December Events in Bluffton, Beaufort, Hilton Head, and Beyond

The holiday season is here, and the Lowcountry offers countless festive activities to help you celebrate! From tree lightings and parades to holiday markets and dazzling light displays, there’s something for everyone. Here's your guide to the best events happening this December in Bluffton, Hilton Head, and neighboring areas.

Bluffton Christmas Tree Lighting & Parade

• When: December 6, 5:30 PM (Tree Lighting), December 7 (Parade)
• Where: Martin Family Park & DuBois Park, Bluffton
• Bluffton kicks off the season with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Martin Family Park. After the lighting, head to Santa’s Workshop at DuBois Park and enjoy the holiday classic Polar Express at 6:30 PM. Don’t forget to bring blankets and chairs! The festivities continue on Saturday with the Bluffton Christmas Parade—a beloved rain-or-shine event for all ages.

South Beach Christmas Village

• When: All December
• Where: South Beach Marina, Hilton Head Island
• Experience the magic of South Beach Marina’s Christmas Village, featuring a "green" tree powered by wind and solar energy, thousands of twinkling lights, holiday décor, festive drinks, and even a chance of snow flurries!

Bluffton Night Bazaar

• When: December 5, 5 PM–8 PM
• Where: Burnt Church Distillery, Bluffton
• Shop small and local this holiday season! Enjoy craft cocktails, live music, and a wide selection of handmade goods from local artisans under the enchanting lights at Square 67.

Holiday Lights at Shelter Cove Towne Centre

• When: Thanksgiving Week–January 7
• Where: Shelter Cove Towne Centre, Hilton Head Island
• Capture the holiday spirit with a stroll through Shelter Cove’s stunning light displays, including a towering 28' tree. Don’t forget your camera—this is the perfect spot for family photos!
• Santa Visits:
  • Nov 29 & Nov 30: 12–2 PM
  • Dec 6: 5–7 PM (Winter WonderFest)
  • Dec 21: 12–2 PM (Pet Visits)
  • Dec 24: 12–2 PM

Hilton Head Choral Society’s “A Night Divine”

• When: December 13, 7 PM
• Where: First Presbyterian Church, Hilton Head Island
• Celebrate the season with traditional carols and heartwarming music. Special guests from Colleton County High School Chorus will join for this unforgettable evening of holiday cheer.

A Lowcountry Christmas

• When: December 15 & 16, 6 PM
• Where: Christ Lutheran Church, Hilton Head Island
• This diverse concert showcases Gullah Gospel, Motown Christmas, and American holiday classics, celebrating the cultural richness of the Lowcountry. Tickets are $30 and benefit local organizations.

Christmas Brunch with Santa

• When: December 15, 10 AM–1 PM
• Where: The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
• Enjoy a festive brunch featuring photos with Santa, holiday crafts, gingerbread competitions, and live music. Adults can indulge in the mimosa bar while kids explore holiday activities.

Jingle Jingle Bridge Run

• When: December 22, 8 AM
• Where: Crossings Park, Hilton Head Island
• Run (or dash!) into the holidays with this 5K and 10K event. Enjoy scenic views over Broad Creek and start a family tradition with this beloved holiday race.

Christmas at The Oaks

• When: December 6–8 & December 13–14
• Where: The Oaks by Eats and Sweets, Ridgeland
• Pick out your perfect Christmas tree, enjoy carnival games, decorate cookies, and sip on holiday treats at this charming event hosted by Eats & Sweets Bakery.

A Magical Christmas in Beaufort

• When: November 29–December 21
• Where: Downtown Beaufort
• From tree lightings and holiday parades to a Gullah Christmas celebration, Beaufort transforms into a holiday wonderland. Highlights include Santa visits, the Holiday Boat Parade, and free holiday parking.

Hope for the Holidays Aerial Acrobatics Show

• When: December 14, 5:30 PM
• Where: Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort
• Watch talented aerialists perform jaw-dropping holiday routines set to festive music. Bring a blanket, snacks, and loved ones for this free, must-see show.

Plan your holiday adventures now and make the most of these festive events. For more local updates and event guides, stay connected with us!