Hometown Holidays Festival in Lake City: A Christmas Wonderland

Get ready to experience the magic of the holiday season at Lake City’s annual Hometown Holidays festival, taking place this year from December 6th to December 8th! Historic downtown Lake City will come alive with sparkling lights, festive music, and heartwarming events, making it the perfect Christmas destination for families and visitors of all ages.

3 Days of Holiday Fun: December 6-8

Lake City’s historic downtown will transform into a winter wonderland over three days, featuring over 40 holiday-inspired activities that blend tradition with the town’s unique artistic charm. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the weekend, there’s plenty to look forward to.

After Dark Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony

The festivities kick off on December 6th with the much-anticipated After Dark Christmas Parade. Watch as the streets of downtown Lake City glow with dazzling light displays from elaborately decorated floats, accompanied by marching bands, dancers, and community groups. Santa Claus and his friends will make a special appearance, bringing extra holiday cheer.

The Tree Lighting Ceremony will serve as the grand finale ofthe parade. Gather in the heart of downtown on the East Main Green to watch the official lighting of the towering Christmas tree, which will be illuminated in a magical display of twinkling lights. This momentous occasion will mark the official start of the holiday season in Lake City, spreading joy to everyone in attendance.

Children’s Play Village: Jingle Bell Junction

New this year, kids can experience their very own pint-sized play village located in the J.P. Matthews Breezeway! Step into a miniature winter wonderland, complete with a festive town square and downtown shops, all decorated for the holidays. Parents can take a break from shopping and relax while the little ones enjoy this imaginative space.

Downtown Wine Stroll

On December 7th, the fun continues with the Downtown Wine Stroll! Adults can enjoy sipping holiday-inspired drinks like mulled apple cider, select wines, and punches as they wander through Lake City’s beautifully decorated streets. There will also be hot cocoa and sweet treats for the kids, making this a family-friendly event. Local shops and restaurants will join in the festivities by offering holiday deals and special surprises for all who attend.

Ongoing Holiday Events Throughout the Festival

Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including live music, dance troupe performances, and appearances by Santa and his friends. Children can take part in crafting activities like make & take ornaments, face painting, and writing letters to Santa, while adults can find unique gifts from local merchants.

As you explore the beautifully decorated streets, don’t forget to pop into Lake City’s local shops, restaurants, and salons, many of which will be offering holiday specials. Whether you’re sipping on hot cocoa, browsing for gifts, or indulging in a festive meal, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Look for the Hometown Holidays decal in the window of participating locations!

Plan Your Trip to Lake City for Hometown Holidays

With so much to see and do, Lake City’s Hometown Holidays festival is the perfect reason to plan a holiday getaway. From the glowing After Dark Christmas Parade to the whimsical children’s play village, this festival is packed with festive activities that capture the true spirit of the season. Pack up the kids, invite your friends, and experience how Lake City celebrates the ART of Christmas this December!

Mark your calendars for December 6-8 and get ready for a magical holiday experience in Lake City! For a complete event schedule and listing of participating locations, check out the Festivals & Events page at visitlakecitysc.com and follow @downtownlakecityhometownholiday on Facebook for updates.