There is plenty to do at the fair between exploring food, rides, and competitions. | Photo by CHStoday
Funnel cakes, freshly squeezed lemonade, and fried foods galore — this could only mean one thing: the Coastal Carolina Fair is back. The annual days-long event is in town from Thursday, Oct. 31 until Sunday, Nov. 10. Keep reading for a guide to all things food, entertainment, and fall fun.
Deep fried feast
As always, expect a lot of food — typically fried — throughout the fairgrounds, including elephant ears, corndogs, fried Oreos, and pickle pizza (we’ll come back to this).
But the fair wouldn’t be the fair without a new concoction. This year we’re looking forward to the glazed donut coffee float and the Cinnamon Toast Crunch funnel cake. If you’re feeling brave you could try the Hot Cheetos + nacho cheese funnel cake.
Now, back to the pickles. This zesty treat is taking over. Not only is the pickle pizza returning, but pickle-infused drinks will make their debut along with fried pickle mac n’ cheese, sweet + spicy cheese puff fried pickles, and pickle funnel cake.
The pickle pizza was a hit — don’t knock it, until you try it.
Photo by CHStoday
Events + entertainment
From a petting zoo to rides, shows + competitions, and everything in between — there is no shortage of things to do. Here are a few highlights:
Fine Art Show | Oct. 31-Nov. 10 | All day | Exchange Hall | Check out the work of talented local artists from Beaufort, Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, Dorchester, and Georgetown counties.
Chili Cook-Off | Nov. 2-Nov. 7, | 3-7 p.m. | Cultural Arts Building | Who will be this year’s winner of the best chili? Head to one of the three preliminary rounds followed by the finals to find out.
Fiddle Contest | Nov. 8 | 1 p.m. | Parkway Stage | $8 | Register to join the fiddle contest featuring adult, high school, and youth divisions with a cash prize on the line.
Bull riding | Nov. 4-Nov. 7 | 7 p.m. | Cheer on bull riders from across the country and Canada.
The Pink Houses Tour | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | The Hat Man Mural, corner of Broad + Church Streets | $40 | Join this picturesque walking tour through Charleston’s historic district and explore the city’s charming pink houses.
Oktoberfest with Bevi Bene | 1 p.m. | The Charleston Place | Free entry | Embrace the spirit of Oktoberfest with Bevi Bene’s Marzen brew on draft.
Spooky Island Halloween Party | 8 p.m. | The Backyard at Little Palm | Free entry | Embrace the eerie island vibes + tropical-themed cocktails that’ll chill you to the bone — dress in your best costume for a chance to win an overnight stay at The Ryder Hotel.
Friday, Nov. 1
Fountain Pen Day | 3-5 p.m. | The Paper Canopy | Free | Drop by this Spring Street store for fountain pen care, cleaning, and best practices.
James Island Town Market | 6 p.m. | Town Hall Parking Lot | Free entry | Enjoy live music, crafts, lawn games, food trucks, and fresh produce.
The Union Pier plan is taking another step forward. Charleston County Council has agreed to join a tax increment financing district to help fund the redevelopment project. The City of Charleston will host a public hearing on Monday, Nov. 4 before city council makes a final decision. (WCIV)
Transit
The Lowcountry Rapid Transit project is in its final design phase. Once complete, the route will stretch 21+ miles through Ladson, North Charleston, and downtown Charleston. (WCBD)
Eat
Bodega on Coleman Boulevard is switching up its schedule to accommodate an increasing demand. The popular breakfast spot is extending its hours and now offers dinner. Breakfast will be served daily from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. and dinner from 3 until 9 p.m.
Concert
“WAIT!” You seriously need to mark your calendar + set a reminder, because Kelsea Ballerini is coming to town. The country music star will bring her Patterns Tour to North Charleston Coliseum on Wednesday, April 9. Tickets go on sale to the general public this Friday, Nov. 1, at 10 a.m.
Announced
High Water Festival will return to Riverfront Park on Saturday, April 26 + Sunday, April 27. Follow along on Instagram for lineup and schedule announcements, which are expected on Tuesday, Nov. 12.
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The Buy
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A three-pack of NIVEA’s cocoa butter in-shower body lotion — apply, rinse, and go to moisturize dry skin without adding another step to your routine.
🎃 Happy Halloween — here’s a throwback of me fully embracing my love for all things pumpkin. I hope you get more treats than tricks this year. Speaking of treats... if you’re still looking to fill your candy dish, check out these locally-made sweets.
