Yes folks, the season of festivities is right around the corner. Can you believe it? Get ready to embrace the winter in South Carolina with our ultimate guide to winter attractions and activities. While our state may not get the heaviest snowfall, we sure know how to celebrate the season. From ice skating in downtown Greenville to slipping down the tubing slide at Holiday Lights on the River and enjoying the mesmerizing Brookgreen Gardens, we've got a lineup of fun things to do that'll make you forget about the winter months. So, let's dive into the best winter attractions in South Carolina and make this season one to remember! And chances are, you might even start a new holiday tradition with your family. We'll be glad if you do!
Holiday Events In South Carolina
Get ready to dive into the holiday spirit in South Carolina in the best way possible. The state is packed with incredible holiday events that will make your winter season unforgettable. From the magical lights at Brookgreen Gardens to the dazzling displays at the Holiday Festival of Lights, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss out on the sparkling Carolina Lights or the festive Poinsettia Christmas Parade in Greenville. These family-friendly holiday events are sure to fill your heart with warmth and joy, making this holiday season one for the books.
1. Brookgreen Gardens
Location: Murrells Inlet, SCPopularity: Very popular, especially on the weekends. Price: Members: Adult $30/Children $14, Non-Members: Adult $35/Children $17 Indulge in the enchanting splendor of one of the Southeast's most adored holiday extravaganzas, Nights of a Thousand Candles, at the mesmerizing Brookgreen Gardens. As twilight descends, watch in awe as the gardens undergo a wondrous metamorphosis, adorned with an astonishing array of over 2,700 meticulously hand-lit candles and millions of shimmering, sparkling lights. From the hours of 4-9 p.m., lose yourself in the meandering paths illuminated by this ethereal radiance. Sip on a steaming cup of aromatic cider, be serenaded by the harmonious melodies of holiday music, and create cherished memories as you bask in the warm glow of the season alongside beloved family and friends.
2. Holiday Festival of Lights
Popularity: Very popular. Price: $15-$150/vehicle (based on vehicle size and day of the week) Experience the magic of the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park in Charleston, South Carolina. Stroll amid twinkling lights, savor festive treats, and shop for whimsical gifts. Try the Climbing Wall, marvel at the holiday sand sculpture, build a furry friend at the Reindeer Workshop, and admire giant student-designed holiday greeting cards at the Holiday Greeting Card Competition. Visit Santa, ride the Festival Train, and take a spin on the carousel. There's fun for all ages!
3. Carolina Lights
Popularity: Hidden gem. Loved amongst the locals. Price: $10-$70/vehicle (based on vehicle size) Come and join in the holiday cheer at the annual downtown drive-through light show hosted by the South Carolina State Fair. With over 100 dazzling LED light displays, you'll be taken on a magical journey through the Lexington Medical Center Fair Park at the S.C. State Fairgrounds. There will be a mix of fan-favorite displays from previous years as well as new enchanting displays to experience. Carolina Lights in Columbia, South Carolina, is a holiday extravaganza that you won't want to miss out on.
4. Poinsettia Christmas Parade
Popularity: Popular amongst families. Go and experience the joy of the holiday season with the Poinsettia Christmas Parade on Main Street, hosted by the City of Greenville. This tradition has been going strong for over 75 years, marking the beginning of the festive season in Greenville. The parade attracts a large number of spectators each year, who come downtown to witness the magnificent holiday floats and activities. Enjoy the festivities and immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit with the marching bands and school and community groups decked out in seasonally-themed attire!
Christmas Towns In South Carolina
Celebrate the holiday season in the heartwarming Christmas towns of South Carolina, where dazzling festivities and festive charm abound. From the historical streets of Newberry to the winter extravaganza of Aiken, the joyful spirit of Rock Hill, and the delightful celebrations of Spartanburg, these towns transform into magical holiday destinations. Each offers a unique blend of seasonal activities, sparkling decorations, and cherished traditions that make them must-visit destinations during the most wonderful time of the year. Discover the best Christmas towns in South Carolina and embark on a holiday adventure filled with festive cheer and unforgettable memories.
5. Newberry
Price: Free. Some independent events/attractions may have a cost. The holiday season in Newberry is truly enchanting! It all starts with the Main Street Lights: Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, which is held in front of the Community Hall. The ceremony features lively music and a warm sense of community. During this special event, Main St. is transformed into a winter fantasyland, perfect for early Christmas shopping and grabbing a bite to eat. Every year, Newberry adds new touches to the Downtown decor, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. Following the lighting ceremony, you can enjoy the festive sounds of street musicians playing live music and your favorite Christmas tunes. And don't forget to come back on Fridays in December for North Pole Nights and take advantage of the faux snow machines, visit Santa Claus, and then storytime with Mrs. Claus.
6. Aiken
Popularity: Hidden gem. Loved amongst the locals. Price: Free. Some independent events/attractions may have a cost. Christmas in Aiken, South Carolina, is the perfect place to kick off your holiday traditions this time of year. The town undergoes a magical transformation, adorning its streets with garlands and sparkling Christmas lights. With a cozy Christmas village atmosphere, Aiken offers a multitude of holiday displays, festivals, and beloved traditions. Start with the Night of 1,000 Lights, where luminaries light up downtown streets. Join the Downtown Christmas Parade featuring carolers and a visit from Santa. Shop for unique gifts at the Christmas Craft Show and explore the Festival of Trees at The Depot. Enjoy a Christmas show and check out the Joye to the World Holiday Concert, reminiscent of New York's holiday charm. Wander through the Christmas in Hopelands exhibit and be part of the heartwarming Hoofbeats and Christmas Carols Parade with horses, carriages, dogs, and caroling. Create cherished holiday memories in Aiken.
7. Rock Hill
Popularity: Very family-friendly. Popular amongst locals and surrounding areas. Price: Free. Some independent events/attractions may have a cost. Get ready for the charm of ChristmasVille, happening in Old Town Rock Hill. This magical ChristmasVille festival, inspired by children's illustrator Vernon Grant, welcomes you to a world of festive joy and wonder. Join Rock Hill for an array of delightful activities, including horse-drawn carriage rides, Dickens carolers, art displays, theater performances, and so much more. With nearly 70 events, including appearances by Santa Claus and a real ice skating rink, this award-winning festival and Rock Hill is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season. Make memories with family and friends at ChristmasVille, the most wonderful Christmas festival of the year.
8. Spartanburg
Location: Spartanburg, SC Popularity: Very family-friendly. Dickens of a Christmas is very well attended. Popular amongst locals and surrounding areas. Price: Free. Some independent events/attractions may have a cost. The holiday season in the delightful Spartanburg begins with the lively Dickens of a Christmas street festival, brimming with exciting, family-friendly activities. From charming horse-drawn carriage rides to ice skating in the town square and the annual tree-lighting ceremony, there's a ton of holiday fun to be had in Spartanburg. It's also an ideal spot to enjoy live holiday music, admire Christmas carolers, indulge in holiday shopping, and the seasonal spirit. This is one of my favorite towns in South Carolina to visit during the holiday season, and you and your family will enjoy it too!
Outdoor Activities
As winter weather graces South Carolina, the state awakens to a season filled with joy, laughter, and outdoor activities. While snow may be a rarity, the holiday spirit thrives, inviting residents and visitors alike to revel in the magic of the season. From graceful ice skating in downtown Greenville's Ice on Main to the thrill of snow tubing at Saluda Shoals Park's Winter Tubing Slide during Holiday Lights On The River, South Carolina offers a host of unique outdoor adventures. Charleston's Founders Holiday Ice Rink provides a picturesque setting for ice skating, while Anderson's Ice in the Park invites families to enjoy an affordable and heartwarming winter retreat. You're sure to start a new holiday tradition with these outdoor winter activities in South Carolina.
9. Ice on Main
Popularity: Very popular. Experience the winter magic at United Community Ice on Main, an inviting outdoor ice skating rink nestled in the heart of downtown Greenville, South Carolina. Found at Village Green, adjacent to the Courtyard Marriott, this rink offers a genuine winter experience perfect for all ages. As the temperature drops and a palpable chill fills the air across the Palmetto State, Ice on Main emerges as the perfect outdoor winter activity. Ice skating in downtown Greenville is an annual tradition that embodies the essence of the holidays, making it a must-do activity for locals and visitors alike.
10. Winter Tubing Slide At Holiday Lights On The River
Popularity: Very popular. Price: $25-$75/vehicle. Additional $10 (on top of park entrance to see the Holiday Lights on the River) for unlimited rides on the winter tubing slide, or single rides are $2 each. Embrace the winter spirit and enjoy an exhilarating activity in South Carolina, even without the snow - prepare for the unforgettable "snow" tubing on the Winter Wonder tube slide! This family-friendly adventure, among a plethora of other holiday attractions at Saluda Shoals Park, promises endless fun.
Saluda Shoals Park hosts an annual holiday lights extravaganza called Holiday Lights on the River, featuring over 400 brilliant displays and a million twinkling lights. After your scenic drive, enjoy exclusive activities such as train rides, hayrides, a holiday lights maze, a craft barn, marshmallow roasting, s'mores kits, and the Winter Wonder tube slide. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in festive cheer and holiday magic.
11. Founders Holiday Ice Rink
Popularity: Very popular. Price: $15 covers skate rental and 90 minutes on the ice. Whether you're gliding on the glistening ice or sipping on a steaming cup of hot chocolate while watching the skaters twirl and whirl, this ice rink provides an enjoyable experience for all. Situated in the heart of downtown Rock Hill, it serves as a perfect winter retreat, whether you're planning a romantic date night under the starry sky, organizing playdates filled with laughter, or enjoying wholesome family outings. This real outdoor ice rink is open seasonally from November through January, catering to all ages and skating abilities, ensuring a healthy dose of fun for everyone.
12. Ice in the Park
Ice in the Park, a real ice skating rink, transforms the heart of Downtown Anderson into a mesmerizing winter wonderland nestled within the Carolina Wren Park. This splendid attraction is designed to offer an affordable and fun family outing during the festive holiday season. As you glide gracefully over the ice, under the twinkling lights and the starry South Carolina sky, you'll find yourself immersed in a joyful and unforgettable holiday experience. Bring your loved ones, and together, create precious memories in the heart of Anderson.
Winter Getaways
Escape to the scenic wonders of South Carolina for an unforgettable winter vacation filled with tranquility and adventure. From the delightful Bear Den Mountain Home nestled in the Appalachian Mountains to the serene La Cabaña log cabin in Long Creek and the cozy Lakefront Cabin near Lake Hartwell, these retreats promise the perfect respite. Whether you're seeking relaxation in the heart of nature, rejuvenation in a private outdoor sanctuary, or a lakeside haven with nautical charm, these winter getaways offer a variety of experiences to make your stay truly memorable. Before you leave for any of these winter getaways, be sure to have all your winter essentials packed and ready for your trip.
13. Bear Den Mountain Home
Experience relaxation at Bear Den, a secluded mountain retreat near Table Rock State Park. This luxury vacation home offers a game room with Pac-Man, foosball, ping-pong, a poker table, a fire pit, and a hot tub. It's the perfect place for family fun or a romantic retreat. Bonus - guests can use the state park pass provided to check out Table Rock State Park.
14. La Cabaña
Discover the Appalachian dream at La Cabaña, a handcrafted log cabin in Long Creek, SC. This private retreat, set on three acres amid oak and pine trees, invites relaxation and adventure. With two bedrooms, including a king-bed master suite, a loft with twin beds, and a well-equipped kitchen, it's your cozy haven. Unwind in the hot tub after exploring the nearby hiking trails, river rafting, and waterfalls. Enjoy rustic charm in the living room and explore local amenities, like restaurants and Chattooga Belle Vineyard.
15. Lake Hartwell Lakefront Cabin
Location: Westminster, SC Discover this charming lakefront cabin with nautical flair nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Lake Hartwell, conveniently located just off Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway, a mere 22 miles from Clemson Memorial Stadium. This cozy one-bedroom, one-bath cabin offers a private boat dock and even comes with two kayaks for your enjoyment. The cabin offers full access to campground amenities, including a seasonal Olympic pool, Wi-Fi, Roku, HD TV, and a DVD player. Enjoy the screened-in porch with lake views and unwind in the private hot tub. This cozy retreat combines lakefront and mountain living for a truly relaxing getaway.
Have you been to any of these South Carolina winter activities? I hope we covered some of your favorite holiday attractions. Also, perhaps you found a few that you'll add to your list this year.
Are you looking to skip the winter weather altogether and enjoy the holidays on the boardwalk along the coast? Then check out Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, and the heart of the Lowcountry, Bluffton.
Maybe you are more outdoorsy and prefer to do some winter hikes that are also beautiful year-round. Consider these South Carolina hikes.
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