With Charleston’s sunny skies, warmer temperatures, and beauty vibes, it may seem like getting into the holiday spirit may be a bit of a challenge. But the Holy City knows a thing or two about bringing the community together in festive style, come the ‘ber months! In this blog, we’ll look at some of Charleston most loved holiday events, so you have a comprehensive list to check off this month with your friends and family.
Looking for a specific activity? Simply click a link below.
Mount Pleasantt
130 Mill St., Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Saltwater Cowboys is one of the most beloved restaurants/bars in Mount Pleasant, and for good reason! This holiday season from November 17th through December 31st, typical waterfront views with transform into a winter wonderland as the Miracle pop-up bar takes over. In addition to beautiful lights and tinsel galore, you can expect unique and festive cocktails (and mocktails) from the Miracle menu. Be sure to visit the Saltwater Cowboys Market, where you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts that you won’t find on King Street. And of course, we can’t forget the countless activities that the entire family can enjoy together, like meeting Santa, DJ lounging, and hot chocolate and cider refreshments. Don’t wait until the New Year and miss your chance to experience Mount Pleasant’s holiday cheer!
Downtown
The Mills House Hotel 115 Meeting Street Charleston, SC 29401
At Iron Rose located in the Mills House Hotel this holiday season from December 1st, 2025 – January 4th, 2026, experience the 12 days of Christmas with a tasty twist! On this exclusive menu, you’ll get a chance to experience traditional cocktail flavors with a festive flair. The menu is divided between the nice – and the not-so-nice naughty list. On the nice list, they offer drinks such as Jingle Juice, made from New Amsterdam vodka, pomegranate, and honey syrups. On the naughty list, try the Polar Espresso, with cold brew, vanilla, vodka, and espresso. Can you drink all of the 12 drinks of Christmas this holiday season?
Downtown
181 Church Street Charleston, SC 29401
Frannie and the Fox – one of Charleston’s most loved upscale restaurants. What better time to treat family or friends to a dining treat than in the season of giving? This holiday season from November 26th – January 6th, 2026, your visit to the restaurant will include a tree-lined village, campfire, and festive cocktails. Private yurts are available for rent for costs between $75 and $150, depending on the time of day you choose to dine. Renting a yurt comes with an included complimentary charcuterie platter to begin your cozy meal.
Please keep in mind that yurts can accommodate 8 people at maximum. If a reservation is cancelled within 48 hours of the reservation slot, a $25 fee will be applied.
Downtown
115 Meeting Street Charleston, SC 29401
Looking for a way to make good use of your creative juices this holiday season? Look no further than the Mills House, downtown for a custom card painting session with artist Rebecca Illustrated! Located on the ground floor, you’ll receive a painting kit with supplies, a postcard, and a stamp, for the cost of $15. They handle the shipping themselves, leaving you stress-free and giving a cute, personalized gift for a loved one. This activity is available daily from 10 AM – 5:30 PM, so be sure to fit it in your calendar the entire month of December.
Downtown
130 Market Street Charleston, SC 29401
Bring a little joy to the world with a heartfelt note to the big man in the North Pole! From November 26th – December 24th, all are welcome to stop by the Letters to Santa station, located in the Charleston Place off King Street. Here, you can write your holiday wishes and questions to Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their hardworking elves.
For the first time, the station also encourages guests to write letters of gratitude to the Armed Forces. In partnership with American gardens, you can spread double the love, and double the holiday cheer!
Middleton Place Stable Yard
4300 Ashley River Rd Charleston, SC 29414
Bayberry candles are traditionally reserved for use around the holidays, believed to bring wealth and luck into the New Year. The Middle Place wants to give you the chance to invite a little tradition into your life this Christmas season. From December 26th at 1:00 PM, to December 30th at 3:00 PM, all are welcome to come to the stables and dip their own specialty bayberry candles during this season-specific, drop-in styled program. The best part about it? The event is absolutely free with general admission to the Middleton Place, giving you a great opportunity to both visit a new, stunning place, while getting festively crafty.
James Island
871 Riverland Drive, Charleston, SC 29412
The Holiday Festival of Lights on James Island is hands down one of Charleston’s most loved light shows during the holiday season. The tradition has been in full swing since 1990, and you can seriously see the level of expertise they’ve achieved through their intricate and beautiful light displays. From November 14th to December 31st, come anytime during the evening from 5:30 to 10 PM. The light show is held in James Island County Park, which is absolutely stunning in itself. In addition to light viewing, you’ll find fun family activities, some unique holiday shopping, and delicious, seasonal treats that you can’t find better anywhere else.
Downtown
100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401
One of Charleston’s most enchanting traditions is known lovingly as Aquarium Aglow, where the Charleston aquarium turns from the typical aquatic area to a shimmering winter wonderland! From mid-November through early January, the aquarium’s exhibits are illuminated with thousands of festive lights, providing fun that the entire family can enjoy! Visitors can stroll through the aquarium’s glittering halls, enjoy themed light displays, and even meet Santa Claus underwater. It’s a perfect way to add a splash of holiday cheer to your families’ lives, giving you an opportunity to enjoy seasonal decor while diving into marine life.
Get your tickets now and enjoy an underwater winter wonderland that the whole family can enjoy! Keep in mind that the event runs from 5:30 – 9:00 PM!
Joy to Charleston ! (And to the world)
No matter what kind of activity you’re trying to get into this holiday season, Charleston has something that can turn anyone from a Grinch into Buddy the Elf. From crafts, like cards, candles, and letters, personalized dining choices, or simply seeing a spectacular light show, we’re confident that you’ll spread holiday cheer in whatever you do!
