Lowcountry Living: What to Do in Charleston at Christmas

There is nothing quite like Christmas in the Lowcountry. Beautiful homes adorned with festive decor, palmetto trees dressed to the nines, and a rich history of holiday traditions await you when you visit Charleston at Christmas.

If you’re considering traveling down south for the holidays, continue reading to discover the festive events happening in Charleston at Christmas.

1. Charleston Christmas Parade

Where: Broad Street at Rutledge

When: Thursday, December 4, 2022

Looking for an energizing way to celebrate Christmas? The Charleston Christmas Parade is an event you’ll definitely want to mark on your calendar! The procession will begin on Broad Street at Rutledge, travel north on Meeting Street, and end on Calhoun Street at Meeting Street. Musical bands, local clubs, and organizations are among those taking part. Beautifully decorated floats turn the town into a winter wonderland, creating an inviting atmosphere to celebrate with fellow neighbors, friends, and family.

After the parade makes its way through town, relax with a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy the incredible views of the Charleston Tree Lighting ceremony that follows the parade. Located in Marion Square, the Christmas Tree Lighting is truly a sight to behold when visiting Charleston at Christmas.

Related: A List of Historic Landmarks in Charleston to Visit

2. Holiday Festival of Lights

Where: James Island County Park

When: November 11 – December 31, 2022

Your holiday season is not complete without experiencing The Holiday Festival of Lights! Spend the evening exploring the grounds of Santa’s Village and Winter Wonderland while you enjoy views of the beautiful glittering lights. Treat yourself to delectable sweets and remember your visit with a keepsake from one of our festive stores. There are so many opportunities to create amazing, long-lasting memories when you visit Charleston at Christmas!

Learn More: The Best Places to Christmas Shop on Kiawah Island

3. Holiday Sleigh Ride

Where: Old South Carriage Company

When: December 3, 2022 – December 23, 2022

Embark in the beautifully decorated carriage guided by one of Santa’s helpers for the Holiday Sleigh Ride of a lifetime. This pleasant tour is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit, as it includes Christmas caroling to your favorite holiday melodies while strolling around downtown Charleston. Santa’s stable, where you may share cookies and hot cocoa with Old Saint Nick, Mrs. Claus, and Rudolph, is the ultimate stop on this delightful tour. Perfect for all ages, this sleigh ride is a must-do while you’re visiting Charleston at Christmas.

4. Holiday Parade of Boats

Where: Charleston Harbor

When: December 10, 2022

The Charleston Holiday Parade of Boats is a yearly Lowcountry event that travels from the Cooper River, through Charleston Harbor, and toward the Ashley River. Liberty Square, Riley Coastline Park, Charleston Maritime Center, and the Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park Pier are some of the greatest places to see the parade as it proceeds down Charleston’s waterfront. You may even participate by painting your own boat to sail in the procession! This family-friendly event may become your new favorite Christmas tradition, regardless of how you choose to participate.

5. Folly Beach Christmas Parade

Where: Second Street and West Ashley Avenue

When: December 10, 2022

This event is sure to put you in the holly Folly Christmas spirit! A tradition loved by all, the Folly Beach Christmas Parade is the perfect event to kick off your holiday season. Beginning at Second Street and West Ashley Avenue, the procession makes its way to Center Street, spreading Christmas cheer throughout all of Folly Beach.

This parade is for all ages to enjoy. The littlest Christmas enthusiasts enjoy having candy and gifts handed to them by passing floats while watching the colorful displays of the holiday season. If you’re feeling particularly festive, consider entering your own float into the parade! All are welcome to enter (as long as you register ahead of time), and the possibilities are endless in terms of float design. However you choose to participate in this event, you are sure to leave full of Christmas joy!

Related: 5 Reasons To Spend The Holidays on Kiawah Island

Make Kiawah Island Your Home for the Holidays

If you need more convincing to spend the holidays on Kiawah Island, here it is! The memories made here during the holiday season are the ones that will last a lifetime. With its beautiful landscapes and unparalleled amenities, Kiawah Island is an ideal setting to spend quality time with loved ones and relax to your heart’s content during the holiday season.

Whatever your holiday traditions may be, we invite you to enjoy them here on Kiawah Island. Who knows, you may even create new traditions for your family to cherish for years to come. If you’re interested in visiting the Island and would like to know more about Kiawah real estate, contact us via the button below.