Top Charleston-Area Holiday Light Displays

Ok, y’all! We are in full holiday mode now! The holly jolly of the season is everywhere you look, but if you’re searching for some true visual festivity, I’ve compiled a list (in no particular order) of what I consider the top 5 Charleston light displays and events that are sleigh-ing it this holiday season!

1.The Holiday Festival of Lights. James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr. | 1-15 guests; $20 per vehicle. About 2,000,000 dazzling lights are displayed in a 3-mile drive through the park. Park the car and enjoy a train ride through the enchanted walking tail (get your tickets as soon as you arrive!), take photos with Santa, view the sand sculpture, the dancing trees, giant greeting cards and interactive light displays, or enjoy a sweet treat, roast marshmallows, ride the carousel, climb the wall, or explore the gift shop.

2.C of C Cougar Night Lights Opening to the public on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2019, this free holiday musical light show will run nightly through Jan. 1, 2020. Performances set to classic and contemporary holiday music will be held every half-hour between 6-9 pm

3.The Holiday Lights Driving Tour is 100% Green Powered by Santee Cooper and features animated seasonal and Lowcountry light displays winding through the natural beauty of the Old Santee Canal Park In Moncks Corner. | 1 Riverwood Dr. | $5 per car | 6 to 9 p.m. | now through Dec. 30. On weekends, head over to the Moncks Corner Regional Rec Complex (418 E Main St.)after the lights for visits with Santa, carnival rides, and marshmallow roasting.

4.Annual Holiday Parade of Boats | December 14 | Free | Charleston Harbor |Beginning at 5pm on Mt Pleasant side, and 7:30 in downtown Charleston peninsula. Watch the historic parade of decorated boats, to conclude with fireworks over the harbor.

5.Brookgreen Gardens’ Night of a Thousand Candles Weekends through December 21 | Adults $25.00; Children $15.00 | 1931 Brookgreen Dr. off Hwy 17 Murrells Inlet. Ok, so this isn’t exactly in Charleston, but close enough! Over 2,700 hand-lit candles adorn these beautiful gardens. Enjoy special performances each night and a reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas in the Children’s Garden.

And of course, never forget to drive around your local neighborhoods to catch some seriously festive locals!