Let’s make some sweet treats, Charleston-style. | Photo by Sugar Bake Shop
It’s the most bun-derful time of the year. Google Trends data shows that December typically brings about an increased interest in baking at home.
If you want to prepare your own goodies in the kitchen this holiday season, we found a few recipes to help you keep it Charleston-centric:
This classic Huguenot torte recipe is surprisingly simple.
While we love the classic coconut cake at Peninsula Grill, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars. Just make it yourself with a wildly popular recipe.
Holiday Pops! | Thursday, Dec. 18-Sunday, Dec. 21 | 7:30 p.m. | Gaillard Center | $42+ | Last chance to get tickets for the most spectacular celebration of the season featuring the incredible Rachel Potter. Holiday Pops starts this week — seats are limited, so grab yours while you can.*
Wednesday, Dec. 31
New Year’s Eve at Aquarium Aglow | 5:30-9:30 p.m. | South Carolina Aquarium | $34.95 | Enjoy a family friendly party illuminated by tens of thousands of lights to celebrate the start of 2026.*
Catch this blockbuster exhibition before it’s gone
Presented by South Carolina State Museum
Created by The Walt Disney Archives, the exhibition includes costumes from the film “Mary Poppins Returns” and many more. | Photo provided by the South Carolina State Museum
No pressure,but you’d better hurry, because the exhibition closes Sunday, Jan. 4. And now through Tuesday, Dec. 23, visitors can snag $10 off tickets with code HOLIDAYEM.
A private island in Beaufort County is for sale. Finally, a chance for some peace and quiet. There is one road in and one road out of the 20-acre property on St. Helena Island, and it’s surrounded by marshy waters. It’s not as expensive as you’d think. (Post and Courier)
Announced
This one’s a little pricier. MUSC Health is buying a portion of Citadel Mall for $83.5 million. The purchase of 330,000 sqft at the West Ashley shopping center includes the site’s former JCPenney store, which will be renovated into a health care services hub. (Post and Courier)
Legacy
Former South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Steve Taneyhill has died at 52. A Gamecock standout from 1992 to 1995, he led USC to its first bowl win and remains the program’s all-time leader in career completions and passing touchdowns.
Seasonal
Looking for holiday happenings this weekend? Palmetto City Ballet is adding some southern flair to a seasonal classic with “Charleston’s Nutcracker.” Once the curtain rises, you’ll catch glimpses of the Holy City scattered throughout the production.
Watch
A new fine-dining spot is making waves in Charleston’s food scene. Sushi | Bar only seats 12 diners at a time, offering an indulgent 17-course omakase experience, featuring produce shipped from Japan to the French Quarter.
Quoted
“It’s swimming the planet, probably the baddest animal. The adrenaline, the feeling of being connected to one.” Read the story of Chip Michalove, known as “the Shark Whisperer” for his work tagging sharks off South Carolina’s coastline to help scientists study them. (ABC 4)
Try This
The holidays can be stressful — but you can treat yourself to some festive TLC. Ivy ManiFestive Holiday Market takes place on Thursday, Dec. 18 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Local makers will be at the Mount Pleasant event, plus food + drink, and the opportunity for tarot card readings.
On This Day
250 years ago today, Jane Austen was born. Her works have endured the centuries, remaining poignant and thought-provoking since her quill graced the page. You can honor her legacy at a local independent bookstore, where your next read awaits.
Gallery
One of our favorite local digital creators, Matthew Peacock, is reflecting upon his year in the Holy City. He’s currently going through his best photos from each month. March’s shots are stunning.
Wellness
Feeling drained this season? We hear you. Modern Minds’ Recharge Circuit delivers energy, balance, and calm through compression therapy, a steam sauna, and a revitalizing cold plunge. Consider this your sign to treat yourself this season or surprise someone with a thoughtful gift.*
Eat
What pairs perfectly with date night? Oysters on the half shell. Cozy up at Oyster House Seafood Restaurant on Market Street for fresh seafood, classic she crab soup, and a shuckin’ good time. See the full menu.*
Health
Did you know?Metabolic testing offers personalized insight to tailor an effective weight-loss plan. With Novant Health’s expert guidance, patients receive customized support every step of their journey. By understanding their unique metabolic needs, individuals can make informed choices that lead to lasting results.*
Post of the Day
POV: You’re the Hunchback of Notre Dame. | Reddit post by Apathizer
In a city as rich with history as Charleston, finding every gorgeous nook, cranny, and vantage point would be a lifelong quest.
Fortunately, there are people around town who share photos of such spots online, like this gallery posted to Reddit from the top of St. Matthews Lutheran Church on King Street.
Add some fun and laughter to holiday gatherings with a few of our favorite card and board games. We love these five:
🎲 Put your drawing skills to the test in Telestrations — perfect for 4-8 players.
🎲 The award-winning game Flip 7 is self proclaimed “the greatest card game of all time.”
🎲 Shut the Box is an easy-to-play dice game for up to six players.
🎲 Perfect for parties, Ransom Notes will have your entire crew belly laughing.
🎲 Connect words with colors in an engaging game of Hues and Cues.
How are the holidays treating you? Excuse my soapbox for a second, but I think it’s important to remember that this time of year can be very tough for people.
A kind word, a text message, or any random act of kindness can go an awfully long way. And of course, my inbox is always open.
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