December in Columbia is full of fun – from holiday events, storytimes, art activities, and more! Get out your calendars and make a note of all there is to do.
Don’t forget to check out our local guides – ultimate guide to holiday events, where to see Santa, holiday lights, parks & playgrounds, indoor play areas, birthday parties, kids eat free, and more!
*Please note – While we make every effort to crosscheck current links and event details on our guides, we always encourage you to do the same before making final plans. If details are missing or incorrect, please let us know so that we can correct them.
Dec
1
Fun Friday’s at Empire Gymnastics
Playgroups and moms come enjoy our fabulously fun hour of nonstop fun activity for your child! In this hour of (parent) supervised open play, your child can enjoy and explore.
Dec
1
Christmas Craft Fair
Join us at the Icehouse Amphitheater Pavilion for a Christmas Craft Fair featuring fresh produce, unique gifts, local vendors, food, and more!
Dec
1
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
Stroll through the Zoo and discover nearly 60 larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature. From pollinators and plants to endangered (and even extinct) animals, guests will be dazzled by awe-inspiring
Dec
1
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
1
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
1
Carols Along the Riverwalk
The City of Cayce partners with the Cayce Events Committee to bring you holiday cheer with free live music and treats during Carols Along the Riverwalk. Beginning at the N
Dec
1
Carolighting Ceremony
Join the Town of Lexington as we sing Christmas carols, light the tree, & take pictures with Santa at Icehouse Amphitheater.
Dec
1
The Living Christmas Story
This Union’s 30th annual presentation of The Living Christmas Story! The Living Christmas Story is a drive-through “living” story of Jesus’ birth. Union United Methodist Church has been creating memories
Dec
1
Columbia Classical Ballet presents The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker Ballet is a worldwide Christmas favorite.
Dec
1
The Grinch Movie Night
Follow along and while the Grinch and his pet dog Max try and stop Whoville’s Christmas celebration by stealing all the town’s decorations and gifts.
Dec
2
Soda City Market
Soda City Market is Columbia’s weekly Main Street event inspired by traditional European street markets. In partnership with Founders Federal Credit Union, we’re open every Saturday morning 9 a.m. –1 p.m.,
Dec
2
Breakfast with Santa
Children ages 2-12 are invited to join us for a morning of fun as we host our annual Breakfast with Santa! Have your photo taken with Santa, eat some delicious
Dec
2
PJs with Santa
Put on your pajamas and join us for a photo station with Santa, games, crafts and a special share of Santa & the Nativity story at 10 am.
Dec
2
Cooking with Santa
What better time to grow a child’s love of cooking and baking than the most magical time of the year. Bring your child into the kitchen with Flavored Fork to
Dec
2
Hands on Art: Grinchmas
You’re invited to Whobilation! Joins us for a morning full of Grinchy crafts and a special storytime of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” with a special guest! Dress for a mess. Crafts
Dec
2
Meeting Street Artisan Market
There are new options for afternoon shopping on Saturdays in West Columbia. The Meeting Street Artisan Market has new hours, 11 AM – 3 PM, beginning this Saturday, August 6,
Dec
2
Santa’s Swingin’ Christmas Party
Join Tinkle and Winkle, two of Santa’s elves, as they plan a party at the North Pole while he is delivering presents around the world! But when a storm appears
Dec
2
Carnival & Movie
Join the Town of Lexington for this year’s Snowball Festival Carnival at the Icehouse Amphitheater featuring face painting, balloon artists, letters to Santa, rides + more! Make sure to stay
Dec
2
Columbia Classical Ballet presents The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker Ballet is a worldwide Christmas favorite.
Dec
2
A Christmas Carol
Grab your loved ones and enjoy this holiday tradition proven to warm even the Scroogiest of hearts!
Dec
2
Santa Train
Santa returns to the Rockton, Rion and Western Railroad. As you enjoy your ride through the countryside of Fairfield County, he will walk the train during the ride and talk
Dec
2
Santa’s Swingin’ Christmas Party
Join Tinkle and Winkle, two of Santa’s elves, as they plan a party at the North Pole while he is delivering presents around the world! But when a storm appears
Dec
2
Christmas Light Boat Parade on Lake Murray
You don’t want to miss this FREE family-friendly waterfront event that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit!
Dec
2
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
Stroll through the Zoo and discover nearly 60 larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature. From pollinators and plants to endangered (and even extinct) animals, guests will be dazzled by awe-inspiring
Dec
2
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
2
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
2
A Christmas Carol
Grab your loved ones and enjoy this holiday tradition proven to warm even the Scroogiest of hearts!
Dec
2
Christmas Olde and New – Cayce Historical Museum
Saturday, December 2nd from 6-9 pm visitors can take in the sights and sounds of Christmas during the Cayce Historical Museum’s annual Christmas Traditions Holiday Open House. Rooms of the
Dec
2
The Living Christmas Story
This Union’s 30th annual presentation of The Living Christmas Story! The Living Christmas Story is a drive-through “living” story of Jesus’ birth. Union United Methodist Church has been creating memories
Dec
2
Columbia Classical Ballet presents The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker Ballet is a worldwide Christmas favorite.
Dec
3
Sundaes with Santa
Dress your children in their Sunday best for photos with Santa, enjoy games and crafts with your family, and top off the fun with an ice cream sundae bar!
Dec
3
Columbia Classical Ballet presents The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker Ballet is a worldwide Christmas favorite.
Dec
3
Christmas Parade
It’s a Christmas tradition you won’t want to miss! Join the Town of Lexington and the Lexington Jaycees for the annual Christmas Parade down Main Street! Get in the Christmas
Dec
3
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
Stroll through the Zoo and discover nearly 60 larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature. From pollinators and plants to endangered (and even extinct) animals, guests will be dazzled by awe-inspiring
Dec
3
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
3
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
3
The Living Christmas Story
This Union’s 30th annual presentation of The Living Christmas Story! The Living Christmas Story is a drive-through “living” story of Jesus’ birth. Union United Methodist Church has been creating memories
Dec
4
Monday Morning Makers – Snowflakes
Feed that drive to create and rediscover your sense of wonder and excitement. Discover something new with our projects of the week, which are appropriate for those 6 or more
Dec
4
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
4
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
5
Movers and Shakers Storytime
Get ready to move and shake, shake, shake while listening to stories, songs and more!
Dec
5
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
5
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
6
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
Stroll through the Zoo and discover nearly 60 larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature. From pollinators and plants to endangered (and even extinct) animals, guests will be dazzled by awe-inspiring
Dec
6
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
6
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
7
Bilingual Storytime Cuentacuentos Bilingüe
Share stories, songs, and much more while building early literacy skills with fun for the whole family. We will have a craft time after!.This event is free and open to
Dec
7
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
Stroll through the Zoo and discover nearly 60 larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature. From pollinators and plants to endangered (and even extinct) animals, guests will be dazzled by awe-inspiring
Dec
7
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
7
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
8
Cooking with Richland Library: Hanukkah Doughnut Delights
Don’t miss this delightful Hanukkah celebration as we learn how to make delicious Air Fryer Sufganiyot at Richland Library Eastover! Sufganiyot, the traditional jelly-filled doughnuts, are a beloved Hanukkah treat.
Dec
8
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
Stroll through the Zoo and discover nearly 60 larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature. From pollinators and plants to endangered (and even extinct) animals, guests will be dazzled by awe-inspiring
Dec
8
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
8
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
8
Carolina Lights
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the South Carolina State Fair’s 5th annual downtown drive-through light show. The drive-through light experience will feature more than 100 stunning individual
Dec
8
Christmas Ball | Daddy Daughter Dance
Join us for a fun night of dancing and hors d’oeuvres as dads and daughters have opportunity to connect with one another! We’ll also have a photo opp, craft, and
Dec
8
Elf The Musical Jr. – ICRC Childen’s Theatre
Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. All Ages $10/person
Dec
8
The Two Claras 2023
CCJ has been delighting audiences for over 15 years with our modern rewrite of the Nutcracker Story! Come see this heartwarming Holiday tale about two friends named Clara and the
Dec
9
Soda City Market
Soda City Market is Columbia’s weekly Main Street event inspired by traditional European street markets. In partnership with Founders Federal Credit Union, we’re open every Saturday morning 9 a.m. –1 p.m.,
Dec
9
Accessibility Morning – Meet Santa
This program provides free access for families of children, teenagers, young adults and adults who would benefit from a quieter, sensory-friendly and disability-adapted experience at the museum. Guests who are
Dec
9
Meeting Street Artisan Market
There are new options for afternoon shopping on Saturdays in West Columbia. The Meeting Street Artisan Market has new hours, 11 AM – 3 PM, beginning this Saturday, August 6,
Dec
9
Santa’s Swingin’ Christmas Party
Join Tinkle and Winkle, two of Santa’s elves, as they plan a party at the North Pole while he is delivering presents around the world! But when a storm appears
Dec
9
Santa Train
Santa returns to the Rockton, Rion and Western Railroad. As you enjoy your ride through the countryside of Fairfield County, he will walk the train during the ride and talk
Dec
9
Santa’s Swingin’ Christmas Party
Join Tinkle and Winkle, two of Santa’s elves, as they plan a party at the North Pole while he is delivering presents around the world! But when a storm appears
Dec
9
Columbia City Ballet Nutcracker
Nutcracker, Columbia’s holiday family tradition, has the distinction of being Koger Center for the Arts’ first Nutcracker production and longest consecutively running annual arts event.
Dec
9
Elf The Musical Jr. – ICRC Childen’s Theatre
Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. All Ages $10/person
Dec
9
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
Stroll through the Zoo and discover nearly 60 larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature. From pollinators and plants to endangered (and even extinct) animals, guests will be dazzled by awe-inspiring
Dec
9
Holiday Parade of Lights
This annual event is one of the most anticipated holiday parades in the Midlands! This beloved night-time parade is hosted by the Greater Cayce West Columbia Chamber of Commerce.
Dec
9
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
9
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
9
The Two Claras 2023
CCJ has been delighting audiences for over 15 years with our modern rewrite of the Nutcracker Story! Come see this heartwarming Holiday tale about two friends named Clara and the
Dec
9
Carolina Lights
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the South Carolina State Fair’s 5th annual downtown drive-through light show. The drive-through light experience will feature more than 100 stunning individual
Dec
9
Elf The Musical Jr. – ICRC Childen’s Theatre
Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. All Ages $10/person
Dec
10
The Two Claras 2023
CCJ has been delighting audiences for over 15 years with our modern rewrite of the Nutcracker Story! Come see this heartwarming Holiday tale about two friends named Clara and the
Dec
10
Columbia City Ballet Nutcracker
Nutcracker, Columbia’s holiday family tradition, has the distinction of being Koger Center for the Arts’ first Nutcracker production and longest consecutively running annual arts event.
Dec
10
FA LA LA LA LA in Five Points
Join us for an afternoon of Holiday cheer in the Five Points District! Horse Drawn Carriage Rides – Sidewalk Sales – Pictures with Santa – Hot Chocolate Bar – USC’s
Dec
10
Elf The Musical Jr. – ICRC Childen’s Theatre
Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. All Ages $10/person
Dec
10
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
Stroll through the Zoo and discover nearly 60 larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature. From pollinators and plants to endangered (and even extinct) animals, guests will be dazzled by awe-inspiring
Dec
10
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
10
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
10
Carolina Lights
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the South Carolina State Fair’s 5th annual downtown drive-through light show. The drive-through light experience will feature more than 100 stunning individual
Dec
11
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
11
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
12
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
12
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
12
Carolina Lights
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the South Carolina State Fair’s 5th annual downtown drive-through light show. The drive-through light experience will feature more than 100 stunning individual
Dec
12
Family Storytime: Experience Hanukkah!
Celebrate the sixth night of Hanukkah with stories, songs, treats, and crafts!
Dec
13
Holiday Market
Join us at the Holiday Market at Richland Library. We’re excited to bring you bakers, artists and creators all in one place! Let’s shop for the Holiday Season. Come shop
Dec
13
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
Stroll through the Zoo and discover nearly 60 larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature. From pollinators and plants to endangered (and even extinct) animals, guests will be dazzled by awe-inspiring
Dec
13
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
13
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
13
Carolina Lights
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the South Carolina State Fair’s 5th annual downtown drive-through light show. The drive-through light experience will feature more than 100 stunning individual
Dec
14
Meeting Street Artisan Market
There are new options for afternoon shopping on Saturdays in West Columbia. The Meeting Street Artisan Market has new hours, 11 AM – 3 PM, beginning this Saturday, August 6,
Dec
14
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
Stroll through the Zoo and discover nearly 60 larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature. From pollinators and plants to endangered (and even extinct) animals, guests will be dazzled by awe-inspiring
Dec
14
Holiday Lights on the River
Repeats every day until Sun Dec 31 2023. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 – 6:00pm to 10:00pm The Midlands Largest Drive-Through Light Show! Experience the magic as Saluda Shoals Park comes alive in
Dec
14
Firefly Holiday Lights
Your favorite Midlands holiday tradition returns bigger and brighter for its second year at Segra Park this November and December! Walk through the winter wonderland that includes MORE lights, MORE
Dec
14
Carolina Lights
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the South Carolina State Fair’s 5th annual downtown drive-through light show. The drive-through light experience will feature more than 100 stunning individual
Dec
15
Fun Friday’s at Empire Gymnastics
Playgroups and moms come enjoy our fabulously fun hour of nonstop fun activity for your child! In this hour of (parent) supervised open play, your child can enjoy and explore.
Dec
15
Play Freely: Fun Friday at Wheatley
Come have some fun with us at Richland Library Wheatley. We all need a little fun in our lives, so drop by anytime between 11 – 4 for games, bubbles,
Dec
15
Candy Cane Hunt
Join us for a one-of-a-kind candy cane adventure! Santa and his elves will be hiding candy canes at Crooked Creek Park for kids to find along with some prize candy
