11 Light Displays in South Carolina That Are Pure Holiday Magic

Christmas lights add so much joy to an already happy time of year, a time when people tend to be a little kinder and more generous. There's something so festive and fun about the sparkle of Christmas lights everywhere. It uplifts your spirit and can turn a normal day into something special. If you love this part of the Christmas season in particular, then you'll want to check out our list of some of the best Christmas lights in South Carolina. The first two are located at private residences, and whether you visit one or all of them, they are sure to add to the magic of the season.

1. 'Senn'sational Lights - Aiken

This first display in our list is actually at a private residence and features over 50,000 lights. Incredible!

2. Hope Ferry Road Lights - Lexington

Several residences along Hope Ferry Road, which runs between Corley Mill Road and Highway 378 in Lexington, provide a huge, beautiful display of lights each season.

3. Upstate Holiday Light Show - Greenville-Pickens Speedway

Open rain or shine seven days a week, this drive-through display features 32 million lights synchronized to the music of your favorite holiday classics!

4. Anderson Lights of Hope - Anderson

Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024, Anderson Lights of Hope has remained a fun community effort all these years.

5. Saluda Shoals Holiday Lights on the River - Columbia

Note: The entrance to this display is from Saint Andrews Road. (If you've been in years past when it was from Bush River, it has since been moved to help with traffic flow.)

6. Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo - Columbia

The Riverbanks Zoo has revamped its Christmas lights display, with an all-new experience for 2024 called, "Wild Lights."

7. The Great Christmas Light Show - North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex

This drive-through light show features over 2 million lights festively displayed along the 2-mile drive. After the light show, you can park and enter Santa's Village for hot chocolate and s’mores, get an up-close look at the lights on the Santa Express Train Ride, and, of course, meet Santa!

8. Holiday Festival of Lights - James Island County Park, Charleston

Enjoy over 750 light displays, including the newly refurbished and rebuilt Cooper River Bridge display along this drive-through experience. After the show, park the car and explore family attractions, shopping, dining, and more.

9. Marsh Walk - Murrells Inlet

The Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk is a wonderful destination to explore any time of the year, but especially at Christmas!

10. Nights of a Thousand Candles - Brookgreen Gardens, Murrells Inlet

Recognized as one of the best Christmas lights displays in America, this event often sells out early.

11. Tiny Town - Easley

This is the most unique display at one of the state's hidden gem roadside attractions, initially built by a couple in the '70s.

Do you have a favorite Christmas lights display in South Carolina?

Need some ideas for the traveler on your gift list? We've got you covered! Check out our Holiday Gift Guide for plenty of inspiration and ideas.