Work Begins on Daniel Island’s Newest Park

Within a year, Daniel Island will have a brand-new park on the Wando River to add to its diverse collection of parks and open spaces. Work began earlier this month on Governor’s Park following a groundbreaking ceremony attended by Charleston Mayor Joe Riley and other city officials.

When complete, the $4 million city park will be a wonderful new venue for residents and visitors. Set on a 40-acre site on the banks of the Wando River next to the Family Circle Tennis Center, the park will incorporate a Grand Lawn area, stage, soccer and baseball fields (lit for evening play), a crabbing dock, picnic areas and an enclosed dog run area. The City of Charleston’s recreation department has plans to use the new park as a venue to expand its offering of recreational programs for all ages. Governor’s Park will also be a wonderful setting for concerts, festivals and other special events.

Completion of Governor’s Park is expected by next fall. This is just the latest addition to Daniel Island’s offering of hundreds of acres of parks and open greenspace. Located throughout the island within walking distance to all neighborhoods, the island’s parks provide residents with a vast array of recreational opportunities, from sports and active play to picnics, fishing, running, walking and relaxing.

Stay tuned for more information on the opening of Governor’s Park next year!

Celebrate the Spirit of the Season at Daniel Island’s Annual Holiday Festival

Family Circle Stadium will be transformed into a holiday wonderland Saturday and Sunday, December 4^th and 5^th when the annual Holiday Festival on Daniel Island returns. This shopping extravaganza features more than 120 vendors selling unique gifts of all kinds. From handmade crafts, jewelry and local food items to logo gear, toys, decorations and more, the Holiday Festival is designed to help you find gifts for everyone on your holiday list.

While you’re shopping, enjoy a line-up of live music and dance performances on the center stage, and occupy the kids with face painting, crafts and other children’s activities. There will also be Christmas carols, a tree lighting ceremony and, of course, visits and photos with Santa. Delicious drinks and nibbles from island restaurants and other food vendors will be served throughout the day.

Don’t miss this popular Daniel Island tradition – it’s a great way to kick off the holidays with the entire family! Admission is free and open to the public. Free parking will be available, and an ATM machine will be located on site. For a complete line-up of vendors and events, visit danielislandholidayfestival.com.

Brendan Steele Captures Nationwide Tour Championship Title
on Ralston Creek Course

Spectacular weather and suspenseful competition were the highlights of this year’s Nationwide Tour Championship at Daniel Island October 28-31, where Brendan Steele of California captured his first career win with a birdie on the fourth playoff hole to end the tournament. Following play, Steele, who finished sixth on the season’s money list, joined the rest of the top 25 money winners from the season in a ceremony at the Daniel Island clubhouse, where they received their coveted PGA TOUR cards for 2011.

Televised live on The Golf Channel, the tournament is the season-ending event for the PGA TOUR’S Nationwide Tour. Rees Jones’ championship Ralston Creek layout received rave reviews from players and PGA officials, who marveled at the condition and speed of the greens. Meanwhile, club members and fans enjoyed watching the competition unfold against a stunning backdrop of golden marsh, sweetgrass in bloom and the tidal waters of Ralston Creek.

Beyond golf, the festive 19th Hole behind the clubhouse was a popular gathering spot after play each day, with live music, cocktails and even Halloween activities for the younger fans.

Did you miss the excitement this year? Be sure to tune in next October, when the Nationwide Tour Championship returns to Daniel Island.

Make Plans to Attend “The Christmas Tour of Homes” During this Year’s Holiday Festival on Daniel Island December 4th

Looking for some ideas for your holiday decorating this year? Make plans to attend “The Christmas Tour of Homes” on Daniel Island December 4th from 1-5 pm. Presented by the Daniel Island Garden Club, the tour will showcase six private homes decorated with spectacular trees, mantles, greenery and a wide variety of interesting and unusual holiday decorations from around the world.

Tickets can be purchased for $20 in advance at Laura Alberts Tasteful Options, Island Expressions and Daniel Island Real Estate, all located on Daniel Island. In addition, advance tickets can be purchased in Mt. Pleasant at Butterfly Consignments in Belle Hall Shopping Center and Victoria’s Consignments on Houston Northcutt Blvd., and in downtown Charleston at Butterfly Consignments on King Street. Advance ticket prices end December 3rd. On the day of the tour, tickets will be available for purchase only at the Family Circle Tennis Center during the first day of the Holiday Festival on Daniel Island

. The price for tickets on the day of the event is $25. Tickets are limited, and it should be noted that homes are not handicapped accessible.

The event is a fundraiser for the ongoing development of the “Osprey Trail,” located in front of the Daniel Island School. This two-acre wooded area features a pathway and six garden rooms, and is a community beautification effort being undertaken by the Daniel Island Garden Club.

So come get inspired for the holidays and check out some of Daniel Island’s most beautiful homes!