Shortcuts October 31 2001

Charleston, S.C.
Begin celebrating the season with Christmas in Charleston Nov. 1-Jan. 31. Plantation Days at Middleton Place features artists dyeing wool with locally grown indigo, Lowcountry cooking, quilting and other old-timey tasks (Nov. 3-24). The Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park offers a driving tour of sparkling lights (Nov. 15-Jan. 6). Don’t miss the Parade of Boats through the Charleston harbor Dec. 1. Prices and locations vary. 800-868-8118 or www.charlestoncvb.com.

Lexington, Ky.
Visitors to the Kentucky Horse Park will get a little taste of Christmas beginning Nov. 16. The Southern Lights “Spectacular Sights on Holiday Nights” allows guests to drive through four miles of twinkling scenes of nature, Christmas and Kentucky thoroughbreds crossing the finish line. At the end of the drive are indoor festivities, which include a petting zoo, holiday performances and Santa. Through Dec. 31. 5:30-10:30 p.m. daily, but the buildings are closed Nov. 22 and Dec. 23-31 (driving tour only). $12-$100, depending on vehicle. Exit 120 on I-75, three miles north of Lexington. 859-255-5727 or khpf@mis.net or www.imh.org.

Anniston, Ala.
The weather is turning a bit chilly and the Anniston Museum of Natural History is hosting A Winter Market beginning Nov. 10. The annual fall event offers a unique selection of one-of-a-kind gifts in a diversity of media, styles and techniques. More than 60 artists and artisans from throughout the Southeast will display their wares, including sculpture, contemporary jewelry pieces, porcelain jars, photographs, paintings and more. A portion of the proceeds benefits the museum. Through Dec. 23. Tues.-Sun. 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m. and Sun. 1-4:45 p.m. Free. 800 Museum Drive. 256-237-6261 or www.annistonmuseum.org.??