Magical Moments this Holiday Season in Greenville, SC
Although our town is known for its warm Southern energy, bustling Downtown, and scenic location at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s also the ideal spot to experience magical moments.
From ice skating to epic theatrical performances to ice hockey matches, hot cocoa, and some of the best shopping around, these festivities will not only help you get into the spirit this winter, but they will also help you feel truly at home for the holidays in Greenville, SC.
1. CATCH A LIVE PERFORMANCE OR HOLIDAY-THEMED SHOW
Experience the magic of live theater in Greenville, where local talent shines alongside touring productions. From holiday classics to contemporary performances, the city’s stages offer something for everyone. Immerse yourself in Greenville's venues this holiday season and enjoy captivating shows that bring the season to life.
Enjoy Tchaikovsky’s timeless score performed live by the Greenville Symphony Orchestra and be dazzled as the angelic voices of the Greenville Youth Chorale are featured on the Concert Hall stage. ($25-$85)
Santa has gone missing, and the Marvelous Wonderettes are ready to save the day with ’60s versions of holiday classics like “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” and “Jingle Bell Rock.” ($35-$40)
An adaptation from E.T.A Hoffmann's story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, join Clara and her family & friends as they arrive in Greenville. ($37-75)
Successful novelist Paul Sheldon is held captive by his obsessed fan Annie Wilkes, who forces him to write a new novel resurrecting her favorite character, Misery, while he writes for his survival. ($35-$40)
Bring the kids, bring a date, and bring your skates! The United Community Ice on Mainis open this winter clad with hot chocolate, coffee, treats, and an environment made for a good time. Don’t miss it! At only $10 per adult and $8 for kids ages 3-12, this affordable, winter activity will be the perfect addition to your holiday itinerary. Prices include skate rental. (Open daily from Nov. 25, 2024 - Jan. 20, 2025, on the Village Green on S. Main St. in Downtown Greenville)
NOTE: Pre-purchasing tickets online is recommended. Skate sessions are limited to 60 skaters per each 1-hour skate session. Only one non-ticketed spectator will be admitted per ticketed participant.
This holiday season, enjoy FREE parking in select Downtown parking garages on Small Business Saturday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Visit Greenville Parking for a complete listing of City parking locations, including 900+ free on-street spaces!
3. SHOP UNIQUE GIFTS AT LOCAL BOUTIQUES AND MARKETS
For ideas on where to find the perfect gift, Greenville is home to 800+ shops! Find something for everyone on your list at local stores, or check out these holiday markets below. For more gifting recommendations, check out our Holiday Gift Guide!
Enjoy the harmonies of choral groups, the grandeur of orchestras and symphonies, or the energy of local and touring concerts. From intimate venues to grand stages, you'll find unforgettable performances that bring the season to life.
This year's tour marks the return of "THE LOST CHRISTMAS EVE" for the first time since 2013, featuring an all-new spectacle filled with pyrotechnics and lasers. The high-energy second set will showcase TSO's greatest hits and fan favorites. ($95)
Join the Greenville Chorale for their 2024 performance and immerse yourself in this magnificent work that promises to leave you spellbound. ($50/Adults, $20/Students, $10/Children Under 12)
Gather your family and friends and witness the Greenville Symphony Orchestra for Greenville’s favorite Christmas spectacular, which will feature your favorites combined with fresh, new themes. ($25-$75)
5. Discover Restaurants Perfect for Chilly Winter Evenings
Warm up this winter at Greenville’s coziest dining spots, where inviting atmospheres meet delicious flavors. Whether you’re craving hearty comfort food, seasonal specialties, or a quiet nook for an intimate meal, you’ll find plenty of options to make your dining experience unforgettable.
Flex your artistic muscles at Wine &Design as you BYO wine and cheese for a Paint & Sip Class (think wintry scenes of lakes, forests, and barns), stay warm this winter when you participate in a Chunky Blanket Workshop, or make a beautiful mess at an Acrylic Pour Workshop where you can design on canvas or make wine glasses.
Test your knowledge in the kitchen by learning how to cook different cuisines. From sushi and Mediterranean tapas to dumplings and French macarons, The Cook’s Station has you covered as you enter the new year and are feeling inspired to try something new!
Wanna try your hand at a spinning potter's wheel? Look no further than Hollowed Earth Pottery in Hampton Station. Offering an Intro Course, 4-Week Pottery Basics Classes, Seasonal Classes, along with one-offs like "Make Your Own Mug," this is the place to go when creativity strikes!
Stay warm this winter with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee from one of the 60+ coffeehousesin Greenville County. These local spots offer seasonal drinks and the perfect environment to relax and recharge.
From Fountain Inn to Greer, Mauldin, and Greenville, each town brings its own special magic to these annual celebrations. Enjoy live performances, holiday treats, and sparkling lights as each tree is illuminated for the season.
Watch the Greenville Swamp Rabbits thump some pucks and kick some tail (on the ice)! This professional ice hockey team (ECHL affiliate of the LA Kings and AHL affiliate of the Ontario Reign). What better way to enjoy the wintry weather than cheering along with the Rabbettes rink-side at a fast-and-furiously-paced hockey match?! The Swamp Rabbits' season goes through April 2025 and includes 36 home games. Get your tickets today and gear up at the Hop Shop!
Very Merry Mini Golf at Takeoff Mini Golf invites you to putt your way through a fun holiday light show! Enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with twinkling lights and cheerful decorations as you take on this fun, seasonal mini golf course. ($15/adults; $13/child ages 4-12; Free/3 & Under) Various Dates in late-November and throughout December
Several parades in the area, featuring whimsical floats, marching bands, dancers, dignitaries, pageant winners, clubs, schools, businesses, and Santa Claus (always the featured guest), kick off the holiday season. Join visitors and residents alike who love to take part in these once-a-year events!
