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Last updated: November 11, 2024


Experience the thrill of the festive season in Columbia! Our guide has all the exciting holiday events. From those who know Columbia's secrets to those eager to uncover them, our guide reveals festive treasures.

This holiday season, explore the enchanting Winter Wonderland Garden of Lights at Shelter Insurance, where a dazzling array of light displays illuminate the garden. Another highlight includes the Hallsville Fairgrounds' Festival of Trees, showcasing beautifully decorated trees that bring joy to all visitors. And the Bright Lights Holiday Nights at Veterans United is something you definitely don't want to miss for its vibrant atmosphere and seasonal cheer. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!

Contact information and details below.



Columbia Holiday Light Displays


What to Expect:

One-mile drive-through holiday light display with no stopping.

Description:

Bright Lights Holiday Nights – Veterans United is a free drive-through holiday light display featuring a one-mile route around the business location, open from 7:00 to 10:30 p.m. each night from December 5 to 17. The event is staffed by the Columbia Police Department to manage traffic flow, and attendees are not allowed to stop or exit their vehicles.

Where: Columbia | More Info: Bright Lights Holiday Nights – Veterans United

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Hands-on holiday craft-making for kids.

Description:

At Santa’s Workshop, kids can create their own holiday crafts in the MUSC Health Conference Room at Segra Park. Each night, they can make their very own holiday craft under the twinkling lights of Fireflies Holiday Lights.

Where: Columbia | More Info: Santa’s Workshop

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Santa's grand appearance in a festive holiday lighting parade.

Description:

The Bright Night Christmas Parade in Columbia, IL, features a Christmas-themed parade with festive holiday lighting, running from Temple Street to Cherry Street. After the parade, attendees can enjoy warm food and drinks at Turner Hall, where Santa will visit children and there will be activities like balloon artists and face painting.

Where: Columbia | More Info: Bright Night Christmas Parade

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Family-friendly holiday celebration with festive lights and activities.

Description:

The Christmas at Collins House and Light Up Parade features an evening holiday light-up parade through Uptown Collinsville, ending with festivities at the Historical Collins House. The event includes food and drink specials from participating Uptown restaurants, a Window Display Contest, a tree lighting ceremony, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, bonfires with s'mores, and various family-friendly activities.

Where: Columbia | More Info: Christmas at Collins House and Light Up Parade

Event Organizer?

Columbia Holiday Markets and Shopping


What to Expect:

Nostalgic horse-drawn carriage rides through a historic arts district.

Description:

Horse-drawn carriages offer a nostalgic and charming way to explore the North Village Arts District, passing by Fretboard Coffee and Wishflour Bakery.

Where: Columbia | More Info: Horse-Drawn Carriages

Event Organizer?

Columbia Holiday Shows and Entertainment


What to Expect:

Diverse lineup of local and national acts in an intimate setting.

Description:

Rose Music Hall hosts a variety of live music events, featuring local and national acts in an intimate setting. The venue offers a diverse range of genres, from indie rock to electronic music, ensuring there is something for every musical taste.

Where: Columbia | More Info: Holiday Market at Rose Music Hall

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Holiday-themed screening with live carolers and decorated lobby.

Description:

Join us for a special screening of The Muppets’ Christmas Carol, featuring the beloved characters in a holiday classic. Explore the decorated lobby, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy live carolers before the show. The event includes free hot cocoa and a festive atmosphere.

Where: Columbia | More Info: Special Screening: The Muppets’ Christmas Carol

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What to Expect:

Sensory-friendly holiday event with ASL interpretation and assistive tools.

Description:

Meet the Grinch in a sensory-friendly environment designed for guests who benefit from quieter, disability-adapted experiences. Enjoy character meet-and-greets, sensory shows, and open exploration of museum exhibitions with ASL interpretation and assistive tools available.

Where: Columbia | More Info: Meet the Grinch

Event Organizer?

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