Columbia, South Carolina, comes alive during the Christmas season with a variety of festive events and activities. From twinkling lights and holiday markets to live performances and family-friendly gatherings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Holiday Lights and Displays
- Soda City Lights: Main Street in downtown Columbia is transformed into a winter wonderland with more than one million twinkling lights. Stroll through the festive streets, enjoy live music, and visit with Santa Claus. (November 18 – December 31)
- Lights before Christmas: Riverbanks Zoo & Garden hosts this annual drive-through light display featuring over a million lights and animated displays. (November 18 – December 31)
- Symphony of Lights: The South Carolina State House is adorned with over half a million lights during this dazzling display. (December 1 – January 1)
Holiday Markets and Shopping
- Soda City Market Christmas Village: This festive market offers unique gifts, handmade crafts, and holiday treats from local vendors. (November 18 – December 23)
- West Columbia Christmas Arts & Crafts Festival: Find handmade gifts, seasonal decorations, and holiday treats at this charming outdoor market. (December 3-4)
- Christmas at the Market at the Vista: Over 50 local vendors showcase unique gifts, art, and food at this holiday market. (December 10-11)
Live Performances and Entertainment
- The Nutcracker: Columbia City Ballet presents this timeless holiday classic at the Koger Center for the Arts. (December 9-11)
- Handel’s Messiah: The Columbia Bach Society performs this beloved oratorio at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. (December 11)
- Cirque Dreams Holidaze: This dazzling holiday-themed circus features acrobats, aerialists, and live music. (December 21-23)
Family-Friendly Gatherings
- Santa’s Workshop at the EdVenture Children’s Museum: Kids can meet Santa, make crafts, and enjoy holiday activities. (November 19 – December 24)
- Holiday Break at the South Carolina State Museum: Explore interactive exhibits, attend holiday-themed workshops, and enjoy a visit with Santa. (December 19-23)
- Winter Wonderland at Harbison Gateway: This outdoor space features a Christmas tree, ice skating rink, and festive decorations. (November 25 – December 31)
Event Schedule
| Event | Dates | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Soda City Lights | November 18 – December 31 | Main Street, Columbia |
| Lights before Christmas | November 18 – December 31 | Riverbanks Zoo & Garden |
| Symphony of Lights | December 1 – January 1 | South Carolina State House |
| Soda City Market Christmas Village | November 18 – December 23 | Main Street, Columbia |
| West Columbia Christmas Arts & Crafts Festival | December 3-4 | Riverwalk Park, West Columbia |
| Christmas at the Market at the Vista | December 10-11 | The Vista, Columbia |
| The Nutcracker | December 9-11 | Koger Center for the Arts |
| Handel’s Messiah | December 11 | Trinity Episcopal Cathedral |
| Cirque Dreams Holidaze | December 21-23 | Township Auditorium |
| Santa’s Workshop at the EdVenture Children’s Museum | November 19 – December 24 | EdVenture Children’s Museum |
| Holiday Break at the South Carolina State Museum | December 19-23 | South Carolina State Museum |
| Winter Wonderland at Harbison Gateway | November 25 – December 31 | Harbison Gateway |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the most popular holiday event in Columbia?
A: Soda City Lights is a beloved tradition, transforming downtown Columbia into a twinkling winter wonderland.
Q: Are any events free to attend?
A: Yes, several events are free, including Symphony of Lights and Holiday Break at the South Carolina State Museum.
Q: Are pets allowed at any of the events?
A: Some outdoor events, such as Winter Wonderland, allow pets on a leash. Please check event websites for specific guidelines.
Q: Can I reserve timed tickets for any of the events?
A: Yes, timed tickets are available for The Nutcracker, Cirque Dreams Holidaze, and Santa’s Workshop at the EdVenture Children’s Museum.
Q: Where can I find more information about Christmas events in Columbia?
A: Visit the official website of Experience Columbia SC for the most up-to-date event listings.
Whether you’re looking for festive lights, holiday shopping, live performances, or family-friendly gatherings, Columbia, South Carolina, has plenty of Christmas Holiday Events to make your season merry and bright.
Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia is the capital and second-largest city in South Carolina, located in the central region of the state.
History:
- Founded in 1786 as a river port and state capital.
- Played a significant role in the American Civil War, serving as the capital of the Confederate States of America.
- Rebuilt after the war and experienced significant growth in the 20th century.
Population:
- Population of approximately 133,226 (2023 estimate).
- Diverse population including African Americans, Whites, Hispanics, and Asians.
Culture and Attractions:
- Home to the South Carolina State Museum, featuring exhibits on history, science, and art.
- Includes multiple parks and green spaces, such as the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.
- Offers a thriving arts scene with theaters, concert halls, and galleries.
- Known for its culinary offerings, particularly its barbecue and Southern cuisine.
South Carolina Christmas Holiday Events: Holiday Lights Display in Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina, becomes a festive wonderland during the holidays, offering a spectacular light display at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. The zoo’s annual "Lights Before Christmas" event transforms the zoo grounds into a dazzling winter spectacle. Visitors can wander through a magical forest of twinkling lights, admire larger-than-life animal statues, and enjoy festive treats and drinks. The event also features live entertainment and interactive displays, making it a memorable holiday experience for people of all ages.
Christmas Festivals in Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina hosts a variety of Christmas festivals to celebrate the holiday season. These festivals offer a range of activities, from shopping and dining to live music and entertainment. Some of the most popular Christmas festivals in Columbia include:
- Columbia’s Canal & Riverfront Park Holiday Lights on the River: This festival features over 2 million lights illuminating the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the light displays, live music, and seasonal refreshments.
- Soda City Christmas Village: Located in Soda City Market, this festival offers shopping, dining, and entertainment in a festive holiday atmosphere. Visitors can find unique gifts, enjoy live music, and meet Santa Claus.
- Irmo Christmas Craft Festival: This festival showcases a variety of handmade crafts from local artisans. Visitors can find unique gifts, home decor, and holiday treats while supporting local businesses.
- Seven Oaks Christmas Festival: This festival features a variety of holiday activities, including a Christmas market, live music, and a visit from Santa Claus. Visitors can also enjoy a petting zoo, face painting, and other family-friendly activities.
- Congaree Vista Christmas Stroll: This festival takes place along Gervais Street in the Congaree Vista district. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and live music while admiring the festive holiday decorations.
SC Holiday Shopping in Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina, offers a festive shopping experience during the holiday season. Visitors can explore the city’s charming boutiques, department stores, and specialty shops for unique gifts, home decor, and seasonal treats.
The historic Vista district is home to independent retailers, antique stores, and art galleries. Columbiana Centre, a popular mall, features a wide selection of national and local brands. The Pearl Street Market and French Market offer artisan crafts, gourmet food, and live entertainment.
For those seeking outdoor shopping, the Soda City market hosts a holiday market on Saturdays with vendors selling handmade gifts, local produce, and festive treats.
South Carolina Christmas Parades in Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina, offers two festive Christmas parades that bring holiday cheer to the city:
- Soda City Christmas Parade: Held annually in downtown Columbia, this parade features over 100 floats, marching bands, and performers. It culminates in the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree.
- Irmo Christmas Parade: Held in the Irmo community just north of Columbia, this parade showcases local businesses, community organizations, and festive floats. It concludes with a fireworks display.
SC Holiday Markets in Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with several festive holiday markets offering unique shopping experiences. These markets showcase local vendors, artisans, and food purveyors, creating a vibrant and cheerful ambiance. Visitors can peruse handcrafted gifts, festive decorations, gourmet delights, and more while enjoying live music and festive activities. The atmosphere is filled with warmth and holiday spirit, making these markets the perfect destinations for finding special gifts, savoring seasonal treats, and embracing the holiday cheer.
Christmas Vacation Ideas in Columbia, South Carolina
During the Christmas season, Columbia, South Carolina, transforms into a winter wonderland with festive activities and attractions.
- ZooLights: Immerse yourself in a dazzling display of over 500,000 twinkling lights at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.
- Capital City Tree Lighting: Witness the official lighting of the towering Christmas tree in front of the South Carolina State House.
- Christmas at the Edens: Explore the historic Edens home decorated in Victorian Christmas splendor.
- Columbia Museum of Art: Admire festive holiday exhibitions and enjoy special Christmas-themed events.
- Christmas on Gervais: Stroll along the charming Gervais Street, lit up with holiday decorations and offering festive shopping and dining experiences.
- Carolina Theatre: Catch a live performance of a classic Christmas show, such as "A Christmas Carol" or "The Nutcracker."
SC Holiday Travel to Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina, offers a variety of holiday activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. The city is home to the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, which features a special holiday lights display during the holiday season. Visitors can also enjoy ice skating at the Ice Pavilion, which is located in the Vista district.
For those looking for a more cultural experience, the Columbia Museum of Art offers a variety of holiday-themed exhibitions. The museum also hosts a special holiday concert series featuring local musicians.
No matter what your interests are, Columbia has something to offer everyone during the holiday season. So come on down and experience the magic of the holidays in the capital city of South Carolina!
South Carolina Christmas Dinner in Columbia
For a festive Christmas dinner in Columbia, South Carolina, consider dining at one of the city’s many restaurants offering traditional and modern holiday dishes. The menu might include favorites like roasted turkey, glazed ham, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and pecan pie.
Some popular restaurants in Columbia for Christmas dinner include:
- Gather for a modern Southern take on Christmas classics with a tasting menu featuring dishes like oysters with champagne mignonette, duck fat roasted potatoes, and pecan pie with brown butter ice cream.
- Gervais & Vine for a traditional Christmas buffet with all the holiday staples, including turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and pies.
- Motor Supply Co. Bistro for a festive atmosphere with live music and a Christmas-themed menu featuring dishes like roasted prime rib, seafood towers, and eggnog creme brulee.
South Carolina
South Carolina, a state located in the southeastern United States, is known for its diverse geography and rich history. With a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, the state boasts pristine beaches and historic port cities. Inland, rolling hills and dense forests make up the interior.
The state was founded in 1670 as a British colony and played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War. It is home to numerous historical sites, including the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site and the Old Exchange Building and Provost Dungeon in Charleston.
South Carolina has a strong agricultural heritage, with cotton, soybeans, and peaches being among its main crops. It is also a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and historical attractions. The state’s largest city, Columbia, is a vibrant cultural hub with museums, theaters, and universities.
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