Charleston Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Charleston and surrounding areas
This winter, Charleston brings Christmas 2025 to neighborhoods like the Battery and Market Street with Christmas lights, holiday activities, and parades that celebrate Lowcountry charm. Events such as the Charleston Holiday Festival of Lights and South Carolina Aquarium Aglow add illuminated displays and family entertainment. Stroll historic streets under festive lights, attend seasonal concerts, and enjoy activities that highlight Charleston’s distinctive holiday traditions and coastal flair.
Find the best Charleston Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Shows
9 eventsInternational cast and local children performing together
Christmas Markets
7 eventsFree Christmas festival with parade, Santa, and pet costume contest.
Other Christmas Activities
7 eventsHistoric gospel music series in a landmark church
Editor's Picks (6)
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NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet
(North Charleston)
International cast and local children performing together
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Charleston Holiday Festival of Lights
Millions of dazzling holiday lights and animated displays
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Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
(North Charleston)
Iconic Dr. Seuss holiday musical with beloved songs.
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Oh Happy Day Gospel Series
Historic gospel music series in a landmark church
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The Sound of Charleston Holiday Concerts
Live music celebrating Charleston's history in a historic church
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Gershwin and Jazz
Gershwin and Jazz classics in a historic church setting.
This Week / Coming Up (3)
Christmas Lights Near Charleston
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Charleston.
South Carolina Aquarium Aglow
Holiday lights and Scuba Claus at the aquarium
Charleston Holiday Festival of Lights
Millions of dazzling holiday lights and animated displays
Christmas in the Creek Tree Lighting
City's Christmas tree lighting ceremony
Christmas Parties Near Charleston
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Charleston.
The Riviera Holiday Soiree
Holiday soiree with live orchestral music
Spiegeltent VIP Opening Night Celebration
VIP opening night celebration with tree lighting
SpiritLine Cruises New Year's Eve Dinner Cruise
Elegant New Year's Eve dinner cruise with skyline views
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Charleston
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Charleston Christmas FAQ
Weekday evenings tend to be less crowded. Peak times are weekends in December, especially closer to Christmas.
Most events offer on-site parking. Check individual event pages for specific parking information and fees.
Most venues are accessible. Contact individual events for specific accessibility accommodations.