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Charleston Hosts Halloween Carnival Amid Controversy

Families enjoying the Charleston Halloween carnival with colorful decorations and festive activities.

Charleston SC, October 25, 2025

News Summary

Charleston is set to host the ‘Creepy QT Halloween Party,’ organized by QT Summer Camp, which supports queer and trans youth. The event faced backlash from Representative Nancy Mace, who claimed it would feature inappropriate content. Organizers have clarified that the event will include a single, age-appropriate drag performance and additional activities, while emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and the need for safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth. Security measures will be in place to protect attendees.

Charleston Hosts Controversial Halloween Carnival Amid Claims from Local Representative

Charleston, SC – Local advocates and organizers have responded to claims made by Representative Nancy Mace regarding the upcoming “Creepy QT Halloween Party,” which reportedly includes a drag performance and will benefit a regional abortion fund. Mace stated in a video that the event features a “teen drag show” and promised to ban drag shows for children if elected governor, referring to it as “grooming.”

The Halloween carnival is organized by QT Summer Camp, which provides outdoor activities for queer and trans youth. QT Summer Camp was established in 2023 to address the needs of vulnerable children that Mace and fellow legislators have not adequately met. The camp prioritizes creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ youth through programs that focus on education, empowerment, and self-advocacy. The camp offers free attendance for its activities, making it accessible for all participants.

Contrary to Mace’s assertions, organizers clarified that the planned drag performance at the Halloween party will include only one adult performer and will be designed to be age-appropriate. The camp director, Kyndra Luce, pointed out that Mace’s team did not contact them for clarification before making claims about the event, which has caused confusion and concern among parents and guardians.

Moreover, Mace inaccurately claimed that the Lowcountry Period Pixies organization was hosting the event. In reality, LPP plays a collaborative role by providing period products and education and does not have a leadership position in organizing the carnival. LPP has emphasized that Mace’s framing misrepresents their mission, which focuses on health education and access for children.

The carnival is not directly affiliated with the Palmetto State Abortion Fund; instead, it features a pumpkin decorating activity sponsored by the fund. Despite the backlash from Mace’s statements, multiple partner organizations, including Alliance for Full Acceptance and Charleston Pride, are backing the Halloween event, which aims to promote inclusivity and acceptance.

In light of the controversy, organizers have assured the public that security measures will be in place during the event to ensure the safety of all children attending. Mace has also issued an ultimatum demanding the cancellation of the drag performance, insisting that it should not proceed.

QT Summer Camp remains steadfast in its mission to offer supportive and inclusive programs for LGBTQIA+ youth, regardless of any political opposition. The organization stands by its commitment to provide age-appropriate education and activities that promote healthy and positive child development in a safe environment.

Background on QT Summer Camp

QT Summer Camp was founded in 2023 with the goal of addressing the inadequate support for LGBTQIA+ youth in South Carolina. The camp provides various outdoor activities tailored to empower and educate queer and trans children, offering them a chance to express themselves in a secure environment. This initiative comes in response to critiques directed at state legislators regarding their handling of issues affecting vulnerable youth.

Impact of Mace’s Claims

Mace’s claims have prompted a wide array of responses from community advocacy groups, many of which have rallied in support of the QT Summer Camp and the Halloween event. As discussions continue, local activists emphasize the importance of providing safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ children and the necessity for accurate information regarding such events. The upcoming carnival will not only serve as a celebration of the community but also as a platform for raising awareness and support for inclusive programs in South Carolina.

FAQ

What is the “Creepy QT Halloween Party”?

The “Creepy QT Halloween Party” is a Halloween carnival organized by QT Summer Camp, which provides outdoor activities for queer and trans youth.

What claims did Rep. Nancy Mace make about the event?

Rep. Nancy Mace posted a video alleging that the event would feature a “teen drag show” and benefit a regional abortion fund, labeling it as “grooming.”

What is the role of Lowcountry Period Pixies in the event?

Mace inaccurately claimed that Lowcountry Period Pixies was hosting the event; LPP only has a collaborative role, providing period products and education.

What security measures will be in place at the event?

Security measures will be in place at the event to ensure children’s safety in light of Mace’s online comments.

When was QT Summer Camp launched?

QT Summer Camp was launched in 2023 to address failures of South Carolina legislators towards vulnerable children.

Key Features of the Halloween Carnival

Feature Description
Name of Event Creepy QT Halloween Party
Organizer QT Summer Camp
Target Audience Queer and trans youth
Drag Performance One adult performer; age-appropriate
Partner Organizations Alliance For Full Acceptance, Charleston Pride, and others
Security Measures Implemented to ensure children’s safety

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Charleston Hosts Halloween Carnival Amid Controversy

STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.

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