Charleston may not have many white Christmases, but we sure celebrate the holidays to the fullest. There are plenty of events to help get you in the holiday spirit.

The Holiday Festival of Lights – November 9 – January 1
Get a group together, pile in your car, and enjoy the most iconic Christmas light display in Charleston. You can stay in your car for the tour or you can park and visit Santa’s Village. In Santa’s Village you can ride the lighted train, roast marshmallows, and look at the gigantic sand castle display. It’s a car ride you won’t forget and the best part is that you can go through the display as many times as you want. Prepare to be amazed!

The Folly Beach Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 8 at 1:00
People line Center Street while kids anxiously prepare to catch all of the candy that will be thrown from floats. You’ll marvel at the elaborately decorated floats as they pass by. Be sure to stick around for the grand finale…Santa enters on a big red firetruck while the sirens blare. After the parade, head over the Arts and Craft to show to pick up some awesome Christmas gifts for friends and family.

Mount Pleasant’s 23rd Annual Christmas Light Parade – Sunday, December 9 at 5:30
Brilliant floats march up Coleman Boulevard while families and visitors excitedly line the streets. Mount Pleasant prides itself on being a family oriented town that focuses on creating a welcoming community. This parade will make you feel right at home and get you ready for the holidays, so pack a chair, bring some hot cocoa and enjoy the show!

Holiday Parade of Boats – Saturday, December 8 at 5:30
We’re in Charleston people – of course we have some type of celebration on the water! People register their boats to be in this unique parade. They decorate them with lights from bow to stern. Thousands of spectators watch the parade from many different locations, but my favorite view is from Waterfront Park. There’s plenty of grass that allows kids to play and there’s a dock with massive swings lining it. This parade gives you a taste of a Lowcountry style holiday celebration.