Charleston charms tourists all throughout the year, but this historic city really shines during the holiday season. As you stroll through iconic sites like the City Market, Waterfront Park, and Rainbow Row, you’ll find plenty of wreaths, Christmas trees, and, of course, exquisite light displays. Visitors to the “Holy City” during the holidays will have the opportunity to take part in countless special events. To help you take advantage of this wondrous time of year, let’s share a few of the most popular holiday events in Charleston.
- Hop Aboard A Holiday Cruise
Cruising along the Charleston Harbor is always a thrill, but it’s extra special on the Keep the Light Shinin’ Holiday Dinner Cruise. This Christmas-themed cruise is only available during the holiday season and features festive live music as well as a full gourmet buffet on the massive Carolina Queen. As you’re wining and dining, take plenty of time to enjoy the views of the Charleston Harbor on this two-hour nighttime cruise. Note, it’s very difficult to get tickets for this cruise last-minute, so be sure to reserve your spot well in advance online!
- Marvel At The Lights On James Island
One of the most famous holiday light displays in Charleston is located a bit outside of the city center in an area called James Island. Dubbed the “Holiday Festival of Lights,” this magical collection of light displays uses over 2 million lights and goes on for over 3 miles. After you’ve experienced the thrill of driving through this magnificent light display, consider sticking around for a train ride in the nearby Winter Wonderland. People staying in the heart of Charleston should arrange holiday transportation service to experience James Island’s celebrated light display.
- Hear Lively Classical Christmas Tunes
Every year the Charleston Symphony Orchestra puts on dozens of fun Christmas-themed shows that are perfect for the entire family. Whether you want to hear Handel’s Messiah in one of Charleston’s many beautiful churches, or want to “rock around the Christmas tree” with friends, you should find something on the Charleston Symphony Orchestra’s schedule to delight your ears. Be sure to order your tickets early because seats tend to fill up quickly during the holiday season. It’s a great idea to book holiday transportation to easily get to and from your concert-going experience.
- Shop At The Marion Square Christmas Market
One of the best places to do all your holiday shopping while in Charleston is in the Marion Square Farmer’s Market. Local booths open every weekend from approximately 9AM till 3PM and offer a wide variety of hand-crafted holiday goodies. If you can’t make it during a Farmer’s Market, it’s still worth your time to visit Marion Square and take a few pictures by the Christmas tree. Marion Square also hosts many exciting live musical events during this time of year and Santa has been known to visit on a few occasions!
- Enjoy The Holiday Parade of Boats On Charleston Harbor
It’s impossible to write about holiday events in Charleston without mentioning the city’s famed Holiday Parade of Boats. Taking place in early December, this nighttime parade features dozens of fully decorated boats that glitter as they glide along the Charleston Harbor. This parade starts in nearby Mount Pleasant and slowly makes its way through Charleston, so there are plenty of great viewing locations along the harbor. At the end of the parade, awards are given out to the three “best in show” boats.
For holiday car services in Charleston, contact GCT today!