Columbia Embraces Holiday Spirit with Dazzling Light Displays and Festive Events

Columbia Lights Up for the Holiday Season!

As December rolls in and the days get shorter, there’s something magical about the way Columbia lights up for the holiday season. Everywhere you look, neighborhoods are transformed into shimmering wonderlands, with friendly residents pulling out all the stops in their festive displays. From twinkling lights draped on trees to inflatable Santas taking center stage, it’s truly a sight to behold!

But wait, there’s more! If driving through neighborhoods isn’t enough to get you in the holiday spirit, Columbia boasts a spectacular lineup of organized light displays and events that will take your experience to a whole new level. Gather your family, grab your hot cocoa, and check out these incredible holiday happenings!

Holiday Lights on the River

Running every night until December 31 from 6 to 10 p.m., Holiday Lights on the River at Saluda Shoals Park is a treasured tradition in the Midlands. Organized by the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission, this beloved event showcases more than three miles of colorful, animated displays that will leave you mesmerized. And don’t forget to check out the amazing pterodactyl that soars overhead! Kids (and adults!) will enjoy thrilling activities like hay rides, a Winter Wonder tube slide, and train rides. Tickets are priced between $25 and $35 per car, depending on the night you choose to go. For details, visit www.icrc.net/event/holiday-lights-river-1.

Fireflies Holiday Lights

Now through January 4 from 6 to 9 p.m., Segra Park, usually buzzing with baseball action, is glowing with over 1.5 million lights as part of the Fireflies Holiday Lights event! This colorful spectacle also offers a chance to meet Santa Claus, enjoy crafts at Santa’s workshop, and take a ride on the Fireflies Express train. Concessions will be available to keep you warm with seasonal treats. Tickets are $12 per person. For more information, go to www.firefliesholidaylights.com.

Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo

Riverbanks Zoo, a favorite destination for family fun, is hosting its enchanting Wild Lights event on select nights until January 12. You won’t want to miss walking through the zoo, adorned with over 60 handcrafted wildlife lantern displays celebrating nature. And yes, there’s even a nightly “snowfall!” Enjoy visits with Santa Claus, take advantage of numerous photo spots, and this year, don’t forget to check out the new private igloo rentals! Tickets start at $20.99, changing based on the date. For the full calendar, visit www.riverbanks.org/events/wild-lights.

Making Spirits Bright at Williams-Brice Stadium

And if you’re in the mood for a bit of football nostalgia, Williams-Brice Stadium is diving into the holiday spirit with its Making Spirits Bright Holiday Experience. Scheduled for select nights until the holidays, this event will feature new light shows and fun activities. You can grab a drink from a full bar, complete with festive options and hors d’oeuvres! Tickets are just $10 per person.

This holiday season, Columbia is ready to welcome you with open arms and sparkling lights! Whether you’re looking for the perfect family outing or a romantic stroll under a canopy of lights, there’s no shortage of festive cheer in the air. So bundle up, grab your loved ones, and create some magical memories amidst the glow of holiday lights!