Charleston Wine + Food Festival 2024

Imagine a five-day epicurean celebration that transforms the historic streets of Charleston and the charming coastal sea islands into a culinary wonderland! The annual Charleston Wine + Food Festival is a vibrant showcase of the Lowcountry’s diverse culinary flavors, vibrant wine scene, and warm southern hospitality all rolled into one epic event!

DATE: MARCH 6th – 10th, 2024

Founded in 2005 by a group of visionary community leaders, the festival’s mission is “to celebrate, educate, enrich, and promote the Lowcountry’s diverse culinary + hospitality community through world-class experiences.” The Charleston Wine + Food Festival has placed the greater Charleston area on the map as a top culinary destination. This highly-anticipated event features over 100 unique experiences in a destination where food, culture, and fun converge.

The events and experiences at the Charleston Wine + Food Festival aren’t just about food and beverages, they’re an invitation to experience the culinary and cultural heritage and traditions of the Lowcountry in some of Charleston’s most celebrated bars and eating establishments. * Please check the Charleston Wine + Food Festive Schedule of Events for current availability. Some events may be SOLD OUT!

KIAWAH & SEABROOK ISLAND: WINE + FOOD FESTIVAL EVENTS

What we love most about the Charleston Wine + Food Festival is the world-class events and experiences it brings to our guests on Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island. While the festival itself is a culinary treat, there’s an added layer of luxury and relaxation when you retreat to your private vacation home on Kiawah-Seabrook Island. From lavish beachfront villas to marsh-view mansions and modern condos, you’ll find a soulful sanctuary to complement your Lowcountry soul food with Kiawah-Seabrook Exclusives.

Rioja Rumble @ FortyEight | FRIDAY 4:30 PM – 6 PM | $75

Venue: FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen, Freshfields Village

The bar takeover at FortyEight Wine Bar and Kitchen in Freshfields Village features wines from the Rioja and Cigales regions of Spain. Join wine importer, Rich Scelfo, and certified sommelier, Matt Williams, for an evening of fine wines, light bites, and good conversation only a short drive or scenic bike ride from your Kiawah Island – Seabrook Island vacation home.

A Five Star Lineup | FRIDAY 7 PM – 10 PM | $1,375

Venue: The Ocean Room at The Sanctuary, Kiawah Island

Be prepared for an unforgettable evening as the Charleston Wine + Food Festival showcases the Five Star Lineup, the ultra-luxe dinner collaboration of the 2024 festival. This exclusive event at the award-winning Ocean Room at The Sanctuary features two Forbes Five-Star chefs, wines from the Sanctuary’s exclusive Wine Library, and delicacies from the Ocean Room’s Executive Pastry Chef. You can walk home to your ocean view villa in Kiawah Island’s East Beach Village!

HISTORIC CHARLESTON

Historic Charleston is only 25 miles from Kiawah Island and definitely demands a top spot on your list of things to do on Kiawah Island. Whether you’re a history buff, romantic or family with kids, you’ll find plenty of ways to play in Charleston. Walk the cobblestone streets, take a fun segway tour of Charleston’s historic attractions, or rent an electric bike on Charleston’s bike sharing program and adventure at your own pace.

The Angel Oak Tree

The ancient Angel Oak Tree in Angel Oak Park is worth the stop on your way to Charleston. The ancient live oak is rumored to be over 400-500 years old and is the largest live oak east of the Mississippi. Over 400,000 people visit the Angel Oak each year to picnic in the shade of this magnificent Lowcountry treasure measuring 65-ft tall, 25.5-ft wide and providing over 17,000 sq ft of shade.

South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium is located in Charleston’s Liberty Square on the Cooper River waterfront and features 9 galleries with over 100 exhibits and over 6,000 aquatic animals! Exhibits include the Piedmont Region of South Carolina, a Mountain Forest, Coastal Plains, a Saltmarsh Aviary, an interactive Touch Tank, and North America’s deepest tank, the Great Ocean Tank.

The South Carolina Aquarium is also home to the Sea Turtle Care Center with a hospital and learning center for visitors to discover the journey of the loggerhead sea turtle from rescue, rehab and recovery to release back into the Atlantic Ocean.

Fort Sumter

Located next to the aquarium is the Fort Sumter Visitor Center with interpretive and visual exhibits, and a regular ferry service for history buffs to visit one of the guardians of Charleston Harbor and the site where the American Civil War began, the Fort Sumter National Monument. The Fort Sumter National Monument is set on an island in Charleston Harbor and is only accessible by boat.

Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry

If you’re planning a family vacation to Kiawah Island, add the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry to your fun activities in Charleston. The museum is designed to encourage family time and stimulate the curiosity and imagination of young minds with interactive zones, organic gardens, pirate ships, and so much more!

CHARLESTON: WINE + FOOD FESTIVAL EVENTS

Why not experience the best of both worlds – the cultural and culinary festival experiences in Downtown Charleston, and the charm of a coastal home and beach walks before you start to explore the Charleston Wine + Food Festival?

Downtown Charleston is located roughly 23 miles from the crossroads to Kiawah and Seabrook Island. Sit back and relax with black car service to Charleston by local company, Island Transportation Services, or designate a driver! If you’re driving, we highly recommend carpooling as parking availability is limited in Charleston. There are several parking lots and garages near the Charleston Visitor Center & Bus Shed shuttle location, and metered parking is available on King, Calhoun, and Meeting Streets.

FREE STREET FEST

City of Charleston Wine + Food Street Fest | THURSDAY 6 PM – 8 PM | FREE

One of the highlights of the Charleston Wine + Food Festival is the free, family-friendly block party on King Street. King Street is one of the most iconic streets in Charleston! This historic street is lined with upscale shops, top-notch restaurants, bustling bars, and all the charm of Charleston! With Lowcountry specials, food trucks, live music, family activities, and a festive Beer + Wine Garden, the Charleston Wine + Food Festival is the best time of year to experience Charleston’s King Street.

* Please note that all other Charleston Wine + Food Festival events are 21+, and a valid ID is required.

CULINARY VILLAGE

Culinary Village | FRIDAY – SUNDAY 1 PM – 5 PM | $169-$295

The heart and soul of the Charleston Wine + Food Festival lies within the Culinary Village at Riverfront Park in North Charleston. With a fantastic line-up of Lowcountry cooking demos, wine, beer, and spirit sampling, meet and greets with culinary experts, immersive experiences, live music, and so much more, this weekend-long event is the ultimate sampling experience of wine + food + fun in Charleston. Tickets are available for individual days or enjoy the ultimate experience with the Weekender Pass starting at $750.

Culinary Village Shuttle: The Culinary Village Shuttle operates daily from 11 AM – 6 PM between the Charleston Visitor Center in downtown Charleston to Riverfront Park in North Charleston. Shuttles to Riverfront Park depart every 30 minutes starting at the top of the hour. Return shuttles are scheduled every 30 minutes following the event start time. A daily round-trip ticket costs $35 and tickets must be purchased in advance. Book soon – early bird pricing ends January 31st!

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Opening Night | WEDNESDAY 7 PM – 9:30 PM | $185-$275
Downtown Venue: Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston

Catch of the Day | THURSDAY 2 PM – 4:30 PM | $155
Folly Island Venue: Bowens Island Restaurant

The Lowcountry High Life | THURSDAY 4 PM – 6:30 PM | $145
West Ashley Venue: Founders Hall at Charles Towne Landing

iSabor: A Taste of Spain! | SATURDAY 2 PM – 4:30 PM | $155
Mount Pleasant Venue: The Lawn at Embassy Suites

The Day Party | SUNDAY 11 AM – 1:30 PM | $145
Mount Pleasant Venue: The Lawn at Embassy Suites

The Finale | SUNDAY 6 PM – 8:30 PM | $145-$225
Downtown Venue: Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston

BRUNCHES + LUNCHES

Baguette Magic(al) Pastry Brunch | THURSDAY 10 AM – 12 PM | $145
James Island Venue: Baguette Magic

Welton’s + Raf’s Spring Brunch | THURSDAY 10 AM – 12 PM | $145
Downtown Venue: Welton’s Tiny Bakeshop

Basic Kitchen Wellness Brunch | THURSDAY 11 AM – 1 PM | $145
Downtown Venue: Basic Kitchen

Beautiful South Baijiu Lunch | THURSDAY 11 AM – 1 PM | $145
Downtown Venue: Beautiful South

The Darling Oyster Bar Beer Lunch | THURSDAY 11 AM – 1 PM | $145
Downtown Venue: The Darling Oyster Bar

Mex 1 Tacos + Tequila | THURSDAY 2 PM – 4 PM | $145
West Ashley Venue: Mex 1 Coastal Cantina

Burwell’s Wine Lunch | FRIDAY 11 AM – 1 PM | $145
Downtown Venue: Burwell’s Stone Fire Grill

Cleats, Cocktail Lunch | FRIDAY 11 AM – 1 PM | $145
Downtown Venue: Cleats at The Refinery

The Longboard Cocktail Brunch | FRIDAY 11 AM – 1 PM | $145
Sullivan’s Island Venue: The Longboard

Rappahannock Oyster Bar Wine Lunch FRIDAY 12 AM – 2 PM | $145
Downtown Venue: Rappahannock Oyster Bar

Post House Ham + Eggs Bubbly Brunch | SUNDAY 11 AM – 1 PM | $175
Mount Pleasant Venue: The Post House

SIGNATURE DINNERS & UNIQUE MEALS

Vern’s + Friends Signature Dinner | THURSDAY 5:30 PM – 9 PM | $350
Downtown Venue: Vern’s

Gabrielle Signature Dinner | THURSDAY 6 PM – 8:30 PM | $225
Downtown Venue: Gabrielle

HERD Provisions Signature Dinner | THURSDAY 6 PM – 8:30 PM | $195
Downtown Venue: HERD Provisions

Kultura Signature Dinner | THURSDAY 6 PM – 8:30 PM | $225
North Charleston Venue: Paradiso

Maya Signature Dinner | THURSDAY 6 PM – 8:30 PM | $195
Downtown Venue: Maya

Millers All Day Signature Dinner | THURSDAY 6 PM – 8:30 PM | $195
Downtown Venue: Millers All Day

Pink Bellies Signature Dinner | THURSDAY 6 PM – 8:30 PM | $195
Downtown Venue: Pink Bellies

Palmira Barbeque Signature Dinner | THURSDAY 7 PM – 9:30 PM | $195
West Ashley Venue: Palmira Barbeque

The Grocery Signature Dinner | THURSDAY 6 PM – 8:30 PM | $195
Downtown Venue: The Grocery

Unique Meal: The Root of it All | THURSDAY 6 PM – 9 PM | $275
Secret Venue: Address privately announced to guest

A Five Star Lineup | FRIDAY 7 PM – 10 PM | $1,375
Kiawah Island Venue: The Ocean Room at The Sanctuary

BEVERAGE WORKSHOPS & BAR TAKEOVERS

The Vinyl Party Bar Takeovers | WEDNESDAY 9 PM – 12 AM | $85
Downtown Venue: Coterie

Chemical Attractions | THURSDAY 11 AM – 12:15 PM | $115
Downtown Venue: Iron Rose at The Mills House

Soak in Sonoma | THURSDAY 11 AM – 12:15 PM | $125
Downtown Venue: Iron Rose at The Mills House

Basque In It | THURSDAY 4 PM – 5:15 PM | $115
Downtown Venue: Iron Rose at The Mills House

The Next Wave of Craft Whiskey | THURSDAY 4 PM – 5:15 PM | $125
Downtown Venue: Iron Rose at The Mills House

The Vermouth Hour with Eric Asimov | THURSDAY 5 PM – 6:30 PM | $75
North Charleston Venue: Stems & Skins

Spanish Wine Vanguard | FRIDAY 11 AM – 12:15 PM | $175
Downtown Venue: Iron Rose at The Mills House

Rioja Rumble @ FortyEight | FRIDAY 4:30 PM – 6 PM | $75
Kiawah Island Venue: FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen, Freshfields Village

Discover the Art of Blending | SATURDAY 11 AM – 12:15 PM | $125
Downtown Venue: Iron Rose at The Mills House

The New Face of American Wine | SATURDAY 11 AM – 12:15 PM | $125
Downtown Venue: Iron Rose at The Mills House

Oysters + Champagne | SUNDAY 2 PM – 3:15 PM | $250
Downtown Venue: Rappahannock Oyster Bar

CHARLESTON WINE + FOOD EXCURSIONS

Rooted: Indigenous Foodways Excursion | THURSDAY 9 AM – 3 PM | $425

Back to the Dock with Backman Seafood | FRIDAY 2 PM – 8 PM | $575

A “Mess of Fish” | SATURDAY 9 AM – 3 PM | $575 Field to Fork | SUNDAY 9 AM – 3 PM | $425

STAY WITH KIAWAH EXCLUSIVES

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie, a wine aficionado, or just eager to explore the dynamic culinary and cultural scene of the Lowcountry, the Charleston Wine + Food Festival promises a week of unforgettable experiences. The big bonus! With easy transportation from the coastal beaches of Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island, you can seamlessly balance relaxation on the South Carolina coastline with indulgence in Charleston’s culinary excellence.

Browse our collection of luxury vacation rentals on Kiawah-Seabrook Island or call our team at (843) 768-0808 – we’re always happy to assist in the vacation planning process!

March 9, 2022September 9, 2024

7 Best Spots for a Cocktail on Kiawah Island

Looking for a place to enjoy a crisp cocktail? Dress up and slip into a seat for a classy beverage at the five-star Sanctuary Hotel or head straight from the beach in flip flops for live music and laid back island vibes on the waterfront – you can have it all while vacationing on Kiawah Island!

Kiawah Island has no shortage of scenic spots to sip a cocktail, craft beer, or ice cold chardonnay – all boasting pristine coastal views, salty ocean breezes, and the warm southern charm and hospitality of the South Carolina sea islands. Whether you’re looking for a romantic setting to grab a cocktail before dinner or biking and bar hopping on the island, check out our favorite scenic spots to sip a cocktail on Kiawah Island.

Where to Have a Cocktail on Kiawah Island?

The Lobby Bar

Address: Sanctuary Hotel, 1 Sanctuary Beach Dr, Kiawah Island

Phone: (843) 768 6301

Hours: Open Daily – 2 PM to 11 PM

Live Music: Live Piano on Friday & Saturday from 7 PM to 10 PM

Surrounded by southern elegance and Lowcountry charm, you’ll be sipping specialty cocktails in style at the intimate Lobby Bar, located in Kiawah Island’s award-winning Sanctuary Hotel. Despite being drenched in southern elegance, The Sanctuary Lobby Bar is anything but snobby and offers a romantic and relaxing “resort casual” environment with indoor and outdoor seating to share a cocktail, or two! The food menu is light with a choice of charcuterie and cheese plates, shrimp cocktail, Pimento Cheese Dip, and a small selection of desserts – because here at The Lobby Bar, the focus is on signature cocktails and South Carolina craft beers.

The Lobby Bar is known for its signature “Walk & Talk” and “Sit & Sip” cocktails with classic combos of top-shelf spirits and flavorful fruit or coconut fat-washed infusions. They also offer a selection of wines by the glass and bottle, craft beers from local SC breweries, spirits & mixers, and mocktails or “nearly beer” (less than 0.5% alcohol) for non-drinkers. Friday and Saturday evenings come with a side of soothing piano music from 7 PM to 10 PM.

Local Tip: Round off your cocktail with casual dining at the Sanctuary’s Lowcountry Jasmine Porch or fine dining at the Ocean Room, Kiawah Island’s Forbes Five-Star rated signature steakhouse with gorgeous ocean views if you reserve before sunset! Dinner reservations may be made by contacting the concierge at (877) 683-1234. And, you can always return to the Lobby Bar for a nightcap!

Salty Dog Café

Address: Bohicket Marina Market, 1882 Andell Bluff Blvd, Johns Island

Phone: (843) 952 7335

Hours: Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner – 11 AM to 10 PM

A signature cocktail at the iconic Salty Dog Café on the Bohicket Marina waterfront is a must-do during your stay on Kiawah Island. Your cocktail comes complete with breathtaking views of the Lowcountry creek, waterfront firepits, live weekend music, and magical sunsets casting shadows over the boats bobbing in the marina. If you’re dreaming of relaxing dolphin watching with southern-style seafood from the docks and a cocktail in hand, this is the spot!

The Salty Dog Café spans two stories with an indoor bar area and big screen TVs, a wraparound waterfront patio and upper-level deck for alfresco sunset cocktails, and a lawn area with Adirondack chairs to watch the boats (and dolphins) cruise by. It’s casual and kid-friendly with a laid-back island vibe. Sip on signature Salty Dog draughts brewed locally or pick a handcrafted cocktail from a local Charleston distillery. Seating is on a first come, first served basis!

Local Tip: Salty Dog Café has happy hour every day from 4 PM to 7 PM. Gather up your friends and family and get down to Bohicket Marina for the most legendary waterfront dining experience in the Lowcountry.

Ryder Cup Bar

Address: Ocean Couse Clubhouse, Kiawah Island

Phone: (843) 266 4085

Hours: Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner – 11 AM to 9 PM

Overlooking the 18^th hole of the world-famous PGA Ocean Course and the calm Atlantic Ocean beyond, the setting of the Ryder Cup Bar is simply sublime! The Ryder Cup Bar is not only for golfers and families are welcome, making it a perfect option for cocktails with the kids. Order some share plates, sand “wedges’, or a hearty entrée from the modern pub menu, set the kids up with some finger food to keep them smiling, and settle in for cocktail hour with the most iconic view on Kiawah Island.

Whether you’re celebrating a round of golf, or simply soaking up the view, a 19^th Hole Cocktail is a must! Or perhaps you started your golf round with an Ocean Course Bloody Mary? The cocktail selection is interesting with options like spicy Gator Bites with green chili vodka, and Sweet Tea Mojitos, or choose from a selection of wines by the glass and bottle, domestic and international beers, or an American Pale Ale brewed locally at Low Tide Brewing on Johns Island. The Ryder Cup Bar operates on a first come first serve basis and does not require reservations.

Local Tip: The Ryder Cup Bar boasts the BEST sunset views on Kiawah Island from the classic Lowcountry verandah. Enjoy front row seats to a spectacular sunset and follow it up with ocean to table fine dining at the Atlantic Room, Kiawah Island’s signature seafood restaurant. Call (843) 266-4085 for reservations.

Porch Bar & Grill

Address: Freshfields Village, 300 Farm Lake View Rd, Kiawah Island

Phone: (843) 793 6050

Hours: Open Daily – 4 PM to Close

Live Music: Live Jazz Thursday from 6 PM to 8 PM

The Porch Bar at Freshfields Village is perfect for date night or a gathering of friends. The interiors are elegant and inviting with plush lounge seating and accent chairs surrounding a soaring stone fireplace, elegant chandeliers draping from the ceilings, long tables for large groups, intimate spaces that allow for romance, and a vibrant atmosphere that attracts a bevy of locals and visitors to Kiawah and Seabrook Island. The outdoor porch seating offers the perfect perch for sunset cocktails with views over Freshfields Village Andell Lake.

The Porch Bar only offers light fare with a small choice of cheeses, chicken sliders, and gourmet flatbreads to pair with upscale handcrafted cocktails like the Charleston Nippitaty (local organic gin, cucumber, and crackled black pepper), the Kiawah Sparkler (Bombay Sapphire, Chambord, prosecco, and lemon) or the Seabrook Manhattan (rye whiskey, black walnut, and brandied cherries). Classic Lowcountry cocktails that may have you returning for a second serving, with some light jazz!

Local Tip: Looking for live music on Kiawah Island? Every Thursday night, The Porch Bar entertains patrons with the soul-stirring sounds of live jazz from 6 PM to 8 PM.

Cantina 76

Address: Freshfields Village, 219 Farm Lake View Rd, Kiawah Island

Phone: (843) 737 4607

Hours: Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner
Sunday to Thursday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Friday & Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM

For mouthwatering hand-crafted margaritas and imaginative Mexican-inspired cuisine in a casual setting, head to Cantina 76 situated next to The Porch Bar in Freshfields Village. In fact, from here on you can even do a little happy hour hopping! This family-owned taqueria and bar is casual and upbeat with a vibey indoor dining area and an outdoor patio overlooking Andell Lake to gather with friends, family, or your four-legged fur babies!

Whether you’re after a quick cocktail or a night out on the town, Cantina 76 hits the spot! The Mexican-inspired menu includes a selection of starters, share plates, and entrees made in house daily, and all types of tequila for handcrafted and made-to-order margaritas – you can even order a skinny margarita without the calories! If you’re starting early, check out their selection of brunch drinks including mimosas and bloody marys.

Local Tip: From September through March, Cantina 76 has weekday happy hour specials from 4 PM to 7 PM – half price off house margaritas, $2 for Tecate & PBR cans, $2.50 for domestic and imported beers, $3 for craft beers, sangria, and house liquors, and $4 for house wines!

King Street Grille

Address: Freshfields Village, 679 Freshfields Dr, Kiawah Island

Phone: (843) 768 5444

Hours: Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner – 11 AM to 10 PM

Voted “Best Sports Bar” for 7 years running, the award-winning King Street Grille in Freshfields Village is an upscale neighborhood sports bar with “great food, great beer, great atmosphere” and an epic daily happy hour (4 PM to 7 PM) if you’re 21+ and seated at the bar! It’s located across from Cantina 76 so you can even pick your vibe for a lakeside cocktail!

The King Street Grille has a classic indoor sports bar area with multiple big screen TVs and a pet-friendly patio overlooking Andell Lake for alfresco cocktail vibes. Snack on scratch-made menu items or indulge in a hearty homestyle meal while savoring King Street Grille’s selection of creative and colorful cocktails that’ll savor your sweet tooth, or deliver a kick.

Local Tip: Freshfields Village is super pet-friendly with many dog-friendly patios, including King Street Grille! If you’re looking for pet-friendly vacation rentals, you’ll find the pawfect home for Fido in our selection of pet-friendly homes on neighboring Seabrook Island – where the beaches are dog friendly year round too!

FortyEight – Wine Bar & Kitchen

Address: Freshfields Village, 547 Freshfields Dr, Kiawah Island

Phone: (843) 768 2245

Hours: Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner
Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM
Sunday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM

While sipping your way through Freshfields Village, wine lovers must make a stop for a unique sommelier experience at FortyEight Wine Bar + Kitchen. Why FortyEight? Here you’ll find 48 wines available by the glass, 48 local craft beers, 48 fabulous food options, and a seasonal cocktail list of old-school classics and innovative specialties.

The Wine Bar operates on an innovative smartcard system, that you can reload as you taste! Choose from 48 wines from around the world with three tasting sizes (1 oz, 3 oz, or 6 oz), and an expert sommelier team on hand to guide you. All wines are available to purchase by the bottle to take home. Kitchen classics to pair range from share plates, soups, salads, sandwiches, and mix-and-match charcuterie boards to flatbreads and entrees, including their famous Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes and Filet Mignon!

Local Tip: Take your local wine tasting experience to the next level by reserving a spot at one of FortyEight’s exclusive wine pairing dinners featuring award-winning wineries and exceptional cuisine.

You can serve it shaken or stirred when you stay with Kiawah Exclusives! Sip cocktails oceanfront at Beachwalker Park or perhaps poolside overlooking the lush fairways, tranquil lagoons, ancient maritime forests, and natural seclusion Kiawah Island is known for.