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Christmas in Columbia, SC  is a magical experience. Located just over an hour from the bustling city of Charleston, it makes for the perfect hidden-gem holiday destination in South Carolina. Whether you and your crew are in the mood for sugary treats,  “reindeer games,” or captivating traditions, Columbia,– referred to as “Cola” by locals – offers a range of activities and events to immerse yourself in holiday cheer along side your loved ones this season. 

Fireflies in Winter

Staying in a downtown Columbia hotel is the most convenient way to experience a jam-packed holiday weekend itinerary. The Hotel Trundle is one of the best value stays in the area and provides attractive amenities, including a complimentary chef-prepared continental breakfast.

Kick off your holiday adventure with dinner at Black Rooster, a “casual French-ish” bistro serving a French onion-style burger that many claim to be Columbia’s best. Personally, we can’t look away from the balsamic-braised wild boar shank served with roasted apples and turnips, bacon, and polenta. Any meal is guaranteed to leave visions of sugar plums dancing in your head; plus, the spot offers stunning views of the Columbia skyline.

After dinner, bundle up and head to Fireflies Holiday Lights at Segra Park. The Fireflies baseball stadium transforms into a glittering winter fantasia. Over one million holiday lights, interactive displays, and themed areas appeal to all ages. Enjoy s’mores by the fire, sip on hot cocoa, and take photos with Santa Claus – it’s the perfect choose-your-own-adventure holiday experience in Columbia, running November 15, 2024 to January 4, 2025 from 6-9 PM. View tickets, pricing, and discounts.

Sleigh Your Holiday Shopping in Cola

Start your first morning in Columbia, SC with a hearty brunch at The War Mouth. Brace yourself for what may feel like a war that your mouth fights – and wins. Devour snacks like crispy pork belly and pork rinds topped with pimento cheese. Take on whole hog BBQ platters bolstered by coleslaw, tater tots, collard greens, and other usual Southern comfort food suspects. 

Once you're able to stand up, head over to Soda City Market on Main Street for some holiday shopping. Feel the jingle bell buzz coursing through your veins in the open-air market, which runs every Saturday and offers an array of artisans selling everything from handmade crafts to gourmet foods. Local vendors include:

While downtown, stop at the intersection of Main and Gervais to see the tree adorned from the 58th Annual Governor’s Lighting of SC's Christmas Tree, a cherished Columbia holiday tradition marking the official beginning of the Christmas season in early November.

Travel to the Land of Sweets

Directly across from the South Carolina Christmas Tree, a winter “whiskey” wonderland is your perfect dinner setting. Boasting the largest whiskey list in SC, Bourbon serves flavorful dishes that smack of the Louisiana Bayou inside the historic Brennen Building. While spicy boudin balls, jalapeno hush puppies, and yes, even spare ribs, can also fit inside a Christmas stocking, we would not advise doing so.

Next, continue your magical night at The Nutcracker presented by the Columbia City Ballet. Held at the Koger Center for the Arts, this beloved ballet performance brings Tchaikovsky’s classic score and enchanting story to life. The intricate costumes and transfixing choreography make this show a holiday staple for visitors and locals alike. View Cola/SC tickets.

Traveling with young children? Nutcracker Teas take place before the matinee performances on select December dates. Enjoy an enthralling sit-down tea and meet characters from The Nutcracker as the Kingdom of Sweets comes to life. It’s the perfect way for everyone to get into the holiday spirit!

Are Those Reindeer or Rhinos?

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Start your morning with an unforgettable brunch at The Hollow, a cozy cafe offering a whimsical “breakfast tower” as the crown jewel of its menu. Some of the stunners on the “tiers” include cinnamon rolls, bacon, pancakes with blackberry compote, and…take a deep breath…a deviled duck egg flight. Doesn’t it feel great to be on the “Nice” list?

Afterward, get holly jolly excited for a day at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, one of Columbia's most popular attractions. You could probably spend the entire weekend here engaged in:

Numerous restaurants and snack bars are scattered throughout the Riverbanks Zoo, making it easy to stay for lunch and dinner. On select November and December evenings from 5-9 PM, the zoo hosts Wild Lights, a spectacular event where the entire zoo is illuminated with millions of twinkling lights. Wander through the gardens, catch glimpses of exotic animals, and enjoy festive activities such as carousel rides, s’mores stations, and live entertainment.

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