Events

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.

October 15, 2024 • 
Erika Ross
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
An aerial shot of Credit One Stadium
Events
25+ Charleston concerts to put on your calendar in 2025
From award-wining country artists to chart-topping bands, there’s no shortage of concerts to enjoy live music in the Holy City this year — use this guide to find your next concert.
June 6, 2025
 · 
Callie Putnam
A family looks at a turtle in the aquarium.
Play
Kid-friendly activities in Charleston
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Charleston, SC has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
May 30, 2025
 · 
Staff
A smiling man in a navy blazer and white shirt stands outside in a sunlit area, surrounded by greenery and white columns. He has short curly hair and a neatly groomed beard.
Festivals
Q+A with Mena Mark Hanna, General Director + CEO of Spoleto Festival USA
Mena Mark Hanna shares what’s new, what’s exciting, and why Spoleto Festival USA 2025 is a can’t-miss.
May 28, 2025
 · 
Erika Ross
Woman in denim jacket raising hands in victory and standing up from her bingo table, with people clapping in the background
Sponsored
Gay Bingo is back, just in time for Pride Month
This Palmetto Community Care fundraiser is making its return to Charleston after a three-year hiatus — and this year, tickets are all-inclusive.
Sponsored by
celebration with streamers for spoleto festival
Festivals
Spoleto Festival USA returns with 100+ performances across Charleston
From jazz and opera to dance and physical theater, here’s one can’t-miss Spoleto Festival USA event from each genre to help you plan your festival lineup.
May 20, 2025
 · 
Erika Ross
CHStoday Piccolo Palette
Events
Free and festive: Your guide to several 2025 Piccolo Spoleto’s complimentary events
From outdoor concerts and art exhibitions to sand sculpting and potlucks, explore some of the best regional and local talent with these can’t-miss Piccolo Spoleto free events running May 23 through June 8.
May 20, 2025
 · 
Erika Ross
Load More