In November, the Holiday Festival of Lights returns for another year of magic at James Island County Park. This popular light show is one of Charleston's most cherished holiday events, featuring an estimated two million lights. The 32nd Annual Holiday Festival of Lights is open every evening, rain or shine, from November 12th through December 31st, 2021. The festival is open at 5:30 pm and closes at 10 pm nightly.
Millions have toured the Holiday Festival of Lights, which is hosted by the Charleston County Parks at James Island County Park. The holiday hotspot has earned many awards and mentions throughout the country.
Families are invited to cruise along the three-mile display of glimmering lights through the park. The festival features over 750 light displays, including the newly refurbished and rebuilt Cooper River Bridge display. In addition to the driving tour, guests can park the car and explore family attractions, shopping, dining, and more.
Highlights include:
- Festival Train Rides
- Marshmallow Roasting
- The Amazing Dancing Light Display
- Enchanted Walking Trail
- Old-Fashioned Carousel
- Santa's Sweet Shoppe and concessions
- Gift Shops
- Visit with Santa (starting November 19th)
- Climbing Wall
Visit Winter Wonderland, home of the area's largest holiday sand sculpture, formed from over 50 tons of sand. Roam through festival shops for merry gifts, official 14-kt gold on brass collector series ornaments, toys, personalized items, decorations, and stocking stuffers. Take a ride on the train for an up-close view of the festival, and to see even more light displays.
Make a trip to Santa's Village, where old St. Nick is waiting to take photos, starting November 19th through December 23rd. Take a spin on the old-fashioned carousel, toast s'mores at the marshmallow roasting pits, and marvel at the 4-by-8 holiday greeting card designs created by local students for the annual holiday art competition. On December 31st, the festival will celebrate New Year's Eve with a fireworks display.
To create a great visitor experience and to help manage wait times and traffic, Holiday Festival of Lights organizers have identified “regular” nights and “peak” nights. Ticket prices during “peak” nights will be higher. New this year as well, visitors can save by buying their ticket in advance online.
For more information on the Holiday Festival of Lights, including event hours and admission fees, call 843-795-4386 or visit HolidayFestivalofLights.com.
