South Carolina’s Most Spectacular 2025 Christmas Light Displays That Will Leave You Speechless — Discover the Magic Tonight!

Every year, I see people all over South Carolina getting excited about the best Christmas light displays. These events really bring families and visitors together—there’s just something about all those bright decorations and the holiday buzz.

Looking for the most popular Christmas light displays in South Carolina for 2025? I’ve gathered the details you’ll need to plan your trip and get a feel for each spot.

1) Upstate Holiday Light Show

When I drive through the Upstate Holiday Light Show, I always notice millions of colorful lights dancing along with holiday music. The display uses over 32 million lights—yeah, you read that right. It’s one of the biggest in South Carolina.

You stay in your car for the whole thing, tuning your radio to a special station with synced music. It’s kind of cozy and a little retro.

Inside, there’s a Christmas vendor village. Local sellers bring out gifts and decorations, so you can stretch your legs and maybe find something unique.

The show runs every single night, rain or shine. Fridays and Saturdays go a bit later, so you’ve got more time if you’re busy during the week.

Families always seem to love the music playlist. You’ll hear all the classics, and the lights match the songs—it’s a familiar, festive vibe.

Rating: 3.8 (523 reviews)
Location: 148 Crumpton Ln, Easley, SC 29640
Contact: (864) 295-5764
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
November – December	Fri-Sat: 6:00-11:00PM	148 Crumpton Ln, Easley, SCn 29640	Varies	Easley Hotels	https://upstatelights.com/
	Sun-Thurs: 6:00-10:00PM

2) Tiny Town

Every December, I swing by Tiny Town in Easley to check out the handmade miniature buildings, all decked out in Christmas lights. Perry Jennings built the first little log cabin for his wife, Ollie, back in 1974. They just kept adding more, and by 1977, the whole thing glowed with lights.

These days, the Jennings’ kids and grandkids keep Tiny Town going strong. Only 25 of the original 80 buildings are left, but you’ll still spot some of the old handmade pieces. The family keeps adding bigger and brighter displays, and honestly, it’s fun to see what’s new each year.

Tiny Town has turned into a real event for Easley. Thousands of folks come out to see the lights and the tiny village. Even after Perry and Ollie passed away, their family has kept the tradition alive.

Rating: 4.6 (392 reviews)
Location: 555 Latham Rd, Easley, SC 29640
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website Address
December (dates vary, evenings)	Varies by year	555 Latham Rd, Easley, SC 29640	Free	Hotels near Easley	http://www.atlasobscura.com/places/tiny-town-easley-sc

3) Christmas Light Displays

I drove through the Christmas Light Displays in Gray Court, South Carolina, and honestly, it’s a chill local event where families show up every holiday season. The route’s easy to follow, with clear signs and plenty of space for cars.

It never feels crowded, so you can take your time and enjoy each display. The lights are spread out across open fields and along the road. You’ll see classic shapes—stars, candy canes, Santa—nothing too flashy, but it’s peaceful.

I didn’t have trouble parking, and there were no long waits to get in. There aren’t any food vendors or restrooms, so plan ahead. If you want a simple, family-friendly night out, this is a solid pick.

Rating: 4.4 (27 reviews)
Location: 2753 Trinity Church Rd, Gray Court, SC 29645

4) Magnificent Dancing Light Display

I checked out the Magnificent Dancing Light Display in Lexington, South Carolina, last December. The lights move in sync with the music coming from outdoor speakers, and you can just pull up and watch from your car.

The show runs every night in December, starting at dusk. There’s no entry fee, so anyone can swing by.

People seem to really love the creativity here. Reviews are almost all positive, which says a lot.

This light display sits in a residential neighborhood. If you want to avoid crowds, try a weekday or come early. Lexington has a few hotels if you need to stay overnight.

Rating: 5 (52 reviews)
Location: 133 Autumn Oaks Ln, Lexington, SC 29073

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December (daily)	Dusk–10 pm	133 Autumn Oaks Ln, Lexington	Free	Hotels in Lexington on Booking.com	N/A

5) The Great Christmas Light Show

I never miss The Great Christmas Light Show in Little River. It’s huge—over 500 displays line a two-mile drive, and some are 55 feet tall. The lights are custom made, and they switch things up with new scenes and animated figures every year.

The event runs from late November through December, 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. They close on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

After driving through, I like to park and wander through Santa’s Village. There’s food, kids’ activities, and you can meet Santa for free.

Santa’s Village has photo ops, a petting zoo, and a big Christmas tree show. You’ll find fire pits for s’mores, a sleigh ride slide, and even a little train ride for the kids.

Admission depends on your vehicle and the day. You buy tickets at the entrance. Just a heads up—golf carts and trailers aren’t allowed.

Rating: 4.6 (263 reviews)
Location: 150 Citizens Cir, Little River, SC 29566
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Nov 24 – Dec 30, 2025	5:30 pm – 9:30 pm	150 Citizens Cir, Little River, SC	$20-$25 (standard vehicles),	Hotels in North Myrtle Beach	Visit Website
	*Closed Nov 27, Dec 25		$50 (oversized), $100 (bus, Mon-Thurs only)

6) Magical Musical Holiday Light Show, November-December

Each year, I head to Seneca for the Magical Musical Holiday Light Show at Norton Thompson Park. The event runs from November through December.

The lights sync up with holiday music and it really feels festive for everyone. Thousands of lights shape familiar holiday scenes, and I like wandering through the park while classic Christmas songs play.

It’s family-friendly and usually free. The park sits right in downtown Seneca, so it’s easy to find.

Parking’s close by, and lots of people bring warm drinks to sip as they stroll. Take your time—there’s no rush.

Rating: 4.9 (196 reviews)
Location: Norton Thompson Park, 300 Main St, Seneca, SC 29678

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
November-December	Evenings	300 Main St, Seneca, SC 29678	Free	Hotels in Seneca	—

7) Holiday Light Show

I checked out the Holiday Light Show in Lexington, South Carolina. The display sits in a residential neighborhood and stands out for its festive decorations.

People drive through to see the lights, which sync up with music. The creators open it to the public every December, and it draws lots of families and curious locals.

Since there’s no entrance fee, everyone can join in. You’ll notice traffic picking up during show hours, so I’d suggest getting there early if you hate waiting.

Most visitors tune their car radios for the full music-and-lights experience. Just a heads up—there aren’t any food vendors or bathrooms, so plan ahead, especially if you’ve got kids with you.

You’ll find hotels a short drive away in Lexington.

Rating: 5 (6 reviews)
Location: 284 Black Pine Ct, Lexington, SC 29073
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December (TBA)	Evenings	284 Black Pine Ct, Lexington, SC 29073	Free	Hotels in Lexington	Visit Website

8) Wonderland of Temuco Lane – Holiday Light Show

I made my way to the Wonderland of Temuco Lane in Summerville and found a huge holiday light show at a private home. The whole property glows with all sorts of lights and decorations.

Visitors usually drive by to view the lights from the street. The show’s known for its creative setups, and I spotted themed arrangements and even some moving displays.

Families love coming here, and the neighborhood gets pretty lively most December evenings. No entrance fee, which is always nice.

Some people park and walk for a closer look, but the street can get crowded. I’d recommend swinging by early in the evening if you want to avoid the crowds.

Rating: 4.8 (51 reviews)
Location: 104 Temuco Ln, Summerville, SC 29483
Contact: (843) 725-9780

9) Nodine Family Lights

Nodine Family Lights in Inman, South Carolina, has built a solid reputation for its Christmas light display. A local family decorates their home and yard every year with tons of festive lights and decorations.

When I drive by, I see the whole place covered in colorful lights. Most people visit in their cars at night, and families really seem to enjoy the lights and holiday music.

Parking is on the surrounding streets, so showing up early on busy nights is a good idea. There’s no admission fee, which makes it a budget-friendly outing.

The display usually runs from early December through the holidays.

Rating: 4.8 (50 reviews)
Location: 185 Holston Valley Cir, Inman, SC 29349

Dates	Times	Location	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
December 2025*	Dusk–10 p.m.*	185 Holston Valley Cir, Inman, SC 29349	Free	Spartanburg Hotels	N/A

*Based on past years; check later for confirmed details.

10) Holiday Lights on the River

I stopped by Holiday Lights on the River and found a big holiday light display in Columbia, South Carolina. This drive-through event fills a large park with decorated roads and themed light displays.

Families usually drive slowly along the route to take it all in. The event runs from late November to late December.

I noticed different areas with classic holiday scenes, light tunnels, and festive music you can catch on your car radio. They switch up the displays each year, which keeps things fresh for people who visit often.

Parking’s simple, and you can spot the main entrance from St Andrews Road. If you want to skip the long wait, try to arrive early, especially on weekends or right before Christmas.

Hotels sit close by, which is handy if you’re coming from out of town.

Rating: 4 (35 reviews)
Location: 6071 St Andrews Rd, Columbia, SC 29212
Contact: (803) 772-1228

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Late Nov – Late Dec	Evenings (check ahead)	6071 St Andrews Rd, Columbia, SC 29212	Varies	Hotels in Columbia on Booking.com	N/A

11) Christmas Light Show

I visited the Christmas Light Show in Blythewood to check out its holiday displays. There are lots of decorated areas with colorful lights spread across a big property.

The lights form patterns, shapes, and holiday scenes. This event happens seasonally, usually from late November through December.

People drive up to see the lights, and there’s parking on-site. Staff help guests find their way and keep things organized.

I think the best time to arrive is after sunset, when the lights really stand out. Since it’s outdoors, I always dress for the weather.

The location is easy to reach by car from anywhere in South Carolina.

Rating: 5 (9 reviews)
Location: 419 Mt Valley Rd, Blythewood, SC 29016

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Nearby Hotels	Website
Late Nov-Dec*	After sunset	419 Mt Valley Rd, Blythewood, SC	Free*	Booking.com Hotels	N/A

*Check local listings for exact dates and any admission updates.

12) The Christmas House

I found The Christmas House in Inman, South Carolina, and it’s a favorite spot for seeing holiday lights. Every year, the house and yard shine with thousands of lights and Christmas decorations.

Visitors can walk around and check out all the themed displays. Some folks like to take photos, while others just enjoy the lights from their cars.

The atmosphere feels relaxed, and you’ll see plenty of families with kids. Parking is nearby, though weekends get crowded fast.

Most of the displays are outside, so bundle up if it’s cold. There’s no set admission fee, but people sometimes leave donations to help with costs.

If you’re visiting from out of town, you’ll find hotels in Inman and Spartanburg. I’d check local listings for options.

Rating: 4.9 (594 reviews)
Location: 360 Foster Rd, Inman, SC 29349
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Late Nov – Dec 31	Dusk–10pm	360 Foster Rd, Inman, SC 29349	Donation	Booking.com hotels	The Christmas House Facebook

13) Clardy Lightshow

I checked out the Clardy Lightshow in Anderson, South Carolina, and it’s definitely a local favorite during the holidays. The show takes place in a residential area, which gives it a cozy, neighborly vibe.

Thousands of lights and decorations cover the house and yard. The lights form patterns and shapes that really grab your attention.

Visitors can watch from their cars or get out for a closer look. There’s no ticket or entrance fee, so you can just show up and enjoy.

Families visit every year, especially when December nights roll around. Street parking is available, but arriving early helps beat the rush.

Rating: 5 (29 reviews)
Location: 108 North Ave, Anderson, SC 29625
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby (Booking.com)	Website
December (Typical)	Evenings	108 North Ave, Anderson, SC 29625	Free	Click Here for Nearby Hotels	Visit Website

14) Fantasy Of Lights

Every December, I make it a point to visit the Fantasy Of Lights in Sumter. They claim it’s the largest free Christmas light display in South Carolina, and honestly, it feels like it.

Over a million lights fill Swan Lake Iris Gardens. The opening ceremony kicks off December 1 at 6 PM and starts a month of nightly displays.

The lights stretch along the main entrance, parking lots, and nearby streets. It’s mainly a drive-through event, but you can park and walk around to snap photos.

The walking trails in the gardens close after dusk, so you’ll see all the lights from your car or the main paths near the lots. Santa’s Village at the Heath Pavilion brings music, food, hot drinks, and Santa visits on certain nights.

Admission is always free, both for the lights and Santa’s Village. Everything happens outdoors and runs nightly until December 31, with later closing times on weekends.

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Nearby Stay (Booking.com)	Website
Dec 1 – Dec 31, 2025	Sun-Thurs: until 9 PM Fri-Sat: until 10 PM	822 W Liberty St, Sumter, SC 29150	Free	View hotels nearby	Visit Website

Rating: 4.4 (26 reviews)
Location: 822 W Liberty St, Sumter, SC 29150
Contact: (803) 436-2640
Website: Visit Website

15) Carolina Lights

Every year, I go to Carolina Lights because it’s a well-run drive-through holiday park. The event happens at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds in Columbia, so it’s easy to find.

I stay in my car and take my time enjoying all the displays. The lights show off different themes, from classic Christmas scenes to more modern designs.

There’s always a steady line of cars moving along. The event is family-friendly and works for all ages.

Carolina Lights usually runs for several weeks in December. The fairgrounds staff help with traffic and give clear instructions for visiting hours.

Parking is organized and not a hassle.

Rating: 4.6 (11 reviews)
Location: 1200 Rosewood Dr, Columbia, SC 29201
Contact: (803) 799-3387

16) Lisznyai Christmas House

I stopped by the Lisznyai Christmas House in Columbia, South Carolina—a place folks around here know for its local holiday lights. The Lisznyai family goes all out with their display, and every year, neighbors and visitors show up just to see what they’ve put together.

When I visited, I spotted a ton of colorful lights and themed decorations covering the whole yard. People usually drive by, but some get out and walk for a closer look.

There aren’t any ticket booths or organized shows, which honestly makes it feel more relaxed. Families come by in the evenings, snapping photos and just soaking in the atmosphere.

The house doesn’t post official hours, and you won’t find an entry fee. You just show up when you want, which is actually pretty convenient for a spontaneous night out.

Since it’s in a regular neighborhood, you’ll need to park along the street. It’s not fancy, but it works.

Rating: 4.6 (11 reviews)
Location: 725 Formby Dr, Columbia, SC 29223
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby from Booking.com	Website
December (nightly)	Dusk–10pm (approximate)	725 Formby Dr, Columbia, SC 29223	Free	Nearby hotels	Visit Website

17) THE COOK FAMILY CHRISTMAS SHOW

I checked out The Cook Family Christmas Show in Easley, South Carolina. This display lights up every night from December 1 to December 30, running from 6:00pm to 10:30pm.

They mix up the playlist each night, and you can tune in to 107.7 FM from your car. Four different playlists keep things fresh through December, and you’ll find the schedule on their website.

Some of the songs are classics—think “Christmas Vacation,” “God Bless the USA,” and “Carol of the Bells.” The organizers ask everyone to use parking lights instead of headlights if you park.

You don’t need to pay to get in, but they suggest a donation to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation if you’re feeling generous. If you want them to play your favorite song, just shoot them an email through the website.

The show is really set up for families. There’s plenty of space for cars, so you won’t feel crowded.

Rating: 5 (40 reviews)
Location: 200 2 Notch Trail, Easley, SC 29642
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to stay (booking.com)	Website
Dec 1–30, 2024	6:00pm–10:30pm	200 2 Notch Trail, Easley	Free	Easley hotels	easleycooks.com

18) Anderson Lights of Hope

I make it a point to visit Anderson Lights of Hope every holiday season. This place in Anderson, South Carolina, is known for its Christmas light display.

You drive through the park and catch a bunch of light displays. Families usually pile into their cars and check out the lights together.

A non-profit group runs the event. They focus on supporting people with disabilities and offer educational programs for the community.

Volunteers handle most of the organizing and help keep things running smoothly. I think the event’s purpose—helping others—makes it feel a bit more meaningful than your average light show.

They set up a radio station that plays holiday music as you drive through. At the entrance, you’ll see staff and volunteers, and they hand out info about local activities.

Rating: 4.5 (148 reviews)
Location: 150 Rose Valley Blvd, Anderson, SC 29625
Contact: (864) 314-8600
Website: Visit Website

Dates (2025)	Times	Location Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website Address
TBA (Nov-Dec)	TBA (evening)	150 Rose Valley Blvd, Anderson, SC	TBA	View Hotels on Booking.com	andersonlightsofhope.org

19) Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular

I checked out the Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular in Charlotte, North Carolina. Every December, they transform a huge park into a glowing walking path.

For 2024, you can visit from December 5 to December 29, with lights shining every evening. The place bursts to life with over a million lights strung along a half-mile trail.

This year, they’ve added Frosty’s Fun Land, an illuminated playground, an ice castle, and some seriously big displays. Kids will probably love the activities, and on certain nights, you’ll catch live music, performers, and a bunch of food trucks.

Santa shows up every night through December 23. You can grab extras like a light-up wand or hop on the inflatable snow tube slide if you’re feeling adventurous.

Ticket prices change depending on the day and time. At least parking won’t cost you anything.

Rating: 3.4 (15 reviews)
Location: 11611 N Community House Rd, Charlotte, NC 28277
Website: Visit Website

Dates	Times	Address	Cost (General Admission)	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Dec 5–29, 2024 (Closed Dec 25)	5:30pm – 10:00pm nightly	11611 N Community House Rd, Charlotte, NC 28277	$10–$25 (varies by day/time)	Hotels near Ballantyne, Charlotte	https://ncholidaylights.com/