Author Archive

Winter Guide to Spartanburg, SC

Are you looking for things to do this winter in Spartanburg, SC? Our Winter Guide is full of our best winter content with ideas about things to do this winter, places to go, winter travel, shopping, and more! Enjoy the Upstate this winter!

Winter Treats

Wintertime is perfect for a steaming cup of something warm and delicious. Check out these places our readers recommend for hot chocolate and a great cup of coffee in Spartanburg.

Dine Outdoors This Winter

Want to eat outdoors? These Spartanburg restaurants have heated outdoor patios and dining spaces. You can enjoy a meal outside even if it’s a bit chilly out there.

Get Outdoors This Winter in Spartanburg

Where to Hike This Winter Near Spartanburg, SC

Get outdoors and hike this winter! Here’s a list of parks and trails in and near Spartanburg that are perfect for wintertime hikes.

Ski and Snow Tube Near Upstate, SC

While there might not be snow on the ground here in Spartanburg, nearby there are several places where you can enjoy winter on the snowy slopes for tubing and skiing. See Places to Ski and Snow Tube Near Spartanburg and Upstate SC.

Waterfall Driving Tour

Hunt out some frozen waterfalls in nearby Western North Carolina. Make a day of it with this Waterfall Driving Tour of WNC. See all these waterfalls without any hiking. This tour is a Kidding Around staff and reader favorite day trip adventure.

Winter Getaways

Winter cabin rentals near Greenville, South Carolina

Book one of these cozy mountain vacation rentals. Bring some hot cocoa and a good book and maybe you’ll even get some snow. With all the amenities at these rentals, like fireplaces, pool tables, and hot tubs, we don’t think you’ll mind getting snowed in!

Indoor Things to Do This Winter Near Spartanburg

Indoor Guide of Spartanburg, SC Things to Do

Here’s our gigantic list of indoor things to do in Spartanburg, SC. You’ll find activities for families with kids of all ages including trampoline parks, pottery studios, museums, libraries and so much more!

Indoor Things to Do with Your Preschooler

Keep the little kids busy with these indoor things to do.

Winter Consignment Sales

Fill up the kids’ closet this year for less with these winter consignment sales.

What is your favorite winter activity to do in Spartanburg, SC?

Your Holiday Table: Here’s Where You Can Find Delicious Food for the Holidays Near Greenville, SC

Are you looking for something delicious and festive to add to your holiday table this Christmas? In Greenville, Spartanburg and Upstate, SC we have lots and lots of holiday food menus, sides, and treats from Greenville’s amazing food proprietors.

Local restaurants are serving up special dine-in holiday meals, as well as fabulous catered meal deals you can bring home for the holidays. Local bakeries are offering everything from freshly baked pies to cookie and cupcake kits. Local cafes and grocery stores are selling pre-made sides and desserts making your holiday preparations a little easier. Want something a little different? Try a festive charcuterie board or dig into the Mexican tradition of Christmas tamales. We know where you can find all this and more in Greenville!

These Greenville, SC Restaurants Are Open For Christmas

Dine-in, take-out, catering, these Greenville restaurants have everything you need for your holiday meal. Get a full meal, or order a few sides and desserts. This a huge list and there are lots of option!

Charcuterie Boards in Greenville

Add a perfect charcuterie board of meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables, nuts and more to your holiday festivities. Greenville has a number of local charcuterie board makers with delicious and unique boards ready for your table!

Christmas Tamales Near Greenville

Christmas tamales are a Mexican tradition you can enjoy right here in Greenville. Here’s where you can order tamales in Greenville.

Holiday Pies

Pies are the time-honored tradition for holiday desserts. Plus, they make pretty spectacular breakfast in my humble opinion. Here’s where you can buy holiday pies in Greenville.

Greenville’s Custom Cookie Bakers

If you’re looking for some delicious and adorable holiday cookies, check out what these custom cookie bakers in Greenville are baking!

Find fun holiday things to do, events, places to see Santa and more in our Holiday Guide to Greenville.

Croft State Park: The Perfect Park for an Outdoor Adventure Near Spartanburg, SC

Have you visited Croft State Park? With a wooden dock, a clear lake, tiny minnows sparkling in sunny shallow waters, tall trees, horses, hiking trails, and a playground, it sounds like the perfect place, right? The next time you’re looking for a family adventure, check out Croft State Park!

Croft State Park in Spartanburg, South Carolina

Spend a Day at Croft State Park

This gorgeous 7,000-acre state park offers miles of hiking, biking, and even equestrian trails. On our visit, we walked the short Lake Craig connector trail and then enjoyed views of an absolutely beautiful Lake Craig. We enjoyed snacks on an adorable little dock and watched tiny minnows in the shallow water around us. Nearby fishermen were also quite entertaining for my crew.

We enjoyed a very peaceful morning in the park. My homeschoolers were able to practice making super sentences with quality adjectives about all the things they were noticing from the dock. “The sun sparkles on the backs of the wiggling minnows.” The next time we go, I’ll bring sketchbooks and writing paper so they can write down their sentences and illustrate. There were definitely plenty of places to sit near the lake, and lots of grass for blankets, if that’s your preference.

You will find bathrooms conveniently near the parking lot for Lake Craig. A short walk up the hill brings you to a nice playground with views of the park’s equestrian facilities. While there were only a handful of horses and riders when we visited, my children really enjoyed watching them as we walked past. The playground was great for my children (ages 4-8), but younger children need careful watching due to the height of some equipment.

Things to Do at Croft State Park

Hiking

There are several trails at Croft, including an easy Nature Trail that’s about one-and-a-half miles. A few of the major trails are Palmetto Trail (Croft Passage), Nature Trail, Foster Mill, Southside Loop, and Rocky Ridge/ Whitestone Springs. You’ll also find several additional mixed-use trails that are designated for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. This park has over 20 miles of mountain biking trails, which is spectacular if you love the sport.

We love taking a small portion of the Palmetto Trail to Fairforest Creek in the summer. It’s not too difficult, so our toddler and four-year-old can come along. It also leads out to the creek, which is a great place to splash in the creek on hot days.

Camping

Camping at Croft should be on your radar for places to go next time you’re ready to pack up and head to the Great Outdoors. The park offers both RV camping and tent camping sites, in addition to a primitive group camping site that can accommodate up to 100 people. Camping sites are on packed gravel and come with electrical and water hookups. There are even hot showers, which as a mom with messy kids, makes taking them camping a little easier.

Canoe, Kayak, and Paddleboard Rentals

One of the great places to do watersports in the area is at Croft. You can bring your own equipment, or you can rent canoes, small boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards from the park itself.

For Jon boat and canoe rentals, you pay $15 for four hours or $25 per day. For kayaks and paddleboards, the cost is $10-$15 per hour for the rental. They do not rent after 6 pm, so keep that in mind when planning your trip.

Want to go to Croft?

Admission for Croft State Park is $3/adults, $1.50/SC seniors, and $1/children 6- 15. Children under 6 are free.

Pets are allowed as long as they are leashed.

Park hours are 7 am – 6 pm daily (8 pm on Fridays), and 7 am – 9 pm daily during Daylight Savings Time.

Croft State Park Address: 450 Croft State Park Road, Spartanburg, SC

Winter hiking in Spartanburg, South Carolina

These trails in Spartanburg, SC are great places to hike during the wintertime!

Holiday Mischief in Greenville, SC: Where to See the Grinch This Year (2025)

It’s that time of year again—when the Grinch slips out of his cave and into Greenville, SC, stirring up trouble in the most festive way. If your family wants to snap a photo, share a laugh, or just soak up some Who-ville vibes, we’ve put together the ultimate list of Grinch appearances happening around Greenville this season.

Current Month

December

tue02dec5:30 pmtue7:30 pmChick- fil- a Family night and Toy Drive5:30 pm - 7:30 pm(GMT-05:00) Chic-fil-A Taylors, 2801 Wade Hampton Boulevard, TaylorsPrice:Free

thu04dec5:00 pmthu8:00 pmA Merry Mauldin Christmas5:00 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Mauldin Cultural Center / Outdoor Amphitheater, 101 E Butler Rd, Mauldin, SC 29662Price:Free to attend

fri05dec5:00 pmfri8:00 pmHolly Jolly Movie Night at Haywood MallHolly Jolly Movie Night5:00 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Haywood Mall, 700 Haywood RoadPrice:Free

fri05dec5:30 pmfri7:30 pmNight of Lights GreenvilleMain Street Greenville5:30 pm - 7:30 pm(GMT-05:00) Downtown GreenvillePrice:Free

sat06dec10:00 amsat2:00 pmPictures with Santa, Mrs. Claus, elf, and Grinch!Hobo Hollar Farms10:00 am - 2:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Hobo Hollar Farms, 124 Old Converse RoadPrice:Free

sat06dec11:00 amsat1:00 pmPancakes and Pajamas with the GRINCH11:00 am - 1:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Eggs Up Grill - Greenville, 1939 Woodruff RoadPrice:Varies

sat13dec8:00 amsat12:00 pmSanta & The Grinch8:00 am - 12:00 pm(GMT-05:00) TR Nutrition, 148 Walnut Lane, Travelers RestPrice:Free to attend

sat13dec9:00 amsat1:00 pmTD Saturday Market - Holiday EditionMain Street + McBee - Greenville9:00 am - 1:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Downtown GreenvillePrice:Free

sat13dec10:00 amsat12:00 pmChristmas Meet & Greet10:00 am - 12:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Emerald Point Health, 607 N McDuffie St, AndersonPrice:Free with Toy donation

sat13dec10:00 amsat12:00 pmBowling with SantaSanta Bowl10:00 am - 12:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Spare Time - Greenville, 822 Congaree RoadPrice:$14.99 per person

sat13dec10:00 amsat2:00 pmPictures with Santa, Mrs. Claus, elf, and Grinch!Hobo Hollar Farms10:00 am - 2:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Hobo Hollar Farms, 124 Old Converse RoadPrice:Free

sat20dec10:00 amsat2:00 pmPictures with Santa, Mrs. Claus, elf, and Grinch!Hobo Hollar Farms10:00 am - 2:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Hobo Hollar Farms, 124 Old Converse RoadPrice:Free

January

No Events

More: Worth the Drive

Want to visit the Grinch AND alpacas? Our friends at Serenity Alpacas have the perfect event!

The Alpacas Are Saving Christmas on December 6th, and it’s completely FREE! Head to Serenity Alpacas in Stoney Point, NC (about two hours and 15 minutes from Greenville) from 10 am to 4 pm for a festive day filled with Grinch meet-and-greets, adorable alpacas to pet and feed, and plenty of holiday cheer. Admission is free with a donation of a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots drive. Enjoy beer, mimosas, local food trucks, games, a stroll through Whoville, and shopping from local vendors—including cozy alpaca gifts perfect for the season.

The Epic Grinch Trip

Book an epic Grinchy stay at Kingston Resorts in Myrtle Beach. Here’s the full story on the Humbug Suite at Kingston Resorts.

Tree in Grinchmas Suite — Legit Grinchy Christmas tree in the suite

grinch pillows — Legit Grinchy Christmas tree in the suite

Prefer to visit with the big man in red? Here’s where to see Santa in Greenville, SC

Regal Cinemas Returns Holiday Classics to the Theater for A Discount in 2025

Regal Cinemas holiday movies are back! If you love watching holiday classic movies on the big screen, then we have good news! You can watch classic holiday movies at Regal Cinemas this year for $7.99 before fees. It’s all happening starting soon! Bring the family for a budget-friendly day out with some of your favorite Christmas movies. We have the schedule and all the details! Holiday Classics go from November 28th, 2025 to December 31st, 2025.

Holiday and Christmas free for kids' activities throughout the US

Searching for more FREE holiday fun? Check out these free holiday and Christmas activities for kids across America!

Regal Cinemas Holiday Classics Return to the Theater

What Christmas movies will be playing in 2025 at Regal Cinemas?

Here’s the Regal Holiday Classics schedule, with over 2 dozen titles.

Tickets to holiday movies at Regal Cinemas are $7.99 before fees. Check with your local theatre to see if they are offering this deal! Plus, for 2025, there will be a $5 Mystery Holiday Movie on Monday, December 8th, 2025.

Sweeten the Deal: Regal Christmas Concession Deals

What’s a trip to the movies without popcorn and other treats? Good news, you can get a free $10 gift card for concessions when you purchase a $50 Regal gift card. While you can’t use the concession gift card right away, because it’s only valid from January 1st, 2026, to February 28th, 2026, you can buy your $50 gift card and use it for a gift or even your tickets and snacks now. Then you can grab tickets to a new release in January and enjoy your free popcorn.

Note that gift cards must be purchased at the theatre for the promotion.

Find a Regal Cinemas Location Near You

Is there a Regal Cinemas with discounted holiday movies near me? Here are all the Regal Cinemas locations.

Regal Cinemas Near Greenville, SC with discounted holiday movies

Regal Cinemas Near Columbia, SC with discounted holiday movies

Regal Cinemas Near Charlotte, NC with discounted holiday movies

Regal Cinemas Near Charleston, SC with discounted holiday movies

See Historic Planes for FREE! Western North Carolina Air Museum in Hendersonville, NC

Did you know Hendersonville, NC has a FREE airplane museum? The Western North Carolina Air Museum is in a hangar beside a small runway full of historic airplanes. Learn about the history of the planes, how they’re made, and how they fly. There are even aircraft that kids can climb in, explore, and experiment with the controls. If you have an aviation enthusiast in your family, no matter their age, this is not a place you’ll want to skip. Let us introduce you to this amazing little gem in Hendersonville so you can plan your visit soon!

What is the Western North Carolina Air Museum?

The museum consists of a single hanger filled to the brim with interesting and historic aircraft, informational exhibits, and knowledgable staff there to answer your questions and explain everything about these planes. There is also an aviation library that takes up almost an entire wall of the hanger, full of information for anyone researching an aviation topic whether it’s historical, technical, or anything in between.

Is the WNC Air Museum a Place for Kids?

YES! Definitely bring kids to this museum. Signage at the museum asks parents to supervise their children at all times, which makes sense since there are so many valuable aircraft and exhibits densely packed into the space.

That said there are definitely things for kids to touch, explore, play with, and enjoy. There are photo ops for kids in the form of a wooden painted plane. And your kids may also notice some stuffies doing a little piloting. Both a plane and a gyrocopter are available for kids to climb into the pilot’s seat and move the controls. They’ll actually be able to move the rudder, ailerons, and elevator. This was definitely my kids’ favorite part of the museum.

The staff at the museum were very kind to my kids, answering all their questions and complimenting us on their inquisitiveness and behavior. And really, what parent doesn’t want to hear things like that about their kids?

On our way out, my kids were offered copies of some aviation magazines which they eagerly accepted. Members of the Air Museum donate copies they are done with to the museum so kids can bring them home to learn more.

When Can We Visit the Western North Carolina Air Museum?

The regular hours of the museum are as follows:

April – October: Wednesday & Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday 12 pm to 5 pm
November – March: Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, 12 pm to 5 pm

The museum may also be open for additional hours for special events, like the Hendersonville Apple Festival. Visit the Western North Carolina Air Museum website for special event information.

Getting to the WNC Air Museum

When you plug the address into your GPS or maps app you should have no trouble getting to the museum. It’s located just a few miles from downtown Hendersonville, but the area is residential and you may feel like you’re headed off in the wrong direction. The drive is gravel and you’ll see the hanger from the road.

Western North Carolina Air Museum
1340 Gilbert Street, Hendersonville
FREE admission and parking

There are so many more free and fun adventures in Hendersonville, NC!

Here’s our list of totally free fun in Hendersonville, NC.

Meet the Bees! Kidding Around’s Journey with Happy Hive Bee Co.’s Adopt-a-Hive Program 🐝

Ever wondered what it’s like to keep bees—without, you know, actually keeping bees? That’s exactly what we’re about to find out thanks to Happy Hive Bee Co.’s Adopt-a-Hive Program, and we’re bringing you along for the ride!

This year, we’re officially the proud owners of our very own hive at Happy Hive Bee Co. And over the coming months, we’ll be sharing what it’s like to follow the journey of our bees—from their first buzz to their sweet golden harvest.

Thanks to Happy Hive Bee Co. for giving us a hive this year so we could share this experience with our readers.

What Is the Adopt-a-Hive Program?

Happy Hive Bee Co. has a passion for education, bringing the experience of keeping bees and the wonder of the honeybee to others. Their Adopt-a-Hive Program gives families (like yours!) the chance to support local pollinators and experience beekeeping from the comfort of home.

Here’s how it works:

You sponsor a hive in the Happy Hive apiary.
You get monthly updates with photos, videos, and stories from your unique hive.
You receive honey from your very own bees at the end of the season.
You’re invited to a pollinator picnic and hive visit, where you can suit up and see your bees in action!

Yes, you can actually visit your hive in person—and there’s even lunch involved.

Why It Matters

Pollinators are in trouble. Bees play a huge role in our food system and environment, but their numbers are dropping. Adopting a hive is an easy (and super fun) way for families to get involved, without actually maintaining hives themselves.

Your sponsorship supports real, local pollinator care—and your kids get to learn about science, sustainability, and teamwork from the bees themselves.

Bonus fun fact: Beekeepers mark queen bees to help spot them quickly in a busy hive. This year’s queen color is blue.

See, we’re learning things already!

What You’ll Get When You Adopt-A-Hivbe

When you adopt a hive, here’s what’s included:

🌼 A full year of educational updates from your hive
📹 Monthly videos and photos to share with your kids or classroom
🍯 A share of the honey at harvest time
🧺 A picnic and hive visit in the spring or summer
🐝 And lots of bee facts, fun, and inspiration

You can check out all the program details and adopt your own hive on their website:
👉 Happy Hive Bee Co. Adopt-a-Hive

Our Hive Updates!

What’s happening at our hive? From the first days to our hands-on hive visit and honey harvest, we’re sharing it right here. Make sure you’re following us on social media to see our hive’s progress!

The Kidding Around Hive

First, we got a chance to paint the outside of our bees’ new home.

Second, we asked all of you to suggest a name for our Queen Bee. You all came up with some pretty good names, but one stuck: Queen BEEyonce.

Update #1: Our NEW Hive

Watch below to learn about how new hives are made AND see Kidding Around’s very own hive!

We’re so excited to watch our hive grow!

Update #2: Queen BEEYonce Gets Her Pretty Blue Dot

Hey, Hey, Hey! We’ve got another hive update from Happy Hive!

Our hive and Queen BEEyonce are doing great!

In this video:

BEEYonce gets her special blue queen dot
We learn about a honey bee parasite- mites!
We watch bees bringing pollen and packing cells

Update #3: Baby Bees and all about the hive

Wow, our bees are looking great. In this video update below:

Get a good look at the hive this month
See one of BEEYonce’s babies born
Learn about the parts of a beehive

📅 Stay tuned for:

What we learn about bees.
Pictures and videos about our hive
Photos from our hive visit this spring
And what it’s like to get that first taste of our hive’s honey!

Do You Love Old Fashioned Christmas Charm? Head to Greer, SC

Looking for a small-town Christmas feel this year? Downtown Greer, SC offers up several events packed with old-fashioned Christmas Charm along its historic Trade Street. Read on for a list of Greer’s Christmas events with all the details and suggestions so you can make the most of your holiday time in Greer.

Christmas events and things to do in Greer, SC, Christmas Greer SC

I love downtown Greer, really any time of the year. Trade Street has that lovely historic feel only enhanced by its charming recent renovation. Standing there, surrounded by old buildings and preserved historic signage, you can almost feel the slowness of days gone by.

But Christmas makes it all the more special. The lights are lit, the shops have all decked out for Christmas, and the sidewalks seem more alive as people explore local stores and eateries. The City Park is full and bursting with Christmas cheer. My family is super excited to experience Christmas in downtown Greer again this year.

Watch Santa Light the Tree in Greer

What To Expect at the Greer Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Top of the list for Christmas in Greer is the Greer Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, December 5th, 2025 from 5:00 – 8:00 pm. This is a favorite for my family. If you’ve not been to Greer City Park during the Christmas season, you are missing out. They decorate the area with lots of white lights and some colored light characters. The fountain is lit up, and it’s just very pretty.

The tree lighting event includes free holiday craft stations, Smores benefiting Greer Relief, free train rides, and holiday performances at the amphitheater. The fun starts at 5 pm and lasts until Santa arrives at 7:15 to light the tree.

Santa reading at the Greer Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Trade Street Christmas

While you wait for the tree lighting, head over to Trade Street for a meal, a treat, or a cup of coffee. The lights stretched along the old buildings and spiraled up each street lamp are classic, simple, and beautiful. We just need a little snow to make it perfect….don’t worry that just might be in your not-too-distant future.

Check out our Guide to Greer, SC, and the Trade Street section of our Restaurants in Greer, SC Guide to find the perfect local restaurant or coffee shop to visit.

Make sure to head back towards the Christmas Tree at the entrance to Greer City Park shortly after 7 pm. Santa usually arrives by sleigh around 7:15 pm to light up the tree.

If you were thinking all that old-fashioned, quaint Christmas talk sounded great, but would have really been over the top with a little sprinkle of snow. You might be in luck.

A little snow

In years past, the tree lighting included a little artificial snow falling off the sign that stretches across the park entrance behind the tree. Never have I seen so many people pressed underneath that sign, but it sure was fun. And of all the things my kids talk about, it’s not the music, or the tree, or Santa, or even cocoa, it’s that snow. Seriously, mid-July in shorts and tank tops, “Remember that’s where the snow came from, Mom!” Yep.

Greer Famers Market Christmas Festival

The Greer Farmers Market Christmas Festival is Saturday, December 6th, 2025 and Sunday, December 7th from 10 am to 2 pm in Greer City Park. The Greer Christmas Festival will include, of course, shopping or unique gifts from local makers and small businesses. There will also be food trucks on site and live entertainment.

Greer Christmas Parade

One of the season’s best parades is the Greer, SC Christmas Parade on Sunday, December 7th, 2025 at 2:30 pm. The North Pole reports that Santa will be back in Greer in time for the parade. There are decorated parade floats, dance teams, marching bands, and more! The parade route is 1.1 miles beginning at Poinsett Street near The Clock restaurant and turns left at the United Bank, then travels down North Main Street and ends at Bonds Career Center. Enjoy the parade!

Greer Gingerbread Jamboree

You’ll find a beautiful display of creativity at the City of Greer Center for the Arts each December. There are houses of various detail and themes, many adorable and some just outright spectacular. Submissions for the competition are due by November 25, 2025.

Gingerbread Jamboree & Announcement of Winners
Tuesday, December 9th, 2025 from 6-8pm.
City of Greer Center for the Arts

Gingerbread Display (Public Viewing)
December 6th- 16th, 2025 during Gallery Hours

Christmas in Greer, SC: Schedule of Events

Friday, December 5th, 2025
Greer Christmas Tree Lighting, 5 pm- 8 pm, City Park (Tree is lit up after Santa arrives at 7:15 pm, arrive earlier to enjoy Downtown Greer, holiday craft stations, vendors and more.)

Saturday, December 6th, 2025 and Sunday, December 7th from 10 am to 2 pm
Greer Christmas Festival

Sunday, December 7th, 2025 at 2:30 pm
Greer’s Christmas Parade

Tuesday, December 9th, 2025 from 6pm – 8pm
Greer Gingerbread Jamboree

More Things to Do & Christmas Events in Greer, SC

Current Month

December

fri05dec5:00 pmfri8:00 pmGreer Tree Lighting CeremonyGreer City Park5:00 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Greer City Park, 301 East Poinsett StreetPrice:Free; Food & Drink for purchase

sat06dec10:00 amsat2:00 pmGreer Farmers Market Christmas FestivalHoliday fun in Greer10:00 am - 2:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Greer City Park, 301 East Poinsett StreetPrice:Free

sun07dec10:00 amsun2:00 pmGreer Farmers Market Christmas FestivalHoliday fun in Greer10:00 am - 2:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Greer City Park, 301 East Poinsett StreetPrice:Free

sat13dec8:00 amsat9:30 amChick-Fil-A Breakfast with Santa8:00 am - 9:30 am(GMT-05:00) Chick-fil-A Greer, 1379 W Wade Hampton BoulevardPrice:$15 per person

sat13dec1:00 pmsat5:00 pmChristmas Barn Party1:00 pm - 5:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Sassy Stables, 570 Barnett Road Price:$24.46

sat13dec7:00 pmsat9:00 pmFoothill Philharmonic Christmas Pops Concert7:00 pm - 9:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Covenant Church, 1310 Old Spartanburg RoadPrice:Free

sun21dec2:00 pmsun4:00 pmMini Gingerbread House - Lowes Foods2:00 pm - 4:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Lowes Foods, 850 E Suber Rd #200, GreerPrice:$5

January

No Events

Does your family love Christmas in Greer as much as mine does?

There’s more to love in Downtown Greer!
Our Downtown Greer guide is full of information for visitors and residents, including things to do, shops, restaurants, events, and much more!

Tis the Season of Awesome: Christmas in Hendersonville, NC (2025)

If you’re ready for a little fa la la la boost of holiday spirit, the events celebrating Christmas in Hendersonville, NC should do the trick.

The Hendersonville, NC Christmas parade is one of the most festive we’ve been to, and the rest of the town’s holiday events are loaded with fun and cheer.

Our list includes some of the very best Christmas Hendersonville, NC events and our all-time favorites. Most of these events and things to do are actually totally free, so they’ll be easy on your budget. Here’s your guide to celebrating Christmas in Hendersonville, NC.

The Holidays in Hendersonville, NC are epic

Big Christmas Events in Hendersonville, NC

Hendersonville, NC Christmas Parade

Free Christmas Things to Do

Worth the Drive: More Christmas Events

The Big Events: Christmas, Hendersonville, NC

Hendersonville really turns up the Christmas charm every year. This year, their theme for the season is Hometown Christmas Lights, and they are loaded up on free, family fun, beautiful downtown decorations to fit the theme. Christmas is gorgeous up here, and these events are 100% worth the drive for locals and visitors alike.

Hendersonville Christmas Tree Lighting

Hendersonville Courthouse: November 28th, 2025, 5 to 8 pm

Kicking things off, it’s the Christmas Tree Lighting on November 28th, 2025 from 5 to 8 pm. Santa will arrive with Mrs. Claus to light the tree at about 6 pm. Kids will get to visit with Santa for free after he’s lit the tree, and there will also be free carriage rides. Downtown Hendersonville is beautiful at Christmas, and we can’t think of a more festive way to ring in the Christmas season.

An Olde Fashioned Christmas in Hendersonville

Downtown Hendersonville, North Carolina
December 5th, 2025

What comes to mind when you think of a holiday Christmas small-town celebration? Whatever just popped into your head, it’s probably happening in Hendersonville. There are several simultaneous events and happenings occurring all along Main Street and most of it will be free. From an Olde Fashioned Christmas with songs and shopping, cookies, cocoa, and carriage rides, you’ll find it all in Downtown Hendersonville.

Two hours of live ice sculpting
Live holiday performances, carolers, choirs, and festive music spread throughout Downtown Hendersonville
Holiday Shopping: Tonight the shops are open late, so feel free to wander amongst the twinkling lights and holiday music while you find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list
Carriage rides: Enjoy an Old Fashioned Christmas favorite and take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage down the beautifully lit and decorated Main Street. Rides begin at Historic Courthouse Plaza.
The llamas of Ellaberry Llama Farm will dress in their holiday finest for festive photo ops.

Llamas at the Hendersonville Christmas Parade

The Hendersonville, NC Christmas Parade Might Be My Favorite Ever

Downtown Hendersonville, NC
December 6th, 2025, 6 pm

If you are in need of Christmas cheer and you can only go to one event all season, the Downtown Hendersonville Christmas Parade should probably be that one event. Everyone from high school marching bands, to the fire department, the local plumber, and the llama farm come out to celebrate the season together with a giant parade full of lights, floats, music, and more. You’ll get Christmas spirit thrown at you no matter where you look, in the best possible way. Of course, the parade ends with the final float carrying Santa straight from the North Pole.

Parent Tips for the Hendersonville, NC Christmas Parade

Check the weather and dress warm if needed. We were pretty chilly last year. Especially if you’re coming from a town in nearby Upstate, SC, don’t forget that it’s colder in Hendersonville.
Arrive early for a good seat along Main Street. Pick up something delicious to eat and enjoy while you’re sitting out along the street waiting for the parade to start. Black Bear Coffee and Mike’s on Main are two good places to grab a bite to eat to go.
Of course you could also bring a picnic dinner and a thermos full of cocoa to enjoy while you wait!
Bring a bag for candy passed out during the parade.

Hendersonville fire truck in Christmas lights

Linda’s Plants and Shrubs

2025 Information Coming soon: We were visiting Linda’s and saw them setting up their Christmas Haybale maze! Check back soon for dates and details. In the meantime, you can read all about last year’s holiday maze at Linda’s Plants and Shrubs.

Play space in the Christmas Maze at Linda's

Awesome & Free Things to Do for Christmas: Hendersonville, NC

One of the things I absolutely love about Hendersonville is all the free things to do any time of the year. But at Christmas time, they really take the cake. We’ve already covered the free opportunities to see Santa and carriage rides, but there’s so much more!

December 20th, 2025, Mountain Fresh Orchards is bringing their Apple Express Train downtown for free Holly Jolly Train Rides down Main Street. In addition to the holiday train rides, the orchard will also have their delicious baked goods available for sale. Hop aboard the train at the Courthouse Square in Downtown Hendersonville. Plus Ellaberry Llama Farms llamas will be ready for more photo ops.

All holiday season: Find the Peppermint Bears in Downtown Hendersonville. Visit the Hendersonville Welcome Center to pick up a brochure and then get hunting through Henersonville’s downtown businesses. Once you find at least 12 bears, you can bring your brochure back to the visitors center and drop it in the mailbox to win a prize.

Check all the great Home for the Holidays Hendersonville 2025 Events.

Worth the Drive: More Christmas Fun Near Hendersonville

Winter Lights – This popular light show at the NC Arboretum in Asheville is a walk-through light experience unlike any other! The show runs from November 15, 2025 – January 4th, 2026 nightly from 6 pm – 10:00 pm.

2025 Festival of Trees Greenville, SC: Come see the holiday trees on display from November 21st through December 25th, 2025 at the Hyatt Regency Downtown and the Courtyard Greenville Downtown.

St. Francis Festival of Trees at the Hyatt

For more Christmas Fun just a short drive from Hendersonville, NC, visit the huge Holiday Events Guide to Greenville, SC. It has over 100 Christmas things to do on it and you won’t be disappointed!

Exciting Christmas Events in Pickens and Easley, SC

If you live in Pickens or Easley, holiday things to do are abundant! There are holiday events, places to see Santa, tree lightings, lots of Christmas parades, shopping events, and much more all happening right in Pickens County. Celebrate the season with some of these Christmas things to do in Easley and Pickens County for the whole family.

Golly Christmas events in Greenville, SC

Things to Do to Celebrate the Holidays in Pickens County

Parades and Lightings in Easley and Pickens

Holiday Events in Pickens County

See Santa in Pickens and Easley

Things to Do Throughout the Holiday Season in Pickens

Upstate Holiday Light Show 2025

Visit District Park for the Upstate Holiday Light Show. In addition to driving through the dancing lights, guests can also visit a winter wonderland and Santa’s free petting zoo. The light show at District Park is a great drive-through experience on colder nights, and is one of the biggest Easley Christmas light displays.

Where: District Park, 148 Crumpton Lane Easley, SC
When: Daily Thanksgiving – December 31st, 2025
(Friday – Saturday: 6 pm – 11 pm; Sunday – Thursday: 6 pm- 10pm)
$35 per car

Upstate Holiday Light Show light tunnel in 2024

Doodle Holiday Market

Enjoy a merry Doodle Holiday Market, perfect for shopping for local crafts and treats. The market is on November 28th, 2025, from 4:30 to 8 pm at the Doodle Park Pavilion.

Santa Sleigh Rides

Ride Santa’s sleigh in Easley. Rides are $5 per person, and tickets are on sale now. The sleigh holds up to 15 people. It is not a private sleigh ride, and the sleigh will likely be filled each ride. The sleigh will run on December 4th, 11th, and 18th, 2025. You must purchase tickets in advance, and they sell out quickly!

Parades and Lightings in Easley and Pickens

City of Easley Tree Lighting

November 28th, 2025
Easley’s Christmas Tree Lighting will be on November 28th, 2025 at 5:30 pm at Easley City Green in Downtown Easley.

Liberty Tree Lighting

November 28th, 2025
The Liberty, SC Tree Lighting event is on November 28th, 2025 at 6 pm. There will be Santa, hot chocolate, cookies, and caroling to enjoy.

Liberty Holly Jolly Christmas Parade

November 29th, 2025
Main Street, Liberty, SC 29657
Beginning on Main Street in downtown Liberty, the Liberty Christmas Parade will kick off your holiday season.

Pickens Christmas Tree Lighting

November 28th, 2025
The Pickens Christmas Tree Lighting takes place on November 28th, 2025, at 5:30 pm at the Pickens Doodle Pavilion, 409 East Cedar Rock Street, Pickens.

Pickens Christmas Parade

December 5th, 2025
Downtown Pickens Christmas parade ushers in the holiday season on Main Street in Pickens on December 5th, 2025 (Rain date of December 12th, 2025).

Six Mile, SC Christmas Parade

December 6th, 2025, at 10 am
Main Street, Six Mile, SC
The Six Mile Annual Christmas Parade will be Saturday, December 6th, 2025, at 10 am.

Easley SC Christmas Parade of Lights

Saturday, December 13th, 2025, at 6 pm (rain date of December 14th at 3 pm)
Downtown Easley, SC
Head to Downtown Easley for the popular Christmas Parade of Lights. The parade begins at the intersection of East Main St & Bradley Avenue. It will head down Main Street.

See Santa in Pickens, SC

Current Month

fri05dec6:00 pmfri8:00 pmPictures with Santa in Easley6:00 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Downtown EasleyPrice:Free

sat06dec1:00 pmsat5:00 pmSanta at the Lodge1:00 pm - 5:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Table Rock State Park, 158 Ellison Lane Price:Free with park admission

sat06dec6:00 pmsat8:00 pmPictures with Santa in Easley6:00 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Downtown EasleyPrice:Free

fri12dec6:00 pmfri8:00 pmPictures with Santa in Easley6:00 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Downtown EasleyPrice:Free

tue16dec9:00 amtue10:00 amMuffins with SantaMuffins with Santa is coming to KPC! 9:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-05:00) Kids Play & Cafe, 210 Fern StreetPrice:Ages 1 & under is always Free! With another paying child admission! Weekdays | Ages 2-3 Years - $10.95 Weekdays | Ages 4 - 12 Years - $12.95

fri19dec6:00 pmfri8:00 pmPictures with Santa in Easley6:00 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Downtown EasleyPrice:Free

sat20dec6:00 pmsat8:00 pmPictures with Santa in Easley6:00 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Downtown EasleyPrice:Free

sun21dec11:00 amsun12:00 pmHoliday Sunday Brunch with SantaHoliday Sunday Brunch with Santa! 11:00 am - 12:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Kids Play & Cafe, 210 Fern StreetPrice:$12.51

Get a FREE Photo with Santa at These Events

A Small Town Christmas Pictures With Santa is the perfect event for grabbing a wonderful family photo with the big guy! Head over on select dates from 6 pm to 8 pm at Easley City Green with your camera to take a memorable photo with Santa. Dates include:

November 29th, 2025
December 5th, 2025
December 6th, 2025
December 12th, 2025
December 19th, 2025
December 20th, 2025

Join the Easley Police and Fire Departments on Sunday, November 30th, 2025 from 1:30–4:30 PM at 1089 S Pendleton St for free photos with Santa, with optional new toy donations to support local children.

Breakfast with Santa at Five Point Church will be a fun morning of joy with breakfast and pictures with Santa along with family-friendly fun. The event is TBD for 2025.