What is the best time to attend Sip & Stroll?

The event typically takes place in the late afternoon to early evening, perfect for enjoying sunset views and cooler temperatures.

Are children allowed to attend?

Yes, the event is family-friendly, but adult supervision is recommended, especially during the outdoor performance.

Is there parking available?

Yes, ample parking is available onsite at Drayton Hall.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Outside alcohol and food are not permitted, but the event offers a curated selection of beverages.

Are tickets required in advance?

Yes, tickets should be purchased in advance as the event often sells out.

What should I do if there’s bad weather?

In case of rain, the event may be rescheduled or canceled; check the event website or contact the organizers for updates.

Outdoor Opera & Wine at Drayton Hall with Drayton Hall Preservation Trust

Located just outside Charleston, South Carolina, the scenic grounds of Drayton Hall offer a perfect backdrop for a unique outdoor cultural experience. The Sip & Stroll event is more than just an opera performance; it’s a leisurely escape where art, nature, and good taste meet. Imagine settling beneath the sprawling oaks, their branches swaying gently above as the Charleston Opera Theatre fills the air with captivating melodies. Guests are free to sip on a glass of wine or craft beer, soaking in the lush surroundings while enjoying high-quality operatic performances in an open-air setting. This event is part of the Drayton Hall Preservation Trust’s efforts to blend entertainment with the preservation of Charleston’s historic beauty, making it a true highlight for visitors seeking a sophisticated way to connect with the area's rich cultural fabric. The grounds themselves, with their majestic oaks and historic charm, have served as a gathering spot for locals and travelers alike for centuries. Attendees are encouraged to stroll the scenic pathways, taking in the peaceful landscape that’s steeped in history. To make the event even more memorable, guests receive a complimentary wine glass or koozie—a perfect keepsake of their special afternoon. Whether you're a lover of opera, a wine enthusiast, or simply seeking a one-of-a-kind outdoor activity near Charleston, Sip & Stroll offers a distinctive way to enjoy the South’s natural and cultural riches. It’s an experience that beautifully combines the vibrancy of live performance with the serenity of historic grounds, leaving visitors with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Charleston’s artistic heritage.

About Drayton Hall Preservation Trust

Drayton Hall Preservation Trust stewards Drayton Hall, a nationally significant historic property located on the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina. The Trust preserves America’s earliest unrestored Palladian house—often described as the nation's oldest preserved plantation house—and interprets its architectural, cultural, and archaeological stories for the public.

Programming includes daily and seasonal guided tours such as the one-hour Signature Experience Tour that visits the cellar, main, and second floors and features the Steven and Laura Gates Exhibit Gallery and the Lenhardt Courtyard Garden. Educator-led Student House Tours provide 45–60 minute curriculum-based experiences exploring African American history, architectural preservation, and onsite archaeology. Evening offerings range from Candlelight Tours that illuminate 18th-century spaces to special events like Drayton Hall at Night with live lawn music and archaeological presentations. Seasonal and community events include the popular Annual Deck the Hall Oyster Roast, holiday concerts such as African American Spirituals with Ann Caldwell and The Magnolia Singers, and hands-on workshops like the Wreath Building Workshop led by local florist Lela Solomon. The Trust also collaborates with nearby institutions to offer combination itineraries—for example, joint tours and package days with Middleton Place and Charleston Strolls walking tours—giving visitors economical ways to experience Lowcountry gardens, houses, and historic streets. Interpreters and guides emphasize preservation, authenticity, and historical context. Many ticketed experiences have limited capacity, so visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure a place.

Public programming supports conservation of the house, landscape, and archaeological collections through admission and membership, and community engagement efforts nationwide.