Escape the winter blues and embrace the festive cheer with an unforgettable Christmas holiday in Columbia. Known for its vibrant culture, stunning colonial architecture, and picturesque landscapes, Columbia transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season.
Choosing the Perfect Accommodation
Vacation Rentals
For a home-away-from-home experience, consider renting a spacious apartment or house with cozy fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, and private balconies.
Bed and Breakfasts
Immerse yourself in the local charm of a bed and breakfast, offering cozy rooms, communal living spaces, and delicious homemade breakfasts.
Boutique Hotels
Indulge in the opulence and convenience of a boutique hotel, featuring luxurious suites, rooftop bars, and exceptional dining experiences.
Festive Activities and Attractions
Christmas Markets
Explore the lively Christmas markets, brimming with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and an array of unique gifts and ornaments.
Cartagena
Visit the historic walled city of Cartagena, where the streets are adorned with festive garlands and the air is filled with the sound of Christmas carols.
Museo Nacional de Colombia
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Columbia at the National Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the country’s history and traditions.
Culinary Delights
Traditional Christmas Dishes
Savor the authentic flavors of Colombian Christmas cuisine, including tamales, a cornmeal dough filled with meat or vegetables, and natilla, a rich milk pudding.
International Cuisine
Enjoy a wide variety of international culinary options in Columbia’s cosmopolitan cities, ranging from Italian trattorias to Asian fusion restaurants.
Christmas Eve Dinner
Indulge in a grand Christmas Eve dinner at one of Columbia’s renowned restaurants, offering a festive atmosphere and exquisite menus.
Accommodation Recommendations
| Accommodation Type | Property Name | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Vacation Rental | Casa Colonial Cartagena | Historic Center, Cartagena |
| Bed and Breakfast | Hotel Boutique La Passion | Chapinero, Bogotá |
| Boutique Hotel | The GHL Hotel Santa Clara Bogotá | Centro Internacional, Bogotá |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the best areas to stay in Columbia during Christmas?
- Historic Center in Cartagena
- La Candelaria in Bogotá
- El Poblado in Medellín
Q: How far in advance should I book my accommodation?
- It’s recommended to book at least 3-6 months in advance for the best availability and rates.
Q: What are the average nightly rates for accommodation during Christmas?
- Expect to pay around $50-$200 per night, depending on the type of accommodation and location.
Q: Is it easy to get around Columbia during the holiday season?
- Yes, there are excellent public transport options available, including buses, taxis, and subway systems.
Tips for Planning the Perfect Holiday Getaway
- Book your flights and accommodation well in advance to secure the best deals.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect against unexpected events.
- Pack warm clothing and comfortable shoes as temperatures can vary during the holiday season.
- Respect local customs and traditions, such as attending a midnight mass on Christmas Eve.
- Embrace the festive spirit and enjoy the magical atmosphere of Columbia during Christmas.
Festive Holiday Events in Columbia for Christmas
Columbia, South Carolina, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with a variety of events that bring families, friends, and tourists together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. Some highlights include:
- Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center Holiday Market: Browse unique gifts and crafts from local vendors, enjoy live music, and take part in family-friendly activities.
- Jamestown Christmas: A Victorian Carol: Immerse yourself in the Victorian era at this interactive theater experience that retells a beloved Christmas story.
- Christmas at the Zoo: Visit Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens to see festive decorations, meet Santa, and watch animals enjoying special holiday treats.
- Holiday Light Displays: Drive through dazzling light displays at various locations, including the South Carolina State House and Spirit of Christmas at Lake Murray.
- Christmas at Segra Park: Experience the magic of the holidays at the home of the Columbia Fireflies minor league baseball team, with festive tunes, seasonal food, and a fireworks show.
Christmas Shopping in Columbia
Columbia offers a wide range of shopping options for Christmas, from traditional department stores to quaint boutiques. The city’s main shopping district is located in the downtown area, which features several malls and shopping centers. For a more unique experience, visitors can head to the nearby Five Points district, which is home to numerous independent shops and art galleries. Columbia also has several outlet malls, which offer discounts on a variety of brands. No matter what your budget or style, you’re sure to find the perfect Christmas gifts in Columbia.
Holiday Light Displays in Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season with spectacular light displays. From breathtaking drive-through experiences to festive community events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the most popular attractions is the South Carolina State House Grounds, where over 100,000 lights adorn the State House and surrounding grounds. Visitors can stroll through the illuminated pathways and marvel at the intricate displays.
Another must-visit is Riverbanks Zoo’s Lights Before Christmas. This drive-through extravaganza features over one million dazzling lights, animated displays, and festive scenes inspired by wildlife and the holiday spirit.
Columbia’s Zoo Lights at the Riverbanks Botanical Garden and EdVenture Children’s Museum’s Winter Wonderland also offer enchanting light displays, each with unique themes and attractions.
For those seeking a scenic drive, the Festival of Lights at the Governor’s Mansion and Zoo hosts over 100,000 lights along a 2-mile route. The Light Park at Harbison, meanwhile, offers a dazzling display of over 500,000 lights and animations.
Christmas Meals in Colombia
Christmas Eve is celebrated with a special meal that often includes tamales, a traditional dish made of ground corn filled with meat or vegetables and wrapped in a corn husk. Natilla, a sweet custard-like dessert flavored with cinnamon and nutmeg, is also a common Christmas treat. On Christmas Day, traditional Colombian dishes such as lechón (roasted pork), ajiaco (a chicken and potato soup), and buñuelos (fried dough balls) are enjoyed.
Christmas Tree Farms Near Columbia
- Pine Hollow Christmas Tree Farm: Family-owned farm with a variety of firs, pines, and spruces.
- Laurel Hill Christmas Tree Farm: Scenic farm with pre-cut and choose-and-cut trees, including Fraser firs and Canaan firs.
- Conifer Farms: Largest Christmas tree farm in the area, offering hundreds of acres of trees and a petting zoo.
- Elmwood Christmas Tree Farm: Boutique farm with unique varieties such as Concolor firs and Turkish firs.
- Womack’s Christmas Tree Farm: Small-scale farm with a cozy atmosphere and a selection of Fraser and Canaan firs.
Holiday Activities for Families in Columbia during Christmas
Columbia transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season. Families can enjoy a variety of activities, including:
- Light displays: The South Carolina State House and Riverbanks Zoo & Garden are adorned with dazzling light displays.
- Christmas parades: The Sparkle City Christmas Parade on Main Street and the Festive Friday Christmas Parade in the Vista feature floats, music, and Santa Claus.
- Tree lightings: The official Christmas tree lighting in front of the State House marks the start of the holiday season.
- Ice skating: The Ice at Riverfront Park offers an enchanting skating experience with scenic views of the Columbia skyline.
- Holiday markets: Find unique gifts and festive treats at the Vista Holiday Market, Columbia Farmer’s Market, and Soda City Market.
- Holiday brunches and dinners: Many local restaurants offer special holiday menus and festive ambiance.
Christmas Caroling Groups in Columbia
Christmas carols are a beloved tradition during the holiday season, and Columbia is no exception. Numerous caroling groups spread festive cheer throughout the city, fostering a sense of community and holiday spirit.
These groups range from choirs and church ensembles to neighborhood volunteers who gather to sing traditional and contemporary carols. Some notable groups include:
- Columbia Choral Society: A professional choir that performs a variety of holiday concerts, including caroling events.
- Columbia Children’s Choir: A youth choir that participates in community caroling and holiday performances.
- Riverbanks ZooLights Carolers: Volunteer carolers who perform at the annual Riverbanks ZooLights event.
- Neighborhood Caroling Groups: Informal groups of neighbors who meet to carol throughout their neighborhoods.
These caroling groups create a joyful atmosphere that brings people together. They visit neighborhoods, hospitals, and other public spaces, spreading holiday cheer and creating lasting memories.
Holiday Markets in Columbia during Christmas
Columbia, South Carolina, transforms into a festive winter wonderland during the holiday season, with several charming holiday markets offering unique shopping experiences.
The Soda City Market is a vibrant hub hosting a Winter Market every Saturday from late November to December. Vendors showcase handmade crafts, local artwork, festive décor, and culinary treats. The market’s festive atmosphere is enhanced by live music and entertainment.
The Trenholm Plaza Holiday Market is another popular destination for holiday finds. Over 50 vendors gather to sell a wide variety of items, including handcrafted ornaments, gourmet foods, holiday-themed gifts, and more. The market is open on select weekends throughout the holiday season.
Other notable holiday markets include the Irmo Holiday Market, offering a cozy and festive shopping experience with a focus on local small businesses, and the Lexington Christmas Market, where visitors can find a unique selection of Christmas-themed items and enjoy live performances.
Christmas Eve Services in Columbia
On Christmas Eve, Columbia will offer numerous services at local churches for holiday celebrations:
- Holy Trinity Episcopal Church: Midnight Mass at 12:00 AM, with carols and a special service for children at 6:00 PM.
- Shiloh Baptist Church: Candlelight service at 7:00 PM, featuring music and a Christmas message.
- First Presbyterian Church: Traditional service at 6:00 PM with carols, scripture readings, and a sermon.
- St. Paul’s Lutheran Church: Family service at 5:00 PM with live music, interactive elements, and a Nativity pageant.
- Bethel United Methodist Church: Christmas Eve worship with contemporary music at 7:00 PM and a traditional service at 11:00 PM.
Christmas Day Brunches in Columbia
Indulge in delectable Christmas Day brunches at Columbia’s finest dining establishments:
- The Vista: Savor a festive spread featuring Southern-style favorites, mimosas, and live music at Blue Marlin.
- Downtown: Delight in a sophisticated brunch menu with champagne cocktails at The Oak Table.
- Five Points: Enjoy a family-friendly brunch with a Santa visit and holiday treats at Rush’s.
- Irmo: Experience a Southern Christmas brunch with live gospel music at Harold’s Cabin.
- Lexington: Relish a traditional Christmas brunch featuring roasted meats, festive sides, and holiday desserts at AQUA on Main.
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