Charleston is a great destination this December, and we’ve made a list of things you can do rain, snow, or shine.
December is finally here! And it doesn’t matter if you’re a local or a tourist, Charleston is a unique place to spend this last month of the year. We’ve made a list of things you need to put on your calendar. Let us know what your favorite plan was!
Things to do this December in Charleston
1. Light the Lake at Colonial Lake
Join the Charleston Parks Conservancy this weekend for a sparkling holiday celebration at Colonial Lake.
This is a family-friendly event, and there will be different activities for tourists and visitors of all ages. The annual Light the Lake will happen from 5:0pm to 7:00 on Friday, December 2
2-6. Buy gifts at an independent bookstore
Not sure what to give to your loved ones this Christmas? These independent bookstores have gifts, vintage books, and other surprises. Here’s a list of amazing spots:
- Itinerant Literate Bookstop
- Buxton Books
- Sullivan’s Trade a Book
- Mr. K
- Blue Bicycle
7. Visit the Holiday Festival of Lights
James Island County Park features thousands of lights decorating trees and making holiday figures, perfect for taking pictures for your Insta. An amazing family holiday treat!
Where: 📍James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive, Charleston
8. Snap some pics and drink hot chocolate at the life-size gingerbread house inside Hotel Bennett
Hotel Bennett has surprised its guests and Charleston residents with a fantastic, festive, life-size gingerbread house.
Guests and visitors can take pictures of the delicious decorated house throughout December. This curious attraction is adorned with candy and sweet treats and has been installed since Thanksgiving.
Stop by to order a hot chocolate cup and choose between toppings, including whipped cream, sprinkles, and candy.
9. Feed the South Carolina Aquarium rayndeers this holiday season
It’s almost December, and we’re ready for some holiday fun at Charleston’s most iconic places. The South Carolina Aquarium is hosting an incredible event where you and your children can celebrate Christmas with Santa’s aquatic helpers, the RAYndeers.
Animals at the Aquarium are also part of the Christmas celebrations, so on top of your general admission, you can buy a feeding ticket to have a one-on-one moment with the stingrays.
Feed the cow nose rays by hand and give them a tasty fishy snack daily from 10:15 am through 4:00 pm, while supplies last.
Each ray feeding voucher is $5, and you can ask for it at the admission gate or information desk during your next visit.
10-13. Shop local at these holiday markets
It’s the most wonderful time of the year — and it’s time for some shopping! If you’re more of a market person and not a fan of festive malls, here’s a list of Christmas Markets in Charleston you can’t miss this year!
- Charleston Holiday Market
- Field + Supply Holiday Market
- Miracle on Market Street
- Stingrays: Holiday Market
14. Dragon boat the Holiday Festival Of Lights this Month
There’s a terrific opportunity for you to see the Holiday Festival of Lights from a whole new perspective – the cockpit of a dragon boat!
As the sun goes down and the lights come on for the evening, you’ll enjoy an on-the-water introduction to this ancient sport while also getting an up-close view of some of the most iconic light displays. The best part of it is this activity is for everyone! No experience is necessary to sign up.
After you paddle off into the sunset for an hour and a half, they’ll treat you to a tasty hot chocolate and free admission to the Holiday Festival of Lights that evening!
15. Go to a breathtaking Candlelight concert
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Charleston. Get your tickets now to discover Holiday inspired music at The Unitarian Church under the gentle glow of candlelight. Here’s this month’s schedule: