Charleston Holiday Events

christmas ornaments

The holidays are such a special time of year in Charleston—there’s just that feeling of indescribable magic in the air.

The beautiful Christmas lights, lit menorahs, and festive store displays—the holidays brings so much joy and fun.

We’ve compiled a list of holiday events in the Charleston area to get you and your loved ones in the spirit.

December 2—Historic Holiday Event at The Charleston Museum

The Charleston Museum is hosting their annual Holiday Workshop. Children can sip on hot chocolate and cookies, while they decorate the exhibit and create decorations to bring home.

This event is free for members and only $5 for non-members.

For more event information, click here. 

December 4—A Night in Wine Country: Taste, Shop, Stroll King Street

Shopping and wine—what’s not to love?!

Stroll King Street’s unique shops offering a preferred shopping experience, and enjoy reserve wine tastings at every store—plus hors d’oeuvres from local restaurateurs.

Tickets are $50 per person.

For more event information, click here.

December 6—35th Annual Charleston Christmas Parade

Be sure to attend the 35th Annual Charleston Christmas Parade! The parade will begin at 2:00 p.m. starting at Broad and Barre Street, and ends with Santa’s arrival at Marion Square on the corner of Calhoun and King Street.

For more event information, click here. 

December 8—Vienna Boys Choir

The highly anticipated Vienna Boys Choir will be coming to the Charleston Gaillard Center. This prestigious choir group was founded in 1498, and their beautiful voices are now heard around the world.

For more event information, click here.

December 10-11—Sounds of Season Concert

We’re proud sponsors of Charleston County School of the Arts Vocal Department’s Sounds of the Season concert performances along with the SOA Orchestra. Each year the concerts are absolutely fantastic, and the talent is truly impressive. These performances usually sell-out both night—be sure to get your tickets early!

For more event information, click here. 

Did we forget one of your favorite Charleston holiday events? Share below!

Top 3 Holiday Related Activities to Enjoy in Charleston

festival of lightsImage to the left taken from the Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission website.

 

Charleston comes alive during the holidays, and enchanting activities for all ages abound. Here are just a few of the festive holiday celebrations to enjoy right now.

Holiday Festival of Lights
James Island County Park, November 10, 2011–January 1, 2012

With over 2 million lights, the Holiday Festival of Lights is a must-see event. Set up as a 3-mile driving tour or a fun-filled train ride, the Festival of Lights also offers several activities besides twinkling lights, such as marshmallow roasts, gift shops, carousel rides, life-size greeting cards, and a tree lighting.

The driving tour is $12 per car, and the train ride is $3 per person. Children under 2 are admitted free.

Charleston Christmas Sleigh Ride 2011
Charleston Harbor, December 1–31, 2011

Every night in December excluding Christmas, Thriller Charleston hosts sleigh rides by boat to look at the Christmas lights and decorations. You’ll depart from Shem Creek in Mt. Pleasant and see the sights in Charleston, James Island, and Mt. Pleasant. As you drink hot cocoa, you’ll hear charming stories of Charleston’s Christmas customs. You keep your travel mug and rain poncho.

Sleigh rides are $45 for adults and $35 for children ages 5–12. Children under 5 are admitted free, but do not receive the hot chocolate or rain poncho.

What’s your favorite Charleston holiday tradition?