Explore family friendly events, theatres, galleries, concerts, nightlife, things to do, and more in the Greenville, SC and Upstate areas.

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Saturday, November 19, 2022
ANNUAL SHOW PASS: Access to 2023 Alchemy Comedy Theater shows
Nov 19 @ 10:00 am
online

For over 11 years the Alchemy Comedy Theater has run weekly comedy shows in downtown Greenville, SC. Now we are offering an annual pass so you can as many laughs as possible. Just bring a picture ID so we can confirm the name of the pass holder.

Seating is often limited, so it’s always wise to arrive 15 minutes early to claim your seat. Street parking is available (if you’re lucky), along with several nearby parking garages.

Individual tickets are available for all 6 weekly shows, or get into every regular show in 2023 with this Full Annual Pass!

The Alchemy Comedy Theater is back and running shows every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night at 7:30 and 9pm.

 

 

Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice
Nov 19 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upstate History Museum

 

Dinosaurs will roar into the Upstate South Carolina, when the Upcountry History Museum presents Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice. Crossing the threshold of this interactive exhibition means traveling back in time to explore the Age of the Dinosaurs.

 

Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice is the first child-centered exhibit in the country dedicated to expanding the understanding of dinosaurs and their habitats. Designed for young explorers, ages 3-10, the bilingual (Spanish and English) exhibit features three distinct sections that build on a child’s innate curiosity about dinosaurs: Land of Fire (a warm dinosaur habitat), Land of Ice (a cold dinosaur habitat), and a Field Research Station (complete with a Big Dig experience).

 

The steamy Land of Fire, present day Montana, introduces visitors to the Triceratops, T-Rex and the dinosaurs who called this environment home. Children can circle the land in insect costumes, buzz through a volcano with oozing lava, work through a swampy bog and identify an ecosystem of animals and plants.

 

No coats are needed for a trip across the Land of Ice where visitors meet the dinosaurs who made their homes in the cold climate of Alaska. Activities include: climbing rocky steps, breezing down an icy slide, and hopping across stepping stones in an icy river.

 

In the hands-on Field Research Station children and their caregivers don goggles and research vests, as they uncover dinosaur bones in a dig station and examine fossils to identify dinosaurs.

 

The exhibit builds on the popular fascination with dinosaurs and includes science, history, and literacy based activities to challenge all ages. Sculpted, touchable dinosaurs, featuring the most recent scientific findings about dinosaur colors, textures and structural form create opportunities for young
explorers to investigate clues that the dinosaurs left behind.

 

Book a Field Trip!

Free Drum Circle at Pecknel Music
Nov 19 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Pecknel Music Company

Join us every third Saturday of the month for a FREE drum circle with Jeff Holland! All ages welcome. Drums are provided or you can bring your own. No experience required. Just join in and feel the rhythm!

Nutcracker: the Exhibition
Nov 19 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upstate History Museum

The nutcracker sits under the holiday tree, a guardian of childhood stories. Feed him walnuts and he will crack open a tale…

In the Christmas season of merry making, the ways of celebrating are as many and as varied as possible, but familiar traditions and stories connect all of us during this time, influencing our celebrations and holding a special place in our hearts. One such story and tradition is The Nutcracker.

Whether it’s a tradition to see the ballet or if you only know the songs from hearing them played on Christmas playlists, we are all familiar with the story of The Nutcracker. Or are we truly?

The Upcountry History Museum in partnership with Walt Disney Archives, The Walt Disney Family Museum, Charles M. Schulz Museum, artists James Ransome and Jan Brett, R. Michelson Galleries, and the Carolina Ballet Theatre will invite visitors to explore the history of the surprisingly dark story behind the ballet and its evolution into a holiday classic.

From its origins as a short story written by Prussian author, E.T.A. Hoffman in 1816, to its premiere as a fairy tale ballet in two acts that opened a week before Christmas in 1892, The Nutcracker has become the most popular ballet to be performed around the world at Christmas time.

Nutcracker: The Exhibition, a 1,200 square foot exhibition, organized by the Upcountry History Museum, will explore the kaleidoscope of artistic re-imaginings of The Nutcracker, from the 1820’s to the present. The immersive experience will take visitors on a journey from The Nutcracker’s beginnings as a short story, to its artistic interpretations in literature, ballet, theater, and film. Original illustrations, drawings, film and ballet costumes, props, and ephemera will examine multiple perspectives of one of literature’s greatest paradoxes that continues to inspire imagination, creativity, and discussion.

Rich with visual interpretation, the exhibition will take visitors on a journey through the cultural, technological, and societal shifts that have compelled artists, filmmakers, and fans to return to tale of The Nutcracker time and time again.

Wild Things: The Art of Maurice Sendak
Nov 19 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Upstate History Museum

See the source image

He was one of the greatest creators of children’s books in the 20th century – though he didn’t like the term “children’s books” and preferred “books that children like.” Author and artist Maurice Sendak upended expectations by depicting menace, anxiety and “wild” behavior in picture books devoured by readers of all ages.

The Upcountry History Museum will serve as the only South Carolina stop on the Wild Things national exhibition tour. Visitors of all ages will experience the fantastical imagination of Maurice Sendak as they explore over 50 pieces of original artwork and step into the pages of his beloved books.

The immersive exhibition celebrates Sendak’s life and work by showcasing his most famous pieces through preliminary sketches, finished artwork, and interactive experiences. All of this is told through the words of Sendak himself, intimately connecting the artist to his art and stories.

Sendak created a visual language that has captivated generations of children. Although he sometimes indulged in lighthearted plots, his picture books often had menacing elements: fanged monsters, baby stealing goblins and young protagonists placed in dangerous situations. Sendak intentionally gave children the opportunity to engage with ethical dilemmas, to feel afraid as well as joyful, and to take part in imaginative play.

During his long career Sendak illustrated over one hundred books, which continue to thrill and fascinate life-long learners all over the world. The fifty works of art in the exhibition will be accompanied by quotes from fellow illustrators, friends, and celebrities, sharing their thoughts on Sendak and the ways in which he inspired them. As comedian Stephen Colbert stated, “His art gave us a fantastical but un-romanticized reminder of what childhood truly felt like.”

Curriculum based lessons, along with “rumpus themed” family and adult programs will coincide with the exhibition and its timeless messages.

Biltmore House Rooftop Tour
Nov 19 @ 10:30 am
Biltmore Estate

Limited Capacity: 12 Guests per Tour
A truly memorable experience featuring rare photo opportunities, this exclusive guided tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the design and construction of Biltmore House in areas unavailable on the regular house visit. Imagine yourself a Vanderbilt (or cherished Vanderbilt guest) as you take in stunning views seen only from the house’s rooftop and balconies.

Advance reservation required. Tour includes 250 stairs with no elevator access. Wheelchairs, strollers, and baby backpacks are prohibited. Backpacks are not allowed on any guided tours. Guests are required to leave backpacks in a locker or in their vehicle. To participate in this tour, guest must have a daytime ticket, a Biltmore Annual Pass, or a stay at one of the estate’s splendid overnight properties.

Fountain Inn Library Gentle Ballet
Nov 19 @ 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Fountain Inn Library

Classical ballet for beginners that concentrates on proper stretching and alignment of the body, balance, and poise. Led by Carolina Dance Collaborative.

Mauldin Library Couponing Basics
Nov 19 @ 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Mauldin Library

Led by Jenny Martin of Southern Savers. Registration required. Email [email protected] or call 864-277-7397.

Andy Warhol: Celebrity Portraits
Nov 19 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Chapman Cultural Center

Selections from the USC Upstate Permanent collection of works by Andy Warhol, including original silk screen prints, Polaroids, and photographs.

Complimentary Wine Tastings Biltmore
Nov 19 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Biltmore Estate

Capacity is limited.
Tasting room by reservation only. Make reservations in-person on the day of your Winery visit.

To participate in this activity, guest must have a daytime ticket, a Biltmore Annual Pass, or a stay at one of the estate’s splendid overnight properties.

Reservations are required for all wine tastings and must be made on the day of your visit. Because our complimentary wine tastings fill up quickly, we recommend you reserve your tasting when you arrive for your visit.

Free Family Day
Nov 19 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Spartanburg Science Center
Five Forks Library Comic Club
Nov 19 @ 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Five Forks Library

Adults

Collaboration Space Read and discuss Crossover, Volume 1: Kids Love Chains and Volume 2: The Ten-Cent Plague by Donny Cates, Geoff Shaw, Dee Cunniffe, and John J. Hill.

Discovering the Appalachian Trail with Josh Niven + Amber Adams Nevin
Nov 19 @ 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Nantahala Outdoor Center Gatlinburg

amber-book

DESCRIPTION

From beginners to thru-hikers, Discovering the Appalachian Trail has something for anyone that wants a connection with the nation’s longest marked footpath at approximately 2,181 miles. Starting at Springer Mountain in Georgia and finishing far to the north in Maine’s Mount Katahdin, the A.T. crosses 14 states, 6 national parks, and 8 national forests. Taking on the A.T. is a pilgrimage because of both its beauty and accessibility. Let Joshua Niven and Amber Adams guide you across the best trails that the Appalachian Trail has to offer. Complete with full-color photography, you’ll also have hikes suited to every ability, mile-by-mile directional cues, sidebars, and maps.

Joshua Niven was born in Germany and raised in the hills surrounding Charlotte, North Carolina. Joshua graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design with a degree in photography in 2012. He completed the entire Appalachian Trail on foot in 2013 and self-published a photography book with over 150 images that he made during his thru-hike. In addition to making artwork, Joshua owns and operates Asheville Fine Art Printing, where he helps reproduce and facilitate other artists’ work. He lives in Madison County, North Carolina with his wife and children.

Amber Adams Niven grew up in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, where she developed a deep love for nature and hiking at an early age. At twenty-six, she backpacked over 1,400 miles of the Appalachian Trail from Maine to Virginia with her family. Amber’s journey on the AT resulted in a move to western North Carolina, a few years of soul-seeking, and a venture in creative entrepreneurship. Amber is a lifelong journal keeper, certified yoga teacher, and mother of two children. This is her first book.

Rocky Cove Railroad Exhibit
Nov 19 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
NC Arboretum

On exhibit Saturdays and Sundays from 12 – 4 p.m., Rocky Cove Railroad is a G-Scale (garden scale) model train that demonstrates the coming of trains to western North Carolina at the turn of the 20th century. The exhibit is located below the Grand Promenade. Please note, Rocky Cove Railroad will not operate in rainy or wet conditions.

Fiddler on the Roof
Nov 19 @ 2:00 pm
Peace Concert Hall

Tony®-winning director Bartlett Sher and the team behind South Pacific and The King and I bring a fresh and authentic vision to this beloved theatrical masterpiece from Tony-winner Joseph Stein and Pulitzer Prize winners Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick.

The original production won ten Tony Awards, including a special Tony for becoming the longest-running Broadway musical of all time. You’ll be there when the sun rises on this new production, with stunning movement and dance from acclaimed Israeli choreographer Hofesh Shechter, based on the original staging by Jerome Robbins. A wonderful cast and a lavish orchestra tell this heartwarming story of fathers and daughters, husbands and wives, and the timeless traditions that define faith and family.

Featuring the Broadway classics “Tradition,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and “To Life,” FIDDLER ON THE ROOF will introduce a new generation to this uplifting celebration that raises its cup to joy! To love! To life!

Greer Library Kindness Rocks
Nov 19 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Greer Library

Program Room Use creativity to spread kindness. Supplies provided or bring your own. Call 864-877-8722 or email [email protected] to register.

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
Nov 19 @ 3:59 pm – 4:59 pm
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is back in 2022! The 1¼ hour round-trip passenger excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS™, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.

Weather

We encourage guests to plan ahead and stay apprised of the latest weather developments. Cancellations of a POLAR EXPRESS departure because of inclement weather are very rare. If you’re staying in the Gatlinburg/Sevierville, Tennessee area, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Service announces road closures and openings on Twitter, or call (865) 436-1200 extension 631 for a recorded message. In such case Highway 441 is closed through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Interstate 40 typically remains open. Use 45 Mitchell Street, Bryson City, North Carolina 28713 as your destination to find an alternate route.

Holiday Cheers! at Olive’s Branch Gallery
Nov 19 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Olive's Branch Gallery
Reception for Artist Judy Daniels
Nov 19 @ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery

The community is invited to a reception celebrating the pastel and acrylic artist Judy Daniels. Light refreshments will be served!

Aquarium Aglow
Nov 19 @ 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
SC State Aquarium

Aquarium Aglow and light bulb with green sea turtled shaped filament on a background of twinkling blue, purple and green holiday lights.

SEE THE AQUARIUM IN A WHOLE NEW LIGHT!

The wonder of the season comes alive at Aquarium Aglow, elegant evenings of holiday celebration in the heart of downtown Charleston. Gather friends and loved ones to journey through the Aquarium, becoming immersed in waves of color from tens of thousands of lights. Installations, from warm and nostalgic to awe-inspiring and contemporary, transform the Aquarium you know and love. Combined with interactive displays and refreshments (food, wine and beer available for purchase), Aquarium Aglow is an experience sure to become a holiday tradition for many!

CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE AT AQUARIUM AGLOW

New this year, you can be the first to ring in 2023 at Aquarium Aglow! Celebrate New Year’s Eve on December 31 from 5:30–9:30 p.m. at a family friendly evening filled with festive fun, lively music and a special ball drop before bedtime. In addition to the full Aquarium Aglow experience, this event will have a DJ spinning party music, face painting and more exciting surprises.