Make this season merry and memorable with Charleston’s best family holiday events.
Charleston sparkles a little brighter during the holidays — and it’s not just the twinkle lights. From festive markets to boat parades and cozy nights sipping cocoa, the Holy City knows how to do the season right for families.
Whether you want to walk through glowing lights, catch a parade, or meet Santa himself, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Charleston Holiday Events Happening All Season
Holiday Festival of Lights — Kicks off November 14, 2025 at James Island County Park
Drive or stroll through millions of dazzling lights, themed displays, and holiday fun. This is a Charleston family favorite for good reason!
Here’s our full review of Holiday Festival of Lights
Drive Through Decorated Neighborhoods — Evenings in November & December
Local families go all out! Some top areas: South of Broad and Hidden Cove off Long Point Road in Mt. Pleasant. Bring cocoa and cozy up for a festive ride.
Christmas in Charleston Walking Tour — Daily tours in November & December
Explore the historic district on foot with a festive lens. Holiday décor, old Charleston stories, and twinkling streets. There are lots of options, including:
- Charleston Strolls Holiday Walking Tour – Bulldog Tours
A 2-hour stroll through the historic district with festive décor, stories, and classic Charleston charm. Great for school-aged kids and older. - Christmas in Charleston – Exclusively Charleston
A private, guided 3-hour tour exploring beautifully decorated homes and historic holiday traditions. Best for families with older kids or teens. - Holiday Festival of Lights Tour – Old Town Trolley Tours
Includes transport to the James Island lights display plus walking time through the glowing exhibits. Great for families with little ones who love lights!
Giant Gingerbread House & Santa Fun at The Bennett Hotel — Opens November 24, 2025
Walk through the life-sized gingerbread house, write letters to Santa, sip cocoa, or enjoy tea at Camellias. Bonus: Carolers and Santa visits! It’s FREE to visit the Giant Gingerbread House all season long.
Holiday Magic at The Charleston Place Hotel — November 29–December 25, 2025
Nutcracker-themed holiday tea, visits with Santa, “Let it Snow’ for hotel guests, call Santa’s hotline, or write letters to Santa. Also check the dates for the following events and performances: Toast to the Trees, Santa Drive, Visits with Santa, Snowflake March, Watoto Christmas Performance, Candlelit Carols, Cocoa carts and so much more! Many events are open to guests of the hotel only, and others can be reserved by the public. Get more information on Holidays at The Charleston Place Hotel.
Skate the Stadium: Ice Skating on Daniel Island — Opens November 29th, 2025
Skate at Credit One Stadium, roast marshmallows at the fire pits, and win prizes for themed outfits. A hit for tweens, teens, and parents too! $10 per person including skate rentals
Get the details: Skate the Stadium
“A Christmas Carol” at Dock Street Theatre – Various dates November 29th- December 21st, 2025
The classic Dickens story live on stage — older kids especially will love it (and younger ones may too with parents!).
Christmas Carol, Dock Street Theatre
November Holiday Events in Charleston, SC
Charleston Food & Wine Classic — November 14–16, 2025
Three days of food fun! While geared toward adults, there are family-friendly tastings and demos that older kids may enjoy.
Charleston Food & Wine Classic
Aquarium Aglow at the SC Aquarium — Opens November 21, 2025
See marine life alongside holiday lights and glowing displays. Fun mix of festive and educational.
Aquarium Aglow at the SC Aquarium
Christmas Tree Festival at Boone Hall Farms — November 22nd and 23rd, 2025
A celebration with rides, crafts, food, and trees! Perfect for an afternoon of family fun.
Christmas Tree Festival at Boone Hall Farms
Christmas on The Battery — Date TBA (Late November or Early December)
Candlelight, caroling, and Gullah storytelling along the waterfront. Peaceful, cultural, and beautiful.
December: Charleston’s Holiday Events
Community Posted Holiday Events
More December Events & Kidding Around Favorites
Marion Square Holiday Market — Saturdays & Sundays in December
Browse handmade gifts, enjoy food and music, and let kids pick out something special.
Marion Square Holiday Market
City of Charleston Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting — Saturday, December 7, 2025
Held at Marion Square. Expect floats, music, and a whole lot of holiday spirit!
City of Charleston Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
Christmas at Boone Hall Plantation — December 2025
Tour the mansion decked out for the holidays. Kids who enjoy history and decorating will love it.
Christmas at Boone Hall
A Gullah Christmas Concert at Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens (Mt. Pleasant, SC) — Wednesday, December 10, 2025. It features Gullah Christmas stories, holiday songs by the Plantation Singers, and complimentary hot cider, hot chocolate & cookies.
Boone Hall Gullah Christmas Concert
Holiday Parade of Boats — December 13, 2025
Watch lighted boats sail through Charleston Harbor. Best viewing at The Battery or Waterfront Park.
Holiday Parade of Boats
Mount Pleasant Christmas Light Parade — December 14, 2025
Marching bands, lit-up floats, and dancing in the streets! We go every year — it’s a local favorite.
Mount Pleasant Christmas Light Parade
Holy City Holiday Market — December 19–21, 2025
Happening at Old Park Circle: crafts, food trucks, live music and plenty of kid-friendly vendors.
Holy City Holiday Market
The Charleston Christmas Special — December 21st, 2025 at Charleston Music Hall
A variety-style holiday concert that’s family-friendly and festive.
The Charleston Christmas Special
Family Tips for a Fun Holiday Season
- Check event websites for ticket times and availability — some sell out fast.
- Layer up! Evenings can get chilly, especially near the water.
- Arrive early for parades, boat events, and Santa visits.
- Mix it up — do one outdoor event, one indoor cozy treat (like tea with Santa or a show).
- Bring snacks & water for little ones — lines can be long.
- Support local makers — holiday markets are great for gifts and local charm.
Holiday Cheer
From glowing boats on the harbor to snowflakes at your favorite hotel, Charleston is bursting with holiday fun for families. Mark your calendar, grab your Santa hats, and get ready for a season full of joy, lights, and magical memories.
Looking for more family fun in Charleston? Stay tuned — our local winter break ideas are coming soon!
Want more events? We host a Community Event Calendar with lots of fun events happening near Charleston!
