Charleston Holiday Festival of Lights

🎄 36th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights – Charleston, SC

Dates: November 14 – December 30, 2025
Location: James Island County Park, Charleston, SC
Hours: Open nightly, 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
(Closed on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day)

For 36 years, the Holiday Festival of Lights has been a beloved Lowcountry tradition, bringing families and friends together to celebrate the season. Stroll, ride, and explore your way through millions of sparkling lights, interactive displays, and festive holiday fun.

✨ Festival Highlights

• Palmetto the Elf
  Meet Charleston’s favorite holiday helper, who spreads cheer throughout the festival with smiles, photo ops, and holiday magic.

• Visit with Santa Claus (Nov. 14 – Dec. 23)
  No holiday is complete without a stop to see Santa! Visits are free, with optional digital photos available for purchase.

• Festival Express Train
  Take a 15-minute ride through twinkling light displays for just $5 per person—an up-close look at the magic.

• Carousel Rides
  Spin into the season with rides on the carousel, open nightly at 6 PM. ($2 per person)

• Sweet & Savory Treats
  Snack on pretzels, popcorn, roasted marshmallows, and sweets from Claus’ Kitchen. Indoor and outdoor seating available.

• Climbing Wall
  Kids and adults alike can scale new heights with two climbs for just $4.

• Reindeer Workshop
  Build your own plush holiday friend and take home a cuddly keepsake.

• Holiday Sand Sculpture
  Marvel at a massive sculpture crafted from over 50 tons of sand, with a new holiday scene revealed each year.

• Shopping
  Pick up holiday décor, ornaments, and the official 24-karat gold-plated festival ornament in the Holiday Market.

• Giant Holiday Greeting Cards
  See 4×8-foot holiday cards designed by talented local students in the annual competition.

🎟 Admission & Tickets

Tickets may be purchased online in advance (recommended) or at the gate. Prices vary by traffic night designation (Green, Yellow, Red).

• Green Nights – Lighter Traffic & Crowds

  • Standard Vehicle (up to 15 people): $15 online / $25 gate

• Yellow Nights – Moderate Traffic & Crowds

  • Standard Vehicle: $25 online / $35 gate

• Red Nights – Heavier Traffic & Crowds

  • Standard Vehicle: $30 online / $45 gate

(Large vehicle pricing also available; see official site for details.)

🎁 Create Lasting Memories

Whether it’s your first visit or your family’s yearly tradition, the Charleston Holiday Festival of Lights is the perfect way to celebrate the season—filled with magical lights, festive fun, and holiday cheer.

📍 James Island County Park – Charleston, SC