Charleston has many options for Black Friday that don’t involve the mall or getting up at 4 a.m. We went to the Charleston Visitors’ Bureau website(opens in a new tab) and compiled a list of seven places to go and things to see so that you won’t miss fighting the crowds at the store. 

28th Annual Progressive Dinner, 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Charming Inns and Circa 1886 Restaurant host their annual Holiday Progressive Dinner, which means you’ll ride a carriage through downtown Charleston and have hors d’oeuvres at the Kings Courtyard Inn, a three-course dinner at Circa 1886 Restaurant, and dessert at the John Rutledge House Inn. The cost is $95 per person and covers all but beverages.

Middleton Place Holiday Market, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Garden Market & Nursery and Museum Shop host a Holiday Market with refreshments, live music, plenty to see, and holiday spirit. Admission is free.

Mingo Point Oyster Roast and Barbecue, 6–9 p.m.

Come out at sunset for some roasted oysters, Southern barbecue and buffet, and a concert by The Island Trio. Plenty of fun for the kids too! Admission is $40.95 per adult and $22.95 per child (5-12 years old).

Sweet T. Christmas, 8:30 p.m.

Come to the Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre and watch the story of a “heavenly stranger, a hapless handyman, a hopeless hostess, a hopping-mad Santa, and their hysterical hunt for the holy grail of wish granting, a winning lottery ticket!”

Tickets are $24 for adults, $22 for college and military, and $15 for children under 12.

Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Sanctuary, 5 p.m.

Watch the staff decorate the Grand Lobby Christmas tree and grand staircases, and be there for the tree lighting during this special night.

5th Annual Holiday Pub Crawl, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Visit four of Charleston’s historic pubs for Christmas beverages, treats, and cheer. Admission is $30 per adult, with proceeds going to MUSC Children’s Hospital and Toys for Tots. Reservations are required.

2013 Holiday Festival of Lights, call 843-795-4386 for time and admission fees

Charleston’s Festival of Lights has plenty of fun for everyone! This driving tour has over 700 holiday displays, along with events such as marshmallow roasting, train rides, dancing light displays, a 50-ton sand sculpture, a climbing wall, and an old-time carousel.

What’s your favorite Black Friday non-shopping activity?