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Christmas Shows In Charleston (2025)

by Nicklaus Vance on Sunday, November 23rd, 2025 - 10374 VIEWS
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After Thanksgiving, the fall festivities transition to a myriad of merriment celebrations in Charleston. From theater shows, musical concerts, ballets, parades, and festivals, the Holy City never ceases to entertain in the most magnificent ways. The streets are decorated with sparkling lights, storefronts boast magnolia wreaths and poinsettias, and restaurants feature seasonal libations and dishes. So make your merry way downtown and enjoy the magical moments of Charleston’s holiday season.


Photo by N K

James Island Festival of Lights

On the other side of the Ashley River in James Island, the Charleston County Parks hosts its annual festival of lights. After driving through the spectacular light displays, patrons can park and visit Santa’s Village and the Winter Wonderland. Here, guests can warm up with hot chocolate and s'mores, create a craft at the Reindeer Workshop, view the local artwork display, visit the gift shop, ride the carousel, dine at the on-site restaurant, or talk to Old St. Nick himself. Pictures with Santa are available for an additional fee.

Boone Hall Plantation’s Wine Under the Oaks

Boone Hall Plantation, which was founded in 1681, is home to majestic, grand oak trees that line the formal entrance. The expansive property hosts one of the local area's most desirable events: Wine Under the Oaks. This magical evening takes place on the lawn under the lighted oaks and features a variety of wine samples, complimentary oysters and desserts, and live music by talented local performers.

Historic Dock Street Theatre's A Christmas Carol

Located in the historic French Quarter, at the corner of Church Street and Queen Street (formerly Dock Street), the Historic Dock Street Theatre is America’s first building to be used for theatrical performances. The first performance was held on February 12, 1736, and the intimate venue remains one of the most iconic sites in Charleston. Every year, Dock Street Theater presents Charles Dickens’s classic story A Christmas Carol. Tickets can be purchased through the box office or the Charleston Stage website.

Charleston Music Hall Holiday Events and Shows

Built in 1849 as the Tower Depot, the Charleston Music Hall originated aas a passenger station of the South Carolina Railroad. Following the Civil War, the building had a stint as a manufacturing facility, but closed during the Great Depression. The building sat vacant and derelict for sixty years until 1995, when the Hall transformed into an arts venue. With more than 900 seats across the floor and balcony levels, patrons are pleased with any seat in the house.

Here's a peak at the 2025 holiday calendar:

Charleston Jazz Orchestra Holiday Swing

Date: December 6, 2025

Swing out with the Charleston Jazz Orchestra under Maestro Robert Lewis and his 18-piece big band for their final, boisterous concert of the year, Holiday Swing: A Charleston Jazz Tradition. Wear your sparkly sweaters and bring your dancing shoes. Dancing in the aisles is encouraged during this popular Christmas musical event.

Charlton Singleton’s Holiday Spectacular

Date: November 29, 2025

Charlton Singleton, a native of Awendaw, South Carolina, began his musical career when he was just three years old. A natural talent, he beautifully plays the piano, organ, trumpet, cello, and violin, and he masterfully composes complex works that marry modern melodies with Gullah roots. He is the one of the founders of the quintet, Ranky Tanky, an internationally-known Jazz band. For this event, Charlton returns to Charleston to perform holiday favorites from a variety of genres.

The Charleston Christmas Special

Dates: Select dates, December 12 – 21, 2025

Former Broadway stars Brad and Jennifer Moranz direct The Charleston Christmas Special in a similar fashion to the famed Radio City Music Hall Christmas Show. The show, which has been a Charleston staple for more than 30 years, features holiday classics, hilarious comedy, and a chorus line of incredible dancers from around the country, as well as local talent.

Annual Christmas Light Parades

Charleston has no shortage of lively Christmas parades, but here are three highlights.

City of Charleston Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting

This energetic parade kicks off from Broad Street at Rutledge and continues north on Meeting Street to Calhoun Street. Expect musical ensembles and floats from local clubs and organizations. After the parade, the city lights its massive Christmas tree.

Folly Beach Christmas Parade

Head to Center Street to watch colorful floats, marching bands, and community groups celebrate the festive season. There's even the chance to receive goodies from Santa after the parade.

Mount Pleasant Christmas Light Parade

Slightly east of Shem Creek, Coleman Boulevard is lined with spectacular lighted floats and festive civic groups for its annual Christmas parade. Prior to the parade, the sky lights up with a dynamic fireworks show. Look out for Santa spreading cheer from a firetruck. This local event attracts residents and visitors alike as it reflects small-town, all-American traditions.

 

Charleston’s Holiday & Farmer’s Market

In between shows and parades, stop by Charleton’s Holiday Market, which is held in conjunction with the local farmer’s market. Located at Marion Square, the holiday market features a plethora of local artists, crafts, gifts, and treats. Children enjoy playing in the kids’ zone, while parents shop for gifts, listen to live music, and nibble on handmade treats.

Be sure to visit the Charleston Vistor’s Beureau for more information and updates regarding holiday shows and festivities. While driving around town and viewing home Christmas lights, you may find a property for sale that peaks your interest. Contact a NV real estate professional for a tour of local properties and homes for sale.


North Charleston Performing Arts Center

The North Charleston Performing Arts Center is a 2,300 seat proscenium theater. Since its opening in 1999, the PAC has hosted a variety of events and is home to the Lowcountry’s Best of Broadway series, as well as the North Charleston POPS! 

For many lowcountry families, seeing the Nutcracker is a beloved, annual tradition. This touring troupe brings a vibrant rendition of the classic ballet favorite to Charleston.


Enjoy These Charleston Christmas Shows

Gear up for a fantastic holiday season in Charleston by enjoying one or many of these holiday shows. Whether you're here for the day, a quick getaway, or are looking to move to Charleston, there's something in store for everyone in this fantastic city.
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