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The Little-Known Small Town In South Carolina That Goes All Out For Christmas

Published Dec 19, 2023

Written by 

AnneMarie Newsome

Just over 40 miles northwest of Columbia (off I-26), Newberry is a historic, charming little town in South Carolina with a 2021 population of 10,487 people. You'll find plenty to do and explore there any time of the year, but it's also a great Christmas town in South Carolina to enjoy during the holiday season!

An event known as Main Street Lights is held each November in front of the town's Community Hall downtown on Caldwell Street to kick off the Christmas season.

Historic building decorated for the holidays, featuring wreaths and a brightly lit Christmas tree nearby.
City of Newberry, SC Government via Facebook

This Christmas tree lighting ceremony features lively music and a warm sense of community.

A jazz band performs on stage at night, surrounded by colorful lights and greenery. Musicians play various instruments.
City of Newberry, SC Government via Facebook
A young child in a colorful hat smiles joyfully in front of a decorated Christmas tree and festive lights.
City of Newberry, SC via YouTube

North Pole Nights are another fun holiday celebration tradition during the Christmas season in Newberry, held on Friday nights in December.

A vibrant street scene with shops and crowds under a blue sky, showcasing a lively atmosphere in a small town.
City of Newberry, SC Government via Facebook

It may just be the closest thing to being at the North Pole that you'll find in South Carolina, with faux snow (created by technology developed by movie makers!) ...

A child in a pink sweater sits on a man's shoulders, reaching out as snow falls around them.
City of Newberry, SC via YouTube

... and the chance to see Santa and get a photograph with him! It all happens in Memorial Park downtown on McKibben Street.

A man dressed as Santa Claus with a red suit, white beard, and glasses, standing in a festive setting.
City of Newberry, SC via YouTube

You'll also want to spend some time enjoying delicious foods in the restaurants along Main Street in Newberry, from Genesis Hub, a coffee shop, to The Grille on Main, or Steelhorse Smokehouse for barbecue.

A cozy café scene with patrons enjoying drinks, illuminated by soft lights and a decorative tree in the foreground.
City of Newberry, SC via YouTube

After a wonderful meal, stop in for some shopping at a gift shop or boutique downtown, whether The Gallery, a three-story gift shop, or The Berry Patch Boutique. You're sure to find something for yourself or someone on your gift list.

A woman in a striped sweater examines items in a colorful boutique, with other shoppers in the background.
City of Newberry, SC via YouTube

Check the Newberry Opera House schedule of events for a great holiday live performance while you're in town.

Historic brick building with a clock tower and red roof, surrounded by trees under a blue sky with clouds.
Newberry Opera House via Facebook

What a beautiful Christmas town Newberry is, from the magical decor to the festivities, delicious eats, shopping, and more! This little town does Christmas in a big way that will bring a smile to your face during this wondrous time of year.

A brightly lit Christmas tree adorned with colorful lights stands in a festive town square at dusk.
Lake Murray Country via Facebook

So bundle up with a beautiful Christmas scarf (if the weather calls for it) and head to Newberry, the not-be-missed Christmas town in South Carolina to celebrate the season. Visit the City of Newberry Facebook page for more details and updates on the events throughout the season.

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