What is there to do in Columbia this holiday season? Where are the holiday events near me? If you’re looking for Christmas events in Columbia, SC, and holiday season activities, you have come to the right place. We’ll be updating this huge list all season long with holiday parades, seasonal live entertainment, theater, live music, crafts, Santa, tree lighting, light displays, Christmas carols, and lots more! Get ready for Christmas Day and celebrate the season with all of these fun, festive holiday events!
So, get that hot cocoa ready and cue up that holiday playlist. Bookmark this list and check back often so you don’t miss out on any of the festive fun this season in the Midlands.
Bonus: Our Special Columbia, SC Christmas Things to Do Lists
What to see this Christmas in Columbia? Sometimes you just need a sneak peek video at holiday fun to help you decide what to do to celebrate the holiday. Check out some of the cool Christmas lights and things we’ve seen this year!
See our HUGE guide to holiday lights in Columbia, with 20+ places to see lights in the Midlands! Including:
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoohas dates starting November 17th through January 14th, 2023. This is an all-new lights experience at Riverbanks Zoo. The experience will include visits with Santa through December 23rd.
Holidays in Columbia wouldn’t be complete without holiday shows and there are so many shows and concerts to choose from! Columbia is fortunate to have the Koger Center for the Arts with a wide variety of shows for Christmas ranging from the traditional ballet The Nutcracker to holiday concerts, and more!
If you’re looking for the big man in red, you’ll want to pop over to our exclusive Santa page. The elves gave us the inside scoop on all of Santa’s visits around Columbia, and we’re passing them on to you. So, go visit Santa in Columbia, SC!
Christmas and Holiday Parades Around Columbia
Is there anything better than a Christmas parade when it comes to free, festive fun? Grab some hot chocolate, pack up some Christmas cookies, bring the kids, and enjoy some holiday season fun!
Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade
The 2023 Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade in Downtown Columbia, SC will be held on December 2nd, 2023. The parade begins at the intersection of Sumter Street and Laurel Street at 9:45 am. The parade route ends at Senate Street.
Time to celebrate the start of 2023! How will you celebrate with your family in Columbia this year? We have 7 family-friendly celebrations for New Year’s in Columbia, plus a few more ways you can ring in the New Year!
Are you looking for places to see Santa in Columbia, SC this holiday season? Wondering where to see Santa near you? Santa is visiting lots of places around Columbia in 2023. His elves at the North Pole are sending us his appearance list as dates are announced, so bookmark this page and check back regularly. We’ll be updating almost as fast as those elves.
This list includes all kinds of events with Santa on the guest list. Check back soon for more 2023 events!
Santa Brunches and Cookies with Santa
Parades where Santa is expected to make an appearance
Tree Lightings hosted by Santa in Columbia
Places to get a picture with Santa
Places to visit with Santa near Columbia, SC
Holiday markets with Santa
Santa’s visit schedule with stops in Columbia, Lexington, West Columbia, and more across the South Carolina Midlands.
Santa at Duck Duck Goose, Columbia
Columbia Mall Santa and More Places to Get Pictures with Santa
Where can I take pictures with Santa in Columbia SC?
Ready for photos with Santa? If you’re looking for a place to visit Santa and get some pictures with the big man in red, this is the list you’re looking for. Find places to get professional photos with Santa in the Columbia area here.
Columbiana Centre
100 Columbiana Circle, Columbia Reserve your appointment for photos with Santa at Columbiana Centre now. Appointments are available beginning November 16th, 2023
Pancakes and PJs with Santa: Photos by Lovejoy Photogrpahy
St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, 119 N Church St, Lexington Friday, December 8th from 5:30 to 7 pm $20 per child (one free adult per child) $10 per additional adult or child. Enjoy pancakes in your PJs with Santa and get professional photos with Santa taken by Lovejoy Photography. Each child will also get a craft. Pancakes and PJS with Santa Event
Santa Experience at Beechcreek Farm
The Santa Experience at Beechcreek Farm is a private 30 minute Santa experience with a professional photographer. Cost is $250 and includes 10 professional images. More information at Beechcreek Farm facebook page including how to message them to book a spot. December dates are: December 9, 9 to 4:30, December 10 1 to 4:30, December 11, 12:30 to 4:30, December 16, 9 to 4:30, and December 17, 1 to 4:30.
Free Photos With Santa in Columbia, SC
Where can I take my own pictures with Santa in Columbia?
Where can I get free pictures with Santa in Columbia, SC?
Santa knows budgets are tight. We so love the totally FREE opportunities to visit with Santa around Columbia, and we love FREE pictures with Santa even more.
November 26, 2023 from 8 to 9 am, Breakfast with Santa at Flying Biscuit Cafe: eat breakfast at Flying Biscuit Cafe in Five Points and get a free photo with Santa. (There is no cost for a photo with Santa, breakfast menu is at regular cost. )
November 28, 2023:Pets take pictures with Santa for free, and kids and families are welcome to join in. Sponsored by Make a Friend in Animals. This event is at the White Knoll Veterinary Hospital.
November 28, 2023: Santa arrives at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport. Take free photos with him from 4 pm to 7pm, bring your own camera. There will also be cookie decorating, ornament making and hot cocoa!
December 2nd, 2023: PJs With Santa at Providence Presbyterian Church from 9 am to 11 am. Enjoy a photo station with Santa, plus opportunities for games, crafts and the Nativity story shared at 10 am. FREE
Devember 2nd, 2023: Free Photos with Santa and His Friends, 4 pm to 7pm with Cayce’s Best Summer Camp & After School, and TNT Martial Arts. 1330 Knox Abbot Drive, Cayce
December 14th, 2023: Santa at Top Dawg Tavern, no cost for photos. Santa will be visiting from 5:30 to 8:30 pm and there will be food and beverage deals in addition to the regular menu. Village at Sandhill
December 15th, 2023: Cookies with Santa 2 pm to 5 pm, get your photo taken with Santa and enjoy cookies at Mingo’s Cookies and Bubble Tea in Lexington.
December 15th, 2023: Visit with Santa at Papa Tony’s Pizza from 6 to 8 pm. Consider bringing a non-perishable food item to donate to Christian Assitance Bridge.
December 18th, 2023: Santa at Bruegger’s Bagels from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Bring your camera for free photos.
Free Photos with Santa at Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s: Includes a FREE Printed 4×6 photo!
Head up to the road to Greenville or Fort Mill, SC to Cabela’s. Visit with Santa and get a totally FREE photo with Santa at Cabela’s. The photo is a professional, quality printed 4×6 photo. There are additional free activities, a letterbox to mail your list to Santa, and you can enjoy the wildlife and aquarium displays throughout the store. Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops Free Photos with Santa at Santa’s Wonderland
Events with Santa in and near Columbia, SC
Ready to bring the kids to see the red-suited jolly man and his elves? Here’s where you can see Santa Claus in Columbia, SC in 2023!
Santa’s elves promised to update us as they added new appearances to Santa’s schedule. So, bookmark our list and check back soon.
Santa and Meat EdVenture Children’s Museum benefits the Prisma Health Children’s Hospital. Kids can visit with Santa and take a photo, make a special plate with Mad Platter, decorate ornaments to donate to the children’s hospital and more. The tickets are $20. November 19, 2023 12 pm to 4 pm
Ride a train with Santa the first 3 Saturdays in December at the South Carolina Railroad Museum. There are a number of train rides with tickets still available throughout each Saturday, December 2, 8 and 16th, 2023. Tickets start at $17 for ages 3 and up. Ticket prices will vary based on the car you select. Purchase tickets for SCRM Santa Trains online
Photos with Santa at Wild Lights
We got to check out Wild Lights and it was awesome! Here’s the Wild Lights Review. While we were there we got to visit with Santa, see how it went in the video below!
Track Santa on Christmas Eve
Didn’t see Santa yet this year? Don’t worry! There are a couple of ways for you to track him on his Christmas Eve journey.
NORAD Tracks Santa
In 1955 a young man accidentally called the Continental Air Defense Command asking if they had seen Santa flying through the sky. While the child had meant to call a Santa Hotline, the person who answered the phone that Christmas Eve just happened to be the Commander in Chief, Colonel Harry Shoup. He instructed his team to keep looking for Santa on the radar screens and ever since NORAD has been tracking Santa annually. The NORAD Santa Tracker
To track Santa on Christmas Eve night, join the team at NORAD, and you will be able to watch them track “Big Red 1” in real-time as he makes his way across the world.
I Heart Radio’s North Pole Radio
The I Heart Radio streaming service has a station dedicated to all things Christmas, It includes 24/7 Christmas music, plus Santa will be checking in with listeners on Christmas Eve with updates!
After Christmas! Winter Break and New Year’s
Once Santa has returned to the North Pole, how will you fill the rest of the holiday season? We have some ideas, of course!
Time to celebrate the start of 2024! How will you celebrate with your family in Columbia this year? We have 7 family-friendly celebrations for New Year’s in Columbia, plus a few more ways you can ring in the New Year!
More Holiday Fun Around Columbia, SC
71+ Christmas Events & Activities in Columbia, SC: Fire Up Your HO HO HO!
19+ Places to See Santa: Columbia, SC (2023)
These Restaurants Will Be Open For Christmas: Columbia, SC
Enjoy Holiday Lights on the River (2023): Columbia, SC
20+ Totally FREE Holiday Things to Do & Christmas Activities in Columbia, SC
On the hunt for restaurants open on Christmas Day in Columbia, SC? The good news is we’ve got a large list of delicious places open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day! Several of these restaurants have both dining-in and carry-out options available. Make Christmas with your family a little merrier and enjoy a bite to eat from one of the restaurants below!
It is important to note that the majority of these restaurants require reservations in order to serve you throughout Christmas. Be sure to call ahead or go online to book your reservation! We recommend doing this ASAP as these restaurants will become booked very quickly.
Local Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve in Columbia, SC
Blue Marlin
Address: 1200 Lincoln Street – 803.799.3838 Details: The popular Columbia restaurant, Blue Marlin, can be found in The Vista. They will be open for Christmas Eve and serve food such as soup & salad, Lowcountry classics, and steaks. Blue Marlin
Cola’s
Address: 1215 Assembly Street – 803.451.0051 Details: TBA Cola’s
Kao Thai Cuisine
Address: 1307 Main Street – 803.569.6881 Details: This Pan-Asian restaurant will be offering fresh, modern Thai; cocktails; and outdoor seating options that are sure to be perfect for you and your family! One unique thing about this restaurant is that it now occupies the former Columbia Fire Dept. Headquarters, the first business to do so since 1994. Kao Thai Cuisine
Clara & Ray’s Ristorante Italiano Lexington
Address: 5140 Sunset Boulevard, Suite E & F, Lexington – 803.951.0051 Details: Open noon to 6 pm on Christmas Eve Clara & Ray’s Ristorante Italiano
Wings and Ale of Lexington
Address: 154 Ellis Ave, Lexington – 803.399.8557 Details: Open 11 am to 11 pm with band Second Spin beginning at 7 pm Wings and Ale of Lexington
Southern Smoked Tavern
Address: 924 E Main Street, Suite C, Lexington Details: They will be open until 8 pm on Christmas Eve. Purchase a $100 gift card and receive a $20 gift card on the house. Offer good through December 31st. Southern Smoked Tavern
Bone Appetite
Address: 309 Oak Drive, Lexington – 803.521.0529 Details: Open from 2 to 7 pm, purchase a $100 gift card and receive a $20 gift card free. Bone Appetite
Reizod Vegan Experience
Address: 9300 Two Notch Road Suite L, Columbia – 803.862.0045 Details: Open 12 pm to 6 pm Christmas Eve. All entrees and 2 side platters available for $17.99 and when you sign up for a meal plan, receive 50% off your first meal. Reservations highly recommended. Reizod Vegan Experience
Chubby’s Burgers & Brewhouse
Address: 420 McNulty Street, Blythewood – 803.445.1409 Details: Open 11 am – 3 pm Christmas Eve Chubby’s Burgers & Brewhouse
Saluda’s
Address: 751 Saluda Avenue, Columbia – 803.799.9500 Details: Open for dinner hours on Christmas Eve, 5 to 9 pm. Saluda’s
Columbia, SC: Chain Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve
BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse
Address: 148 Harbison Blvd – 803.828.5850 Details: There is truly something for everyone at BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse. It’s the perfect place to take your family on Christmas Eve! They’ve got burgers, dessert, pasta, pizza, and so much more. BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse
California Dreaming
Address: 401 Main Street – 803.254.6767 Details: California Dreaming will be open on Christmas Eve from 11 am to 6 pm. They will offer their regular menu as well as curbside pick-up. California Dreaming
Cracker Barrel
Address: Several locations across Columbia to choose from Details: Cracker Barrel will be open on Christmas Eve until 2 pm but closed on Christmas Day. Along with their regular menu, you can also order meals online that serve up to 10 people. Desserts are also available for pre-order. Cracker Barrel
Halls Chophouse
Address: 1221 Main Street, Suite 150 – 803.563.5066 Details: Halls will be open on Christmas Eve from 10 am to 9:15 pm. From soups, salads, seafood, and steaks, this will be a dining experience you won’t soon forget. Halls Chophouse
Lizard’s Thicket
Address: Several locations across Columbia to choose from Details: Lizard’s Thicket will be open on Christmas Eve from 6 am until noon. They will be offering all of their normal menu items. Lizard’s Thicket
The Melting Pot
Address: 1410 Colonial Life Boulevard W, Suite 130 – 803.731.8500 Details: Open on Christmas Eve from noon until 5:00 pm, the Melting Pot will be offering its full menu! The Melting Pot
LongHorn Steakhouse
Address: 171 Harbison Boulevard, Columbia, SC – 803.732.2482 902 Gervais Street, Ste A, Columbia, SC (The Vista) – 803.254.5100 Details: LongHorn Steakhouse will be open on Christmas Eve until 8 pm LongHorn Steakhouse
Gyromania Grill – Elgin
Address: 2558 Main Street, Elgin – 803.729.4995 Details: Open 11 am – 6 pm Gyromania Grill – Elgin
Rioz Brazillian Steakhouse
Address: 410 Columbiana Drive, Columbia – 803.708.3151 Details: Open from 4 pm to 8 pm on Christmas Eve Rioz Brazillian Steakhouse
Carolina Wings
Address: 1000 Marina Road, Irmo – 803.851.4500 240 Blythewood Road, Blythewood SC – 803.714.0181 Details: All locations open until 4 pm on Christmas Eve, Closed Christmas Day Carolina Wings
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
Address: 945 Sabal Street, Columbia Details: Open from 11 am to 9 pm Christmas Eve Iron Hill Brewery
Restaurants Open on Christmas Day & Christmas Eve in Columbia, SC
Hanabi Hibachi & Sushi
Address: 1624 Main Street, Suite 100 – 803.766.0128 Details: This restaurant will be serving from their full-size, regular menu. They will be open normal hours on Christmas Eve and from 4 pm to 10 pm on Christmas Day. Here you will find not only delicious food but also a wonderful experience for everyone! Hanabi Hibachi & Sushi
The Grand on Main
Address: 1621 Main Street – 803.726.2323 Details: At this super cool restaurant you can not only eat but also go bowling with your family! They will be offering their regular menu for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day! The bowling lanes can be found in the back of the restaurant. Such a great way to spend quality time with your family throughout the holidays! The Grand on Main
Smoked
Address: 1643 Main Street – 803.567.5599 Details: Smoked will be open on Christmas Eve during regular hours and on Christmas Day from 4 pm until 10 pm. This restaurant will give you a fine dining, yet casual experience. They’ve got a large outdoor seating area, a delicious oyster bar, meat & cheese boards, and steak flights, just to name a few. Smoked
The Venue
Address: 1626 Main Street – 803.393.7915 Details: The Venue is a dueling piano bar right in the heart of Columbia, SC. They will be open this year on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day serving from their regular menu. What’s even more cool is that they will be decked out with Christmas lights and extra holiday fun all throughout the month of December. The Venue
Tipsy Toad Tavern
Address: 103 Beaufort Street, Chapin – 803.932.4470 Details: Open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas from 4 pm to close, they are decked out on the inside with lots and lots of festive lights and will also have karaoke and top notch specials by Chef Toves plus regular menu items available as well. Under 21 welcome until 9 pm. Tipsy Toad Tavern
Social Grill
Address: 1002 AJ Amick Road, Irmo – 803.764.1594 Details: Social Grill is open Christmas Eve for brunch from 11 am to 3 pm and will be open on Christmas Day, bar only, from 3 to 10 pm and while the kitchen will be closed, they will be serving complimentary Chicken Bog. Social Grill
Blossom Buffet
Address: 2515 Sunset Boulevard, West Columbia – 803.796.7477 Details: Open 11 am to 9:30 pm Blossom Buffet
Shoney’s
Address: 2208 B Airport Blvd West, West Columbia – 803.936.1118 7335 Garner’s Ferry Road, Columbia – 803.776.3700 Details: Shoney’s is open Christmas Eve 8 am to 8 pm and 8 am to 5 pm on Christmas and will be featuring a Christmas Day Feast fresh food bar. Feast will include ham, turkey and all the delicious trimmings. Shoney’s
Bang Back Pinball Lounge
Address: 741 Saluda Ave, Columbia – 803.834.4462 Details: Bang Back Pinball Lounge an arcade/restaurant and is guaranteed to be fun for the whole family! They will be open 12 pm to 5 pm Christmas Eve and 5 pm to 1 am on Christmas Day. Bookings are available for their event space for your last minute holiday gatherings. Bang Back Pinball Lounge
Big Tuna’s Kitchen and Krafts
Address: 1345 Old Chapin Road, Lexington – 803.520.4172 Details: Open 11:30 am to 11 pm Christmas Eve with Karaoke and 4 to 11 pm on Christmas Big Tuna’s Kitchen and Krafts
Steakhouses Open For Christmas: Columbia, SC
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
Address: 924-A Senate Street – 803.212.6666 Details: Open for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Ruth’s Chris will be offering sit-down and take-out options. Your meal will include a starter, your choice between 3 entrees, a choice of sides, and a seasonal dessert. Take-out dinners need to be ordered at least 48 hours in advance, but earlier would be best! Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse
Address: 1508 Main Street – 803.728.0887 Details: This steakhouse will be open on Christmas Eve only for both inside dining and take-out options. Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse
Christmas Dessert Restaurants
The Robinson Room
Address: 1614-A Main Street – 803.714.3375 Details: Open on Christmas Eve, at this swanky dessert and cocktail lounge, you are sure to find something to satisfy your cravings! They will be offering award-winning desserts such as Pumpkin Pie, Apple Pie, Bourbon Pecan Pie, Chocolate Cream Pie, Strawberry Chocolate Torte, amazing cocktails, and more! The Robinson Room
Want Pie?
Yes, holidays and pie go together. Here are some great local bakeries and restaurants where you can pick up some pies for your holiday table! Get your pies in Columbia, SC!
Christmas (& Christmas Eve) Breakfast and Brunch
Antique Mall Cafe
Address: 1528 Main Street, Little Mountain, SC – 803.941.7189 Details: Located on the lower level of the Little Mountain Unlimited Antique Mall, they will be closed Christmas Day but Cafe is open from 11 am to 3 pm on Christmas Eve and the store will be open from 10 am to 6 pm. Antique Mall Cafe
IHOP
Address: 813 St. Andrews Road, Columbia – 803.731.2136 7719 Two Notch Road, Columbia – 803.788.5101 Details: Open both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day from 8 am to 4 pm. Please contact individual location to confirm hours. IHOP
Wafflehouse
Address: Various Locations – 864.288.8893 Details: Open both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and operating normal business hours. Please contact individual location to confirm hours. Wafflehouse
Denny’s
Address: Various locations Details: Always open 24 hours! Denny’s
Another Broken Egg Cafe
Address: 4600 Devine Street – 803.708.1205 101 State Street, West Columbia – 803.829.0223 931 North Lake Drive, Lexington – 839.205.3291 Details: Open Christmas Eve Another Broken Egg Cafe
Curiosity Coffee Bar
Address: 2327 Main Street, Columbia – 803.357.2889 Details: Open Christmas Eve 8 am to 3 pm (normal business hours) and Christmas Day from 8 am to 1 pm Curiosity Coffee Bar
Shoney’s
Address: 2208 B Airport Blvd West, West Columbia – 803.936.1118 7335 Garner’s Ferry Road, Columbia – 803.776.3700 Details: Shoney’s is open Christmas Eve 8 am to 8 pm and 8 am to 5 pm on Christmas and will be featuring a Christmas Day Feast fresh food bar. Shoney’s
The Windermere Club
Address: 1101 Longtown Road E, Blythewood 803.786.6088 Details: Open for Christmas Eve Brunch from 10 am until 4 pm and wil serve a buffet featuring scrambled eggs, hashbrown casserole, waffles, french toast, Southern fried chicken, Jack Daniel’s Glazed Pork Bites, Charleston Red Rice, macaroni and cheese, sweet pastries and so much more! Reservations required, Adult $28.95, Kids 12 & under $13.95. The Windermere Club
Market on Main
Address: 1320 Main Street #150, Columbia – 803.722.4222 Details: Open for Christmas Eve brunch 10 am until 3 pm and Santa will be there from 10 am until noon! Market on Main
Know of any restaurants open on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day that we missed? Please let us know in the comments!
More Holiday Fun in Columbia, SC
Everyone Can Enjoy the Outdoors: Harbison State Forest in Columbia, SC
Moving Through Music: Tempo Music and Arts Brings Outdoor Rhythm and Sound to Columbia Kids
Get Lost in Space: Visiting the Melton Observatory at USC
Looking for an amazing drive-thru light display? Holiday Lights on the River in Columbia, SC may be just what you are looking for. This display features millions of lights along the 3-mile route, with themed sections of the display, lots of animation and family activities like a winter tube slide, hayride and Santa! Here’s everything you need to know about Holiday Lights on the River in Columbia, SC.
Boats at Holiday Lights on the River, Photo Credit: Jen Husson
Holiday Lights on the River: The Details
The three miles of holiday lights that make up Holiday Lights on the River, make this display one of the largest in the Midlands of South Carolina and well worth the drive from the Upstate. You’ll find creatively themed sections of the display that make this drive-through light experience unique including sports-themed lights to enjoy, plus dinosaurs, trains, fairytales, snowy trees, and armed services.
Here’s a little sneak peek at what you’ll see at Holiday Lights on the River:
Photo Credit: Jen Husson
It was by far the best drive through display I’ve seen. Lots of movement and animation.
Jen H.
Holiday Lights on the River runs from November 23rd through December 31st, 2023.
Hours are 6 pm to 10 pm
Go early, and plan to wait in line, especially on the weekends
The cost is $25 per car / $50 per 12-15 passenger van / $75 for 15+ passenger vans
Your ticket includes the additional activities
Holiday Lights on the River in Columbia, SC, Photo Credit: Jen Husson
Activities at Holiday Lights on the River
Admission to Holiday Lights on the River includes several activities you can stop and enjoy. However, if you choose not to stop, the lights themselves are still well worth the admission fee.
Hayride
Winter Wonderland tube slide
Laser light show
Letter writing station to Santa
Santa visits November 24th and 25th, December 1st and 2nd, December 8th and 9th, and December 15th though the 23rd, 2023. Photo packages are an additional cost.
Monster Truck Moose at Holiday Lights on the River, Photo Credit: Jen Husson
Admission: $25 per car, $50 per 12-15 passenger van and limos, $75 per bus, plus a 3% fee for credit cards.
Holiday Lights on the River, Photo Credit: Jen Husson
Ready for more Christmas Lights Near Columbia?
We have a whole list for you! Really, we did all the work and now you can choose from over 15 Christmas and holiday light displays near Columbia, SC. Our list includes more drive-thru displays, plus free displays, lights you can walk through, and lots more!
More Holiday Fun Near Columbia
7+ Kid-Friendly New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Columbia, SC
Holiday Road: Carolina Lights Gleam Bright for the Fifth Consecutive Year
Are you looking for free Christmas things to do in Columbia, SC? The holidays may drain your pockets when it comes to gift-buying and hosting parties, but these free events, parades, and tree-lighting ceremonies will help you feel a little more jolly, merry, and bright! There is also the added bonus of your kid getting to see Santa around town. Check out our list of the best free events in the Columbia area to get the holiday season started.
Looking for more to do during the holidays? Check out our super festive holiday guide!
Go see some awesome lights for free! We took some of the very best decorated homes in the Columbia area and put them together into Epic Columbia Christmas Light Driving Routes. Our 2023 lists are coming soon!
December 1, 2023, 6 pm to 8 pm 201 North Avenue, Cayce (Cayce Riverwalk)
Live music, refreshments, and festive Christmas Caroling all along the Cayce Riverwalk! Local church choirs and musicians will be spread throughout the first half-mile. Parking will be available at Brooklyn-Cayce High School.
December 1, 2023, 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm Icehouse Amphitheater – 107 West Main Street, Lexington
Join the Town of Lexington at Icehouse Amphitheater to light the tree (6:30 pm), sing Christmas carols and take photos with Santa (4 pm – 8 pm)! Food will be available for purchase.
December 2, 2023, 6 pm to 9 pm Cayce Historical Museum
Take in the sights and sounds of Christmas at the Cayce Historical Museum’s “Christmas Olde and New”. Rooms of the museum will be decorated for Christmas along with live entertainment and refreshments. There will also be an outdoor Christmas market!
December 2, 2023, 1 pm – 5 pm Icehouse Amphitheater – 107 West Main Street, Lexington
Enjoy the annual festival with face painting, letters to Santa, balloon art, and rides to enjoy. The carnival will also feature a showing of the movie, Santa Clause, at 5:30 pm.
Free fun for the whole family plus a coloring station, hot chocolate and cookies while you wait. Bring your camera and be ready to capture all the smiles!
Experience historic Christmas decor, with period decorations and demonstrations. There will be light refreshments that are historically accurate to the 19th century, such as hot cider and gingerbread. There will be blacksmithing on-site, cooking demonstrations, and more!
Head downtown for the 70th annual Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade to enjoy the state-broadcasted parade! There will be marching bands, local churches, drill teams, and decorated floats before Santa Claus comes to town! The parade will start at the intersection of Sumter Street and Laurel Street and will head toward the USC Horseshoe and Senate Street.
The Town of Lexington and the Lexington Jaycees will host the annual Christmas Parade, featuring floats and more. The parade will begin promptly at 3 pm.
This wildly popular parade features ANYTHING, as long as it’s covered in lights! The parade starts at 5:30 sharp at the front of the Cayce Municipal Complex and will travel down 12th Street until ending at Highway 1 and 12th Street in West Columbia. Crowds are large, so arrive early and plan ahead!
December 10, 2023, 2 pm – 4 pm Main Street, Blythewood
The parade will start at the EMS Station on Main Street, travel along Blythewood Road, Langford Road, and end at Doko Meadows Park. Be sure to arrive early!
December 1, 2023, @ 6:30 pm 107 West Main Street, Lexington
Enjoy a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, listen to Christmas carols, and get your photo with Santa at the annual Carolighting Ceremony at Icehouse Amphitheater.
The Christmas parade will begin at 4 pm with a tree lighting ceremony held at Town Hall to follow.
Cheap Holiday Things to do for $5 or less
Coffee Shop Hot Cocoa and Festive Treats
Visit one of our favorite coffee shops in Columbia for a cup of hot cocoa or maybe a peppermint mocha. Much cheaper than going out for a meal, but still loaded with all the holiday cheer.
Select Saturdays and Sundays from November 26th through December 23th, 2023 All Regal Cinema Locations
Enjoy these classic holiday films at your local Regal Cinemas for only $5! November 26, 2023- Elf December 2nd, 2023- Polar Express December 3rd, 2023- National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation December 10th, 2023- How the Grinch Stole Christmas
November 21, 2023, from 6 pm to 8 pm Saluda Shoals Park East 6071 St Andrews Road, Columbia
For $5 per person, you can explore the park on a 2-mile nighttime walk as it is decorated in festive light displays along the river. Children 2 and under are free.
Totally Free Christmas Activities Worth the Drive
Day trips are sweeter when they are filled with free things to do. If the free Christmas events and things to do we already listed aren’t enough for you, try one of these awesome, and totally free, holiday events within just an hour or two of Columbia.
See Santa at Cabela’s or Bass Pro Shops. You’ll leave with a totally free 4×6 professional quality photo and some fun treats, plus enjoy some activities while you’re there! Head up to Greenville, SC for the nearest Cabela’s.
Greenville’s Festival of Trees is a not-to-miss Upstate event. Visit beautifully decorated trees throughout Downtown Greenville hotel lobbies, especially the Hyatt on Main Street. It’s totally free.
Watch Free Holiday Movies at NCG Cinemas. The nearest NCG Cinema is in Spartanburg, SC. So, if you’re heading up to the Upstate for one of the previously mentioned events, catch a movie while you’re there!
The “how early is too early?” Christmas season debate is on. Decorations are going up all around the Upstate. Do you think November decorations are too ambitious? How about Christmas music? What album is Alexa playing on repeat at your house? Here’s Kidding Around Contributor, Taryn, with her take on the early start to the holiday season.
Are you searching for holiday light shows and Christmas lights in Columbia, SC? Wondering “where can I see Christmas lights near me?” or “Where to see Christmas lights in Columbia, SC?” Take a break from the holiday shopping and catch a holiday light show! There’s nothing more full of holiday cheer than elaborate displays of lights. So, we have put together a comprehensive list of the best Christmas lights near Columbia, SC!
All the lights. Right here. Sort our list with the anchor links below and prepare to get all “fa la la la” with holiday spirit.
Our list includes drive-thru holiday lights, walk-through Christmas lights displays, and neighborhoods and private homes with amazing light displays.
Several of these displays offer more than just beautiful twinkling lights. You might also have the chance to take pictures with Santa, enjoy delicious seasonal treats, or even park and explore some displays and activities on foot!
The Top Drive-Thru Christmas Lights: Columbia, SC
Holiday Lights on the River: Saluda Shoals
About: With more than 3 miles of lights and fascinating displays, Holiday Lights on the River is sure to be a magical treat! Along with lights, you can also enjoy s’mores, hot chocolate, a gift shop, letters to Santa, and more! Santa will make his appearance at the light show on November 25th through November 27th, December 2nd, December 3rd, and December 9th through December 23rd, 2022. Check out our review of Holiday Lights on the River. When: Every evening from November 23 through December 31, 2023 Time: 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm Cost: $25 per car; $50 for 12-15 passenger vans; $75 for Bus (16+ Passengers) Address: 6071 St. Andrews Road, Columbia, SC Holiday Lights on the River
Photo Credit: Jen Husson
Carolina Lights: South Carolina State Fairgrounds
About: Ring in the holiday season by going to the drive-thru light display at the SC fairgrounds! Here you will see more than 100 individual light displays that are synced to festive songs on 88.9 FM radio station. Chocolate chip cookies and milk will be available for purchase about halfway through the drive. Want to go through more than once? When exiting, you can request a re-entry pass and go back for a second look. Re-entry passes are only good for the same day and end 15 minutes before closing each night.
When: December 8 through December 24, 2023 Time: Sunday, Tuesday – Thursday from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Friday and Saturday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm Closed Mondays Cost: $15/car when purchased before December 7th $20/car when purchased on or after December 8th Address: Entry at Gate 6 of fairgrounds, 901 George Rogers Boulevard Carolina Lights
Columbia Christmas Lights You Can Walk-Thru
Wild Lights: Riverbanks Zoo
About: Find the magic of Christmas right here at our local zoo! There will be nearly 60 handcrafted, nature-inspired lanterns all around. There will be fun photo opportunities throughout as well as interactive activities, a nightly snowfall and visit with Santa (through December 23). Keep in mind that because this event occurs in the evenings, the chance of seeing zoo animals is low. Ticket price varies, please see calendar for Value and Standard ticket pricing date/time. Members must still reserve tickets in advance, available select nights only. When: Select evenings from November 17, 2023 through January 14, 2024. Time: 5 pm to 9 pm Cost: $14.99-$19.99 children, $19.99-$24.99 adults Address: 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC
About: The Fireflies Holiday Lights is returning for the second year here in Columbia, SC, and is all the rave this year, boasting an even bigger and brighter experience than last year! The Segra Park baseball stadium, home of the Fireflies, is decked out in tons of twinkling lights and interactive displays, there are several “stations” for families to stop and enjoy seasonal treats and kid-friendly crafts, and even booths for holiday shopping! They will also have Richardson Tree Farm on site November 16th – December 17th with trees ready for purchase (pull up after your visit to pick up tree). When: November 16th through December 31st, 2023 Time: Nightly from 6 pm to 9 pm, last entry at 8:45 pm except they will be Closed 11/20, 11/27 and Thanksgiving Day (11/23) and Christmas Day (12/25) Cost: $10 per person for November $12 per person for December, age 2 and under is free Address: Segra Park, 1640 Freed Street, Columbia
About: See the lights at Saluda Shoals while running this four-mile nighttime run! Awards will be given to 1st-3rd place runners in multiple age categories and all registrants receive a t-shirt, refreshments and finishers medal. T-shirt can only be guaranteed for early bird registrants so be sure to register by 11/10. The event is rain or shine with a non-refundable registration and dogs are not allowed at the Sleigh Bell Trot. When: November 20, 2023 Time: Trot: 7 pm to 9 pm, Check-in: 5 pm- 6:50 pm Cost: $30 – $40 per person Address: 6071 St. Andrews Road, Columbia
About: The Sleigh Bell Stroll also leads guests through the Holiday Lights on the River display by foot, but this a family fun walk rather than a timed race! The stroll is only 2 miles long and concessions from Tin Can Kettle Corn will be available for purchase. Pre-registration is required for this event and must be complete by 11/20/23. There will be bus transportation back to the parking lot available and please do not bring dogs to this event. When: November 21, 2023 Time: 6 pm – 8 pm Cost: $7/person ages 3+ $2/child ages 2 and under Address: 6071 St. Andrews Road, Saluda Shoals Park (Park at East Entrance) Sleigh Bell Stroll
FREE Christmas Light Displays Around Columbia, SC
Children’s Garden Christmas and Kids’ Walk: Edisto Memorial Gardens
About: Drive-thru the beautiful Edisto Memorial Gardens as they transform into a spectacular holiday light show. There will be an opportunity to park and stroll through the “Kid’s Walk” which includes interactive light displays such as Twelve Days of Christmas, moving animals, and more! When: November 19, 2023 through January 1, 2024 Time: Drive-thru open from 5:00 pm until 10:00 pm; “Kid’s Walk” open from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm Cost: FREE Address: 200 Riverside Drive, Orangeburg, SC Edisto Memorial Gardens
Fantasy of Lights: Swan Lake Gardens
About: South Carolina’s LARGEST free Christmas light display is back for another year! Drive through this winter wonderland to see more than 1 million twinkling lights. You can also make a quick stop at “Santa’s Village” where kiddos can write letters to and take photos with Santa and enjoy sweet treats. When: December 1 through December 31, 2023 *Santa’s Village is open December 2nd, December 8th, December 9th, December 15th and December 16th from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm Time: Sunday – Thursday from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Friday and Saturday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm Cost: FREE Address: 822 West Liberty Street, Sumter, SC Fantasy of Lights
Drive-Thru Christmas Lights From Further Away
Maybe you’re looking to take a quick family trip this winter. If that’s you, there are two fantastic drive-thru light shows in the Charleston, SC area that would make for the perfect weekend getaway. Create a new family tradition, use this as part of your children’s Christmas present, or even just go to see something exciting and new!
Here are two great options for drive-thru light shows that are around 2 hours from Columbia.
Holiday Festival of Lights – James Island County Park
About: This is an incredible holiday festival that you won’t want to miss out on! With so much holiday magic and festive activities, you and your family are sure to make memories that will last a lifetime. Here, you can drive-thru the lights as many times as you’d like! Along with the thousands of fantastic light displays to drive through, there is also a chance to park and get out of your car to enjoy more Christmas magic on foot. Between November 10 through December 23, your children will have the chance to meet Santa! You will also find rock wall climbing, holiday artwork, a carousel, a “reindeer workshop”, delicious holiday treats, and more! Check out our Kidding Around Review of Holiday Festival of Lights. When: November 10 through December 31, 2023 Time: 5:30 pm until 10:00 pm Cost: “Green Nights” – Lighter Traffic & Crowds – $15 Online, $20 at gate “Yellow Nights” – Moderate Traffic & Crowds – $25 Online, $30 at gate “Red Nights” – Heavy Traffic & Crowds – $30 Online, $40 at gate See Calendar for details. Address: 871 Riverland Drive, Charleston, SC
About: For the 14th consecutive year, Celebrate the Season is back! Bundle up in the car with your loved ones and drive-thru this great holiday light display. You will see thousands of beautiful lights and interactive displays all along the route. Holiday In The Park is included with paid admission to the Holiday Lights Driving Tour and includes free visits with Santa, food, crafts and holiday activities. Holiday In The Park is open Dec. 8-9, 15-16, 22-23 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. When: November 24 through December 30, 2023 – CLOSED ON Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Time: 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Cost: $10/vehicle (Cash Only) Address: 1 Riverwood Drive, Moncks Corner, SC
Columbia Homes, Neighborhoods, and More with Great Christmas Lights: Free Holiday Lights to Enjoy
Private homes with huge holiday light displays
Check out beautiful displays throughout the Columbia and Midlands community! Remember that these are private homes and are the result of a lot of hard work and expense. Please don’t enter the property unless invited to walk through. Do not block roads.
Remember that these displays are often dependent on the weather. Many cannot operate in the rain or on wet ground.
Lisznyai House,725 Formby Drive, Columbia in the Spring Valley Subdivision. Synchronized display, tune to 88.7 and enjoy the lights from your car or you are welcome to walk the lighted paths! Hours: 5:30-10:30 pm nightly Thanksgiving through December 31st. Please use the North Springs Road or Two Notch Road entrances (Flora Drive gate is closed).
Yinzer Yuletide, 137 Timber Knoll Drive, Irmo Lights started December 3rd! Hours are 7 to 10 pm on weekdays and 7 to 11 pm on weekends.
McFarland Lights
McFarland Lights 133 Autumn Oaks Lane, Lexington
Gallery Cliffs Drive
Gallery Cliffs Drive, Chapin Exceptionally large static display
Nesbitt House
740 Martin Smith Road, Gilbert SC 29054 This display gets bigger and bigger every year. View the lights from 5:30 pm to 9 pm nightly. If the gates are open, visitors are welcome to pull into the driveway and view the display from their cars. Please stay inside your vehicle. There is a parking area where vehicles can turn around to exit.
Visitors are also welcome to park along the road and view the display from the fence. Please do not walk inside the fence.
419 Mt Valley Road, Blythewood, This is the 10th year for these lights. The show runs from 5:30 to 10 pm nightly through New Year’s Eve. Donations are being collected for Make a Wish if guests would like to donate.
Loaded with Decorations in Pineridge, SC
Corner Dogwood Road & Fish Hatchery Road, this yard is full of decorations including a very large inflatable Santa.
Home in Camden
1678 Brewer Spring Road, Camden This home is a little farther from Columbia than the others, but it has roughly 22,000 lights and a huge display including reindeer and even a Minnie mouse.
Is your home totally decked out with lights? Want us to add your home to our list? Complete this form and attach a picture of your lights! Holiday Lights Form
Neighborhoods With Christmas Lights to Drive Through
Spring Valley Subdivision, 100 Spring Valley Road, Columbia Lake Carolina, North East Columbia Long Creek Plantation, Blythewood
Help us out! Do you have a favorite neighborhood with amazing Christmas lights that you like to visit? Let us know in the comments!
Downtown Columbia Christmas Lights
Head to Downtown Columbia for festive holiday displays and lights, especially around the Captial Building to Blanding Street.
Tips for Drive-Thru Christmas Lights: Stay Jolly, Be Prepared!
Drive-thru light displays are a VERY popular seasonal event each and every year. Something about the twinkling, colorful lights, festive music, and seasonal treats get everyone into the holiday spirit – It’s all just part of the magic of Christmas! We do want to warn you, however, that because these events are so popular, you might find yourself waiting in lines longer than what you were hoping for. Here are our best tips for being prepared and keeping everyone jolly while you wait:
Extra snacks and drinks – or maybe even pack an easy dinner and eat together while in line
Tablets/IPads
Books for reading Christmas stories as a family
Fidget toys
Homework – if you’ve got older kids
PATIENCE…remember Santa is still making his naughty and nice list!
We have driving routes linking some of the best-decorated homes with awesome synchronized lights set to music, huge static displays of lights, inflatables, and more! These are the Christmas homes you don’t want to miss!
2023 Holiday Light Displays: Do you want your light display included in our list? Fill out our Holiday Light Display form and be sure to include a photo of your display!
Where is your family’s favorite place to see Christmas lights around Columbia, SC?
What are you doing for the holidays in Columbia? Are you looking for holiday events and things to do, places to shop, or maybe a place to visit with Santa? How about a parade, cookie decorating class, or Christmas light show? You’ve found the Kidding Around Holiday Guide to Columbia and it is packed with holiday fun and Christmas things to do around Columbia.
Holiday Events and Things to Do Around Columbia
We have a huge event guide for the holidays around Columbia and it’s full of family-friendly things to do over the Christmas and Holiday Season including parades, tree-lightings, craft events, and more. There’s no reason to be bored this time of year!
Visit one of the locally owned coffee shops in Columbia for delicious coffee and holiday treats. There’s nothing cozier as the weather cools down than the perfect cup of coffee and peppermint treat, or maybe a gingerbread muffin. Yum.
Visit Santa! Places to See Santa Around Columbia, SC
Whether you’re looking for a place to get a photo with Santa or just a place to wave at the jolly man in red, this is the list for you! We have a bit of an elf connection and know Santa’s appearance schedule in Columbia.
Where to See Christmas Lights Displays in Columbia
Driving through elaborate displays of holiday lights is a time-honored family tradition for celebrating the season. Columbia has some amazing drive-thru light displays, plus some cool walk-through displays and even some free options. Holiday lights don’t get much better than this.
Where do you get your family’s Christmas Tree? Not sure? Wondering where you can go to cut-your-own tree or visit with Santa? Maybe you’re looking for a place to just quickly pick out a wreath and skip the crowds?
We have 20+ ideas for completely free, family holiday fun in Columbia. Then, we threw in a few cheap options under $5 per person. To top it all off we added a couple of totally free holiday things to do in nearby cities so you can head out on a whole day trip full of free fun!
Restaurants Open for Christmas in Columbia, SC
What restaurants are open on Christmas Day and Christmas Eve in Columbia, SC?
They are serving meals this holiday season with both dine-in and take-out options. We have everything from steakhouse restaurants open on Christmas to great places to grab a festive dessert. Eat well this holiday season!
Looking for the perfect gift? Your gift list is long and time is short. We have some great ideas for everyone on your list. From places to shop local, to the gifts teens want this year, and what to get your child’s teacher, this gift guide has it all. Happy shopping!
Shopping Local in Columbia, SC
Don’t you just love finding the perfect gift? Shopping local is a great opportunity to find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts they will love.
Giving a gift to a whole family is a great idea and experience gifts make exceptionally good family gifts. You can give the gift of zoo admission, a family dinner night out, or a fun art class. And of course, we have lots more ideas!
You can give the gift of the outdoors with an annual pass to the SC State Parks and then the family can enjoy all Sesquicentennial State Park has to offer all year long. Plus, they can travel to any South Carolina State Park and visit for free.
Go see the Circus!
The new Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is coming to nearby Greenville, SC at The Bonsecours Wellness Arena in February. Kidding Around was invited to view the show in Milwaukee so we have a great Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus review for you. Check it out and then put some circus tickets under the tree this year.
Are you shopping for a teen this year? If you’re struggling to find quality gifts for the teen in your life, you’re not alone. Teens are not easy to buy for. Too old for toys. Those electronics on the wish list are way too expensive, and that funky pair of socks just doesn’t seem like quite enough.
So, we consulted some local teens to gather some ideas.
Check out our teen gift list for quality gifts teens will love.
Check out our teen gift list for quality gifts teens will love.
When you just can’t load your house up with any more legos, stuffed animals, or toy cars, but still want to get the kids something they’ll love, try thesefun but practical gifts for kids.
Board Games for Every Age
Board games make an awesome family night, are great for quality time with the kids, and are an amazing no-screen alternative. They deliver brain-building strategy, opportunities for teamwork, and light-hearted fun with the kids. Check out our list of great board games for the whole family.
Teacher Gifts: Dos and Don’ts
What will you give your child’s teacher this year? Those “Number 1 Teacher” mugs and notebooks don’t seem like they’ll cut it this year, but what do you get that they’ll love and is also in your budget? We asked some teachers and came up with some great ideas, plus a few Dos and Don’ts for giving teachers gifts.
Ready to shop from small businesses and vendors this holiday season in Columbia? If you’re looking for opportunities to shop local, nothing beats a vendor fair or holiday market full of handmade gifts, crafts, and tasty treats. They are the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list, plus, you know you’ll be supporting local people and your local economy with your holiday purchases.
With that in mind, we made this list of local holiday shopping events in Columbia, SC. We will be updating throughout the 2023 holiday season as more fabulous local shopping events are announced.
