Celebrate a Lowcountry tradition in South Carolina at Charleston’s most beloved nighttime event – the 22nd Holiday Festival of Lights.
The journey begins with a three-mile drive through hundreds of breathtaking light displays featuring millions of twinkling bulbs. The festival delivers more light displays each year, with over 700 shining displays this season. James Island County Park comes alive with the illuminations on November 11 and continues through January 1.
This year’s event kicks off with a grand opening celebration on Friday, November 11, featuring a tree lighting ceremony and the announcement of the winners of the greeting card and gingerbread house competitions. The opening ceremony starts at 6:30pm and activities are included with festival admission price. Festival hours are 5:30 – 10pm Sunday through Thursday, and 5:30 – 1pm Friday through Saturday.
In addition to the drive-through displays, there is Santa’s Village, with train rides, gingerbread house contest, gift shop, marshmallow roasting, and more. Winter Wonderland includes visits with Santa, a carousel, climbing wall, and more marshmallow roasting. Live entertainment is provided most weekends and on several other evenings throughout the festival.
The event is produced by the The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission. The magnificent lighted displays are designed and built by park staff. Volunteer RVers stay in the park starting in September to test and replace all of the lights throughout the display each year, and to operate the trains and carousel, and to perform various other functions.
Visit the Holiday Festival of Lights at www.ccprc.com/index.aspx?NID=140.
For more information about top events in South Carolina take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in South Carolina.