Holiday Magic in Historic Charleston
The City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs celebrates the holiday season each December with Holiday Magic in Historic Charleston, offering free, family-friendly activities, live performances and decorations all around town for everyone in the community to enjoy together.
Holiday Parade: December 7, 2024 steps off at 3:00pm
Come join the City of Charleston for this fun, high energy parade which will commence on Broad Street at Rutledge, travel North on Meeting Street, and conclude on Calhoun Street at Meeting Street. Participants include musical ensembles, clubs and organizations. Tree Lighting to Follow in Marion Square.
Apply to participate here. Holiday Parade Application 2024 – Formstack. The Deadline for application is November 4, 2024.
Holiday Parade of Boats: December 14, 2024, Charleston Harbor sets sail at 6:00pm
Join another Lowcountry tradition at the Holiday Parade of Boats. This display of lighted and festive boats proceeds from the Cooper River, through the Charleston Harbor and into the Ashley River. This is a family-friendly event is sure to become a holiday tradition for everyone. View the procession along Charleston’s waterfront or decorate your own boat and join the parade (advance registration required).
Register here. 2024 Parade of Boats – Formstack Deadline for entry is December 4, 2024.
Chanukah in the Square: Tentative Date December 29 at 4:00pm, Marion Square
An initiative of the Yaschik/Arnold Jewish Studies Program at the College of Charleston and Chabad of Charleston and the Lowcountry, Chanukah in the Square is a festive celebration featuring live music, arts and crafts and traditional seasonal food, culminating with the lighting of a menorah at dusk.
Holiday Market in Marion Square will be held Saturdays & Sundays, 9:00am-3:00pm on 12/7, 12/8, 12/14, 12/15, 12/21
You’ll find everything you need to deck the halls for the holidays and fill the pantry with local goodies, all from local farmers, growers, artisans and crafters. Browse a wide assortment of art, crafts and holiday gift items and get your holiday shopping done early.