Ducklinks’ 7 Favorite Family-Friendly Holiday Events in Greenville, South Carolina

When it comes to holiday cheer, Ducklinks knows Greenville, South Carolina, has more to offer than we could ever fit into a single list. We tried to narrow it down to our top 7 family-friendly events—but honestly, we couldn’t leave any of these out!

Grab your scarves and cocoa, and cozy up to read about Ducklinks’ festive picks for holiday fun in Greenville.

1. Poinsettia Christmas Parade

Nothing says “holiday kickoff” quite like the Poinsettia Christmas Parade! This annual tradition lights up the streets of downtown Greenville, showcasing brightly decorated floats from local businesses, marching bands, and, of course, a very jolly visitor from the North Pole. Don’t forget to grab a spot early—those sidewalks fill up fast!

2. Festival of Trees at the Hyatt Regency

Kicking off on November 22nd, the Hyatt Regency and Marriott Courtyard downtown transform into glittering wonderlands for the 39th Annual Festival of Trees. The Festival of Trees is a holiday tradition that combines festivity with heartwarming stories. Dozens of creatively decorated Christmas trees line the hotel lobby and public areas, each sponsored and designed by local businesses and organizations.

Strolling through this dazzling display is completely free, making it perfect for a relaxed family outing. The Courtyard has a smaller collection, but is conveniently located next to Ice on Main (see #7 below)!

3. Kringle Holiday Village

A relatively new tradition in Greenville, Kringle Holiday Village, has quickly earned its spot as one of our favorite holiday traditions. This European-inspired Christmas market, held this year at the Greenville Convention Center December 5- 7, is packed with holiday cheer.

Stroll past charming vendor booths offering everything from handcrafted gifts to delicious seasonal treats like warm pretzels and mulled cider. Kids can enjoy craft activities and visits with Santa, while parents can sip on holiday-themed beverages. The twinkling lights and festive music will have everyone in your family feeling merry and bright.

4. Greenville Symphony Holiday at Peace

For families who love music, Holiday at Peace with the Greenville Symphony Orchestra is a must-see. This annual concert, hosted at the Peace Center, brings together a perfect blend of classic holiday tunes, ballet, and holiday magic. From timeless carols to modern arrangements, the performance is both uplifting and inspiring.

Ducklinks Tip: Arrive early to explore the Peace Center’s beautifully decorated lobby—it’s an experience in itself!

5. Christmas at the Farm with Evergreen Traditions

Step into a real-life winter wonderland at Christmas at the Farm, hosted by Evergreen Traditions. Located just outside of Greenville, at Arran Farm, guests can enjoy hot chocolate, s'mores, arts and crafts for kids, and of course beautiful pre-cut Fraser firs.

This is the ideal picturesque down-to-earth way to celebrate the season, complete with a touch of rustic charm. Be sure to buy tickets in advance and get ready to create lasting holiday memories!

6. The Nutcracker with the International Ballet

No holiday season is complete without a trip to see The Nutcracker, performed by the talented International Ballet. This timeless tale, set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, transports audiences to a magical world of toy soldiers, sugar plum fairies, and snow-covered forests.

The stunning costumes and graceful choreography are sure to captivate children and adults alike. For many families in Greenville, this cherished performance has become an annual tradition, marking the true start of the Christmas season.

7. United Community Ice on Main

From November 25, 2024, to January 20, 2025, enjoy outdoor ice skating in downtown Greenville. This annual tradition provides a festive atmosphere for skaters of all ages and experience levels.

This small open-air rink provides a fun and festive atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights and holiday music. Be sure to buy tickets in advance and book ice skating aids (i.e., the adorable whales) in advance!

Greenville’s holiday season is overflowing with opportunities to make memories with your family, and these 7 events represent the best of what the city has to offer. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the season, these family-friendly festivities are sure to fill your heart (and your calendar) with holiday joy.