Get Festive With These 5 Ways To Celebrate The Holiday Season in Charleston, SC
Believe it or not, the holiday season is here, and if you’re new to Charleston, you may be wondering what there is to do to celebrate. While South Carolina may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a white Christmas, I assure you what we lack in snow, we sure make up for in spirit.
1. The Festival of Lights at James Island County Park
First up, we have the Festival of Lights at James Island County Park. A staple for 32 years, this event is one of the most popular attractions this time of year. A three-mile driving tour featuring dazzling displays, the name itself doesn’t even explain it all. The festival also totes an impressive sculpture made up of over 50 tons of sand — a “very Charleston” substitute for ice — and even includes a holiday train.
A walk through the enchanted trail is sure to set the mood, or even a ride on the Victorian carousel. To round out the night, some marshmallow roasting and hot chocolate makes this experience a one-stop-shop if you’re looking for a quick trip to get into the holiday spirit.
2. The Holiday Boat Parade
Perhaps you weren’t sold on the sand sculptures and carousels, and are looking for an even more unique way to experience the lights and displays with an ocean-side-vibe. If so, then the Holiday Boat Parade is the experience for you.
A Lowcountry tradition, this family-friendly event features glowing, festive boats sailing from the Cooper River, through Charleston Harbor into the Ashley River. If you’re looking to jump into the action, you can even join the parade with your own boat. If you have a bit of tinsel and lights, of course.
Otherwise, catch the parade from the many great viewing areas like The Battery or the Waterfront Park Pier. Charleston is rich in history, and we’re lucky enough to have some of these 18th and 19th century homes still in existence.
Watch our Lively Charleston episode 5 ways to celebrate the holiday season in Charleston!
3. Nathaniel Russell House Candlelight Tours
The Candlelight tour of the Nathaniel Russell House is our pick for third. Built in 1808 and located at 51 Meeting St, the furnishings inside the Nathaniel Russell house are 99% original to the time period, including drapery by the same craftsmen who furnished curtains for George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
A romantic, evening tour through this mansion of a property will make you appreciate the challenges before modern lighting, while marveling at the beauty of the holiday decor adorning the interior.
4. Tree Lighting at Marion Square
Next up, we take a visit to Marion Square for the lighting of the Official Christmas Tree for the City of Charleston. The ceremony kicks off with musical acts and artists from all around the city, including a performance of some holiday classics by the Charleston Jazz Orchestra, culminating in the lighting of the 64-foot tree in the middle of historic Marion Square.
5. New Year's Eve at The South Carolina Aquarium
Part of the holiday season means saying goodbye to the previous year, and welcoming the next. We have a wonderful way to do just that. The Annual NYE Grand Ball at the South Carolina Aquarium is the perfect excuse to dress up, and ring in the New Year in an incredible spot.
Held in the Great Ocean Room, this black tie optional event features a DJ, an open bar, heavy hors d'oeuvres, and a champagne toast at midnight making it a truly memorable experience in a location that is oddly appropriate for this ocean-front city.That about wraps it up for our top five holiday festivities in Charleston.
We hope you found something in this list worthwhile, whether you’re just visiting, new in town, or looking for a new way to experience some uniquely southern holiday charm.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
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