Columbia Christmas Lights 2026

More than 60 local galleries, shops, and restaurants open late to showcase holiday items and dishes throughout the district. Attendees can enjoy live stage performances, an artisan market on Lincoln Street, and a tree lighting ceremony outside River Runner Outdoor...

Visitors stroll through the zoo to discover over 60 larger-than-life handcrafted wildlife lantern displays inspired by nature. The interactive evening showcases illuminations, photo opportunities, nightly snowfall, and fun activities. Guests can also meet Santa during the lead-up to the holidays.

Stroll through the ballpark to take in more than two million LED Christmas lights arranged in themed areas. Guests can visit with Santa Claus, stop by the Craft Station, and browse offerings from various vendors. Seasonal food and drinks, including...

Visitors experience South Carolina's largest free holiday display featuring more than one million twinkling lights. The drive-through route winds past festive sights including a floating Christmas tree and illuminated characters of song and story. Guests can also park in designated...

Step back in time this holiday season with Historic Columbia's Holiday House Tours. Explore the beautifully decorated Robert Mills House and Hampton-Preston Mansion, experiencing Christmas traditions from the 1820s and 1850s. Discover how families celebrated holidays past, from early decorations...

Embark on a magical 90-minute journey aboard Santa's North Pole Express. This festive train ride offers a unique opportunity to meet Santa Claus as he personally visits each child on board. Passengers can even deliver letters to Santa directly during...

Experience the enchanting magic of the holidays at Hopelands Gardens during Christmas in Hopelands. This cherished Aiken tradition transforms the gardens into a breathtaking winter wonderland, adorned with over 100,000 twinkling lights that illuminate the pathways and landscapes. Guests of...