South Carolina is alive with festive cheer as communities across the state gear up for another magical holiday season. Whether you’re marveling at twinkling lights, enjoying a timeless ballet, or sipping cocoa in your pajamas, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the spirit of the season. Here’s what’s happening this week:
Charleston
Nutcracker
When: December 14 & 15, 2024
Saturday – 2 Pm & 6 PM
Sunday – 1 PM & 5 PM
Where: College of Charleston Sottile Theatre
44 George Street
Charleston, SC 29401
Submitted by: Deana
Details: Kick off the holiday season with a classic performance of The Nutcracker by The Dance Conservatory of Charleston. This cherished tradition features 250 student dancers, from the youngest Little Mice to the pre-professional stars in lead roles like Sugar Plum Fairy and Snow Queen. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to this holiday staple, the dedication and talent of these students bring this magical story to life, making it a must-see event for families.
Columbia
Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade
When: Saturday, December 7, 2024
9 AM
Where: Downtown Columbia
Sumter Street
Columbia, SC 29201
Submitted by: Eden
Details: Join the tradition that has spread holiday cheer for over 70 years in downtown Columbia. The Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade winds down Sumter Street, beginning at the intersection of Sumter and Laurel and concluding near the University of South Carolina Horseshoe. This annual spectacle, featuring vibrant floats, marching bands, and festive performances, captures the joy of the season and is perfect for kids and adults alike.
Myrtle Beach
MarshWalk Wonderland of Lights
When: November 29 – December 31, 2024
5 Pm – 9 PM
Where: Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
4025 Highway 17 Business
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Submitted by: Ryan
Details: Stroll along the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk and bask in the glow of the Wonderland of Lights. As the only free walk-through Christmas light display on the South Strand, this festive experience offers a magical mix of holiday lights and serene coastal beauty. Bring your loved ones, breathe in the salt air, and enjoy the spirit of the season under a canopy of sparkling lights.
Summerville
PJs with Santa
When: Saturday, December 7, 2024
6 PM – 9 PM
Where: Hutchinson Square
102 South Main Street
Summerville, SC 29483
Submitted by: Marcy
Details: Get cozy in your cutest pajamas and head to Hutchinson Square for PJs with Santa! Hosted by the Junior Service League of Summerville, this heartwarming event lets you sip hot cocoa, enjoy treats, and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Proceeds benefit the DD2 and DD4 school supply fund, making this tradition not only fun but also impactful.
Upstate
2nd Annual Gingerbread House Competition
When: December 4 – 16, 2024
Where: Laurens County Public Library
1017 West Main Street
Laurens, SC 29360
Submitted by: Rachel
Details: Unleash your creativity at Laurens Library’s 2nd Annual Gingerbread House Competition! Create a delicious masterpiece to display during the competition period. Guests can vote on their favorites from December 17–21, with the winner announced just in time for Christmas on December 23. It’s a fun way to get crafty, celebrate the holidays, and maybe even earn bragging rights!