Year after year residents of the Lowcountry look forward to events and festivals to help usher in the holiday spirit. While white Christmases are typically not a reality down south, light displays, concerts, and parades are able to create just as much Christmas spirit. This year, however, just like the rest of 2020, this holiday season is likely to look different than it has in past years. Despite the necessity to remain six feet apart, there are still holiday happenings to look forward to in the upcoming season. Many of these events are just minutes away from Summerville and will be able to add some holiday cheer to the end of this anything but ordinary year.

James Island Festival of Lights 

The Festival of Lights takes place in James Island County Park and has been a holiday staple for many years. Fortunately, the events of 2020 have not altered this tradition too drastically. The Festival of Lights allows for families to drive through the park and enjoy the various holiday-themed light displays. In past years, there have been some games, food stalls, and other activities to enjoy, but this year visitors will be prohibited from leaving their vehicles (except to use the restrooms). Don’t worry, concessions will still open so you can purchase a cup of hot chocolate from the convenience of your car. Despite the minor adjustments to maintain safety, the main attraction is sure to be just as magical as it has been in prior years.  

Christmas on the Battery 

Taking place on December 4th, this event will take place at the historic Edmondston-Alston house and will feature carols, candlelight, and Gullah Christmas stories. The evening begins with a tour of the house and a performance by the Charleston Carolling Company. Attendees can then settle into the courtyard with a glass of wine or hot cider and listen to the stories of Gullah Christmas traditions from storyteller Fouche Sheppard. This event will follow CDC social distancing guidelines, and masks will be required while touring the Edmondston-Alston house.

Holiday Parade of Boats 

For more festive light displays, head down to the Charleston Harbor and watch the Holiday Parade of Boats. This event takes place on December 12th and features boats of all shapes and sizes decked out in all sorts of holiday-themed decorations. 

Sound of the Season

Though November shows were canceled due to the pandemic, the Sound of Charleston has been cleared to host four separate holiday editions of the music that has defined Charleston for over 350 years. The Sound of the Season shows are held at the historic Second Presbyterian Church and will take place on December 4th, 23rd, 26th, and 30th at 7:00 pm. The Sound of Charleston is taking all of the precautions necessary to keep attendees safe and healthy. Attendance will be limited, allowing for socially distanced seating, and masks will be required. It’s also worth noting that there will be no choral performances, but rather soloists and instrumentalists will perform individual sets 12 feet away from the audience. Music is one of the primary ways to spread the holiday spirit, so there’s no better way to celebrate the holidays than by listening to the Sound of the Season.

Summerville Parade: 

For our locals in Summerville, the annual Christmas parade is scheduled to take place on Sunday, December 13th at 2 pm. This year’s theme is “Snow Globe” for all participating cars, floats, and walking groups. Stop by downtown Summerville and start celebrating the holiday season! 

To get you started in your new Summerville home, contact the Martin Freeman Group! We are more than happy to discuss everything our community has to offer.