Good morning, Palmetto Parents!

I was a little surprised to be in a store on Monday and hear people already saying “Merry Christmas” while loading up on holiday decor! For some, November 1st marks the official start of Christmas—but around here, we’re still holding space for fall. I’m a big fan of Thanksgiving, and we’re going to let it have its moment (but there will still be a heads up on some fun Christmas events in the coming weeks).

This week, we’re sharing details on some great ways to get your family outside at our local parks, along with fun fall events and Thanksgiving-themed celebrations you won’t want to miss.

We’ll be out cheering on Daniel (a.k.a. chief Palmetto Parents dad) as he runs the Sweet Tea Half Marathon this weekend, which finishes in Hutchinson Square. Good luck to everyone participating in the half marathon, 10K, or 5K fun run!

And we know many of you are currently feeling the weight of providing for your families — and just as many are looking for ways to help others. Don’t miss this week’s Palmetto Piece, where we’re sharing thoughts on generosity and some local resources as we head into this Thanksgiving season.

Looking for a fun (and affordable!) way to get your family outdoors this month? Dorchester County Parks has a lineup of engaging, family-friendly activities that blend creativity, exploration, and fresh air — just in time for the cooler weather. Whether your kids love a good treasure hunt or you’re looking to add a little nature into your weekly rhythm, there’s some great opportunities for your family available.

Ready for a real-life adventure? Join park staff for Geocaching at the Park, where you’ll learn to use the free Geocaching app to hunt down hidden treasures throughout the park. It’s a great mix of screen time and green time — and there’s even a secret cache with a prize waiting for clever explorers!

You’ll learn how to follow GPS clues, explore the trail, and even hide your own cache for others to find. This is a fantastic way to introduce kids to navigation and outdoor fun in a fresh, engaging way.

Dates & Locations:

Free with park admission — but space is limited, so be sure to register here.

Prefer something a little more low-key? Join the Nature Walk Wednesdays series — a gentle, guided walk through one of the county parks, perfect for all ages. These walks offer a chance to stretch your legs, spot local wildlife, and enjoy the changing fall scenery alongside other nature-loving neighbors.

Each week, the walk happens in a different park, giving you the chance to explore new trails and areas of the community. Whether you're pushing a stroller, walking a pup, or just soaking in some solo quiet time, this is a great midweek reset.

Upcoming Walks:

Free with park admission — just don’t forget to register here.

Kick off Thanksgiving week with a creative twist! On the Monday before Thanksgiving, join Dorchester County Parks at the Ashley River Park Pavilion for a Thanksgiving Craft & Scavenger Hunt — a fun, hands-on program designed for kids ages 5–12 (though all are welcome!).

Kids will make a festive fall craft with all supplies and guidance provided, then receive a themed scavenger hunt to complete at your own pace in any of the county parks. It’s a perfect combo of indoor creativity and outdoor play.

Details:

Join November’s Kids Club event tomorrow from 10:30-11:30am at the Summerville Museum with a celebration of Thanksgiving and pumpkins! During the event, kids will be crafting and painting pumpkins made out of wood slices and will be talking about what they are grateful for this season. There will also be homemade cookies and drinks provided at the end of the event. The program is designed for kids 6+ and is $5 per child (can be paid at the museum at time of event). There is a limit of 18 kids, so if you’d like to guarantee your spot email [email protected] to register ahead of time!

Where: Summerville Museum and Research Center —
When: Saturday, November 8 | 10:30-11:30am

This Saturday the Timrod Library’s annual fall festival! One of the biggest draws is the books sale, featuring thousands of gently used titles — from hardcovers and paperbacks to rare, vintage, and collectible editions. Families will especially love the wide selection of children’s and junior books, all at unbeatable prices. It’s a great chance to stock your shelves, start holiday shopping, or simply find your next cozy read.

Plus, enjoy okra soup, sweetgrass baskets, book-themed gifts, and a 50/50 raffle while you browse.

Special offer for Palmetto Parents readers: Mention this article and show the image above to receive one free book during the sale!

Where: The Timrod Library – 217 Central Ave. Summerville
When: Saturday, November 8 | 9:30am – 2:00pm

If you’d like to enjoy a meal out while cutting the cost, here’s some options where kids can eat free (or cheap)! These all apply to the Summerville locations of these restaurants and have been verified by yours truly. Each restaurant includes highlights of the kid’s menu, so you can know if it’s something that would appeal to your kids. If there’s one to add to the list, please reply to this email to let us know! And if you’re wanting to eat out cheap on a Thursday night, we highly recommend heading to Viva Chicken for a $25 Bruno’s Big Chicken meal to share with the family.

Everyday:

Sundays:

Mondays:

Tuesdays:

Wednesdays:

Fridays:

Saturdays:

We know times are touch for so many right now. It only takes a few minutes scrolling through local social media pages to see just how many families are vulnerably reaching out, sharing that they’re struggling and in need of help. And with nearly every post asking for support, there’s a wave of responses — parents strangers showing up with kindness, resources, and encouragement. That’s the heart of a real community.

We’ve seen local nonprofits step up with extra food distribution days and families quietly meeting needs behind the scenes. There’s something deeply beautiful about living in a town where people truly want each other to thrive.

So here’s our gentle invitation: no matter what your own family is facing right now, pursue a generous spirit.

Generosity doesn’t have to mean money. Sometimes, the most meaningful gifts are the simplest ones. Offer to babysit for a single parent who just needs a break. Bring a warm meal to a neighbor having a hard week. Text someone who’s been quiet lately. Smile at the tired mom in the grocery line. Let your kids help pick out an item for the local blessing box each time you shop, or spend an afternoon sorting through toys together to donate to another family. These little acts add up—and they matter. I know when I’m going through a hard time, these things matter to me.

And if you’re the one in need right now, please don’t isolate. We know that urge—it feels easier to withdraw when life is heavy. But now’s the time to lean in. Let someone know you're having a hard day. Ask for help. Let your village show up for you.

One opportunity to give or receive is through a local Thanksgiving drive hosted by Love Spell Books, Summerville’s new independent bookstore. If you’re in a position to donate food or funds, it’s a great chance to help. And if receiving Thanksgiving support would ease your family’s load, don’t hesitate to reach out. Email [email protected] — no questions asked, just kindness waiting.

Generosity isn’t about how much you have — it’s about choosing to make space for someone else, even in small ways. Let’s keep being that kind of community.

Love,

The Berks 👨‍👩‍👦‍👦

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