Charleston Events in January offer a perfect blend of cultural, historical, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to experience the city’s quieter, winter charm. From exploring Museum Mile to enjoying guided tours, Camellia walks, and engaging workshops, January in Charleston invites both locals and visitors to embrace the city’s rich history and vibrant arts scene. Whether you're a history enthusiast, art lover, or nature seeker, these seasonal events provide endless opportunities to enjoy Charleston at a relaxed pace. Explore our curated list of January’s highlights and discover the best activities to enjoy this month.
Top Charleston Events in January: Seasonal Highlights and Activities
January 1–5
Museum Mile Month
When: January 1–31
Where: 13 Museums & Houses across Downtown
January 6–12
Museum Mile Month
When: January 1–31
Where: 13 Museums & Houses across Downtown
Art and Architecture: Archaeobotanical Studies and the Stories They Reveal presented by Historic Charleston Foundation
When: January 8, 10:00 a.m.–12 p.m.
Where: Capt. James Missroon House
CSO Masterworks 4 Fri: Symphonie Fantastique, Featuring Violinist Anne Akiko Meyers
When: January 10 & 11, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Gaillard Center
Medicinal Practices of the Enslaved & Seed Exchange
When: January 11, 12–2 p.m.
Where: Middleton Place
2nd Sunday on King Street
When: January 12, 12–5 p.m.
Where: King Street (from Queen to Calhoun)
January 13–19
Museum Mile Month
When: January 1–31
Where: 13 Museums & Houses across Downtown
Marking 50 Years of Breakthrough Writing
When: January 16, 6–7 p.m.
Where: Charleston Library Society
Behind the Scenes Attic Tour with Director of Preservation, Trish Smith
When: January 18, 10:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.
Where: Drayton Hall
Camellia Walks
When: January 18, 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m.
Where: Middleton Place
January 20–26
Museum Mile Month
When: January 1–31
Where: 13 Museums & Houses across Downtown Charleston
Camellia Walks
When: January 21, 23, 25, 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m.
Where: Middleton Place
The 39 Steps
When: January 22–February 9
Where: The Historic Dock Street Theatre
Workshop: Paper Marbling in the Bindery
When: January 24, 9:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: Charleston Library Society
Audubon Bird and Nature Walk
When: January 25, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Where: Drayton Hall
Loom Weaving Workshop
When: January 25, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: Charleston Museum
January 27–31
Museum Mile Month
When: January 1–31
Where: 13 Museums & Houses across Downtown
27 Volumes of Untold Narratives
When: January 28, 6–7 p.m.
Where: Charleston Library Society
Camellia Walks
When: January 28, 30, 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m.
Where: Middleton Place
Special Tour: Beyond the Ashes: The Lowcountry’s New Beginnings, with Director Carl Borick
When: January 30, 3:30 p.m.
Where: Charleston Museum
Oysters by the Battery 2025
When: January 30, 5:30–8 p.m.
Where: Capt. James Missroon House (with PreserVISIONist of Historic Charleston Foundation)
February Preview:
Camellia Workshop with Sidney Frazier
When: February 1, 1–3 p.m.
Where: Middleton Place
2025 Lowcountry Oyster Festival
When: February 2, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: Boone Hall
Art and Architecture: The Sometimes "Disturbing Art" of Architecture at Middleton Inn
presented by Historic Charleston Foundation
When: February 5, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Where:Middleton Inn
2025 Annual Oyster Roast at the Dill Sanctuary
When: February 22, 12–3 p.m.
Where: The Dill Sanctuary
January in Charleston: A Fresh Start to the Year
Embrace the tranquil beauty of Charleston this January, where the city invites you to slow down, reflect, and savor every moment. From peaceful gardens to cozy cafes, the winter months offer the perfect opportunity to experience Charleston at a quieter, more serene pace. This month is all about renewal, connection, and finding new inspiration in the heart of the Lowcountry.
1. Stroll Through Charleston’s Winter Gardens
Charleston’s gardens and parks take on a quiet elegance in January. The cool, crisp air makes for perfect walking weather, and the gardens showcase beautiful winter foliage. Consider a visit to Middleton Place and witness the display of winter camellia blooms on a guided walk, or take a calming walk through the smaller gardens around the city.
👉 Discover more: Quiet Escapes: Charleston's Best Winter Gardens and Parks
2. Wander Charleston’s Historic Streets and Alleys
January’s cool weather offers a chance to explore the charming streets of Charleston at a slower pace. Take in the architecture, peaceful alleyways, and quiet courtyards that are often bustling with tourists during peak seasons. This is the time to discover hidden gems throughout the historic district, South of Broad, and beyond.
👉 Plan your route: 6 Charleston Winter Walks: Hidden Gems and Quiet Streets
3. Warm Up in Charleston’s Cozy Cafés
Charleston is home to many charming cafés where you can warm up with a hot drink or indulge in a seasonal treat. These quiet spaces provide the perfect setting for reflection or reading. Find a cozy corner, sip on seasonal coffee or tea, and enjoy a little break from the winter chill.
👉 Discover: The Best Cozy Cafés in Charleston for Winter
4. Rainy Day Escapes
When the rain falls in Charleston, there’s no shortage of cozy escapes. While museums, shops, and galleries across the city offer delightful retreats, here’s a special treat for a rainy day. Head to Black Door Café, tucked inside The Mills House Hotel, where you can enjoy $1 espresso shots every time it rains. Take a moment to warm up, relax, and savor the charm of this cozy café before continuing your day.
5. Experience Charleston’s Museum Culture in Winter
The quieter winter months offer a more intimate experience of Charleston’s museums. And the month of January offers a passport to explore the city’s thriving museum scene with a Museum Mile Pass. At only $35 you will gain access to 13 different museums. And if that were not enough, remember, January is a quieter month in town, making these visits less crowded.
👉 Explore: The Best Charleston Museums to Visit in 2025
6. Enjoy Lowcountry Comfort Food at Charleston’s Restaurants
January is the perfect time to enjoy hearty, comforting meals in Charleston. The city’s top restaurants serve up seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients, making it the perfect time to indulge in Lowcountry specialties. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner or a warming brunch, there’s no shortage of delicious options.
7. Reflect in Charleston’s Historic Churches
January is a peaceful time to visit Charleston’s historic churches. Many are less crowded, allowing for quiet reflection and contemplation. Consider attending a Sunday service or simply visiting for the chance to admire the stunning architecture and historic beauty of these sacred spaces.
8. Take a Winter Beach Walk
While the beach may be too cold for swimming in January, Charleston’s beaches are perfect for peaceful walks. Head to Sullivan’s Island or Folly Beach to experience the serene beauty of the shoreline during the quieter winter months. The cold air and wide-open beaches make for a refreshing escape into nature.
👉 Explore: Best Beaches in Charleston to Explore
9. Relax with Winter Afternoon Tea
Charleston offers several lovely spots for a winter afternoon tea. Indulge in a refined experience with tea served alongside freshly baked scones and delicate pastries at The Thoroughbred Club inside The Charleston Place or at Camellia’s Tea Room at Hotel Bennett. These calming moments provide the perfect setting for reflection and quiet conversation.
10. Cozy Up with a Winter Book at Charleston’s Unexpected Lounges
Head to Buxton Books, where you can find a carefully curated selection of winter reads, or for members, visit the Charleston Library Society for access to a vast collection of books and a refined atmosphere. For a truly cozy experience, take your book to one of Charleston's elegant hotel lounges, such as the relaxed spaces at Hotel Emeline, The Dewberry, or The Mills House, where you can sip a warm drink from their coffee shops and enjoy the serene ambiance. These spots provide the perfect setting for reading while savoring a moment of winter tranquility.
Start the Year with Peace and Inspiration in Charleston
January in Charleston invites you to embrace the city’s more peaceful, reflective side. Whether you're strolling through winter gardens, savoring comforting meals, or taking a quiet beach walk, the month offers a chance to slow down and reset for the year ahead. With cozy cafés, serene gardens, and vibrant arts, Charleston provides the perfect setting to begin the new year with clarity and intention.
