Get in the Holiday Spirit by Visiting These Small Towns in South Carolina

You don’t need to travel far during the holiday season to experience a winter getaway reminiscent of a Hallmark movie. From coastal islands to rustic mountain towns, there is an abundance of enchanting destinations located right here in South Carolina.

Continue reading to explore the best small towns in South Carolina to spend the holidays. 

1. Kiawah Island

This holiday season, immerse yourself in the coastal charm of Kiawah Island. From golfing to kayaking as well as a variety of inventive dining experiences, there truly is something on the Island for everyone. With beautifully mild weather even during the winter months, Kiawah Island is the perfect place to reconnect with nature this holiday season. With family strolls on the beach and some much needed R and R, we can’t think of a more relaxing holiday experience than a family trip to Kiawah Island.

Plus, if you’re looking to explore even more of the Lowcountry during your trip, the Holy City of Charleston is a must-see destination during Christmas time. Stroll the cobblestone streets of downtown where you’ll find historic homes adorned with wreaths and magical light displays as you hear the sound of Christmas carols echoing through the city. 

Charleston also hosts the largest annual Hanukkah celebration in the state of South Carolina — Chanukah in the Square. This family-friendly event features a giant menorah lighting, live music, hot latkes, and more festive activities to celebrate the holiday. 

2. Greenville

Ready to feel like you just stepped onto the set of a Christmas movie? Look no further than Greenville — one of the most lively small towns in South Carolina. Located along the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this picturesque town boasts beautiful views of nature as well as a vibrant downtown known for its festive holiday events taking place November through January. 

Celebrate with the locals at the Poinsettia Christmas Parade on Main Street and attend the tree-lighting ceremony to officially kick off the holiday season. Then, take a stroll through the Holiday Market to pick out unique artisanal gifts for everyone on your Christmas list. Of course, you can’t forget to go ice skating with the whole family at the outdoor rink on Main Street. With the abundance of outdoor adventures and southern charm, everyone will love spending the holidays in this magical mountain town. 

3. Bluffton

Bluffton is nestled along the serene May River with easy access to a variety of waterways. The eclectic downtown area of Bluffton is home to art galleries and museums as well as annual festivals and parades. Get in the holiday spirit by attending the Bluffton Christmas parade and browsing the shops in Old Town Bluffton.  

For a relaxing holiday escape, we recommend staying in one of the charming rooms, suites, or cottages at the Montage Palmetto Bluff. With a wide range of outdoor activities, such as horsebacking riding, picturesque hiking trails, and world-class golf, Palmetto Bluff is the perfect place to spend un-plugged quality time with family during the holiday season. 

Bluffton is also just a short drive away from the Hostess City of the South — Savannah, Georgia. Wander through the historic district to see twinkling Christmas lights and tour some of the earliest Lowcountry homes. Before heading back to Bluffton, make sure to stop by the Savannah Christmas Market to shop for local gifts, enjoy live music, and even visit with Santa Clause. 

4. Aiken

Situated in western South Carolina near the Georgia border, Aiken transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. With a Christmas craft show featuring artisans from across the southeast to the annual Festival of Trees celebration, this town has no shortage of holiday events. Kick off the festivities at the Annual Downtown Tree Lighting complete with a live musical performance, a visit from St. Nick, and a countdown to the lighting of the tree.

While visiting Aiken, you also won’t want to miss the annual Christmas in Hopelands event. Stroll through the enchanting garden with two miles of illuminated pathways and displays while sipping on a hot chocolate or warm apple cider. Those with a taste for the arts will surely enjoy the Aiken Symphony Orchestra’s rendition of ‘Home for the Holidays’ with delightful performances from the Aiken Choral Society as well as the Aiken Civic. 

5. York

Located just southwest of Charlotte, North Carolina, York provides a small town feel outside a bustling city. With rich history tied to the American Revolution, the town is chock full of museums and other historic sites. The downtown area feels like a walk in the past with an old town clock, quaint boutiques and local eateries. During the holiday season, you’ll want to attend the Annual South Carolina Christmas Show featuring retail vendors, local artisans, food trucks, and of course, Christmas music!

Other family-friendly activities happening in the surrounding areas include Carowinds Taste of the Season as well as the North Carolina Transportation Museum Polar Express train ride. An Annual Kwanzaa Celebration event is also taking place in nearby Concord, NC featuring African food, music, and vendors to celebrate African American culture for the holidays. Plus, you can visit the nearby U.S. National Whitewater Center for outdoor ice skating and an enchanting lights trail. With its convenient location and variety of activities, it’s no surprise that York is one of the best small towns in South Carolina to spend the holidays. 

Visiting Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is truly an amazing place to be during every season. 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. 

Club Members can look forward to the many holiday events the Kiawah Island Club hosts each and every year, such as a Holiday Market and an annual holiday dinner where guests journey by carriage to different restaurants. 

If you’re interested in learning more about visiting the Island or buying a home, reach out to us by clicking the button below.