Charleston Celebrates the Holiday Season with Magical Santa Experiences for Families

Charleston Welcomes the Magic of Santa This Holiday Season!

What’s better than the Holiday season? Bringing the whole family together to create magical memories! This year in Charleston, families can experience that magic at the Best Friend Train Museum. Located conveniently between the Charleston Visitor Center and the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, this wonderful venue is gearing up to host The Charleston Santa every weekend from Thanksgiving until Christmas.

Mark Your Calendars!

So when can you catch a glimpse of Santa? Families are invited to join the festivities and receive a free photo with the jolly old man himself on select weekends throughout the holiday season. It’s a chance to soak in the holiday cheer and create a keepsake that you’ll treasure forever!

Helen Hill, the President and CEO of Explore Charleston, described the excitement of this festive event. “We are thrilled to partner with the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry for the second time on The Charleston Santa. It truly is a one-of-a-kind experience that adds to the magic of the Charleston area during the holidays,” she remarked.

Unwrap the Magic of Giving

What makes this Santa visit even more special is the opportunity to give back! Last year, thanks to the kindness of participants, over 700 toys were donated to Toys for Tots. This year, Explore Charleston and the Children’s Museum are aiming even higher with a goal to “fill the train” with 1,000 new, unwrapped toys.

Bringing a toy or purchasing one from the museum’s Pop-Up Store—located right beside Santa—means you’re not just creating memories; you’re really making a difference for local families in need. “Parents often seek ways to inspire generosity in their children, and this offers a perfect, tangible opportunity—children can give back while visiting Santa,” said Karen Coltrane, President and CEO of the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Talk about a win-win!

A Holiday Extravaganza for the Whole Family!

In addition to meeting Santa, families can enjoy the newly renovated Children’s Museum where kids can engage in exciting activities. This year, the Children’s Museum will also debut the Elf Emporium in its lobby. This unique shop allows children aged 8 and under to select pre-wrapped gifts for family members and pets—what a thoughtful way to spread joy!

Don’t Forget to Reserve Your Spot!

While the excitement is free for all to enjoy, make sure to secure your reservation ahead of time, as space is limited. You wouldn’t want to miss out on this enchanting holiday experience that’s perfect for the entire family!

With the festive season fast approaching, what better way to embrace the spirit of giving and sharing than by participating in this heartwarming affair? So gather your family, mark those calendars, and get ready for a magical journey filled with joy, laughter, and of course, plenty of holiday spirit.

Ready to spread some cheer and learn more about Charleston’s history with the Best Friend train? Don’t wait too long! This is one holiday experience you won’t want to miss.