So you’ve decided to spend the holidays on Hilton Head Island? Great choice! Welcome to the holiday season on Hilton Head Island, where the coastal charm meets festive cheer! As the island transforms into a winter wonderland with a touch of that laid-back beach vibe, there's no better time to explore the unique holiday experiences that Hilton Head has to offer. Here's your guide to soaking up the sun, sand, and seasonal spirit.
Dazzling Light Displays
Get ready to be dazzled! Hilton Head doesn't hold back when it comes to holiday lights. Take a drive to see Harbour Town's iconic lighthouse decorated in festive lights and the seasonal figures, or just a few minutes down the street are the twinkling displays at Coligny Plaza. Shelter Cove also features “Holiday Lights for Tis the Season”, where you can park your car and stroll through the lights all season long!
Outdoor Adventures
While you’re waiting for the sun to go down and the Christmas light shows to come up, try a few of these activities during the day! Take the whole family to The Hilton Head Hospital Jingle Jingle 5K Run and Health Walk to burn off some of those extra Christmas cookie calories. We love to see everyone get in the holiday spirit - costumes are encouraged! Afterwards, there will be an award ceremony, featuring a visit from Santa, refreshments, music, prizes, and more. If you’re feeling extra adventurous on New Year’s Eve, try out the Annual Polar Bear Swim! Join the other “polar bears'' by taking a chilling dip in the Harbour Town Pool. Warm up after with hot chocolate and refreshments!
Fun for the Kids
Christmas is such a fun time of year for kids - Santa, the lights, the presents...it’s all so magical! Bring your little ones to Harbour Town for the Little Elf Workshop, where they can enjoy reindeer games & crafts, hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit by the Sea Pines mascot Albert the Alligator! The kids will also receive elf ears and write a letter to Santa Claus. Every Saturday and Sunday throughout the holiday season, they can also drop by Tanger Outlets to meet Santa Claus in the winter wonderland workshop! A photographer will be there to capture these special moments - you can get photos printed onsite and take them home right away to add to your Christmas cards!
Festive Events & Festivals
Mark your calendar because Hilton Head knows how to throw a party! Shelter Cove will hold The Winter Wonderland Festival at the community park. This is a great way to kick off the Holiday celebrations! Also make sure to check out Historic Holidays on Hilton Head Island, a weekend of island traditions featuring authentic food, a holiday market, trolley & bike tours, and a community tree lighting! Lastly, Christmas Village in South Beach starts the Friday after Thanksgiving, where you can walk around and see an unbeatable lights display, write letters to Santa, have some tasty treats...and you can even bring your furry friends for pictures with Santa! Talk about the perfect Christmas card. 😏
New Year’s Eve Extravaganza
Want to extend your vacation through the New Year? Don’t miss the New Year’s Eve ball drop from the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse! This is such a fun way to ring in 2024, with food, fun, entertainment, & live music throughout Harbour Town. The night will wrap up with a countdown as we wait for the ball to drop! There will be two drops at 7:00 pm and midnight. I can’t think of a better way to ring in the New Year than at the beach!
Get ready for a holiday season like no other on Hilton Head Island. Pack your festive spirit and sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable coastal celebration. Happy holidays, y'all! 🌴🎄✨
