Special Members Only Creche Tour at Mepkin Abbey

There are few holiday events in the Lowcountry more spectacular than the annual Creche Festival at Mepkin Abbey.  And our special guided tour by Rich Dorval can make it an even more magical experience.

Our next “Members Only” field trip will help us get into the Christmas Holiday Spirit by attending the Annual Creche’ Festival at Mepkin Abbey. Each year this nativity inspired Festival centers around a theme for the artists to develop their exhibits. This year’s theme is,” Nativity in glass and under glass.”

The 2024 Creche’ Festival marks its 21st year thanks to the enthusiasm and support, which has made Mepkin Abbey a cherished place to begin the celebration of Christmas. Many contributing artists are among the area’s most distinguished designers and have displayed their collective works all over the world.

There is no charge but please consider donating at the Abbey to defray expenses and to help the Creche’ Festival continue to be a time-honored tradition.

Our visit is scheduled for Thursday December 5th, arrival at Mepkin for 10:00am. For members interested in carpooling, or following a caravan up to Moncks Corner, we will meet in the Publix parking lot adjacent to the lot roundabout. Departure will be at 9 am sharp. Set your GPS to1098 Mepkin Abbey Road, Moncks Corner, SC

Rich Dorval (Membership Chair) will lead the caravan up, organize our group at Mepkin and be available to answer your questions throughout our visit. He recommends that you bring a picnic style lunch or snack and lawn chairs if you will be staying on through lunch hours. Travel distance is 35 miles from Daniel Island, 60 minutes each way. Member participants should plan on returning about 1:30pm.

There are plenty of reasons to stay longer… see; the Nancy Bryan Luce Gardens (great spot to picnic), Historical Cemetery of the Henry Laurens Family, Wood Sculptures carved from Live Oaks downed during Hurricane Hugo in 1989, a Labyrinth, CHAS Nine Firefighters Memorial, and the recently added Meditation Garden.

It will be a fun day and a great way to meet your neighbors.

Rich has booked a special tour for 30 DIHS members but is confident he can add to that total if necessary.  If you’re participating in Rich’s special tour group there is no need to register with the Abbey but please contact him at rtdorval@gmail.com to let him know you intend to participate.

If you can’t make this special December 5 tour but want to visit the Creche Festival on your own you should register with the Abbey at https://bookwhen.com/mepkin-abbey-creche-festival