Celebrate the holiday season at the 35th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights

Enjoy dazzling displays, festive activities, and Santa’s nightly visits at James Island County Park from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31.

four palmetto trees with lights; a light display of the Arthur Ravenel Bridge in the background.

Don’t miss this beloved holiday activity in Charleston.

Photo provided by Charleston County Parks

The 35th annual Holiday Festival of Lights returns to James Island County Park from Friday, Nov. 15 to Tuesday, Dec. 31.

Guests can enjoy a three-mile display featuring over 750 light exhibits, ride the Festival Express train, explore a 50-ton sand sculpture, roast marshmallows, and attend special events on select nights. Santa will make nightly appearances beginning opening night through Monday, Dec. 23.

Admission prices vary by traffic levels:

  • Green nights (light traffic): $15-$20
  • Yellow nights (moderate traffic): $25-$30
  • Red nights (heavy traffic): $30-$40

Pro Tip: Save by purchasing tickets online in advance, and Charleston County Parks recommends booking for green or yellow nights to avoid long wait times.

Events
Chef Daniel Humm and the pop-up restaurant will host its first guest on Thursday, Oct. 2. The restaurant will be housed at The Charleston Place.
The Pass the Peel series creates a unique space for collaboration among Charleston chefs, challenging them to highlight the flavors they work with in a pizza.
Marcus King will head to North Charleston’s Firefly Distillery to show off his SC roots and host a family-friendly weekend filled with music + barbecue.
Got a hot new fling? Hoping to spice things up with your longtime partner? We’re here to help plan your next date in the Holy City.
It’s Restaurant Week in the Upstate, so get your keys, we’re checking out eateries offering special dishes, menus, and deals for a limited time.
Make plans to hop on the Daniel Island Ferry for the next BBQ & Boats Sunset Cruise, featuring Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ.