Christmas is magical, but Christmas in Charleston is extra magical.
The season starts with a number of traditional Christmas tree lightings held by each individual town, sometimes with a parade, and the streets are dressed up with lights and garland. Downtown Charleston, famous for its historic homes and window boxes throughout the year, spreads joy through beautifully decorated front door displays. There are holiday markets, festive fundraisers, community events like "Goodnight Lights" at MUSC, and restaurants that offer special holiday experiences. It truly is the most wonderful time of year!
It's easy to get overwhelmed with all the things to do and plan, but don't let that paralyze you. Make a list, create a plan, and work the plan. Remember that the most important thing is to stop and enjoy the people who mean the most to you. Really, it is.
Each year I try to choose at least one local event or experience for my family to enjoy at Christmas in Charleston. It truly does help us focus on each other and soak up the season.
Here are a few of our favorites that are still available, listed in the order they will be happening this year. Definitely plan to add at least one of them to your calendar in the coming weeks!
Holiday Market in Park Circle. This event features local vendors, food trucks, music, and more. Hosted at Holy City Brewing Company and Firefly Distillery, with tents spread throughout the area. There's a chance you could start - or finish - your holiday shopping here! Coming up this Saturday, 12/16, from 11:00 to 5:00.
Black Fedora Comedy Club Holiday Murder Mystery. This year's show is called, "Murder at the Red Neck Reunion: Holiday Edition." Maybe a murder mystery is not the first thing you think of when you think of Christmas, but at these shows, everyone gets involved, so it's a fun and engaging time for your whole group. The content is appropriate for ages 8 and up. Showing 12/16-12/30.
Holiday Pops with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra at the Gaillard Auditorium. This is an opportunity to treat yourself to a really fun night on the town. Plan to dress up in festive and fancy attire, eat at your favorite downtown restaurant, then catch the 7:30 show. There are only three nights to see it: 12/21-12/23. Get your tickets now, before they sell out!
Festival of Lights at James Island County Park. This is probably the most well-known holiday event in Charleston, and if you have kids, it is definitely a must-see. Tune your radio to 102.5 FM to hear Christmas music as you drive through the park, filled with millions of lights. Don't miss these other fun activities while you're there: train ride, visit with Santa, holiday shopping, sand sculpture, life-size Christmas cards, carousel, s'mores, and more. Now through 12/30.
Skate the Stadium at Credit One Stadium on Daniel Island. Ice skating! Outside! In Charleston! This is a relatively new offering, and has been a huge success. Your ticket gets you access to the grounds for the entire day, with a scheduled 45-minute skate time. Check the website for special events held in conjunction with the ice skating. Now through 12/31.
What are your favorite things to in Charleston at Christmastime! I would love to know what you would add to this list. If you try any of these events, let me know what you think!