Back by popular demand, it’s the Friday Five! Check out these five events happening around town this weekend. Get into the holiday spirit early, meet some amazing young adult authors, and shuck some oysters for a good cause. Whatever you choose to do this weekend, have fun and be safe!
Early holiday season enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that this weekend marks the opening of one of our favorite holiday traditions: the James Island Holiday Festival of Lights. The opening ceremony takes place this evening, Friday, November 10th, from 6:30pm until 9:00pm. Activities include a tree lighting, awards presentation, and live music from Lowcountry Powerbrass.
Voracious young readers will meet and greet some of their favorite authors this weekend at YALLFest, the largest young adult book festival in the South, and one of the biggest in the country. This yearly, two-day event is hosted by Blue Bicycle Books and features numerous book signings, panels, and special events. This year’s authors include Veronica Roth (author of the Divergent Series), Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl (authors of the Lowcountry-based Beautiful Creatures series), and the keynote speaker, actor and author Jason Segel (yes, that Jason Segel).
Break out your big ol’ hats and race day finery! The Steeplechase of Charleston takes place this Sunday, November 12th, at The Plantation at Stono Ferry Race Track. Gates open at 9am with opening ceremonies beginning at noon. The horses won’t be the only ones competing, either. Make sure to sign up for the Ladies’ Hat Contest, the Men’s Best Dressed Contest, and the Best Tailgate Contest.
Looking for a fun event that benefits a great cause? The Lowcountry Autism Foundation hosts its fourth annual Oysters for Autism event this Sunday, November 12th. The event takes place at Bowens Island Restaurant from 4-7pm and includes all-you-can-eat oysters, hot dogs and chili, live music, and a silent auction.
On Saturday, November 11th, Deep Water Vineyards hosts Boots, Bottles, & a Blessing, its annual Blessing of the Vines Festival. Witness the blessing of the muscadine grapevines, enjoy live music, and eat and drink to your heart’s content in the beautiful setting of Deep Water Vineyard on Wadmalaw Island.
