Charleston, South Carolina, is a city with charm to spare, and while it shines during the spring and summer, visiting during the holiday season offers its own magical experience. Fewer crowds, mild weather, and festive activities make the Holy City a perfect Yuletide getaway. Last December, a family trip to Charleston proved that the city transforms into a Christmas wonderland, and it’s easy to see why it’s becoming a must-visit destination for the holiday season. From cozy accommodations to unique events, Charleston offers something for everyone looking to get into the festive spirit.
One highlight of any holiday trip to Charleston is a stay at the French Quarter Inn’s Sleigh Bell Suite, ideal for families or couples seeking a whimsical retreat. The suite’s festive decor includes wreaths, stockings, and a roaring fireplace, while guests are treated to hand-decorated cookies and an eggnog bar. The hotel also hosts family-friendly events like Santa’s readings of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” and Christmas caroling on Christmas Eve, creating an atmosphere straight out of a storybook. The warmth of Charleston’s holiday traditions makes up for the city’s lack of snow, which rarely falls in December.
For those dreaming of a snowy Christmas, The Charleston Place hotel offers its “Let it Snow” event, where it snows nightly during the holiday season. This free event, complete with scheduled snowfalls at hourly intervals, draws visitors eager to experience winter magic in the South. The hotel’s holiday offerings don’t stop there. The Festival of Trees features stunning Christmas trees designed by local businesses, inviting guests to vote for their favorites. Families can also indulge in the Nutcracker Tea, where tickets grant access to a festive feast and live ballet performances from the Dance Conservatory of Charleston. The on-site life-size gingerbread house provides an extra dose of holiday cheer, with kids writing letters to Santa while marveling at its sweet design.
A trip to Charleston during the holidays wouldn’t be complete without catching a live performance of Charles Dickens’ classic tale A Christmas Carol at the historic Dock Street Theatre. Dating back to 1736, the theater hosts an annual production of the beloved story, featuring a cast of over 50 performers who bring Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and company to life. The musical tradition is a Charleston favorite, so tickets should be booked early to avoid missing this unforgettable experience. The theater’s timeless atmosphere paired with the iconic story makes it a quintessential holiday outing.
Finally, no trip to Charleston—holiday season or otherwise—is complete without savoring its famed Lowcountry cuisine. Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar, situated in a former naval building along the waterfront, is a family favorite. With its newly renovated raw bar, ocean views, and festive decorations, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy fresh seafood and seasonal holiday cocktails. An afternoon at Fleet Landing offers a perfect combination of coastal charm and holiday ambiance, capping off a Charleston Christmas experience that will leave any visitor eager to return.
