Holiday Lights and Tree at Shelter Cove Towne Centre

Holiday Happenings on Hilton Head Island

By Hilton Head Insider

Get ready to deck the halls and embrace the festive spirit—Hilton Head Island is celebrating the holidays like nowhere else! As the season unfolds, America's Favorite Island® transforms into a coastal wonderland filled with twinkling lights, warm ocean breezes, and unique Lowcountry traditions. Ready to trade snow for sunshine and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year? Here's your guide to some of the season's must-see holiday happenings!

Holidays at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina

Ever wonder what holiday magic looks like by the sea? During the festive season, Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina becomes a coastal wonderland. Shimmering lights reflect off the water, a dazzling Christmas tree takes center stage, and Santa himself makes special appearances!

Take a stroll along the twinkling docks with a warm cup of cocoa in hand, exploring the charming local boutiques and shops. Then, settle in for a delicious meal at one of the seven waterfront restaurants—perfect for soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Holiday Pops with the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra

Add a symphonic sparkle to your Lowcountry holiday festivities with the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra's Holiday Pops! On December 1st and 2nd, enjoy enchanting performances featuring Broadway star Meredith Inglesby, the talented Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra Chorus, the Hilton Head Dance Theatre, and cellist Jaia Alli as they bring timeless pieces like Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker and Lalo's Cello Concerto to life.

CAYMUS for the Holidays!

Wine enthusiasts, this one's for you! On December 4th, start the festive season with a special evening devoted to lovers of Cabernet Sauvignon at Caymus for the Holidays. Hosted by Nunzio Restaurant + Bar, Chef Nunzio prepares a delectable winter menu perfectly paired with the celebrated wines of Caymus Vineyards. Meet Brandon Lewis, representing the renowned wines from founder Chuck Wagner, and learn about the rich history and traditions of this beloved family of winemakers.

Winter Wonderland Festival

Save the date for December 6th, and join the fun at Shelter Cove Community Park’s annual Winter Wonderland Festival! This free, family-friendly event is packed with fun activities, including carnival games, a charming children’s parade, and the exciting Golden Candy Cane Hunt. With holiday cheer around every corner, it’s the perfect way to create magical memories for kids and kids-at-heart alike!

santa with a child in front of a christmas tree

Holiday Wine Tasting at The Westin

Raise a glass to the season at The Westin's Holiday Wine Tasting on December 6th! Savor bold Italian wines that capture the flavors of the season in a cozy, intimate setting. Perfect for wine lovers or anyone looking to add a touch of sophistication to their Lowcountry celebrations, this event is a toast to the best of the Lowcountry.

The Greenery's Holiday Market

Are you searching for that perfect holiday gift? On December 7th, The Greenery Garden Center transforms into a festive wonderland for The Greenery's Holiday Market! Spend the afternoon strolling through 12 local vendor booths brimming with unique gifts and seasonal goodies. It's a wonderful opportunity to support local artisans and find unique presents for everyone on your list.

Hilton Head Choral Society's "A Night Divine" Holiday Concert

Get into the spirit of the season at the Hilton Head Choral Society's "A Night Divine" Holiday Concert on December 13th! This annual performance is a community favorite, featuring an eclectic variety of traditional carols as well as lighter seasonal tunes, along with special guest singers from the Colleton County High School Chorus.

Brunch with Santa at Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar

Make your Sunday merry and bright with a special brunch at Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar on December 15th. Not only will you indulge in a delicious meal, but Santa himself will be stopping by for complimentary photos! It's a morning filled with good food, great company, and plenty of seasonal magic.

A Lowcountry Christmas

Our community's diversity shines brightly during A Lowcountry Christmas! Returning for a second year on December 15th and 16th, this festive concert brings together some of the Lowcountry's most talented artists. Enjoy Gullah Gospel, Venezuelan guitar and vocals, Sinatra with a Latin flair, Peruvian violin melodies, Motown Christmas classics, and American holiday favorites galore! With performances by Terry Herron, Scott Gibbs, and other fabulous local talent, this celebration is a joyful showcase of the rich cultural tapestry that makes Hilton Head Island so special.

Group of people toasting with wine glasses

Polar Pines Express Wagon Ride

Hop aboard the Polar Pines Express Wagon Ride for an enchanting journey to Hilton Head Island’s very own version of the North Pole at The Sea Pines Resort. This enchanting experience will take place on select dates in December, and it includes festive activities, creative crafts, hot chocolate, and a special reading of The Polar Express.

Carolina Jasmine's 1st Annual Holiday Market

Mark your calendars—December 19th brings Carolina Jasmine's 1st Annual Holiday Market, a festive new Lowcountry event you won’t want to miss! Wander through a delightful array of handcrafted goods made by talented local artists—perfect for finding those one-of-a-kind gifts. Enjoy live entertainment that captures the spirit of the season, and participate in four engaging holiday workshops suitable for all ages.

Jingle Jingle Bridge Run

Grab your sneakers, dress in your festive best, and run your way into the season! Join the fun at the annual Jingle Jingle Bridge Run on December 22nd, a holiday tradition for families, friends, and runners of all levels. This spirited 5K and 10K race takes you over the scenic Broad Creek bridge, with jingle bells, costumes, and a post-race celebration complete with refreshments, music—and maybe even a surprise visit from Santa himself!

Sandy Sledding at Sea Pines

Who needs snowy slopes when you have the sandy shores of Hilton Head Island? On December 27th, the Sea Pines Beach Club transforms into a holiday wonderland for Sandy Sledding! Gather your crew, get creative designing your sled, and hit the dunes for some Lowcountry-style fun. It's a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that you won't find anywhere else.

Harbour Town Lights & Festivities

Sometimes, the best holiday memories come from the simplest of plans. All season long, throughout November and December, stroll through Harbour Town and enjoy the dazzling display of lights, live entertainment, and charming vendors.

And the celebration doesn’t stop there! On December 31st, gather beneath the Harbour Town Lighthouse for a spectacular New Year’s Eve Celebration. With delicious food, live music, and dancing, this unforgettable night ends with the iconic golf ball drop from the lighthouse. It’s the perfect way to ring in the new year, Lowcountry style!

A Holiday Season to Remember

Here on Hilton Head Island, the holidays shine brighter with endless festive activities and events—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Lowcountry. So come and celebrate the season island-style, where you can soak up the sunshine and festive cheer all in the same place.

Ready to start planning your holiday getaway? Visit our Hilton Head Island Holiday Event Calendar to see what’s happening during your visit to America's Favorite Island®. Happy holidays!