We’re cruising into weekend two of the holiday proper, and it’s a time for football and a festive Charleston New Year’s Eve. A special happy holidays shout-out to all of you here visiting on the Isle of Palms. The weather is definitely more summer than winter-like, with temps today in the high 60’s. That makes enjoying one of the best things about a beach house Charleston -- the BEACH -- all the more pleasant. Many of our homes are just steps from the sand and surf. There’s something wonderfully festive about splashing around in late December and during the calendar flip. Who needs the Caribbean when you can stay on the Isle of Palms? The next few days will offer a multitude of fun things to spectate, see, do and celebrate a Charleston New Year’s Eve.
A perfect time and place to watch college football
We are smack in the middle of college football bowl season, and tomorrow (Saturday, December 29th) is a big day. I’m talking bowl games, especially the ones which are part of the college football playoffs. Here’s a rough guide to what’s worth watching on your flatscreens. At noon, the SC Gamecocks take on Virginia in the Belk Bowl. Then at 4:00, it’s No. 2 Clemson Tigers vs. No. 3 Notre Dame - a playoff semifinal - in the Cotton Bowl. At 8:00, it’s the other playoff semi when powerhouse No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide faces No. 4 Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl. It should be quite a day of pigskin, especially considering that Clemson is having to play without one of its best players.
Charleston New Year’s Eve happenings
If you’re here now, you have an overchoice of how to ring in the new year. Here’s a comprehensive lowdown from the Post and Courier. Of course, it’s hard to beat hunkering down in your beach house for a warm family gathering. No need for an upcharged Uber or a designated driver, plus you avoid the crowds. On the other hand, you may wish to ring it in in the company of others. One event is worth singling out. The City of Charleston is hosting its annual Charleston New Year’s Eve party in Marion Square downtown. It’s a free, family-friendly, non-alcoholic way to celebrate a little earlier in the day. It’ll take place from 4:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. and is perfect for the younger ones in your group. This year’s theme is “Dance Party.” Get set for:
- Dance floor and custom light show;
- Live music by Cattle in the Cane and John Cusatis;
- Plenty of food trucks for your eating pleasure;
- Make your own party hats;
- Check out the family photo booth;
- Face painting and inflatable zone;
- 5:30 light show with DJ Brandon Curbow spinning the best dance party hits of all time.
Marion Square is at the corner of King and Calhoun Streets on the downtown peninsula. A quick reminder - individual fireworks are prohibited on the Isle of Palms. So have a happy and safe Charleston New Year’s Eve. And remember, to call EP for the best beach houses near Charleston. All best, Lowcountry Lisa your Isle of Palms vacation blogger