23rd Annual Holiday Festival of Lights

Event Details

The holiday season is coming! This year, bring the family together to celebrate a Lowcountry tradition at Charleston’s most beloved nighttime event - the Holiday Festival of Lights! With over two million shimmering lights, this three-mile driving tour delivers more light displays year after year, with more than 700 shining displays this season. Beginning November 9, 2012 and continuing through December 31, 2012, gather family and friends to capture the magic of the holiday season at James Island County Park. Plus, experience the expanded Fun Run and Walk, now held on two nights! Get a sneak peak of the festival at the fun run, on Nov. 7 and 8.

Remember, the Holiday Festival of Lights is much more than just a driving tour! Park the car and experience exciting attractions custom-designed for holiday cheer. There are many celebrated attractions to see and do, including:

· Marshmallow Roasts
· Festival Train Rides
· Lakeside Lights Interactive Activity
· Enchanted Forest Walking Trail
· Gingerbread Houses
· 50-Ton Sand Sculpture
· Giant Greeting Cards
· Carousel Rides
· Gift Shops
· Portable Climbing Wall
· Photos with Santa
· Santa’s Sweet Shoppe

Stroll through Santa’s Village and see the meticulously-crafted sculpture constructed with 50-tons of sand. View sugary hand-crafted structures from the annual gingerbread house competition. Shop at the two festival gift shops for goodies from local artisans, official 14-kt gold on brass collector series ornaments, toys, personalized gifts, angelic decorations, and multitudes of stocking stuffers.

Spoil your sweet tooth or make it a meal at Santa’s Sweet Shoppe, Frosty’s Treats, or Blitzen’s Burgers. Make s’mores at the marshmallow roasting pits, take a photo with Santa (select dates only – see website for details) and then hop aboard the train for an up-close look at the light displays. Plus, you’ll enjoy family entertainment on select nights, including live bands, kids’ activities, outdoor movies, and much more. Wander over to Winter Wonderland where a traditional 18-animal carousel ride whirls you around. Don’t miss the giant 4-by-8 foot holiday card designs created by local school students as part of the yearly holiday art competition!


Winter Carnival at the Holiday Festival of Lights

Mon., Dec. 31, 5:30 – 11 p.m.
James Island County Park
The perfect place for families to celebrate the New Year, the Winter Carnival features children’s amusement rides, an old-fashioned carousel, portable climbing wall, inflatables, and much more. Purchase a $10 wristband for unlimited rides on attractions (festival train not included). At 9 pm, ring in 2013 with a bang with the spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks show! Outside alcohol and coolers are prohibited. Visit www.holidayfestivaloflights.com for details.