Christmas & Holiday Events for Kids in Charleston, SC (2026)

The 35th annual Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park - a three-mile drive-through display with 750+ light scenes, the Festival Express train, a giant sand sculpture, marshmallow roasting, and the Enchanted Walking Trail. Open nightly mid-November through December 31; see ccprc.com for hours,...

Charleston's colorful holiday-lights tradition returns to the South Carolina Aquarium on SELECT NIGHTS, roughly mid-November through December 30 (5:30-9 PM): dozens of immersive light installations, Scuba Claus diving nightly, photo ops, and festive refreshments. Opening date here is approximate - confirm exact...

Charleston Stage's holiday tradition: Julian Wiles' adaptation of Dickens' A Christmas Carol at the Historic Dock Street Theatre. When: Nov 29 – Dec 20 (opening show Sun, Nov 29, 2 PM; multiple dates) Where: Historic Dock Street Theatre, 135 Church St, Charleston Tickets: Charleston Stage box office, 843-577-7183...

Calling all children, come and learn the skills needed to be an elf with us! Are you up to the challenge of making holiday magic? For: Kids & Families.

A local holiday market at Johns Island County Park with area makers and vendors - a good spot for handmade gifts.

Celebrate the holiday season at our one-day Art in the Park program, where participants will create festive crafts, play fun reindeer-themed games, and enjoy holiday music. Join us for a day filled with creativity, laughter, and tasty treats as we make lasting holiday memories together! Registration required to...

While you're chatting with jolly old St. Nick, our professional photographer will take photos of your group of up to 5 people with Santa. If your group has more than 5 people, please book multiple spots. You'll receive the full digital package with all images of your visit. No personal photography will be allowed....

A festive tour of the historic Magnolia house decked out in 1920s-style holiday decor - the evolution of Santa Claus, vintage ornaments, and Southern holiday traditions. Runs daily December 6 through January 6 ($12 plus regular garden admission).

He's making his list, and he's checking it twice - Santa Claus is most definitely coming to town. People with disabilities and their families are invited to a photo session with Santa at James Island County Park. Join us to experience the time-honored tradition of a visit with Santa Claus during dedicated hours in...

Meet Santa Claus on the Great Lawn in front of Magnolia House, with holiday crafts and warm treats for the whole family.

The City of Charleston's annual Holiday Parade steps off at Broad and Rutledge, travels Broad Street to Meeting Street and ends at Marion Square, followed by the city tree lighting around 5 PM. Details may be updated by the city closer to the date.

While you're chatting with jolly old St. Nick, our professional photographer will take photos of your group of up to 5 people with Santa. If your group has more than 5 people, please book multiple spots. You'll receive the full digital package with all images of your visit. No personal photography will be allowed....

He's making his list, and he's checking it twice - Santa Claus is most definitely coming to town. People with disabilities and their families are invited to a photo session with Santa at James Island County Park. Join us to experience the time-honored tradition of a visit with Santa Claus during dedicated hours in...

All new for 2026! Brad and Jennifer Moranz have delighted audiences of all ages with their holiday musical show featuring some of the country’s most talented singers, dancers and musicians – now in it’s 31st spectacular year! Discounted rates are available for seniors (62 & older), military, groups of 15 or more,...

A candlelit evening of Christmas carols performed on strings in the Carriage House at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. Check magnoliaplantation.com for the exact start time and tickets.

Ring in the New Year under hundreds of thousands of holiday lights: roaming entertainers, face painters, a DJ, Scuba Claus in the Great Ocean Tank, and a special NYE countdown with a pufferfish ball drop - all before bedtime.