Christmas Events in Charleston 2025

The historical Charleston, with its festive carriage rides on cobblestone streets, looks especially cozy when adorned with twinkling Christmas lights. Take a stroll through the beautiful French Quarter, The Battery Promenade, Waterfront Park, and Charleston Harbor to marvel at holiday decorations. Stop by the magnificent 64-ft Charleston Christmas tree in Marion Square, which is decorated with thousands of lights. Charleston is also famous for its holiday parades, jazz concerts, holiday shows, and other events that make Christmas in the city so special.

Holiday Parade of Boats (December 14, 2024)

The Holiday Parade Of Boats is one of the highlights of the holiday season in Charleston. The festive procession of dozens of boats of all sizes decorated with twinkling lights passes through the Charleston Harbor. The best area to view the parade is Charleston's waterfront. Holiday Parade of Boats starts at about 6 pm on the Cooper River, near the Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park. The boats pass under the Ravenel Bridge, then turn towards downtown Charleston, before turning again and ending their route on the Ashley River at about 7:30 p.m.

City of Charleston Tree Lighting at Credit One Stadium (November 29, 2024)

Join the festive fun at the Charleston Tree Lighting Ceremony at Credit One Stadium, where the holiday season kicks off with a 22-foot Christmas tree, a magical snow show, and plenty of family-friendly activities. From 5 pm to 9 pm, enjoy live music from a DJ, face painting, and a special visit from Santa. At 6 pm, the tree will be lit in dazzling style. Warm up with s’mores, hot chocolate, cider, or a selection of seasonal beers and specialty cocktails while soaking in the holiday cheer. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult for this joyous community event.

Charleston Christmas Parade (December 7, 2024)

One of the best community events, the City of Charleston Holiday Parade starts at 3:00 pm. A festive and energetic celebration that winds through the heart of downtown. The parade begins at Broad Street at Rutledge, heads north on Meeting Street, and concludes at Calhoun Street. Expect a lively mix of musical ensembles, clubs, and organizations, all bringing holiday cheer to the streets. The celebration doesn’t stop there—stick around for the Tree Lighting ceremony in Marion Square right after the parade.

North Charleston Christmas Parade & Festival (December 7, 2024)

Christmas Festival & Parade is a beloved annual event in North Charleston with music, children’s activities, festive food and decorations, thousands of twinkling lights, visits with Santa. The parade begins at 5 pm at the Park Circle. The area is decorated with lighted snowflakes, Christmas trees, and magical holiday scenes. Christmas festival runs from 4 to 8 pm. Admission is free.

Magnolia Plantation Holiday Mingle with Santa (December 15, 2024)

The little ones can enjoy the festive fun at the Holiday Meet and Mingle with Santa Claus & Santa Paws on from 1 pm to 4 pm at the scenic waterfront Carriage House. This event is perfect for the whole family, offering photo opportunities with Santa Claus and adorable adoptable dogs from Dorchester Paws. While kids enjoy holiday crafts, parents can sip on warm seasonal drinks and browse through local vendors to complete their holiday shopping. It’s a joyful afternoon filled with laughter, holiday cheer, and the chance to find your new furry friend—all in a beautiful setting!

Holiday Market in Marion Square December 7-21, 2024, weekends only)

The Holiday Market in Marion Square is the perfect place to get into the festive spirit and complete your holiday shopping. Held on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 3 pm on December 7, 8, 14, 15, and 21, the market offers a wonderful selection of local products from farmers, growers, artisans, and crafters. Whether you're looking for holiday décor, unique gifts, or delicious local goodies to stock your pantry, you'll find it all in this bustling market. It’s a great way to support local businesses while getting everything you need to deck the halls!

German Christmas Markt (December 6–15, 2024; on selected dates)

There is no better place to shop for Christmas presents than the outdoor German-inspired Christmas Markt at River Oaks Charleston. Enjoy authentic German holiday snacks and drinks at the Biergarten, listen to live music while relaxing on the lawn, and have a glass of Glühwein by a large bonfire. The market operates during two weekends (Friday through Sunday. Day hours are from 2 to 5 pm. Night hours from 7 to 10 pm are for adults only.