December Holiday Events in Charleston

Relax with a Patriots Point Pilsner, cozy up by the firepits with s’mores, sip on warm hot cocoa, or rent a private firepit experience near the rink or gondolas with stunning harbor views. Kids can enjoy jump castles, games, and more! Gather your family and friends for a holiday celebration packed with festive fun for everyone.

Embrace the magic of the holiday season at the Charleston Holiday Festival of Lights, a cherished annual event held at James Island County Park in Charleston, South Carolina. This enchanting festival transforms the park into a winter wonderland, bedecked with millions of dazzling lights. Visitors can stroll or drive through a three-mile tour featuring the city’s finest light displays. They also feature a sculpture made from 50 tons of sand, a holiday train, an enchanted walking trail, a Victorian carousel, Santa Claus, Santa’s sweet shop, gift shops, marshmallow roasting, and more! Get your tickets today for this heartwarming, family-friendly experience that captures the true spirit of the season!

Check out the South Carolina Aquarium from a whole new perspective with Aquarium Aglow. This one-of-a-kind event has quickly become a Charleston holiday tradition. Aquarium Aglow is an intricate light show that stretches throughout the aquarium. Using thousands of lights and an array of colors, the aquarium transforms its space into something truly magical. This memorable event is ticketed, with prices varying depending on the day you plan on attending. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity in Charleston!

Credit One Stadium transforms into a winter wonderland this season with the arrival of Skate The Stadium, a custom-built synthetic ice rink! Lace up your skates and join the festive atmosphere as you glide across the ice amidst the twinkling lights and holiday cheer.

Warm up by cozy fire pits, indulge in delicious concessions, and create lasting memories with loved ones. Skate The Stadium offers a unique and affordable way to celebrate the season, with tickets priced at only $10 per person, including skate rental and a 45-minute skating session.

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind holiday experience at Holy City Brewing! Their annual Holy City Christmas event transforms the brewery into a winter wonderland. Wander through a magical forest, encounter festive characters, and enjoy complimentary treats and surprises. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends and family. Get your tickets now!

As the holiday season approaches, Charleston’s Historic Dock Street Theatre prepares to once again immerse audiences in the timeless tale of A Christmas Carol. This beloved production, adapted by Julian Wiles and directed by Sam Henderson, is renowned for its captivating performances, stunning visuals, and heartwarming message. This show is a must-see event. Purchase your tickets today!

Get into the holiday spirit with Bulldog Tours’ festive offerings! Their Charleston Strolls Holiday Walking Tour takes you through the historic district, adorned with twinkling lights and holiday cheer. Immerse yourself in Charleston’s rich history and learn about its unique Christmas traditions. For a more spirited experience, join their Holiday Strolls Cocktail Tour, where you’ll sip on festive cocktails at three of the city’s most charming historic inns. Tickets are on sale now!

Step back in time and experience a truly magical evening at the historic Edmondston-Alston House. Wander through the festively decorated rooms illuminated by candlelight, and listen to the enchanting melodies of the Charleston Caroling Company. As you warm yourself in the cozy courtyard, sip on wine or hot cider while a local storyteller shares captivating Gullah Christmas tales.

Join Magnolia’s Home for the Holidays! Beginning December 6, the property will be beautifully decorated with festive holiday displays, creating a magical setting for all to enjoy.

On December 15, experience an enchanting afternoon exploring the grounds, meeting Santa from 1-4 PM, and listening to cheerful Christmas carols. This casual, family-friendly event captures the holiday spirit and is included with both membership and garden admission.

The annual Light the Lake event is a magical holiday celebration at Colonial Lake Park. This free event features a stunning tree lighting ceremony, live music, food vendors, and festive activities for the whole family. As the sun sets, the lake is illuminated with thousands of luminaries, creating a breathtaking atmosphere for the holiday season.

One of Charleston’s best traditions, First Friday Artwalks are a way of debuting the city’s vibrant art scene. This special occasion occurs on the first Friday of every month (excluding January and July) and highlights dozens of art galleries and studios across the entire city. This is your chance to check out local art studios and mingle with local artists.

Get ready to swing into the holiday season with the Charleston Jazz Orchestra’s annual Holiday Swing concert! This festive event features the talented musicians of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra performing classic holiday tunes with a jazzy twist. The concert will be held at the historic Charleston Music Hall, creating a magical atmosphere for the entire family. So grab your loved ones and join us for an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer and soulful music!

Join Explore Charleston and Southern Living for an unforgettable holiday experience in the enchanting city of Charleston, South Carolina. This festive event will feature Southern Living editors, special guests, and a carefully curated holiday market. Highlights include the Southern Living Illumination Holiday Market, showcasing local and regional vendors selected by the editors, along with a full day of demonstrations on holiday cooking, decorating, and entertaining. Guests will also enjoy a tour of the 2024 Southern Living Idea House in Kiawah River, beautifully decorated for the season, and have the opportunity to attend book signings with notable Southern authors. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet and mingle with Southern Living editors and contributors.

Every second Sunday of the month from noon until 5 pm, the City of Charleston shuts down King Street from Queen to Calhoun to through traffic. In addition, no cars are allowed to park, giving pedestrians the ability to stroll through the street and visit businesses they might not have known about. There are also artists displaying their work on the street and unique food vendors tempting guests with their fare.

Get ready to deck the halls with the Charleston Holiday Market at Marion Square! This festive event features a wide array of local vendors offering unique gifts, holiday decorations, and delicious treats. From handcrafted jewelry to fresh produce, you’re sure to find something special for everyone on your list. Enjoy live music, kid-friendly activities, and the holiday spirit as you shop ’til you drop at this beloved Charleston tradition.

Bring your friends and family to Drayton Hall’s annual Deck the Hall Oyster Roast and savor the historical charm of this beloved Lowcountry tradition! Enjoy all-you-can-eat oysters, a hearty chili bar, and a selection of local beverages, all while supporting the Drayton Hall mission. We encourage guests to come early to explore the exhibits at Drayton Hall before the festivities begin, as your Oyster Roast ticket includes admission to the grounds. Feel free to bring your own lawn chairs for a comfortable experience, but kindly leave pets, coolers, and outside food and drinks at home. This popular event sells out every year, so be sure to get your tickets early!

Wine Under the Oaks is a 21+ event that offers a sophisticated and enjoyable experience for wine enthusiasts and food lovers. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Boone Hall Plantation, this annual celebration features curated wine tastings, live music, and delicious culinary delights. It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind and savor the flavors of the South in a historic and elegant setting.

The Charleston Christmas Special is a beloved holiday tradition in Charleston, South Carolina. This annual show features a cast of 28 professional singers, dancers, and musicians. The show is an all-new production each year, featuring a family-friendly blend of holiday classics, new songs, comedy skits, and more. The Charleston Christmas Special is a heartwarming and entertaining show that is sure to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.

This holiday spectacle transforms the Charleston Harbor in an array of dazzling lights and decorated boats. Participants, ranging from private boat owners to local businesses, transform their vessels into floating masterpieces, adorning them with thousands of twinkling lights, festive ornaments, and creative holiday scenes. The parade route winds its way through the Ashley River, past the iconic Battery Park, and into the Cooper River, offering spectators a mesmerizing view of the illuminated vessels. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Charleston, this enchanting spectacle is sure to leave you feeling dazzled and filled with holiday cheer.

Join us at this family-friendly event with Chanukah in the Square! This vibrant festival brings together the Jewish community and the wider community to commemorate the holiday season. This year’s event will feature live entertainment, a variety of food stations, and various children’s activities for families. The event also includes the lighting of the menorah candles at sundown. Don’t forget to stop by this event on your visit to Charleston.

The South Carolina invites guests to finish off 2024 with their classic NYE Celebration. This event is for all ages and includes a DJ, face painting, a stilt walker, and even a ball drop! It’s a night of underwater wonder, festive fun, and unforgettable memories that will set the stage for a year filled with joy and adventure.