Let it glow, let it glow, let it glow! The Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park officially opens on Nov. 13! The Lowcountry’s beloved holiday light show will be open nightly 5:30 – 10 p.m. through Dec. 31, 2026.

The Holiday Festival of Lights features over 750 light displays along a three-mile drive through James Island County Park. After parking the car, guests will find themselves walking in a winter wonderland of family activities, holiday shopping, delicious treats, and much more including:

• the magical Festival Express train
• the 50-ton sand sculpture
• the old-fashioned carousel
• the climbing wall
• marshmallow roasting over an open fire
• shops featuring perfect holiday gifts and ornaments
• snacks including pretzels, kettle corn and sweet treats
• special entertainment on select evenings, including a New Year’s Eve fireworks display on Dec. 31

And, of course, don’t forget to visit with Santa! Kris Kringle will be at the Holiday Festival of Lights nightly from opening night through Dec. 23. Santa will also be at James Island County Park during special daytime appearances, known as Mingle with Kringle, on Saturday, Dec. 5 and 12. People with disabilities and their families are invited to schedule private inclusive visits with Santa on Dec. 6 and 13. To learn more or to book a daytime or inclusive visit with Santa, visit HolidayFestivalofLights.com.

Admission

To enhance visitor experience and to help manage wait times at the Holiday Festival of Lights, each event night has been categorized by color based on expected attendance levels. Admission prices vary based on the night, and guests can save up to $15 by purchasing tickets online in advance. Green nights will be $15 per vehicle in advance or $25 at the gate; yellow nights will be $25 per vehicle in advance or $35 at the gate; and red nights will be $30 per vehicle in advance or $45 at the gate. A calendar denoting each night’s color category is available at HolidayFestivalofLights.com. Charleston County Parks highly recommends purchasing tickets in advance and visiting on a green or yellow night to save on admission. Gold Pass holders receive one free vehicle admission per annual membership period (Gold Pass must be presented at the gate).