Charleston Celebrates the Holidays with Historic Tours and Festive Events

Charleston Is Buzzing with Holiday Cheer!

As the holiday season approaches, the city of Charleston is dressed to the nines and brimming with festive activities for everyone to enjoy! If you’re on the hunt for some seasonal fun that combines history and holiday cheer, you won’t want to miss the captivating events taking place at Charleston’s Historic Plantations. Let’s dive into the holiday spirit and explore what these beautiful locations have to offer!

Take a Walk Down Memory Lane at Drayton Hall

Ever wondered what Christmas was like back in the day? Well, now’s your chance to find out! Drayton Hall invites you to join their special tour, where you can ask all your burning questions about historic holiday celebrations. Led by the Curator of Education, Amber Satterthwaite, this tour will transport you back in time to explore the meaning of Christmas traditions, from cozy celebrations to the origins of the twelve days of Christmas. Plus, you’ll discover why the big Christmas tree isn’t part of the holiday story at Drayton Hall. Click here to register and unwrap this delightful experience!

Experience the Magic at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Looking for a dose of holiday magic? Then you’ve got to check out the Home for the Holidays tour at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens! From December 6 to January 6, the Magnolia House will be transformed into a festive wonderland showcasing the charm of the 1920s. Explore the evolution of Santa Claus, check out vintage ornaments, and immerse yourself in Southern holiday traditions—all while marveling at the beautifully decorated house.

The tour is brought to life by items on loan from the Charleston Museum, enhancing your experience with exciting artifacts from the era. And don’t worry about feeling lost on your journey through history—expert guides will be on hand to help answer your questions about the antiques, the Drayton family, and all things holiday-related. It’s a special experience you won’t want to miss. Click here for more information and to snag your tickets!

Artistry and History Combine at Middleton Place

If you appreciate the intersection of art and functionality, then the Beholding Beauty exhibit showcasing decorative arts from the Middleton Place Foundation Collection might just catch your eye. This exhibit runs through December 29 and examines how everyday objects can take on a whole new life when artistic design is applied. For the Middleton family, these items were more than just pretty—each piece reflected their unique tastes and life stories.

Visitors can explore how decorative elements transform objects, sometimes enhancing usability and other times overwhelming it with beauty. To view this captivating exhibit, you’ll need to purchase General Admission plus House Museum tickets. So, why not make a day of it and soak in a bit of history while admiring stunning works of art? It’s a great way to add some culture to your holiday season!

Join in on the Fun!

With so much going on, it’s clear that Charleston is the place to be this holiday season. Whether you’re discovering the history of Christmases past at Drayton Hall, soaking up the festive spirit at Magnolia Plantation, or exploring the beautiful decorative arts at Middleton Place, there’s something for everyone. Gather your friends and family, and don’t miss out on these delightful experiences. Embrace the holiday cheer as you celebrate the past and create new memories in this charming city!