Charleston Holiday Festival of Lights

The holidays are upon us once again. (Where has the year gone?) One of my favorite places to bring my family in Charleston to get into the holiday spirit is the Holiday Festival of Lights. Located at the James Island County Park, the festival of lights is barrage Christmas lights and exhibits that includes a "Winter Wonderland," and "Santa's Village."

Much of what you will see will be from the comfort of your car as you travel down the road that encircle the park, gazing and pointing to the different light exhibits. You can make the circle in your car as many times as you would like until the park closes for the evening.

At some point during the drive you will have the option to stop, park, and walk around the Winter Wonderland. This is an area that has a carousel, a rock climbing wall, and vending that includes hot chocolate and marshmallow's that can be roasted over an open fire.

Just a short trek down a walking path and you will find yourself at Santa's Village. This area has several shops to buy different Christmas items. My wife and I love to buy our yearly ornament from here and put the year on it. There is also a holiday train depot where tickets can be bought to take a small train ride around the park.

Admission to the Holiday Festival of Lights varies based on the number of people that are in a vehicle. 1-15 guests costs $10. 16-30 guests costs $25. Any vehicle with over 30 people costs $100.

The hours are Sunday-Thursday 5:30-10pm and Friday-Saturday from 5:30 to 11pm.