The holiday season in Charleston, South Carolina, is nothing short of magical. Between the historic charm of downtown, the sparkling light displays, and festive markets, the city comes alive with seasonal spirit. Even better, many holiday activities are free to enjoy, making it easy to embrace the holiday cheer without spending a fortune. Here’s a guide to some of Charleston’s best free holiday events to check out this season!
1. Holiday-Themed Carriage Rides with Palmetto Carriage Works
When: December (Exact dates TBD)
Where: Downtown Charleston
Start your holiday festivities with a free horse and carriage ride through Charleston’s beautifully decorated streets! Palmetto Carriage Works offers holiday-themed rides at no cost in exchange for a donation to One80 Place, a nonprofit working to end homelessness. This is a fantastic way to see the city’s historic architecture decked out for the season while supporting a great cause. You’ll get to enjoy the sights, sounds, and festive spirit with friends or family in tow.
2. Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park (Free on Specific Days)
When: Nightly from mid-November through December
Where: James Island County Park
Charleston’s beloved Holiday Festival of Lights is a must-see every year. While the event typically has an entry fee, you can enjoy it for free on select evenings—perfect for budget-conscious families. On these special nights, you can drive through over 700 light displays, each more enchanting than the last, and enjoy a night out with loved ones. Be sure to check the Charleston County Parks website for specific free-admission dates.
3. Holiday Market at Marion Square
When: Every Saturday and Sunday in December until Christmas
Where: Marion Square
Get into the festive shopping spirit at the Holiday Market in Marion Square, where you can browse a variety of local vendors offering everything from artisan crafts to delicious treats. This seasonal twist on Charleston’s regular farmers’ market is a perfect spot to pick up handmade holiday gifts or simply take in the festive decor and music. Even if you’re just window-shopping, the market is a fantastic way to enjoy Charleston’s holiday vibe.
4. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies
When: Late November to Early December (Dates vary by location)
Where: Various locations around Charleston
The Christmas tree lighting ceremonies around Charleston are a classic way to kick off the season. Some popular ones include the Charleston Tree Lighting at Marion Square and the Folly Beach Christmas Tree Lighting. These events typically feature live music, hot chocolate, and even an appearance from Santa Claus himself. Bring a blanket and enjoy the community spirit under the twinkling lights.
5. Second Sunday on King Street Holiday Celebrations
When: Second Sunday of each month; extra holiday activities in December
Where: King Street, Charleston
On the second Sunday of each month, King Street closes to traffic and transforms into a pedestrian-friendly space filled with local vendors, music, and outdoor dining. In December, Second Sunday takes on a holiday twist with additional festivities, like street performers, carolers, and holiday decorations. It’s a great opportunity to stroll along the beautifully decorated street, shop for gifts, and enjoy a hot cocoa or festive treat.
6. The Holiday Parade of Boats
When: Early December
Where: Charleston Harbor
Watch the Charleston Harbor come alive with the Annual Holiday Parade of Boats, where a flotilla of festively decorated boats sails from Mount Pleasant to the Charleston waterfront. Find a spot along the harbor and enjoy the sight of boats adorned with holiday lights and decorations. This unique Charleston tradition is free and a memorable experience for locals and visitors alike.
7. Holiday Window Displays on King Street
When: All season long
Where: King Street
Stroll down King Street and take in the creative holiday window displays from some of Charleston’s best shops. Many stores go all out with decorations, creating enchanting scenes that rival any holiday display. This is a perfect option for a casual evening out, especially for families who want to admire the decorations without the crowds. Take your time walking the stretch, and don’t forget to snap a few photos!
8. Holiday Concerts and Caroling Events
When: December (Various dates)
Where: Various locations in Charleston
During December, you can often find free holiday concerts and caroling events throughout the city. Local churches, community centers, and schools host performances open to the public. Look out for events at venues like St. Michael’s Church and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist for beautiful holiday music in equally stunning settings. These concerts bring the community together in celebration and often feature both traditional and contemporary holiday tunes.
9. Charleston’s Annual Christmas Parade
When: Early December
Where: Starts on Broad Street and travels through downtown Charleston
Join the locals for the Charleston Christmas Parade, a beloved holiday tradition featuring floats, marching bands, dancers, and more. This lively parade winds through the historic streets of downtown Charleston, bringing cheer and festive spirit to attendees of all ages. This is an excellent family-friendly event and a perfect way to enjoy Charleston’s holiday season without spending a dime.
10. Holiday Lights on the Ashley at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens (Select Free Dates)
When: Late November through December
Where: Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens often offer select dates with free admission to their Holiday Lights on the Ashley, a mesmerizing display of twinkling lights across the historic gardens. Walking through the gardens at night and seeing the lights reflected in the Ashley River is a magical experience for everyone.
Make the Most of Charleston’s Holiday Season!
Charleston has something for everyone during the holidays, from sparkling light displays to festive markets and parades. The best part? Many of these events are free, allowing you to enjoy the holiday spirit without overspending. So grab your friends, family, or a cozy blanket, and dive into all the festive cheer Charleston has to offer this season!
