This is a must for every Charlestonian and visitor during the holiday season. The Holiday Festival of Lights is hosted by the Charleston County Parks at James Island County Park starting mid-November and ending on New Year’s Eve.  There is about a 20-30 minute car ride through tons of light displays throughout the entire park. You can drive around as many times as you would like. And it is so much more! You can take a train ride through the lights – it’s not covered so bundle up. Santa’s Village also has a carousel, a climbing wall, snacks, marshmallow roasting, life-sized Christmas cards, gift shops, and pictures with Santa.

Location: 871 Riverland Drive, Charleston, SC 29412

Local tip: I have a few tips for this one.

• As I said, it is a must for every Charlestonian so it is one of the busiest events in the area. I suggest attending on a school night. Otherwise, if you try to visit on Friday night, Saturday night, or any night during Christmas break, you could wait 1-2 hours just to get in the gate. If you go on a school night, you can usually get in pretty quickly.
• If you want to take the train (it’s fun!) and/or get pictures with Santa – head to those areas as soon as you park. Get on the list for Santa; they will text you when it is time to see Santa. Also, the train often sells tickets for train rides 20-30 minutes out.
• You will see many cars letting their kids out of car seats, sitting on laps or in the back of an SUV – it is a fun adventure for the kiddos.
• Bring some hot chocolate (kid-friendly or spiked) for the drive around the park. Of course, drinking and driving is not allowed.
• The official holiday ornament is a great keepsake or gift…but it sells out before Christmas so make sure to get it early.
• Entry price is per car (usually $15-$20 for a normal car or SUV, more for a passenger van, more for a bus, etc.) Additional fees for rides and snacks.