Experience the magic and wonder of the holiday season in Columbia, SC, with an array of festive events that cater to all ages and interests. From the dazzling Holiday Lights on the River, which transforms the riverfront into a twinkling spectacle, to the enchanting Governor's Carolighting at the South Carolina State House grounds, Columbia offers a myriad of opportunities to create unforgettable holiday memories.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant Vista Lights Holiday Celebration, where art galleries, boutiques, and local musicians welcome you to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Congaree Vista district. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, Columbia’s Christmas events promise an unforgettable holiday experience, filled with light, music, and joyous celebrations.
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The Top Christmas Events in Columbia
- Holiday Lights on the River
- Governor's Carolighting
- Vista Lights Holiday Celebration
- Lights Before Christmas
- Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade
- Christmas at Biltmore
- Snowville
- Holiday Candlelight Tours at the Robert Mills House
- The Nutcracker Ballet
- Ice Skating at Main Street ICE
Columbia Holiday Light Displays
Holiday Lights on the River
What to Expect:
Drive-through light display along the Saluda River
Description:
Columbia's riverfront transforms into a twinkling spectacle each winter. Visitors cruise along the Saluda River, immersed in a dazzling array of illuminated displays. The event showcases over 400 animated light creations, reflecting off the water's surface. You can tune your car radio to a special station for synchronized holiday music. This annual tradition began in 1988 and has grown to become South Carolina's largest drive-through light show, delighting generations of families.
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Governor's Carolighting
What to Expect:
Official state Christmas tree lighting ceremony
Description:
The South Carolina State House grounds come alive with the annual Governor's Carolighting. This time-honored tradition marks the official start of the holiday season in the Palmetto State. Choirs from across South Carolina converge to perform beloved carols, their voices echoing through the crisp evening air. The highlight of the evening occurs when the governor flips the switch, illuminating the towering state Christmas tree. This event has been a cherished part of Columbia's holiday celebrations since 1966.
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Lights Before Christmas
What to Expect:
Zoo animals incorporated into light displays
Description:
Riverbanks Zoo transforms into a luminous paradise during Lights Before Christmas. Intricate light sculptures depict various animals, creating a unique blend of wildlife and holiday cheer. Stroll through the zoo's pathways, encountering surprising displays around every corner. Warm your hands by one of the roaring bonfires while sipping on hot cocoa. This event has been delighting visitors since 1987 and has become a beloved tradition for many South Carolina families.
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Merry and Bright Holiday Lights
What to Expect:
Interactive light displays synchronized to music
Description:
Merry and Bright Holiday Lights offers a cutting-edge holiday light experience. State-of-the-art LED displays dance in perfect synchronization with a curated playlist of holiday tunes. Wander through tunnels of light that respond to your movements, creating an immersive and interactive experience. Capture stunning photos in front of the 40-foot tall "Tree of Light." This modern take on holiday lights began in 2018 and has quickly become a must-see attraction, blending technology with holiday tradition.
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Merry and Bright Holiday Lights
Columbia Holiday Markets and Shopping
Holiday Market
What to Expect:
Focus on locally made and artisanal gifts
Description:
The Holiday Market showcases the best of Columbia's creative community. Local artisans and craftspeople display their unique wares, offering shoppers a chance to find one-of-a-kind gifts. Peruse handcrafted jewelry, artisanal foods, and locally designed apparel. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly baked treats and spiced cider. This market has its roots in Columbia's thriving maker scene and has grown to become a vital platform for local small businesses during the holiday season.
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Craftsmen's Christmas Classic Art & Craft Festival
What to Expect:
Juried art and craft show with demonstrations
Description:
The Craftsmen's Christmas Classic Art & Craft Festival brings together skilled artisans from across the country. This juried show features a wide array of high-quality handcrafted items, from fine art to functional crafts. Watch live demonstrations of traditional crafting techniques, gaining insight into the artisans' creative processes. Try your hand at a make-and-take workshop to create your own unique holiday decoration. This festival has been a staple of Columbia's holiday season for over four decades, celebrating the enduring appeal of handmade goods.
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Craftsmen's Christmas Classic Art & Craft Festival
Columbia Holiday Shows and Entertainment
The Nutcracker Ballet
What to Expect:
Professional and student dancers perform together
Description:
The Columbia City Ballet brings Tchaikovsky's timeless classic to life in their annual production of The Nutcracker. Professional dancers share the stage with talented students, creating a performance that showcases both seasoned expertise and youthful exuberance. Marvel at the intricate costumes and elaborate sets that transport you to the Land of Sweets. This production has been a cornerstone of Columbia's holiday arts scene for over 50 years, enchanting audiences with its graceful choreography and beloved score.
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Koger Center for the Arts Holiday Spectacular
What to Expect:
Collaborative performance featuring multiple local arts organizations
Description:
The Koger Center for the Arts Holiday Spectacular unites Columbia's diverse performing arts community. This grand production features performances by the South Carolina Philharmonic, Columbia City Ballet, and various local choirs and theater groups. Experience a seamless blend of music, dance, and drama celebrating the holiday season. The show culminates in a rousing finale that brings all performers together on stage. This collaborative event, initiated in 2010, has become a testament to Columbia's vibrant arts scene.
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Koger Center for the Arts Holiday Spectacular
Columbia Other Holiday Activities
Vista Lights Holiday Celebration
What to Expect:
Art galleries and boutiques open late with special events
Description:
The Congaree Vista district pulses with energy during the Vista Lights Holiday Celebration. Art galleries and boutiques extend their hours, inviting visitors to explore unique exhibitions and one-of-a-kind gifts. Local musicians fill the air with melodies, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the historic neighborhood. Participate in a guided art walk to discover the district's rich cultural heritage. This event has been a staple of Columbia's arts scene for over three decades, showcasing the city's creative spirit.
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Vista Lights Holiday Celebration
Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade
What to Expect:
Largest holiday parade in central South Carolina
Description:
Columbia's streets burst with color and sound during the Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade. Elaborate floats, marching bands, and costumed characters wind their way through downtown, captivating spectators of all ages. Marvel at the towering helium balloons that float above the procession. This parade has been a Columbia tradition since 1953 and showcases the diverse communities that make up the heart of South Carolina. Keep an eye out for the grand finale featuring Santa Claus himself.
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Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade
Christmas at Biltmore
What to Expect:
America's largest private residence decorated for Christmas
Description:
The majestic Biltmore Estate dons its holiday finest for Christmas at Biltmore. Towering evergreens adorned with thousands of ornaments grace the halls of America's largest private residence. Admire the painstakingly crafted decorations that pay homage to the Vanderbilt family's legacy. Tour the winery and enjoy a complimentary tasting of Biltmore's award-winning wines. This grand celebration has been a cherished tradition since the estate first opened to the public in 1895, offering a glimpse into Gilded Age holiday splendor.
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Snowville
What to Expect:
Man-made snow experience in the South
Description:
Snowville brings a touch of winter wonder to the heart of South Carolina. This unique attraction creates a snowy playground using state-of-the-art snow-making technology. Zip down snow tubing lanes or build a snowman in the play area. The crisp scent of fresh snow fills the air, transporting visitors to a wintry landscape. Snowville began as a small local event and has grown into a beloved regional attraction, offering many South Carolinians their first experience with snow.
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Holiday Candlelight Tours at the Robert Mills House
What to Expect:
19th-century holiday traditions in a historic home
Description:
Step back in time at the Robert Mills House during their Holiday Candlelight Tours. The flickering glow of candles illuminates this 19th-century mansion, decorated in period-appropriate holiday finery. Costumed interpreters share stories of holiday celebrations from a bygone era. Sample traditional treats prepared using historic recipes. The Robert Mills House, designed by the first federal architect of the United States, offers a unique glimpse into Columbia's architectural and cultural heritage during this special event.
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Holiday Candlelight Tours at the Robert Mills House
Ice Skating at Main Street ICE
What to Expect:
Outdoor ice skating rink in downtown Columbia
Description:
Main Street Ice brings winter fun to the heart of downtown Columbia. Glide across the smooth surface of this outdoor rink, surrounded by the city's historic architecture. The rink uses eco-friendly, synthetic ice, allowing for skating even in South Carolina's mild climate. Take a break from skating to enjoy hot chocolate and seasonal treats from nearby vendors. This relatively new addition to Columbia's holiday offerings has quickly become a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
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Ice Skating at Main Street ICE
Nearby Events
Christmas in Hopelands (Aiken)
What to Expect:
Two-mile illuminated walking trail through historic gardens
Description:
Hopelands Gardens sparkles with holiday spirit during Christmas in Hopelands. A two-mile illuminated walking trail winds through the historic grounds, revealing charming vignettes and twinkling displays. Live performances by local musicians add a festive soundtrack to your stroll. Warm up with a cup of hot cider as you explore the gardens. This event began in 1991 as a small community celebration and has grown into one of Aiken's most beloved holiday traditions, attracting visitors from across the region.
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The Polar Express Train Ride (Winnsboro)
What to Expect:
Interactive train ride based on the beloved children's book
Description:
The Polar Express comes to life on this enchanting train ride through the South Carolina countryside. Passengers don cozy pajamas and board beautifully restored vintage rail cars. Listen to a reading of the classic story as you journey to the "North Pole." Hot chocolate and cookies are served by dancing chefs, recreating scenes from the book. This immersive experience began in 2014 and has quickly become a cherished holiday tradition for families throughout the region.
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Lexington Christmas Parade (Lexington)
What to Expect:
Small-town charm with a focus on community participation
Description:
The Lexington Christmas Parade embodies small-town holiday spirit. Local schools, businesses, and community organizations create colorful floats that roll down Main Street. The parade route is lined with cheering spectators, many of whom have made this event an annual family tradition. Listen for the Lexington High School marching band performing holiday classics. This parade has been a cornerstone of Lexington's holiday celebrations for over 50 years, reflecting the town's strong sense of community.