9 Magical Moments this Holiday in Greenville, SC!
Although our town is known for its warm Southern energy, bustling downtown, and scenic location at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s also the ideal spot to experience magical moments. ❄️
From ice skating to epic theatrical performances to hockey matches, hot cocoa, and some of the best shopping around, these 9 things will not only help you get into the festive spirit this winter, but they will also help you feel truly at home for the holidays in Greenville, SC.
1. The Spotlight's on Stage Right ✨
When the lights go down and the curtains open, Greenville really shows its stuff. We're a place that takes tremendous pride in showcasing our own local talent, as well as playing host to a large number of superb touring troupes each year. Skip the crowds this holiday season and jump in line to see the latest theater performances.
The Nutcracker (Peace Concert Hall)
Enjoy Tchaikovsky’s timeless score performed live by the Greenville Symphony Orchestra and be dazzled as the angelic voices of the Greenville Youth Chorale are featured on the Concert Hall stage. No holiday season is complete without joining Clara and her Nutcracker prince as they encounter dancing snowflakes, spirited sword fights and a visit to the Kingdom of Sweets. Don't miss out on this incredible performance this year. ($25-$75)
- Friday, Dec. 8 @ 7:30pm
- Saturday, Dec. 9 @ 7:30pm
- Sunday, Dec. 10 @ 3:00pm
All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 (Centre Stage)
The Western Front, Christmas, 1914. Out of the violence, there is song. A German soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Stille Nacht” and from there, begins an extraordinary night of camaraderie, bravery, music, and peace. A remarkable true story, told in the words of the men who lived it. ($33-$38)
- Thursdays, Dec. 7 & 14 @ 8pm
- Fridays, Dec. 1, 8, 15 @ 8pm
- Saturdays, Dec. 2, 9, 16 @ 8pm
- Sundays, Dec. 3, 10, 17 @ 3pm
ODD (The Warehouse Theatre)
The Warehouse Theatre presents ODD, a play written by Cammi Stilwell. When Margot’s professional and personal lives begin to teeter, Phoebe sees this as the perfect opportunity to prove she can take care of her best friend…by throwing a girl’s night the same night as Margot’s important work dinner. Dealing with exes, pillow forts, board games, and cheap wine, the two are forced to navigate not only the most uncomfortable dinner party of their lives, but also their friendship. ($35-$40)
- Thursdays, Dec. 7 & 14 @ 8pm
- Fridays, Dec. 1, 8, 15 @ 8pm
- Saturdays, Dec. 2, 9, 16 @ 8pm
- Sundays, Dec. 3, 10, 17 @ 3pm
The Nutcracker: Once Upon a Time in Greenville (Peace Concert Hall)
An adaptation from E.T.A Hoffmann's story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, join Clara and her family & friends as they arrive in Greenville by train to admire the sights and sounds of beautiful Main Street. However, Clara's adventures with her Godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer, is not what it seems when her nutcracker doll becomes life-sized, battles between mice and soldiers commence, and the city’s rich culture appears through Spanish, Arabian, Chinese, and Candy dancers as well. ($37-75)
- Friday, Dec. 1 @ 7:30pm
- Saturdays, Dec. 2 @ 2pm & 7pm
- Sunday, Dec. 3 @ 2pm
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Greenville Theatre)
The story follows Charlie Bucket on his golden ticket journey into the magical world of Willy Wonka. This retelling of the classic Roald Dahl book is adapted from the hit film, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Featuring classic songs like, “Pure Imagination” and “The Candy Man,” as well as an original score by the team that brought you Hairspray, this story is the perfect holiday gift for the whole family to enjoy! ($40)
- Thursdays, Nov. 30 & Dec. 7 & 14 @ 7:30pm
- Friday and Saturday Night Shows, Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16 @ 8pm
- Saturday Matinees, Dec. 9 & 16 @ 2pm
- Sundays, Dec 3, 10, 17 @ 3pm
Mary Poppins (South Carolina Children's Theatre)
Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s MARY POPPINS will take audiences of all ages on a delightful adventure celebrating imagination and family. Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, this stage adaptation has become a Broadway hit. It will bring stunning performances of memorable musical numbers close enough to touch in the spectacular Bell Stage theatre. Recommended for audiences of all ages. ($25)
November:
- Fridays, Nov. 17 @ 7pm, Nov. 24 @ 2pm & 7pm
- Saturdays, Nov. 18 & 25 @ 2pm
- Sundays, Nov. 19 & 26 @ 2pm
December:
- Fridays, Dec. 1 & 8 @ 7pm
- Saturdays, Dec. 2 @ 2pm, Dec. 9 @ 2pm & 7pm
- Sundays, Dec. 3 & 10 @ 2pm
2. Ice, Ice Baby ⛸️
Bring the kids, bring a date, and bring your skates! The United Community Bank Ice on Main is open this winter clad with hot chocolate, coffee, treats, and an environment made for a good time. Don’t miss it! At only $10 per adult and $8 for kids ages 3-12, this affordable, winter activity will be the perfect addition to your holiday itinerary. Prices include skate rental. (Open daily from Nov. 10, 2023 - Jan.15, 2024, on the Village Green on S. Main St. in Downtown Greenville)
NOTE: Pre-purchasing tickets online is recommended. Skate sessions are limited to 60 skaters per each 1-hour skate session. Only one non-ticketed spectator will be admitted per ticketed participant.
3. Go Shopping 🛍️
For ideas on where to go shopping in the area, check out our 800+ shops! (We recommend you narrow it down by using the category filter!)
Want some help to get started? Here are a few of our recommendations:
- M.Judson Booksellers
- Offering a wide selection of books, author events, and a delicious café all in a cozy setting, be sure to curl up with your new favorite read in this eclectic and quaint bookshop.
- MAKE MADE jewelry
- From unique statement pieces to custom designs and permanent jewelry, make 2023 shine with some locally made gems.
- Vintage NOW Modern
- Visit Vintage Now Modern to find treasures from a past world, vintage-styled pieces, plus paint for do-it-yourself distressing.
- Augusta Twenty + A20 Market Coffee Shop
- Check out this West End contemporary women's clothing boutique for wearable, stylish pieces that will remain in your wardrobe for years. Augusta Twenty Market & Cafe also sells seasonal gifts, beer, wine, coffee, baked goods, and much more.
4. Orchestra(te) a Performance 🎻
Why not listen to magical instrumental music this time of year? From timeless classical pieces to new and modern tunes, you'll be sure to have an ode-to-joy of an evening!
Here are just a few orchestral or individual performances to see this holiday season:
Sarah Brightman, LIVE (Peace Concert Hall)
The wonderous talent of Sarah Brightman is back with her Christmas tradition. Brightman has decided to bring festive joy on tour with Christmas Symphony production. A gloriously unique journey through some of the seasons' best and most-loved songs, let Brightman captivate you with festive spirit in this year's ultimate holiday event! ($125-$155)
- Monday, Dec. 4 @ 7:30pm
- Sunday, Dec. 24 @ 7:30pm
Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve (Bon Secours Wellness Arena)
The Tran-Siberian Orchestra hits the road again in 2023 with the return of their beloved classic production, The Ghosts of Christmas Eve! Join them as they celebrate over two decades as the top purveyors of Christmas spectacle! Including Ghosts of Christmas Eve alongside some of their all-time greatest hits - discover what keeps audiences wanting more and returning year after year! ($95)
- Saturday, Nov. 18 @ 4:00pm & 8:00pm
Pentatonix (Bon Secours Wellness Arena)
Ring in the holiday season with three-time Grammy winners Pentatonix! With record-breaking albums behind them, the kings and queen of a capella jingle across the country on their 'The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year Tour!' Expect to hear tracks off their upcoming record 'The Greatest Christmas Hits' which features 23 holiday hits along with eight brand new tracks. ($40-205)
- Monday, Dec. 11 @ 7pm
Holiday at Peace (Peace Concert Hall)
You’ll be brimming with holiday cheer when you leave this annual seasonal celebration! Gather your family and friends and witness the Greenville Symphony Orchestra for Greenville’s favorite Christmas spectacular, which will features your favorites combined with fresh, new themes. Whether you’re carrying on a yuletide tradition or feeling inspired to start a new one, this concert is the perfect way to get into the spirit of the holidays. ($20-$65)
- Friday, Dec. 15 @ 7:30pm
- Saturday, Dec. 16 @ 7:30pm
- Sunday, Dec. 17 @ 3pm
5. Channel Your Inner Foodie 🍽️
When coming to Greenville, there is a world of different cuisines to choose from when mealtimes roll around! Take advantage of Greenville's international food scene and experience the most flavorful fare from some of the restaurants listed below:
6. Get Creative 🎨
Flex your artistic muscles at Wine & Design as you BYO wine and cheese for a Paint & Sip Class (think wintry scenes of lakes forests, and barns), stay warm this winter when you participate in a Chunky Blanket Workshop, or make a beautiful mess at an Acrylic Pour Workshop where you can design on canvas or make wine glasses.
Test your knowledge in the kitchen by learning how to cook different cuisines. From sushi and Mediterranean tapas to dumplings and French macarons, The Cook’s Station has you covered as you enter the new year and are feeling inspired to try something new!
Wanna try your hand at a spinning potter's wheel? Look no further than Hollowed Earth Pottery in Hampton Station. Offering an Intro Course, 4-Week Pottery Basics Classes, Seasonal Classes, along with one-offs like "Make Your Own Mug," this is the place to go when creativity strikes!
7. Cozy Up on a Cold Day! ☕
Stay warm this winter with a cup of hot cocoa. Try stopping in a few of these joints for total deliciousness.
- Tandem Crêperie and Coffeehouse, Travelers Rest
- They are also serving holiday specials that will rotate throughout the season!
- Spill the Beans, Downtown Greenville
- They also offer Mexican Hot Chocolate, which adds in a few delectable spices like cinnamon.
- Coffee Underground, Downtown Greenville
- Here you can add caramel, mint, or white chocolate to make a Tadpole, Baby Turtle, or Snow Bunny Hot Chocolate!
- Kilwins Chocolates, Fudge & Ice Cream, Downtown Greenville
- Rainer's Cafe + Bar, Downtown Greenville
- Stomping Grounds, Greer
- Steam Coffee and Cream, Fountain Inn
- Go mainstream or go for the Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate—yum!
- Village Grind, Village of West Village
- Other winter specials include a delectable Peppermint Mocha and a Gingerbread Latte
8. Exciting Events 🗓️
3 Magical Moments in Greenville that you'll need to make sure you hit up this winter!
The Igloo Experience
(Juniper)
Juniper, a rooftop bar atop the AC Hotel Greenville Downtown, kicks up the cozy factor in their secret cocktail garden during the winter season, providing guests with specialty cocktails, small plates, and an exclusive, new and improved igloo experience. Each igloo can accommodate 10-12 guests, is reserved for two hours, and is available by reservation only. Enjoy a private VIP Server to cater to your experience! The cost is $600 per igloo, which is used towards your F&B minimum. Igloos will be available starting Black Friday.
Greenville Swamp Rabbits Hockey
(Bon Secours Wellness Arena)
Watch the Greenville Swamp Rabbits thump some pucks and kick some tail (on the ice)! This professional ice hockey team (ECHL affiliate of the LA Kings and AHL affiliate of the Ontario Reign). What better way to enjoy the wintry weather than cheering along with the Rabbettes rink-side at a fast-and-furiously-paced hockey match?! The Swamp Rabbits' season goes through mid-April 2023 and includes 36 home games. Get your tickets today and gear up at the Hop Shop!
Holidays at the Zoo
(Greenville Zoo)
Holidays at the Zoo will allow you to immerse yourself into a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, music, and holiday cheer. Join them from 4pm-8pm to enjoy the Christmas decorations, enchanting light displays, and the Holiday Village! ($12/adults; $9/children ages 3-12; Free/2 & Under)
Dates: December 1-3, 8-10, 15-23, & 26-30 from 4-8pm
9. Exhibits 🖼️
Whatever your pleasure, be sure to stop by and see some of our budget-friendly museum and gallery exhibits.
Merry Grinchmas: A Who-liday Spectacular
(Upcountry History Museum)
The Upcountry History Museum will celebrate the holiday season this year with the Christmas character who hates it the most. Merry Grinchmas: A Who-liday Spectacular, the special exhibition, will feature over 150 original animation cels, Dr. Seuss sketches, backgrounds, and ephemera to make its Southeastern U.S. debut in Greenville, SC. ($12/adults; $9/children; Free/2 & Under) Daily, excluding Mondays, November 2, 2023 - January 21, 2024
Bold Whispers
(Art & Light Gallery)
“Bold Whispers” is a two-person exhibition of recent work by Greenville, SC artists Eric Benjamin and Michelle Jardines. As Benjamin and Jardines worked collaboratively to create the series of paintings included in Bold Whispers, they used their hands as their primary painting tool. The artists feel that the use of their hands adds a sense of intimacy and immediacy to the work. They see the paintings as a reflection of their innermost thoughts and feelings, and a window into the deeper thoughts of the artists. On View October 3-28
Family Workshop - Merry & Bright: Glass Fusion Holiday Creations
(Greenville County Museum of Art)
Gather the family together on November 4th from 11am-12pm to create one-of-a-kind works of art! GCMA will be hosting an introduction class to making fused glass. Whether you wish to make a magnet or ornament, these creations will make for wonderful takeaways and gifts for the holiday season. Set of 4 magnets or 2 holiday ornaments: $24, or a set of 3 holiday ornaments: $32
Greenville Holiday Gingerbread Exhibit 2023
(Oak & Honey)
The Greenville Holiday Gingerbread Exhibit is back this season at Oak & Honey! At no cost, grab your friends and loved ones to view festive gingerbread creations from celebrated local chefs and restaurants in a winter wonderland-themed lobby at the SpringHill Suites/Residence Inn Downtown Greenville. Daily, December 4-26th
