.
Ongoing: Every Wednesday and Saturday: Nov. 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29 8:30 -11:30 a.m.
Meets at: Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Fee: $10/Free for Gold Pass Holder and Move IT! Pass Holder
Daily Programs
College Days at the Climbing Wall
Climbing is a fun way to get into shape and to meet new people. It is also a great social activity. Students with a current ID will receive a free harness and shoe rental with the regular price of admission. Registration is not required.
Nov. 1 Wed 12 -5 p.m. Course # 52676
Meets at: James Island County Park
Fee: $12
Baptist Hill Karate Instruction
Instruction provides age-appropriate curriculum that enables students of every level to develop their skills and grow in self-confidence and character.
Nov. 1-Dec. 20 Wed
Ages 3-6: 5:30 -6 p.m. Course # 51816
Ages 7 and up: 6 -7 p.m. Course # 51817
Meets at: Schroder Community Center
Fee: $40
Night Climbing
Enjoy an evening under the stars at The Climbing Wall! Try your favorite route from a different perspective. Equipment is not included in climbing fee. Bring your own headlamp/flashlight. Registration is not necessary.
Nov. 2 Thu 5 -10 p.m. Course # 52689
Meets at: James Island County Park Age: 16 & up
Fee: $12/$9 Move IT! Pass Holder
Harvest Festival Trail Ride: Full Trail Ride Weekend
Enjoy a beautiful weekend at Mullet Hall Equestrian Center. Full trail ride weekend package includes trail riding, camping and a catered dinner on Saturday night ($60, or $54 for Mullet Hall passholders). Participants can also opt to just take part in dinner and camping at the site ($15).
Nov. 3-5 Fri-Sun 12 p.m. (Fri)-12 p.m. (Sun.) Course # 49696
Meets at: Johns Island County Park/Mullet Hall Equestrian Center. Age: 3 & up
Fee: $60/$54 MHEC Pass Holder
Unveiling McLeod Plantation Historic Site
This tour delves deeply into particular aspects of McLeod Plantation Historic Site’s history and explores the experiences of its residents. Participants are often granted access to places typically not open. A registered chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under. Pre-registration required.
Nov. 4 Sat 10:30 -11:45 a.m. Course # 52581
Meets at: McLeod Plantation Historic Site Age: 8 & up
Fee: $15
Tai Chi
For adults experiencing muscular tension, fatigue, arthritis pain, and intestinal distress, Tai Chi has proven effective as part of a holistic approach to wellness. With a focus on stability and balance, Tai Chi may help reduce or prevent falls commonly associated with aging.
Nov. 4 Sat 4 -5 p.m. Course # 52505
Meets at: Move IT Office Age: 16 & up
Fee: $8/Free Move IT! Pass Holder. Register for six or more classes and receive a discount. Coupon code: FITMULTI.
Introduction to Climbing: Intro to Climbing
Stack the odds in your favor from the beginning by learning how to belay the right way with proper safety procedures and good habits. This clinic is tailored for first time climbers and people wanting to learn more about getting started with rock climbing. Have fun, meet new people, and learn the safety basics in a no pressure environment!
Nov. 5 Sun 2 -4 p.m. Course # 52716
Meets at: James Island County Park Age: 14 & up
Fee: $25/$20 Move IT! Pass Holder
College Days at the Climbing Wall
Climbing is a fun way to get into shape and to meet new people. It is also a great social activity. Students with a current ID will receive a free harness and shoe rental with the regular price of admission. Registration is not required.
Nov. 8 Wed 12 -5 p.m. Course # 52677
Meets at: James Island County Park
Fee: $12
Folly Beach Bird Walks: Folly Beach County Park
This walk focuses on the southern shoreline of Folly Beach. We hope to see a variety of shorebirds and seabirds such as American Oystercatchers and Northern Gannets. A registered and paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under.
Nov. 10 Fri 8:30 -10:30 a.m. Course # 52559
Meets at: Folly Beach County Park Age: 12 & up
Fee: $7/$5 Move IT! Pass Holder
Wee Wild Ones: Home Sweet Home
Wild animal dwellings are more like your home than you think! Join us as we learn about habitats and the plants and animals that call them home. This program is to help channel young children’s inner explorer through hands-on activities, games, music, and art. Chaperones are free, but are required to register and accompany child. Pre-registration required.
Nov. 10 Fri 10 -11 a.m. Course # 52604
Meets at: Caw Caw Interpretive Center Age: 1-5
Fee: $10
Master Naturalist Sampler: Naturalist Training at Palmetto Islands County Park
The hammock islands and salt marshes of this park provide a superb outdoor classroom for learning how to read landscapes. Walk away with a greater understanding of the natural world and your place in it! Pre-registration erquired.
Nov. 11 Sat 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Course # 52631
Meets at: Palmetto Islands County Park Age: 16 & up
Fee: $12/$9 Move IT! Pass Holder
Birdhouses from Pallets
Driftwood, used pallets, and other sources of scrap wood are all around us. We will use this material to construct homes that may be customized for bluebirds, chickadees, flycatchers, and other beautiful and helpful neighbors. A registered and paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under. All materials will be provided. Pre-registration required.
Nov. 11 Sat 10 -11:30 a.m. Course # 52561
Meets at: James Island County Park Age: 12 & up
Fee: $7
Tai Chi
For adults experiencing muscular tension, fatigue, arthritis pain, and intestinal distress, Tai Chi has proven effective as part of a holistic approach to wellness. With a focus on stability and balance, Tai Chi may help reduce or prevent falls commonly associated with aging.
Nov. 11 Sat 4 -5 p.m. Course # 52506
Meets at: Move IT Office Age: 16 & up
Fee: $8/Free Move IT! Pass Holder. Register for six or more classes and receive a discount. Coupon code: FITMULTI.
College Days at the Climbing Wall
Climbing is a fun way to get into shape and to meet new people. It is also a great social activity. Students with a current ID will receive a free harness and shoe rental with the regular price of admission. Registration is not required.
Nov. 15 Wed 12 -5 p.m. Course # 52678
Meets at: James Island County Park
Fee: $12
Special Access: Sunrise and Sunset Strolling: Sunset Stroll
Awaken your senses to the natural and cultural world around you! Bring your camera and your sense of adventure and let a park naturalist lead you around the parks outside of normal business hours! A registered and paid chaperone is required for ages 15 and under.
Nov. 16 Thu 4 -6 p.m. Course # 52638
Meets at: Caw Caw Interpretive Center Age: 12 & up
Fee: $9/$7 Move IT! Pass Holder
Homeschool in the Parks: Native Americans of Coastal South Carolina
Explore Native American culture of coastal South Carolina at the time of European settlement. Learn how local tribes successfully used natural resources available to meet their needs. Chaperones welcome to attend, but not required. Pre-registration required.
Nov. 17 Fri 10 -11:30 a.m. Age: 7-13
Course #: 52611: Elementary School Course #: 52610: Middle School
Fee: $5 Meets at: Palmetto Islands County Par k
Canoeing At Caw Caw: Habitat to Heritage
Travel back to the age of rice with this interpretive canoe trip. Paddle through rice fields and canals that now serve as one of the richest wildlife habitats in the Lowcountry. Trained naturalists will enlighten you to the cultural and natural history of the area, citing important connections to the past, present, and future. A registered and paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under.
Nov. 18 Sat 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Course # 52627
Meets at: Caw Caw Interpretive Center Age: 9 & up
Fee: $20/$16 Move IT! Pass Hoder
Unveiling McLeod Plantation Historic Site
This tour delves deeply into particular aspects of McLeod Plantation Historic Site’s history and explores the experiences of its residents. Participants are often granted access to places typically not open. A registered and paid chaperone is required for ages 15 and under. Pre-registration required.
Nov. 18 Sat 10:30 -11:45 a.m. Course # 52582
Meets at: McLeod Plantation Historic Site Age: 8 & up
Fee: $15
Tai Chi
For adults experiencing muscular tension, fatigue, arthritis pain, and intestinal distress, Tai Chi has proven effective as part of a holistic approach to wellness. With a focus on stability and balance, Tai Chi may help reduce or prevent falls commonly associated with aging.
Nov. 18 Sat 4 -5 p.m. Course # 52507
Meets at: Move IT Office Age: 16 & up
Fee: $8/Free Move IT! Pass Holder. Register for six or more classes and receive a discount. Coupon code: FITMULTI.
Introduction to Climbing: Intro to Climbing
Stack the odds in your favor from the beginning by learning how to belay the right way with proper safety procedures and good habits. This clinic is tailored for first time climbers and people wanting to learn more about getting started with rock climbing. Have fun, meet new people, and learn the safety basics in a no pressure environment!
Nov. 19 Sun 2 -4 p.m. Course # 52717
Meets at: James Island County Park Age: 14 & up
Fee: $25/$20 Move IT! Pass Holder
College Days at the Climbing Wall
Climbing is a fun way to get into shape and to meet new people. It is also a great social activity. Students with a current ID will receive a free harness and shoe rental with the regular price of admission. Registration is not required.
Nov. 22 Wed 12 -5 p.m. Course # 52679
Meets at: James Island County Park
Fee: $12
Tai Chi
For adults experiencing muscular tension, fatigue, arthritis pain, and intestinal distress, Tai Chi has proven effective as part of a holistic approach to wellness. With a focus on stability and balance, Tai Chi may help reduce or prevent falls commonly associated with aging.
Nov. 25 Sat 4 -5 p.m. Course # 52508
Meets at: Move IT Office Age: 16 & up
Fee: $8/Free Move IT! Pass Holder. Register for six or more classes and receive a discount. Coupon code: FITMULTI.
College Days at the Climbing Wall
Climbing is a fun way to get into shape and to meet new people. It is also a great social activity. Students with a current ID will receive a free harness and shoe rental with the regular price of admission. Registration is not required.
Nov. 29 Wed 12 -5 p.m. Course # 52680
Meets at: James Island County Park
Fee: $12
Advance registration required for many programs. Call 843-795-4386 or visit www.charlestoncountyparks.com to register.
Many programs require that a minimum number of participants be met. CCR = Charleston County Resident rate