Looking for ways to go volunteering in Greenville? It is such a wonderful opportunity to teach children kindness, compassion, generosity and so much more. To help you out KAG Contributor Kristina Hernandez created this list of ways to volunteer with your family. You’ll find ideas from food preparation to toy donations and meal deliveries. Thank you for serving your community!
Be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Volunteering in the Upstate for more volunteer opportunities.
Does your family love to go hiking? If you are looking for winter hikes near Greenville, SC, you’ve come to the right spot! Here’s where to go hiking around Greenville this winter and what to bring.
Taking your kiddos on a hike in winter may seem like a crazy feat, but if the unpredictable upstate weather is in your favor it can be one of the best times to go. Cooler temperatures bring broader views, a change of scenery, less sweat, and fewer bugs. It makes hiking the tougher trails just a bit easier and also allows you to choose hikes that offer a view, rather than a water feature, as a payoff – something you wouldn’t opt for in the summer months. Get your camera ready and read on for a list of tips to help you and your little troops make the most of your adventure.
For even more hiking suggestions see our Full Guide to Hiking in Greenville.
Do you want to go for a Christmas light drive around the Upstate and see all the best (and free!) home displays? Have you seen long lists of Christmas light displays? Are you overwhelmed by the holidays this year? We’ve got seven driving routes for 2023 to help you enjoy the season without a lot of stress since we already did the work for you!
Load the family in the car and follow these routes for a super simple yet super special night (or nights) of enjoying Christmas lights together. A massive, massive thank you to Kidding Around reader Jason Hurdich for helping us check homes on our routes. This is an enormous job and we are so grateful.
Disclaimer: Kidding Around is not responsible for property damage, neighborhood safety, or any possible injuries of any kind that may happen while driving, stopping, and viewing holiday lights and decorations. Drivers and property owners maintain all responsibility for general safety, operating a vehicle safely, light-viewing enjoyment, and holiday cheer. Drive slowly, be respectful, share holiday magic, and don’t be a Scrooge.
Submissions are closed for 2023 but if you want to be included in the 2024 list, you can come back and fill out our Holiday Light Display form and be sure to include a photo of your display.
Which house is the best?
VOTE HERE!
Bonus! More lights! Check out our Christmas Lights Driving Tours in Columbia, SC!
(more…)Are you wondering where to go to find some beautiful waterfalls without traveling too far from Greenville, SC? You’re in luck because we have gathered all the information you need about finding waterfalls close to home, all in one handy place! Whether you want to take in a waterfall while enjoying a long hike or a waterfall that you can view with very little effort, local mom Kristina has all the details right here!
Waterfalls can be quite magical and we have so, so many near us in the Upstate. Waterfalls are beautiful any time of year also – surrounded by wildflowers in the spring, framed by greenery over the summer and perfect for swimming, delivering fall colors in autumn, and showing off (some) frozen beauty in winter.
It is incredibly important for your own safety and for the safety of your family, EMTs, and rescuers, to never play at the top or sides of a waterfall, even for a second or to get an Insta-worthy photo. Those rocks are slippery and many people have unfortunately lost their lives at waterfalls in our area.
For important tips on recreating responsibly, please see this story on the seven Leave No Trace principles.
Below are some of our favorite waterfalls near the Upstate, SC. But, if you love waterfalls you’ll want to take a look at this list of Waterfalls of the Southeast, loaded with waterfall hikes in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee.
You don’t have to go far to see the first waterfalls on this list. Pack a picnic, relax on the nearby swings, or take a walk through Falls Park on the Reedy River in downtown Greenville and see the beautiful waterfalls that run right through our beautiful city.
South Main Street and Camperdown Way
Greenville, SC
Distance from Greenville: 0 minutes – it is located downtown
Take the two-mile long Raven Cliff Falls trail to view the gorgeous 420-ft Raven Cliff Falls from an overlook at Caesar’s Head State Park. There are also a variety of hiking trails within that park and the surrounding Mountain Bridge Wilderness.
Or if you’re a more experienced hiker, take the Dismal Trail to get to the suspension bridge that goes over the falls. It’s a tough 8+ mile loop but worth it.
8155 Geer Hwy
Cleveland, SC
Distance from Greenville: ~hour
Known for its natural scenery, this 300 acre park is perfect for a relaxing day of exploration – and waterfall viewing of course. One of the more popular trails leads uphill to the stunning Rainbow Falls. It’s a strenuous trail but there are other waterfalls that are along the main trail.
This is a hugely popular park that now requires reserved parking ($5) on weekends in addition to the entrance fee.
303 Jones Gap Road
Marietta, SC
Distance from Greenville: ~an hour
This waterfall in Oconee County near Hwy 11 is so, so stunning. It’s a big waterfall towering high dripping water from hundreds of small ledges. It’s also a very easy hike, about 1.5 miles round trip.
State Rd S-37-95
Walhalla, SC
Distance from Greenville: an hour and 10 minutes
A little over an hour from Greenville, Chau Ram Park is called South Carolina’s “Best Kept Secret” by the Oconee County Recreation and Tourism Department. There is a 40 foot waterfall at Ramsey Creek plus the county’s longest suspension bridge here. You can also swim, hike and camp, all for only $2 per car load.
1220 Chau Ram Park Road
Westminster, SC
Distance from Greenville: an hour + 5 minutes
Table Rock contains lots of awesome waterfalls easily accessible from the many trails that wind through this beautiful park. Trails are not stroller-friendly so be sure to either bring a baby carrier if you’ve got a little one or sturdy shoes for the younger kids. There is a fee to enter the park if you don’t have a park pass.
158 Ellison Lane
Pickens, SC
Distance from Greenville: ~45 minutes
Located in Walhalla near Isaqueena Falls, Yellow Branch Falls are amazing. The falls are huge and picturesque and just a beautiful place to visit. This is a popular waterfall and trail so again, get there early if you want to experience it with less people.
2911-3023 Highlands Hwy
Walhalla, SC
Distance from Greenville: ~an hour + 10 minutes
This wildly popular waterfall is right on the side of the road off 276 in Pisgah Forest in Brevard. We’ve seen it in every season and our favorite has been over the winter when it’s been partially frozen. No hiking is involved but you can take the stairs and ramps down to the bottom for some great photos.
Hwy 276, Brevard, NC
Distance from Greenville: ~an hour + 20 minutes
This one is perfect for smaller kids to splash around in a waterfall without any of the hiking. The waterfall is literally on the side of the road on SC 11 in Cleveland, SC as you drive towards Table Rock from Greenville. There is an easy mile loop trail if you’d like to hike.
Heading north on Route 11, the trail and pull-off parking are on the right side of the road.
SC 11
Cleveland, SC
Distance from Greenville: ~38 minutes
Located in Oconee County, Issaqueena Falls is located at the end of a short walk through what is known as Stumphouse Tunnel, which was originally constructed in 1852 to connect Charleston to Knoxville but was halted because of a lack of money.
As for the waterfalls, “legend has it that the falls is named for an Indian maiden, Issaqueena, who warning the white settlers of an Indian attack, was then chased by Indians and she appeared to jump over the falls. By actually hiding behind the falls (or some legend-tellers say she hid behind a stump, hence Stumphouse Tunnel), she tricked her pursuers and survived.”
And be sure to read KAG contributor Deidre Smith’s review of Stumphouse Tunnel and Issaqeena Falls.
Hwy 28
Walhalla, SC
Distance from Greenville: an hour + 10 minutes
This is an extra special waterfall since you can only get there by boat. It’s on Lake Jocassee and you can access the lake through Devils Fork State Park. Here’s a map of the waterfalls at this stunning lake. There is a fee to enter the park.
161 Holcombe Circle
Salem, SC
Distance from Greenville: Devils Fork Park is an hour + 20 minutes plus another hour to 90 minutes of paddling (or take a boat through Jocassee Lake Rentals)
This family-friendly hike is located near Mountain Rest, SC, close to the Georgia border. The hike to the falls is an easy 0.3-mile hike, so it is perfect for families with small children. Once there, you can check out salamanders and small fish in the pools and discover the falls towering above!
Spoonauger Falls
Near Mountain Rest, SC
Ellicott Rock Wilderness
Distance from Greenville: 1 hour 55 minutes from Downtown Greenville.
This is a different Rainbow Falls than at Jones Gap. You’ll have to travel into NC to see this beauty! If you’re lucky, you’ll get to the see the rainbow that gives it its name. The hike is a moderate 4 mile roundtrip hike.
Gorges State Park
976 Grassy Ridge Road, Sapphire, NC
Distance from Greenville: 90 minutes
If you’re looking for even more waterfalls, because really, who isn’t, then head over to our article on the North Carolina no-hike waterfall tour.
Our huge guide to waterfalls of the southeast tells you all about waterfalls you can hike to in the Georgia mountains, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. They make a beautiful day trip or addition to a family getaway.
Did we miss your favorite waterfall? If so, please use the comments to share your best spot!
Are you looking for volunteer opportunities in Spartanburg for young children to participate? We’ve come up with several places where young kids can volunteer and where kids can take donations in Spartanburg. Peruse the list and find a Spartanburg location that will motivate your child to give.
Looking for more ways to volunteer? Here are over 10 ways to volunteer in Greenville and Spartanburg.
Looking for local places for shopping in Greenville, SC? While the holiday season is the prime shopping season, it’s not enough just to focus on shopping locally. We love to support our local businesses all year because special occasions happen every month – birthdays, anniversaries, and other holidays. But, how in the world do you sort through the many local businesses to find that perfect gift? We have put together for you this list of over 75 local businesses, many of them being gift shops Greenville, SC residents love. Have fun and shop locally!
Locally-Owned Bookshops Near Greenville, SC: Try these locally-owned bookstores when you want to add to your home library or are looking for a great gift idea.
Great Local Plant Shops Near Greenville, SC: Looking for house plants? Plants make great gifts for the hard-to-buy-for person on your list or even for yourself!
Local Shops in Spartanburg, SC: Want to shop locally in Spartanburg, SC? Here’s a list of great locally-owned shops from clothing and books to plants and soaps.
Local Candy Stores in the Upstate: Shop local and fill those stockings with sweet treats and candy.
Locally Owned Toy Stores Around Greenville, SC: Find the cutest new toys and unique games at these locally owned toy stores!
Want to really shop local? Support makers, vendors, and small businesses at a holiday market, vendor fair, or shopping event. There are a lot of options almost every weekend this time of year. Visit this list of Holiday Shopping Events in Upstate, SC!
Most of these businesses were suggested by readers, a couple of these are advertisers and partners, and a few were submitted for the list by the business owners. Please help us add to our list by adding your favorite place in the comments.
Under the Carolina Moon – Boutique specializing in Southern items and monogramming. Located at 5424 Calhoun Memorial Highway, Easley, and also has an online store.
Southern Sisters Boutique – Located in Greer, Southern Sisters specializes in women’s clothing, jewelry, accessories, and gift items.
Cottage Grove Gifts – This boutique in Greenville curates a variety of gifts from home decor to kitchen items to candles to purses and everything in between.
Verdant Market – Boutique that specializes in painted signs created from wooden pallets. Goods are located inside the Pink Owl in Simpsonville and via the Verdant Market Facebook page.
TR Makers Co – This shop located at 3 S. Main Street in Travelers Rest is packed with locally made artisan products, and also offers an art bar and classes.
Urban Digs – This local boutique (215 Wade Hampton Blvd, Greenville) is just packed with cool home decor and art. Plus there is a play area for the kids. I know that’s a selling point for me if I have to drag my kids out shopping.
Dapper Ink – With the motto “Making the World More Beautiful,” this shop sells unique screenprints and designs.
Urban Petals – This lifestyle boutique in downtown Greer features items curated for the home, gifts, plants, and Grab-N-Go bouquets.
Shoppes on Trade – This boutique in Greer is filled with local vendors, including not just decor but also confections and other gifts. You can also earn free chocolate with a punch card for shopping. Sign me up!
Kate Carlyle – This shop on Augusta Street sells jewelry, unique home decor, stationery, and more.
The Nested Fig – This “one-of-a-kind” home decor store offers everything you need to put the finishing touches on that room.
Inside Out – Find everything you need for decorating, hostessing, and more (2131 Woodruff Rd, # 2200).
Get the budding artist in your life classes to any one of these Places to Create Art in Greenville.
Commission a one-of-a-kind painting by Greenville native Jennifer Mills of your family or special moment.
The Butter Bath – I was lucky enough to meet the founder of The Butter Bath Company, and after learning the story behind these natural body and skincare items I’m planning on trying them myself to ward off dry skin this winter. My Pick: The Butter-Up Body Butter.
The soy candles from Greenville Soy Candle Company in downtown Greenville are divine, with scents like Vanilla Lavender and Caribbean Teakwood.
Literally anything from Twin Creeks Lavender (I love, love, love the linen spray) or Elf Leaf Farms (the lavender syrup is divine in coffee).
If you have a vegan in your life (or just someone who wants more natural options) then lipglosses by TT Flair Lip Gloss would make an excellent gift. Plus, you’re supporting local and a young entrepreneur!
Cannizzaro Famiglia – Locally-made Italian sauces made with locally sourced fresh vegetables, herbs, and no sugar added. The 3-pack is a perfect hostess gift. Find them at www.cannizzarofamiglia.com.
Reader Carlin says, “Jars of sauce from Cannizzaro sauces would be great hostess gifts and gifts for neighbors! It is made in Charlotte by some awesome people, but you can buy it locally in Greenville at Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery and in Spartanburg at Bellews Market. All three flavors (Marinara, Mushroom Marinara, and Arrabiatta) are amazing!!”
The Chubby Cupcake – Purchase homemade (and delicious) bakery products.
Gourmet Pecan Man – Oh my! I had one of his White Chocolate Caramel Pecan Pies the other day. It was so good that I had to sneak into the kitchen for just a little bit more.
The Ice Man Dips– My husband was in heaven trying out these dips at the Greer Arts & Eats festival, so we bought several as gifts! They offer spice blends to make outstanding dips for parties or marinades.
Split Creek Farm – Once you try Split Creek goat cheese, which has beat out cheeses from France and Italy in international competitions, and their fudge, there’s no going back. They have gift baskets you can order or pick up at the farm in Anderson.
Due South Coffee – And for the coffee-lover, Due South Coffee has amazing options. Located at Hampton Station in Greenville.
Tandem – Every type of crepe that you can imagine from sweet to savory is made at this Travelers Rest restaurant.
Cosmic Rabbits– provides a wide tea selection (131 E McBee Avenue).
LaRue Fine Chocolate– Give the gift of delicious, handmade chocolate from this local shop in West Greenville.
Poppington’s Gourmet Popcorn– Popcorn is a holiday tradition in my family, and receiving a big bucket of delicious popcorn covered in caramel will make someone love you forever!
Tickets to the “At the Chef’s Table” Tour, which runs Saturday afternoons. Read our review of At the Chef’s Table here.
Loggerhead Apparel – This local apparel company not only supports American-made and grown clothing but also donates 10% of profits to the conservation and protection of Loggerhead turtles. You can find their merchandise at several local boutiques including Pink Bee, Palmetto Moon, and Mast General Store. They also have a Loggerhead Apparel online store.
Kate Furman Jewelry – Kate Furman’s jewelry collections are works of art, designed through the inspiration of Earth and rivers, and formed as a delicate homage to natural beauty. Find her online or at her studio downtown.
Urban Digs – @AnnesmithSC on Instagram says, “@urbandigs on Wade Hampton near Stone is a favorite of ours, and @loggerheadapparel has a storefront in downtown Simpsonville!”
Indigo Roots Textiles – We’ve featured this handmade clothing before. She makes all sorts of unique and cool clothing and accessories for babies and children.
Lily Noelle offers some lovely jewelry. A couple of years ago I purchased the “Earring of the Month” club for a couple of relatives as a fun way to give them a gift that lasted past Christmas.
Traveling Chic Boutique sells clothing, vintage cowboy boots, jewelry, and more with a selection that’s almost entirely under $100 (122 Main Street, Greenville).
If you know a highly fashionable mom, then they definitely need a gorgeous ring sling from LoveHeld to carry around their baby!
Llyn Strong Fine Art Jewelry has some exceptional pieces of jewelry you can gift someone special!
The oldest retail shop in downtown Greenville, Ayers Leather Shop has fashionista written all over it with their premium leather goods.
Pencil Portraits by Ashley – Ashley Brickner owns Open Art Studios downtown and is an artist herself – a talented one at that, whose exceptional skill lies in pencil portraits. Her most popular ones are those of pets!
Alberta Pottery – Having exhibited pieces from their collections at several Artisphere, the Alberta Pottery team of Jason and Erin Hall are pros are creating beautiful and unique pottery that doubles as art. Their bowls, mugs, plates, and vases are unique and captivating, each one its own creation.
Paw Paw USA– If you have a dog lover, then gift them something for their dog, they will love it!
Skyland Farms– Give the gift of grass-fed, pasture-raised local meats this season! Skyland Farms (Greer, SC) also has a store that sells other local goods.
Nyla Beans– You will find some pretty awesome and unique gifts at Nyla Beans off Pleasantburg Drive in Greenville. Most of their merchandise is hippy and free-spirited, so you can find that unique friend something to help them shine.
Farquhar & Sons Woodshop– This shop makes beautiful wooden cutting boards and other wood products.
Swamp Rabbit Cafe – Everything is delicious from the Swamp Rabbit Cafe. They also have a great selection of handmade soaps, tea towels, pottery, and other great gift ideas.
Carolina Olive Oil carries gourmet food options which of course includes olive oil. Reader Elizabeth says, “Fabulous Gift Baskets, I’m on my second.”
Sunrift Adventures- This store in Travelers Rest calls itself “the unique outdoor shop.” You’ll find all kinds of things for the outdoor adventurer on your list.
Appalachian Outfitters– You can shop online or at their storefront off Halton Road for lots of outdoor equipment.
Calyx Outdoor Sports– Located in Piedmont, this shop has everything you need for the outdoorsy lover, for fishing, hunting, and more!
There’s pretty much nothing as cozy as a local bookstore. A gift certificate to one would provide more than just a new book but also give that bookworm an excuse to tuck themselves away in the stacks to browse.
M. Judson Books – This bookstore (130 Main Street, Greenville) specializes in literature and is located in the South.
Mr. K’s Used Books – With over 10,000 square feet of inventory, Mr. K’s has a used or new book for everyone on your list.
My kids always get a real kick out of reading a book that features Greenville. Here’s a couple of our favorite local books.
Hey Blue! and Oh, Beautiful! are two books written by local author and illustrator Stephanie Morgan. They tell the stories of a rabbit named Blue and his adventures on the Swamp Rabbit Trail. I have read these books and they are excellent choices for your library.
Mice on Main is a classic for our area and you could include a bonus “voucher” for your kids promising to take them downtown to look for the mice.
Goodnight Greenville! follows the familiar pattern of the classic Goodnight Moon but with images and a story that takes place in Greenville. As a bonus, this book’s proceeds go straight into local charity.
Forget the packages and buy a gift that doesn’t take up space or need batteries! The following recommendations came from both our readers and our staff!
The More to Explore Store at The Children’s Museum Upstate – Find apparel, educational toys, books, logo gear and much more for all ages at this local museum shop. No admission is required.
The Grey Goose – This local children’s store (17 Conestee Avenue) has been around for 28 years!
Vann and Liv – This Greenville boutique on Augusta Street sells children’s clothes at their store and online. You should check out their new holiday collections. They would make the perfect outfits for photos with Santa.
Boardwalk – Games are really for more than just kids. My husband and I count on this local store (1175 Woods Crossing Road) to help us find new and fun strategy games.
Elephant’s Trunk – A toy store on Augusta that specializes in educational toys (2222 Augusta Street #8).
OP Taylors – And, of course, we really couldn’t write this list without mentioning OP Taylors on Main Street in Greenville. I know that my kids always beg to go in there when we walk by.
Yarn & Y’all – Located on North Street, this local shop specializes in natural fiber yarns. P.S. You could also purchase a class for a fabulous experience gift.
Sometimes a person you love really just needs a break. Purchasing a service to free up their time is the perfect way to do that.
Cuddly-Critters – This locally based pet-sitting service would make the perfect spot to get a gift card to for a local pet owner.
McClain Landscaping was recommended by our readers as a great yard-service company.
Simply Organized in Greenville has been a favorite of our readers.
Surprise a teen who wants to get that license with a set of lessons from Auto Safe Driving School.
The Garage Authority – Surprise your spouse with a transformed garage or basement space for Christmas! Enjoy a coated floor and get your cars inside for the cold winter!
Where is your favorite place to shop locally? Let us know in the comments!
Are you looking for the best places to see Christmas lights near Greenville, SC or Spartanburg, SC? This list includes all of the local mega-light displays, light displays large enough to drive to see, and even some local Christmas lights at homes that deck it out for Christmas Griswold style.
While we do our best to offer accurate information, please check with these venues and organizations before visiting. Please help keep Kidding Around Greenville and Spartanburg content free by not copying and reproducing this content without permission.
Anderson Christmas Lights across from the Anderson Civic Center Thanksgiving, November 23 – December 25, 2023
It includes 3.5 million Christmas lights!
Upstate Holiday Light Show at District Park in Easley, SC opens Thanksgiving through December 31, 2023. In addition to driving through the dancing lights, guests can also visit a winter wonderland and Santa’s free petting zoo.
Christmas Wonderland and Winterfest Village – This drive-thru light experience at the Tryon Equestrian International Center is a real family treat. There are also live shows on select nights. The show runs nightly from November 17, 2023 – January 7, 2024, from 6-10 pm. The Winterfest Village is open weekends in December through December 23rd from 5-9 pm.
Night of Lights at Heritage Park in Simpsonville at Heritage Park is a walk through light display with rides, ice skating, and a petting zoo. It runs November 20th, 2023 – December 31st, 2023. Hours are Sunday-Thursday 5-10 pm and Friday-Saturday 5-11 pm. Tickets are Sunday-Thursday $10/ages 16+ and $8/ages 6-15, under 5 are free; Friday-Saturday $12/ages 16+, $10/ages 6-15, under 5 are free. Check their website as they have different promotions and discounts nightly.
Holiday Lights Trolley Tours with Main Street Trolley operate in Spartanburg, SC December 13-15, 2023 and the cost is $15.
Oconee State Park Holiday Light Show will be a walk-through or drive-through event! Trees will be lit with beautiful lights and holiday displays. There will be a Santa workshop while you grab hot chocolate and coffee.
The Magical Music Holiday Light Show at Seneca’s Norton-Thompson Park is a FREE event and fun for the whole family! Dates are from November 17th, 2023 to December 31st, 2023.
Holiday Putt Through Lights at Takeoff Minigolf in Greenville: You can walk through a big holiday light display while playing mini-golf. The special event opens November 24, 2023 and runs Thursday-Sunday until December 30th. Tickets should be reserved online and are $15/adults, $13/kids.
[2023 info has not been announced] Lake Lure Flowering Bridge: This is a short day trip from Greenville but totally worth it. The Flowering Bridge in Lake Lure, NC is free and during Christmas, they light it up and you can walk through the display and garden! See our story on the cool bridge, which also includes things to do in the Chimney Rock Village just down the street (I’d recommend getting hot chocolate). The lights will remain on through the first week of January and a holiday celebration will take place on November 30th at 5:30 pm.
Holidays at the Zoo– (Select dates in December) Walk through the Greenville Zoo and be dazzled by thousands of lights, festive decorations, and holiday music. Tickets are timed, and advanced registration is recommended. The zoo will be closed from December 24th – 25th. Other dates are open from 4 pm to 8 pm. You can purchase tickets online.
Christmas on Limestone in Gaffney with Laser Light Show– (December 1st, 2023) There will be a parade, laser light show, and a Main Street celebration in Gaffney.
2023 Festival of Trees – Come see the holiday trees on display from November 17th, 2023 to December 25th, 2023 at the Hyatt Regency Downtown and the Courtyard Marriott Greenville Downtown. FREE
Tiny Town Easley, SC– A piece of the small town South lives on, in tiny form! Over 80 tiny structures adorned with lights, Christmas decor, and lots of character make up Tiny Town. The display is open nightly from Thanksgiving Day to New Year’s Day (closed when raining). They also have hot chocolate, hot coffee, a bonfire, and select dates of visits with Santa.
City of Seneca Tree Lighting and Magical Musical Holiday Light Show in Seneca – Join the mayor on November 27th, 2023 at 5 pm for this fun-filled holiday tradition of lighting the Christmas Tree at Norton-Thompson Park. The Christmas Parade follows at 6:30 pm. The Magical Musical Holiday Light Show runs November 17th-December 31st nightly from 5:30-10 pm.
Holiday Hop: Travelers Rest, SC Tree Lighting and more (November 27th, 2023) Tree Lighting, Christmas kids craft station, stories with Mrs. Claus, selfies with Santa all on Main Street in Travelers Rest, SC.
Simpsonville Tree Lighting Ceremony (December 7th, 2023 at 6 pm) – Sing-a-longs, free hot chocolate, cookies, and letters to Santa. Free.
Mauldin Tree Lighting (November 30th, 2023 at 5 pm) – Enjoy holiday music and tree lighting at the Mauldin Outdoor Amphitheater behind the Mauldin Cultural Center.
Tree Lighting Ceremony at Greer City Park (December 1, 2023 at 5-8 pm) This family-friendly event also includes a visit from Santa. Be sure to head over to Trade Street for dinner before or after the event. The full event starts at 5:00 pm.
Night of Lights: Greenville Christmas Tree Lighting (CANCELED December 1, 2023 at 5:30 pm) TREE LIGHTING ONLINE This event will have live music, vendors, food trucks, and more starting at 5:30 pm.
Dickens of a Christmas- (December 5th, 2023 from 6 to 9 pm) Tree lighting in Spartanburg, SC. The event also includes a Victorican-style Christmas celebration throughout Downtown Spartanburg. Enjoy live music, vendors, horse and carriage rides, living window displays, and more.
Holiday Lights at Hidden Pasture Unicorn Farm– You can explore the unicorn farm and enjoy the Christmas lights Fridays – Sundays from November 17th – December 23rd. Lights and a movie start at 5 pm. Prices are $12 for 18+ and $14 for kids 3-17 years old.
Pelzer Light People – These are a group of fun individuals that dress up in lights! They have a schedule of where they will be in December 2023.
Our readers love the Kidding Around Christmas Driving Routes. Our 2023 routes are now up.
Homes with light shows that include music (and sometimes even hot chocolate and Santa). Expect to wait in traffic to see them. If visiting these displays, park on the sides of the street, being sure to leave room for traffic and not block neighbors’ driveways.
Also, we recommend that you check the Facebook page of the light display before heading out. That’s typically where you can find current information on traffic rules, parking, and nights off.
This list includes displays that were submitted in 2023 by readers and others who are both on our Holiday Light Tour and ones that are not. Their status has been confirmed unless otherwise noted.
This section includes:
Greenville, SC Static Christmas Light Displays
Spartanburg, SC Static Christmas Light Displays
Speedway Christmas Lights – The annual drive-thru Christmas lights at the Charlotte Motor Speedway is super popular. More than 4 million lights over 3.75 miles adorn this display, which runs from Friday, November 17, 2023, to Sunday, January 7, 2024. They are closed on Christmas Day.
Want more Charlotte area lights? We have that! Here’s our list of Christmas Lights in Charlotte, NC.
Holiday Lights on the River at Saluda Shoals Park in Columbia, SC (Thursday, November 23rd, 2023 to Friday, December 31st, 2023) Over a million lights on the 2-mile loop of the park. Includes a laser light show, hayrides, tube slide, Santa, and more.
Looking for more lights? Check out the Christmas Lights Displays Around Columbia, SC plus more ways to celebrate the holidays in Columbia, SC.
Winter Lights – This popular light show at the NC Arboretum in Asheville is a walk-through garden lights experience. The show runs from November 17, 2023 – December 31, 2023 nightly from 6 pm – 10:30 pm.
Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden (November 18, 2023 – January 14, 2024) This massive light display includes colored orbs, model trains, and a glittery rain forest.
Christmas Town, USA in McAdenville, NC (December 1 – 26, 2023) This nearby town decks out completely for Christmas. You can either park and walk around the town or drive through (the 1.3 miles takes approximately 30-40 minutes to drive through). The lights are on nightly from 5:30 – 10 pm.
Read our review of Christmas Town, USA here.
World of Illuminations is taking place at one Atlanta area location this year, the Six Flags White Water park in Marietta (November 15th, 2023 – December 31st, 2023). This light display boasts over two million lights synchronized to music and has been named to the Forbes magazine list of Best Light Displays in the US.
Read our review of World Of Illuminations Candy Rush here
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland and Winterfest Village – This drive-thru light experience at the Tryon Equestrian International Center is a real family treat. The show runs nightly from November 17, 2023 – January 1, 2024, from 6-10 pm. The Winterfest Village is open weekends in December through December 23rd from 5-9 pm.
Smoky Mountain Event Center in Waynesville, NC ( 2023 TBA) This light display is a drive-thru and has lots of great twinkling lights for your family to enjoy. Tickets are $20/car and you need to choose a time for your reservation. Bonus: book a holiday tour of the alpaca farm and Santa visit at Winchester Creek farm, also in Waynesville.
Holiday Light Show at Oconee State Park (December 1, 2023- through January 10, 2024) Take a spin through the campground to enjoy light displays provided by the local community and businesses. Included with park admission.
Home for the Holiday at Marked Tree in Hendersonville, NC ( November 25th, 2023 – December 31st, 2023) This FREE display of lights features the lighting of OTTO, thought to be the oldest Oak tree in Western North Carolina, on Thanksgiving night. For the rest of the year, you can enjoy a lit holiday landscape drive-thru, holiday music, and more.
Want to know what’s going on in Greenville over Christmas?
Just check our Ultimate Holiday Guide where we keep track of Santa, holiday storytimes, and more
Be sure to join our mailing list so that you can get our weekend planner each week in your inbox!
Thinking about bringing the family to a Christmas Parade? You really can’t beat the tradition of attending a Christmas Parade with your kids. It might be a little bit nippy but thankfully we live in the Upstate where early December isn’t typically bone-chilling cold. Grab your jackets, lawn chairs, and maybe a mug of hot cider to check out this list of Christmas Parades in Greenville, Spartanburg, and nearby areas!
If you don’t see your town’s parade in the list under Greenville or Spartanburg, scroll all the way to the calendar listings. There are a lot of parades this year and we have tried to list as many as we could find.
Searching for something to do near Greenville this holiday season? There’s no doubt that the holidays are a very special time of year for our families. With so many special ways to celebrate the season, it can be overwhelming. As fellow parents on Kidding Around Greenville, we want you to have as much time for cheer & fun and as little stress as possible so we have put together a MASSIVE list of holiday & Christmas events and things to do in Greenville for you.
Don’t forget to bookmark this page and check back often. We’ll be updating throughout the holiday season and you won’t want to miss a thing!
While we do our best to offer accurate information, please check with these venues and organizations before visiting to be sure that you have the latest information.
Thank you to our sponsors for making this list possible. Sponsored events are marked as “featured.” This list also includes unpaid mentions of sponsors and partners of Kidding Around Greenville. Read more about our advertising policies here.
From curated Christmas tree experiences and holiday markets to theatre and musical showings of Christmas classics, these holiday events throughout Greenville, SC are some of the best the holiday season has to offer! The creators of these events have taken special care to give their guests a truly memorable Christmas experience
Holiday at Peace
Dec 15 – 17, 2023
Gather your family and friends for Greenville’s favorite Christmas spectacular, Holiday at Peace! Greenville Symphony Orchestra features your favorites combined with fresh, new themes. Whether you’re carrying on a yuletide tradition or feeling inspired to start a new one, this concert is the perfect way to get into the spirit of the holidays. Get your tickets today!
If you’re looking for places to see Christmas lights, Santa, parades, or live nativities, check out these other lists dedicated to those popular events. We’ll be updating all these lists as the season continues!
Kringle Holiday Village is back for its 3rd year at Fluor Field and it’s bigger and better than ever! A weekend of holiday fun, this event has something for everyone – visits with Santa, arts and crafts, balloon art, face painting, magic, inflatable games and rides on the field, and new to this year’s event, a carousel! Holiday market shopping, live music and entertainment and delicious food and drink as well! Tickets are just $12 each!
Holiday Happenings in Downtown Greenville, special events, and holiday activities happening all season long. These include:
Holiday Ice Skating at the Pavilion
Public skate: kids under the age of 12 and seniors (age 55+) can skate for $7.50. Everyone else can skate for $9.50. Skate or walker rental is $4.25.
CountyBank Holiday Ice in Carolina Wren Park– Anderson
On select dates from December 1st 2023 – December 31st, 2023, Enjoy ice skating in the park! Admission is $5 per person ages 7 and older (skates included). Kids 6 and under skate free on the kiddie rink.
Santa’s Sleigh Rides in Downtown Greenville. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
2023 Festival of Trees
Come see the holiday trees on display from November 17th through December 25th, 2023 at the Hyatt Regency Downtown and the Courtyard Greenville Downtown.
Fountain Inn’s Christmas Inn Our Town
Be sure to reserve your carriage ride times early as they often book up. in Fountain Inn (Starts December 7th, 2023)
You’ll be brimming with holiday cheer with Greenville Symphony Orchestra’s annual seasonal celebration, Holiday at Peace Dec 15-17, 2023! Gather your family and friends for Greenville’s favorite Christmas spectacular, which always features your favorites combined with fresh, new themes. Whether you’re carrying on a yuletide tradition or feeling inspired to start a new one, this concert is the perfect way to get into the spirit of the holidays. Get your tickets today!
Night of Lights at Heritage Park
The Night of Lights runs nightly November 20-December 31, 2023. Read our full review for all the details.
Model Train Station
Model Train Station is decked out for Christmas. Visit their Christmas model train display at Taylors Mill, and enjoy several other displays this season. (Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.)
Southernside Brewing
Opens November 20, 2203. All decked out for Christmas with fun events happening all season, visit Southernside Brewing Co for a unique holiday experience!
Yuletide Unicorn Festival with Santa
Enjoy live holiday music, play in a snow machine, and visit with unicorns! at this holiday festival weekends from November 17th, 2023 through December 23rd, 2023. Tickets are $14 per child, $12 per adult, with ages 2 and under being free.
If you’re looking for Winter Camps for kids, our list of Greenville’s Winter Camps.
may
No Events
june
No Events
Searching for New Years Things to Do? Here’s our Kidding Around Guide to Celebrating New Years with Kids
Family Fun Over Winter Break: Have fun with the kids this winter break. We have lots of ideas!
Go Skating! We visited and had a blast! So naturally, we have all the information you need plus mom tips for a great day of skating!
What events should we add to our list? Submit your event online for consideration
You are looking at Holiday Events and things to do in Greenville County, for other counties see:
Still looking for Christmas Things to Do? Gifts to give? Ways to give back? You can find all our best Christmas content in our Holiday Guide to Greenville and the Holiday Things to Do in Spartanburg Guide .
Or, make a drive to Charlotte, NC for more Christmas fun!
While we do our best to offer accurate information, please check with these venues and organizations before visiting. Please help keep Kidding Around Greenville free by not copying and reproducing this content without permission.
Are you searching for “places to see Santa near me”? Or hoping to run into Santa near Greenville, SC this season? We are tracking his sleigh and reindeer to be sure that you get the inside scoop on where Santa will be visiting this Christmas in Greenville and Spartanburg! This list includes everything from free events to professional photos and even a spot where you can see Santa climb a mountain. Did we miss anything? Let us know at bethany@kiddingaroundgreenville.com.
While we do our best to offer accurate information, please check with these venues and organizations before visiting. Please help keep Kidding Around Greenville free by not copying and reproducing this content without permission.
Stay tuned for even more opportunities to see Santa in 2023! We’ll be updating this list throughout the season!
Mail your letter to Santa!
Santa’s visiting neighborhoods this year!
Kringle Holiday Village is back for its 3rd year at Fluor Field and it’s bigger and better than ever! A weekend of holiday fun, this event has something for everyone – visits with Santa, arts and crafts, balloon art, face painting, magic, inflatable games and rides on the field, and new to this year’s event, a carousel! Holiday market shopping, live music and entertainment and delicious food and drink as well! Tickets are just $12 each!
Santa at Haywood Mall Make a reservation now to see Santa beginning November 10th, 2023. You will need to book and pay for your Santa Magic photo experience in advance. Packages start at $39.99.
Santa at Westgate Mall Visit Santa starting November 17th, 2023 at Westgate Mall. Reservations are highly recommended, though walk-ups will be accepted if there is room.
Santa at Cabela’s 2023 Reservations are now open. Santa arrives on November 4th, and photos with Santa begin November 5th, 2023. Reserve your time slot in advance to visit with Santa at Cabela’s and receive a free 4×6 photo with Santa. Here’s our Kidding Around Mom Review of Visiting Santa at Cabela’s.
Here’s what a visit to Santa at Bass Pro Shops looks like:
Santa at Hidden Pasture Farm’s Yuletide Unicorn Festival: Weekends November 17th through December 23rd, 2023 from 11 am until 9 pm see Santa for visits and pictures. Santa pictures are free to take. Tickets to the festival are $18 each for those 18+, $14 each for those ages 3-17, and babies 2 and under are free.
Holiday Hop & Tree Lighting (November 25th, 2023) Tree Lighting, Christmas kids craft station, stories with Mrs. Claus, FREE professional photos with Santa (available for download after the event) all on Main Street in Travelers Rest, SC.
Greenville Christmas Market at Grand Bohemian Lodge (Select dates with Santa are November 24th, 2023 – December 30th, 2023) Meet and greet with Santa on select dates during the Greenville Christmas Market at the Grand Bohemian Lodge in Downtown Greenville. Hours vary.
December 2nd, 2023: Greer’s Breakfast With Santa, Tickets go on sale November 6th and will sell out quickly. Purchase a ticket on November 6th, 2023 at 7:00 pm for online (click on programs/classes) or by phone at 864.968.7008. Maximum of 8 people per table.
December 10th, 2023: Santa Brunch at Avenue. There are three times to choose from, 10:30 am, 12:15 pm, and 1:30 pm. Tickets are $0 – $49, and can be purchased ahead of time.
Here’s a unique Santa visit! Head to Climb@Blue Ridge on Saturday, December 16th, 2023 from 12 pm to 2 pm if you want to go climbing with Santa. The elves will be on hand to belay kids on their climb up to visit with Santa and share their Christmas wishes.
may
No Events
june
No Events
Select dates in November and December, 2023: Visit Santa at Winchester Creek Farm in Waynesville, NC. Tour of the farm, where they have alpacas (and baby alpacas!), miniature cows and horses, donkeys, and chickens. Kids can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the comfort of the barn and tickets include a complimentary cookie and candy cane.
December 2nd, 2023: 26th Annual Santa on the Chimney at Chimney Rock State Park. Viewers will get to see Santa climbing down the Chimney (rock that is!). There will be photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, live holiday music, letters to Santa, crafts, hiking with an elf, animal meet and greets, holiday shopping, and more! The event is included in park admission.
2023 Dates TBD: Tiny Town in Easley is where you will find Santa visiting and meeting with children. While there, you can also visit dozens of miniature Christmas displays.
2023: Heading down to the Midlands? Check out where to see Santa in Columbia, SC.
While we do our best to offer accurate information, please check with these venues and organizations before visiting. Please help keep Kidding Around Greenville free by not copying and reproducing this content without permission.
Looking for more fun things to do this season? Here’s your magical guide to celebrating the holidays in Greenville, SC.
