For 37 years, the Holiday Festival of Lights has been a beloved holiday tradition. Whether you're home for the holidays or visiting the Lowcountry for a holiday getaway, we promise you'll create lasting memories with millions of multicolored lights, fun family activities, holiday shopping, delicious treats, and so much more!
Your visit is not complete until you see Santa! Santa Claus and his elves are at the festival from November 13 – December 23. Visiting with Santa is free…
Enjoy pretzels, popcorn and delicious sweet treats from Claus' kitchen! Seating is available inside Santa's Sweet Shoppe and outdoors at picnic tables. All…
Is the festival open on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day?
Yes! The festival is open 5:30 – 10:00 pm on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Where do I park to explore the attractions in Santa’s Village?
All parking lots for Santa’s Village are accessible from the left driving lane. Each parking lot offers easy access to all of the attractions. While in Santa’s Village, please keep a safe distance from and do not touch the light displays or decorations. Also, note parking is only allowed in designated areas – do not stop or get out of your car on the driving tour.
Can I bring my own marshmallows and roasting sticks for the marshmallow roaster?
Visitors are welcome to bring their own marshmallows and sticks for roasting. Please do not take branches from trees to use as marshmallow sticks. Destruction of natural resources in the park is prohibited.
Do you have an ATM available?
There is not an ATM located onsite, however credit cards are accepted at most locations.
How can I purchase tickets to the Holiday Festival of Lights?
Santa Claus is most definitely coming to town! Visits with Santa will be available on a first-come, first-served basis at the festival and during the day at the appointment-only Mingle with Kringle and Inclusive Visit with Santa.
How many times may I drive through?
You are welcome to drive around the light show as many times as you would like! Our visitors always spot something new on each trip.
May I walk or ride my bike around the festival?
For your safety, bicycles and pedestrians are not allowed entrance into the Holiday Festival of Lights. Bicycles are not allowed at anytime during festival hours; this includes Campground visitors. Also, note parking is only allowed in designated areas – do not stop or get our your car on the driving tour.
Are the gift shops open during the day?
Shops are open during festival hours, 5:30- 10 p.m. Outside of regular festival hours, the gift shops will be open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on December 6, 7, 13, and 14.
Are there alternate routes to try to avoid the traffic?
Visit our Directions page to learn more about the best routes to take to the park and on what dates you’ll find the heaviest traffic.
Which nights are less busy?
To enhance the visitor experience and to help manage wait times, the Holiday Festival of Lights used historical attendance data to create Green, Yellow and Red nights based on traffic. Admission prices vary based on the night, and guests can save money by purchasing their tickets online in advance. For more information see our festival admission page.
I'd like to bring my group out to the festival. Who should I call?
We ask that tour buses call ahead with the park office at 843-406-6990 so that we can prepare for your arrival.
Do you rent wheelchairs?
The Holiday Festival of Lights is a three-mile driving tour with a self-guided walking portion to see more lights and other amenities. A wheelchair is available to check out at the park office free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Please call the park office at 843-406-6990 or ask a staff member for assistance.
How do I buy tickets for the train at the Holiday Festival of Lights?
Train tickets must be purchased at the train depot for $5 per person. Children two & under may ride for free if sitting in the lap of an adult. No food, drinks, or pets are allowed on the train. The train runs nightly from 6–10 p.m. Ticket sales end at 9:40 p.m.
How do I buy tickets for the carousel at the Holiday Festival of Lights?
The carousel runs nightly starting at 6 p.m. Each ride is $2 (2 tickets) per person. Children under 42" must be accompanied by an adult. Adults may stand on the ride for free when accompanying a child under 42". Tickets can be purchased at any location inside the festival and sales end at 9:40 p.m.
The Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission is committed to the accessibility of our services, facilities, employment, and programs for all individuals. Visit our Accessibility Page to find out more about how we can help.
