Charleston Kicks Off the Holiday Season with Dazzling Parades and Tree Lightings
Get ready, Charleston! The holidays are officially in full swing, and the Lowcountry is bursting with festive cheer. As the weather stays delightfully pleasant with sunny skies and a high of 64°F, there’s no better time to celebrate the season with friends and family.
Mark Your Calendars for Holiday Magic
On December 3, the City of Charleston will kick off a series of joyful events with its annual holiday parade and tree lighting ceremony at Marion Square. This year, it’s particularly special as it’s Mayor William Cogswell’s first holiday parade! Imagine this: the streets filled with colorful floats, enthusiastic performers, and, of course, a jolly Santa waving from a fire truck!
The parade starts at 3 p.m. on Broad Street and winds its way through to Marion Square, where the grand finale will take place. The main attraction? A majestic 64-foot-tall Christmas tree, topped with a shimmering star, will light up the evening. And let’s not forget about the crowd’s excitement as they gather to witness the magical moment when the thousands of lights come to life!
Festivities Across the Lowcountry
But Charleston isn’t the only spot where holiday spirit is blooming. Just a short drive away are a host of delightful events. In Goose Creek, the Christmas in the Creek Tree Lighting will happen on December 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., promising a night filled with holiday hayrides and crafts. Amy Johnson, Goose Creek’s special events coordinator, says, “There is something so magical about seeing the tree light up. Everyone oohs and aahs and feels the holiday spirit!”
Meanwhile, in Hanahan, the annual Christmas parade will take place, featuring exciting floats and local performances starting at 10 a.m. on December 7. The same day will witness the Summerville Christmas Parade, full of musical performances down Main Street. Celebrate with the locals and enjoy the festive vibes all around!
Special Events to Cherish
As the parades continue, make sure to check out the Charleston Parade of Boats on December 14 at 6 p.m. This stunning event showcases beautiful light displays aboard a variety of vessels. You can witness this seasonal spectacle from the waterfront or enjoy the views of the decorated boats cruising along from one of the cozy waterfront parks.
For those looking for something extra special, the Charleston Place Hotel will be holding its own tree lighting event on November 29, along with complimentary cocoa and musical performances from the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra. It’s a perfect way to put you in the holiday spirit!
Celebrate with Joy
Family-friendly events are spread throughout the region, such as the Light the Lake Celebration in Colonial Lake Park, which will brighten up the park on December 7 from 5-7 p.m. Let the little ones gaze in awe as the trees sparkle, and enjoy the delightful atmosphere as local vendors fill the area with festive treats.
Let’s not forget about Folly Beach! They’re gearing up for their Christmas parade on December 14 along Center Street, so grab your friends and family, enjoy some floats, and get a wave from Santa himself at Folly River Park after the parade!
Wrap Up the Year with Cheer!
This holiday season, the Lowcountry is inviting everyone to come out, celebrate, and light up the evenings with smiles, laughter, and the spirit of giving. With so many events lined up, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So bundle up, grab your loved ones, and make this season unforgettable!
