Beaufort Kicks Off Holiday Celebrations with Exciting Lineup of Events

Welcome to the Holiday Celebration in Beaufort!

Hey there, Beaufort! The holiday season is officially kicking off in our charming city this coming weekend, and there are all kinds of festivities lined up just for you! Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and right after that, we’ve got Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Artists Sunday to look forward to. It’s starting to feel a lot like Christmas around here, wouldn’t you say?

Mark Your Calendars for a Fun-Filled December!

According to the latest news from the City, December is going to be bustling with fun events. Let’s take a peek at what’s in store for us:

Saturday, Nov. 30: Santa’s Arrival!

Are you ready? Because Santa is taking some time out of his busy schedule to stop by Beaufort Candy Shoppe! From 1 to 5 p.m., families can come by, snap some photos, and get a head start on their holiday spirit!

Sunday, Dec. 1: It’s Artists Sunday!

If you’re looking for unique gifts, head downtown from noon to 4 p.m. for Artists Sunday! A pop-up market will be set up at the Arsenal, featuring local artists with one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. Plus, enjoy some delicious bites from food trucks and sweet sounds from street musicians. What’s not to love?

Dec. 5-6: A Gullah Kinfolk Christmas

On Thursday and Friday, be sure to check out the “Gullah Kinfolk Christmas Wish” at the USCB Center for the Arts, starting at 7 p.m.. This interactive musical offers a look into the last Christmas before the end of slavery at a South Carolina plantation. It’s a moving piece that you won’t want to miss. Grab your tickets here!

Friday, Dec. 6: Night on the Town

Let’s mix it up on Friday with a fabulous Night on the Town! The streets will close at 3:30 p.m., so make sure to arrive early! Local merchants will greet you with complimentary food and drinks, and the festive atmosphere will be electrifying with Christmas music and caroling.
Catch the Parris Island Marine Corps Band performing on the concert stage at Charles and Bay streets! And don’t forget about those Santa photos starting at 6 p.m. right outside Beaufort Candy Shoppe. Plus, there’s a fun movie on Bay Street and a tree lighting ceremony with snow! Yes, you heard that right—snow!

Saturday, Dec. 7: Gullah Traditions and Boat Parade

On Saturday, join us for the Gullah Taste of Christmas and Rice Cook-off from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.. It’s a great way to celebrate and honor Gullah holiday traditions. Also, don’t forget Santa will be available for photos outside Beaufort Candy Shoppe from 1 to 5 p.m.. And in the evening, the Lighted Boat Parade kicks off at 5:30 p.m. at Waterfront Park—grab a good spot along the seawall!

Sunday, Dec. 8: Christmas Parade!

The annual Christmas Parade is happening on Sunday at 3 p.m.—a beloved tradition concluding with Santa on a Beaufort-Port Royal fire truck. It’s truly what holiday cheer is all about!

More Festive Dates to Remember

Throughout the month, you can catch more than 150 Nativity displays from around the world at the First Presbyterian Church from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 6-7 and from noon to 3 p.m. on Dec. 8.
On Dec. 14, don’t miss Wreaths Across America at Beaufort National Cemetery at noon, followed by more Santa photo ops from 1 to 4 p.m. outside Beaufort Candy Shoppe!

Year-End Celebrations

As we wave goodbye to 2024 and welcome in 2025, join us for a spectacular fireworks show at Waterfront Park on Tuesday, Dec. 31. What a fabulous way to ring in the New Year!

So there you have it! A festive lineup of events is waiting for you in Beaufort. Grab your family, friends, and festive spirit, and let’s make this holiday season one to remember!