Columbia Gears Up for a Festive Weekend of Holiday Cheer and Activities

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Holiday Fun Awaits!

As we’re just a couple of weeks away from Christmas, *Columbia* is gearing up for a magical weekend filled with festive cheer! Communities across the Midlands are bustling with excitement and preparations for various holiday events, from tree lightings to parades that promise to spread holiday joy and spirit. And the weather? Well, Mother Nature seems to be on board with a gentle chill at night and daytime temperatures that venture into the cozy mid-60s by Sunday. Sounds perfect for a romantic walk or a family outing, don’t you think?

Getting in the Holiday Spirit!

This weekend is brimming with exciting activities! If you’re up for watching parades, you’ve got quite a lineup to choose from, with *Lexington, Columbia, Blythewood, Ridgeway, Elgin,* and *Pelion* all casting their own festive spells through parades! But before you head out, make sure to bundle up and perhaps sip on some warm hot cocoa to keep the chill at bay.

Here’s a Rundown of Weekend Events:

• Holiday Lights on the River: Experience a stunning display of lights and family fun at *Saluda Shoals Park* from 6-10 p.m.. Featuring activities like the Winter Wonder Tube Slide, hayrides, and train rides, it’s perfect for all ages!
• Tim Turner: Songs of Celebration Exhibit: Check out Tim Turner’s beautiful abstract paintings at the *City Art Gallery* from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday-Saturday.
• Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D: Catch this classic at the *South Carolina State Museum* at various times Tuesday through Sunday!
• Kershaw County Tinsel Trail: Don’t miss the decorated trees at Wateree River Veterans Park from 5:30-9:30 p.m..
• Children’s Garden Christmas: Enjoy a free family event at *Edisto Memorial Gardens* featuring thousands of lights from 5-10 p.m..

And it doesn’t stop there! For art lovers, the exhibit “Eye to Eye: The Roefs & Waddell Collection” is showing at the *Center for Contemporary Art* with over 100 incredible pieces to admire.

Markets and Craft Fairs Galore!

Oh, and if you love local goods, you have to swing by the Junior League of Columbia’s Holiday Market at the *State Fairgrounds*. With more than 160 vendors to browse, it’s a fantastic spot to find those perfect Christmas gifts! You can even join in on the fun with special events like Ladies Night Out and Sundaes with Santa.

Oh, What Fun with Performances!

Don’t forget to check out the “A Nice Family Christmas” at the *Chapin Theatre Company* at 7:30 p.m., where family secrets collide in the spirit of the holiday! If you prefer musicals, grab your ugliest Christmas sweater for a fun night at the *Trustus Theatre* for the hilarious “Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical” at 8 p.m.

Let’s Not Forget the Parades!

The Carolina Carillon Parade kicks off at 10 a.m. on Sumter Street, featuring over 125 entries to delight spectators. It’ll be a beautiful sight with floats, marching bands, and, of course, Santa making an appearance!

Wrapping It Up with Tree Lightings

No holiday experience is complete without participating in a cozy local tree lighting. Join in at *Fort Jackson’s Holiday Tree Lighting* from 5-7 p.m. or take part in a magical evening at the *Governor’s Mansion* Holiday Open House, where you can meet Governor Henry McMaster and his lovely wife!

So grab those mittens and head out to create some unforgettable holiday memories in *Columbia*! Whether you’re indulging in festive lights, delightful crafts, or heartwarming performances, there’s something for everyone to soak in the joy of the season!