20 Holiday Activities for Foster Families in South Carolina

Dec 12, 2024

South Carolina is home to over 3,000 children in care.

By becoming a foster parent in the state, you're making a significant difference in the life of one of these children. And there's no time that matters more than the holidays.

As a foster parent, you might be unsure of what to do during this special time of year. But don't worry - South Carolina is filled with amazing holiday activities for foster families!Mentor Foster Care provides care to children in several cities across South Carolina:

• Mentor Foster Care in Aiken
• Mentor Foster Care in Charleston
• Mentor Foster Care in Columbia
• Mentor Foster Care in Florence
• Mentor Foster Care in Greenville
• Mentor Foster Care in Rock Hill

No matter which city you're near, there are plenty of activities to take advantage of!

Here are 20 incredible holiday activities in South Carolina, separated by city.

Aiken Holiday Activities

Annual Holiday Market at Aiken County Historical Museum

• Location: 433 Newberry Street SW, Aiken, SC 29801
• Dates: December 14, 2024
• Price: Free

Create cherished memories at Aiken's Annual Holiday Market!

On December 14, the historic museum transforms into a festive marketplace featuring local artisans and crafters. Browse handmade gifts together while experiencing the museum's unique charm.

From returning favorites to exciting new vendors, this free event offers the perfect opportunity to share the joy of holiday shopping and local culture.

Discover treasures for everyone on your list - and maybe a special treat to take home - at this welcoming community celebration.

A Christmas Carol at the Aiken Community Theatre

• Location: 126 Newberry Street SW, Aiken, SC 29801
• Dates: December 6-14, 2024
• Price: Contact theatre for current pricing

Share in a story of hope and second chances at A Christmas Carol, where Aiken Community Theatre brings this beloved tale to life in a family-friendly production!

Together, follow Ebenezer Scrooge's journey of transformation as he learns that it's never too late to open your heart to others. The intimate community theatre setting creates a welcoming environment where families can experience live theatre without pressure.

This timeless story offers natural opportunities to connect through its themes of forgiveness and joy. Watch together as the grumpy Scrooge discovers the true meaning of family and friendship, sparked by visits from three Christmas spirits.

After the show, the story's messages of compassion and hope can inspire meaningful conversations during the ride home.

The Nutcracker at The Etherredge Center

• Location: Etherredge Center, 471 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29803
• Dates: Multiple performances in December 2024
• Price: Contact ballet company for current pricing

Experience the enchantment of The Nutcracker, where Aiken Civic Ballet brings this beloved holiday tradition to life.

Watch Clara's magical journey unfold as toy soldiers come to life, snowflakes dance, and the Sugar Plum Fairy twirls through the Land of Sweets. This family-friendly production creates a perfect introduction to the beauty of ballet. It combines storytelling, music, and dance - making the show accessible for all ages.

The theatre opens 30 minutes before each performance, giving families plenty of time to find their seats and settle in comfortably. The familiar story and beautiful Tchaikovsky music create a gentle way to experience live performance together.

Christmas at the Hopelands

• Location: 135 Dupree Place, Aiken, SC 29801
• Dates: December 14-23, 2024
• Price: Free, including shuttle service

Step into a twinkling wonderland at Christmas at Hopelands, where over 100,000 white lights transform garden paths into magical trails perfect for evening walks together.

This free holiday tradition offers multiple ways to enjoy the season at your own pace. Wander two miles of illuminated pathways, or take breaks at welcoming activity stops throughout the gardens.

Inside the historic Rye Patch mansion, children can create holiday crafts and meet Santa in a relaxed setting. The Doll House showcases a special themed display by local garden clubs, while the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame offers a cozy spot to warm up with complimentary hot chocolate, apple cider, and cookies!

Fun and Festive Activities in Charleston

Holiday Festival of Lights

• Location: James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Drive, Charleston, SC 29412
• Dates: November 15 - December 31, 2024
• Price: Park admission plus activity fees (Train: $4, Carousel: $2, Climbing Wall: $3)

Experience one of South Carolina's most beloved holiday traditions at the Holiday Festival of Lights!

This enchanting celebration offers multiple ways to enjoy the season together, from riding the Festival Express train through twinkling light displays ($4) to creating memories on the vintage carousel ($2).

Meet Santa (free through December 23) and capture digital photos of your visit, or explore hands-on activities like the climbing wall ($3) and Reindeer Workshop.

Don't miss the massive holiday sand sculpture crafted from 50 tons of sand, and enjoy seasonal treats at picnic areas throughout the festival grounds.

The event is fully accessible and features plenty of spots to warm up, including Santa's Sweet Shoppe and various gift shops, perfect for finding holiday mementos.

Holiday Charleston Farmers Market

• Location: Marion Square, 329 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403
• Dates: Select December weekends (Saturdays and Sundays)
• Price: Free admission

Share in Charleston's holiday spirit at the Holiday Farmers Market, where Marion Square becomes a festive gathering place!

The market's welcoming atmosphere lets families explore at their own pace, whether you're sampling fresh treats, watching local musicians perform, or creating art at the children's activity stations.

Stroll past colorful vendor stalls filled with local produce, handmade crafts, and holiday treasures, letting each family member pick out something special.

The open-air setting means plenty of space to move around comfortably, and there's no pressure to buy. Sometimes, just enjoying the festive sights and sounds makes the perfect morning out!

Take breaks at the park's benches to enjoy tasty treats and watch street performers, or join in seasonal children's activities that pop up throughout the market.

Festival of Trees at The Charleston Place

• Location: The Charleston Place, 205 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Dates: November 24 - December 31, 2024
• Price: Free

Discover holiday magic together at the Festival of Trees.

This winter, The Charleston Place Hotel's elegant second-floor corridor transforms into an enchanted forest of 16 uniquely decorated Christmas trees. This free indoor activity offers a perfect escape from winter weather, letting families explore each tree's special theme at their own relaxed pace.

Take time to pick favorite trees together, count ornaments, or play "I spy" with the creative decorations crafted by local businesses and organizations.

The hotel's welcoming atmosphere means no pressure to rush - you can spend as much time as you like enjoying the festive display. The indoor setting and comfortable temperatures make this an ideal activity for creating calm holiday memories together.

Since viewing times may vary due to special events, consider calling ahead to confirm access to the second floor. The central downtown location makes this an easy addition to other Charleston adventures, or a memorable destination on its own.

Holidays at the South Carolina Aquarium

• Location: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401
• Dates: Through December 22, 2024 (Santa visits on select weekends)
• Price: Regular admission (Varies from $29 to $33) + special evening event pricing

Create splashing holiday memories at Holidays at the South Carolina Aquarium, where seasonal magic blends with underwater wonder.

Meet Santa in the Great Hall's peaceful setting on select weekends, where shorter lines and a calm atmosphere help make the experience comfortable for everyone. Watch children's eyes light up as diving elves perform alongside sharks and sea turtles in the Great Ocean Tank, creating a uniquely Charleston holiday show.

The gentle "RAYndeer" at The Shallows touch tank welcome careful hands, offering a special way to connect with marine life together. Join the "12 Rays of Fishmas" scavenger hunt at your own pace - there's no rush, and every child receives a prize for participating.

Don't forget to mail your North Pole letters in the special red mailbox!

Ways to Celebrate Christmas/the Holidays in Columbia

Holiday Lights on the River at Saluda Shoals Park

• Location: Saluda Shoals Park, 6071 St Andrews Road, Columbia, SC 29212
• Dates: November 23 - December 31, 2024
• Price: $25 per car (activities included)

Share in the wonder of South Carolina's largest drive-through light show at Holiday Lights on the River!

Begin your evening with a comfortable car ride through three miles of animated displays, where everyone can enjoy the sparkling scenes at their own pace from the familiar setting of your vehicle. The drive itself creates perfect opportunities for quiet conversations and shared moments of discovery.

After your drive, extend the evening with included activities that let everyone participate in their own way. The winter wonder tube slide welcomes adventure-seekers, while the festive train offers a gentler way to experience the lights.

In the Environmental Center, find a peaceful spot to write letters to Santa or take a break from the excitement. The Wetland Trail's laser light show adds extra magic to evening walks together.

Visit Santa on select dates through December 23, or simply enjoy the lights - it's up to you!

Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo

• Location: Riverbanks Zoo, 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210
• Dates: November 15, 2024 - January 12, 2025 (select nights)
• Price: Starts at $20.99

Share an evening of wonder at Wild Lights, where Riverbanks Zoo comes alive with more than 60 glowing animal lanterns!

This walkable experience lets families explore at their own comfortable pace, with plenty of benches and resting spots along the way. Each handcrafted display creates natural opportunities for connection - whether you're counting lights together, sharing favorite animals, or simply enjoying the peaceful evening atmosphere.

The nightly "snowfall" adds extra magic to your visit, while interactive elements throughout the zoo grounds let the whole family participate in ways that feel comfortable.

Fireflies Holiday Lights

• Location: Segra Park, 1640 Freed Street, Columbia, SC 29201
• Dates: November 15, 2024 - January 4, 2025 (closed select dates)
• Price: Contact stadium for current pricing

Experience holiday magic at Fireflies Holiday Lights, where Columbia's favorite baseball stadium transforms into a sparkling wonderland!

The spacious park offers plenty of room to explore at your own pace, with no pressure to rush through the experience. Take breaks on comfortable stadium seats while watching the lights twinkle, or share stories about summer baseball memories as you discover the park's holiday makeover.

The Fireflies Express train provides a gentle way to view the lights together, with seats that let you stay close while taking in the dazzling scenes. Each display creates natural opportunities for connection.

Whether you're counting lights, picking favorites, or simply enjoying each other's company in this unique setting, we know you'll love it.

Holiday Planetarium Lighting at the State Museum

• Location: 301 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC 29201
• Date: December 5, 2024
• Price: Pay-what-you-may admission; Shows $5 each

Ready for space-themed holiday memories?

At Holiday Planetarium Lighting, the State Museum offers a welcoming evening of discovery and wonder. The pay-what-you-may admission ensures everyone can participate in this special celebration, with families choosing a comfort level that works for their budget.

Explore the museum's four floors at your own pace, taking breaks whenever needed. Meet Santa in a calm setting, or get creative together at holiday craft stations.

The planetarium's special holiday dome lighting provides a magical moment everyone can enjoy together, while Rudolph in 4D and the new Áróra planetarium show offer gentle entertainment options with ASL interpretation available.

Weather permitting, visit the Boeing Observatory to share the wonder of the night sky. Live jazz music creates a peaceful atmosphere throughout the museum, and The Crescent Café provides a cozy spot for snacks and quiet conversations.

Florence

Downtown Holiday Music and Lights Experience

• Location: 100 Block of S. Dargan Street, Florence, SC 29501
• Dates: Through December 31, 2024
• Price: Free

Share in Florence's holiday spirit at Downtown Holiday Music and Lights!

Here, synchronized lights and music create a gentle, immersive experience perfect for foster families. This free walk-through display offers a low-pressure way to enjoy the season together. Shows repeat every 25 minutes, so there's no rush to arrive at a specific time or worry about missing anything.

The pedestrian-friendly setting lets everyone move at their own comfortable pace. Take time to watch the lights dance to holiday music, find a quiet spot to observe the show, or walk through multiple times to pick favorite moments.

The open space means plenty of room to spread out, and benches along the route provide perfect resting spots for enjoying the twinkling display.

Located in the heart of downtown Florence, this accessible evening activity creates natural opportunities for holiday connection without any admission cost. Visit any evening through December 31.

Sometimes the simplest traditions become the most meaningful!

Ice Skating at Florence Center

• Location: Florence Center, 3300 W Radio Drive, Florence, SC 29501
• Dates: December 6-15, 2024
• Price: $12 including skate rental

Share winter fun together skating at Florence Center Rink!

This indoor setting creates a comfortable environment for trying something new, whether you're holding hands for first steps on the ice or cheering each other's progress around the rink.

Skating aids are available to help build confidence, and the controlled indoor temperature means you can focus on making memories rather than battling the weather.

The rink welcomes skaters of all abilities, making it a perfect activity for families to learn and grow together. Take breaks in the viewing area to warm up, share hot chocolate, and plan your next adventure on the ice!

Elf Jr. at the Florence Little Theatre

• Location: Florence Little Theatre, 417 S Dargan Street, Florence, SC 29506
• Dates: December 13-15, 2024
• Price: $7 per person, reserved seating

Experience the joy of live theater together at Elf, Jr!

Florence Little Theatre presents a family-friendly musical that runs just 60 minutes - perfect for first-time theater experiences. This heartwarming story about finding where you belong follows Buddy the Elf as he discovers his true family, creating natural opportunities to talk about acceptance, love, and the meaning of home.

The intimate community theater setting provides a welcoming environment where families can enjoy the show without pressure. Reserved seating means no stress about where to sit, and the affordable ticket price helps make live theater accessible for everyone.

Before the show, arrive early to explore the theater lobby together and get comfortable in your seats.

Greenville Activities to Get into the Holiday Spirit

Ice Skating at United Community Bank Ice on Main

• Location: Village Green, 206 S Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601
• Dates: November 25, 2024 - Early January 2025 (closed Christmas Day)
• Price: $10-12 per person, under 2 free

Experience winter magic at Ice on Main, where downtown Greenville's Village Green transforms into a welcoming outdoor skating paradise!

Each hour-long session gives families plenty of time to find their confidence on the ice together, with skating aids and patient staff ready to help beginners. Take breaks on nearby benches to enjoy hot chocolate and watch skaters glide past twinkling city lights.

The rink welcomes all skill levels, with weekday mornings often providing calmer sessions for those who prefer quieter times.

Children under 2 skate free, and rental skates are included with every ticket.

Winter WONDERLand at The Children's Museum of the Upstate

• Location: 300 College Street, Greenville, SC 29601
• Date: December 14, 2024
• Price: $13-16, member discounts available

As much fun as a children's museum is year-round, imagine the fun it brings at the most wonderful time of the year!

See for yourself at Winter WONDERLand on December 14, 2024, as The Children's Museum of the Upstate transforms into a festive playground.

From 9 AM to 4:30 PM, children can write letters to Santa, create their own reindeer food, and explore special holiday activities throughout the museum. Santa himself will even make a special appearance from the North Pole! Tickets range from $13-16, with member discounts available.

While some regular exhibits will remain open for play, the museum focuses on creating unique holiday experiences and crafts perfect for foster families making winter memories together!

Downtown Greenville's Festival of Trees

• Location: Multiple downtown hotels, Greenville, SC 29601
• Dates: November 22 - December 31, 2024
• Price: Free

Marvel at a forest of holiday spirit at the Festival of Trees, a cherished 39-year tradition lighting up downtown Greenville starting November 22, 2024!

More than 50 uniquely decorated trees, sponsored by local florists, schools, and organizations, sparkle throughout the lobbies of the Courtyard Marriott and Hyatt Regency.

This free display supports a meaningful cause - helping establish a Graduate Medical Education program at Bon Secours St. Francis to keep future doctors in the Upstate community.

With so many trees to choose from, you can ask kids to keep an eye out for their favorite. It's a great way to start conversations and find out what the kids in your care get excited about!

Visit anytime during hotel lobby hours to experience this magical tribute to the season.

Rockin Around Rock Hill's Christmas Trees

Founders Ice Skating Rink

• Location: 205 Saluda Street, Rock Hill, SC 29730
• Dates: November 16, 2024 - January 19, 2025 (closed Mondays)
• Price: $15 per person, includes skate rental

Glide into winter fun at Founders Ice Skating Rink in downtown Rock Hill!

From November 16, 2024, through January 19, 2025, this spacious 50' x 85' real ice rink offers the perfect setting for creating family memories. Open six days a week (closed Mondays), the rink welcomes skaters of all ages and abilities.

The all-inclusive $15 admission includes skate rental, making it simple to enjoy this classic winter activity together.

Walking Trails at Glencairn Garden

• Location: 725 Crest Street, Rock Hill, SC 29730
• Dates: Year-round
• Price: Free

Discover peaceful winter moments at Glencairn Garden, where decorated pathways connect three of Rock Hill's beloved parks.

This free, pet-friendly trail system winds through quiet neighborhoods, linking the garden's landscapes with Winthrop Lake and Cherry Park.

The clearly marked paths offer an easy way for foster families to experience nature's winter beauty while getting some fresh air together. (As much as we all love holiday movies, everyone needs a break from TV time!)

During the holiday season, the garden's traditional decorations add an extra touch of magic to your walk!

Heartfelt Stories from Other Foster Parents - Just in Time for the Holidays

It's heartwarming to hear stories from other foster parents who know what it's like - especially with the holiday season coming.

Hear stories from parents who have been there with Letters Written with Love, a collection of letters from foster parents to the children in their care.

Access your free copy now, and experience the love, hope, and joy of foster parents just before the holidays!

Foster Care