Holiday Events in Beaufort, SC 2025

With its charming southern hospitality and picturesque charm, Beaufort offers a unique holiday experience that will leave you feeling festive.

Beaufort hosts a variety of events during the holiday season that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit. From light displays to parades, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some not-to-be-missed events:

Beaufort Children’s Theatre’s Elf the Musical, Jr.

• November 21-23: Bring the whole family to celebrate the magic of the season with Elf the Musical Jr., presented by Beaufort Children’s Theatre! Based on the beloved holiday film, this heartwarming and hilarious production follows Buddy the Elf on his journey to discover his true identity and spread Christmas cheer. Full of catchy songs, festive fun, and lots of laughs—Elf Jr. is the perfect holiday treat for all ages! For more information, click HERE.

Magical Holiday Projection Event

• November 24–December 25, 6-10 p.m.: Holiday projections will be on display throughout downtown Beaufort at various locations.

“Christmas Wish… Freedom”: A Historical Musical for the Ages

• Thursday & Friday, December 4 & 5: Don’t miss this unique theater experience.  A show about  the last Christmas before the Civil War. Taking place just after South Carolina has just seceded from the Union. The plantation owners are talking war, while the enslaved are talking freedom! Watch as history comes alive in this interactive Full-stage Musical! Written, directed and performed by Aunt Pearlie Sue and the Gullah Kinfolk! For more information, click HERE.

Christmas Carriage Tours in Habersham

• December 5-21: experience the magic of the holiday season on a horse & carriage ride through the award-winning community of Habersham. Join us on new routes riding amidst the twinkling lights & festive porch displays that showcase Christmastime in the South. Secure your seat under the stars by booking your tour tickets now to enjoy Habersham’s enchanting Christmas spectacle. Limited seats available. Presented By: Sea Island Carriage Company – Book tours here.

Night on the Town

• December 5, 6-9 p.m.: Held on the first Friday in December, Night on the Town is a beloved Beaufort tradition. Enjoy a special Holiday Night on the Town. Downtown streets come alive with twinkling lights and festive decorations, while shops stay open late, offering special sales and promotions. Carolers fill the air with holiday cheer and food vendors offer delectable treats. It’s a magical night that will make you fall in love with Beaufort all over again.

The Annual Beaufort Tree Lighting Ceremony

• December 5, 6-9 p.m.:  The tree lighting ceremony takes place in downtown Beaufort. The Parris Island Marine Corps band performs holiday hits.

Light up the Night Holiday Boat Parade

• December 6, 5:30 p.m.: Bring your chairs and blankets down to the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park for the “Lighted Boat Parade”! Our locals take to the seas on their boats that are decorated in beautiful Christmas lights and other decorations. It’s a spectacular evening filled with festive lights, beautifully decorated boats, and holiday spirit as we celebrate the season on the water.

Traditional Beaufort Christmas Parade

• December 7, 3 p.m.: Head downtown to end the Annual Beaufort Holiday Weekend with a Christmas parade led by Santa!

Real Love: A Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton Christmas Tribute – Christmas Hits & More!

• December 13: Get into the holiday spirit with Real Love: A Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton Christmas Tribute – Christmas Hits & More! This festive show celebrates the heartwarming holiday songs and unforgettable classics of two of country music’s biggest legends. Enjoy beloved Christmas favorites like “Once Upon a Christmas,” “Hard Candy Christmas,” and “With Bells On,” along with timeless hits like “Islands in the Stream” and “The Gambler.” With spot-on vocals, charming banter, and nostalgic cheer, this show is the perfect way to kick off the season.​ For more information, click HERE.

Beaufort Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Bash!”

• December 14, 5 p.m.: Corelli: Concerto grosso in G minor, Op. 6, No. 8, “Christmas Concerto” with violinists Frederick Devyatkin and Elyse Stromer Holiday Pops. Takes place at USCB Center for the Arts. For more information, click HERE.