Even The Grinch Would Marvel At This Incredible Christmas Parade In South Carolina

Did you know one of the best Christmas parades in South Carolina is named after the Christmas flower? That’s right. The Poinsettia Christmas Parade in Greenville has been a tradition during the holiday season for over 75 years, since 1947. Save the date on the first Saturday in December to experience one of the best Christmas events in Greenville, S.C.

This year's event will take place on Saturday, December 2, 2023. 

Most people probably do not realize there's a fascinating connection between South Carolina and the poinsettia, which was first associated with Christmas in the 17th Century when Franciscan monks in the town of Taxco de Alarcon used it in Nativity processions. It was not until the 1800s that the flower became known as the "poinsettia" after Joel Roberts Poinsett, who served as a state legislator, U.S. Secretary of War, and as Head of South Carolina’s Board of Public Works. The Westin Poinsett Hotel in downtown Greenville was also named after him.

During the Christmas season every year, South Carolina acknowledges one of its most notable statesmen with the Poinsettia Christmas parade celebration along Main Street, stretching from Augusta to North streets.

You'll want to arrive early if possible to have your choice of the best spots, as this fun holiday event attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Bring your camping chairs and check the forecast so you'll know whether or not to bring a blanket along, too!

It's a free event with many bands and creatively decorated floats – there were almost 100 of them in 2022! Even the Grinchiest Grinch could be converted by an event as festive as this.

Just be sure not to park in the space designated for the reindeer, or you may move from the nice list over onto the naughty list this year.

Check the City of Greenville, South Carolina Government website for updates and information on road closures for the event. If you're able to eat downtown before the event, we highly recommend Sully's Steamers or Pomegranate on Main.

What's your favorite Christmas event in South Carolina?