Winter is often synonymous with Christmas. And Greenville has some great holiday celebrations and activities. But what about those other two pesky months of January and February? Well I think Greenville is a bit quieter during these months, but there are still a few things to do.
Winter is also one of my favorite seasons to be outside in the Upstate. Yes it does get cold, but we also get several days in the 50s, 60s, and even 70s. And I take full advantage of them. So, without further adieu, here are 20+ things to do in Greenville in winter.
Updated for the 2023-2024 season!
Looking for my other guides? I’ve broken down spring, summer, and fall as well!
Holiday City Events
Window Wonderland
Starting in December
Window shopping has never been so fun! Downtown merchants transform Main Street into a holiday wonderland for residents and visitors to enjoy. Visitors can stroll the streets and vote for their favorite merchant display every December.
Night of Lights
Friday December 1, 2023: 5:30pm-8:30pm
Come watch the city light up the 30ft Christmas tree located in front of M. Judson Booksellers. There will be food trucks and vendors, live music, and even Santa. The tree lighting itself will be between 6:15pm and 6:30pm.
Poinsettia Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 9, 2023: 6pm
This parade has been going on for 75 years so you know it’s a tradition. There’ll be floats, dancing, music, and of course Santa. (I mean it’s a Christmas parade after all.) The parade procession will go up Main Street from River street to North Street. So make sure to stake out a good spot early!
Poinsettia Postcards
Starting in December
Local nonprofits and school groups construct and decorate grand holiday postcards displayed throughout Greenville’s Main Street plazas.
Travelers Rest Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 2, 2023: 10:00am
Travelers Rest’s annual parade. And it’s on a different day than Greenville (if you love parades and want to go to both.) Plus stop by the Trailblazer Park afterwards for the Very Merry Christmas Market.
Holiday Markets
Greenville has a lot of holiday markets this year! So many that I’ve put together another article just about the markets. Check there for location, dog friendly status, and other details. But below is a quick rundown if you’d liek an overview!
Indie Craft Parade Holiday Pop Up Shop
Friday, November 3 through Sunday, December 24: 11:00am-5:00pm
Fridays, Saturdays, + Sundays only
Indie Craft Parade Mini Markets
Saturday, December 2: 11am–3pm
Saturday, December 9: 11am–3pm
Saturday, December 16: 11am–3pm
Camperdown Holiday Market
Sunday, November 26: 12:00pm-2pm
Greenville Christmas Market
Friday, November 24 through Sunday, December 31
TR Farmer’s Market: Small Biz Saturday
Saturday, November 25: 12pm-3pm
Holiday Fair
Thursday, November 30: 10am-8pm
Friday, December 1: 10am-8pm
Saturday, December 2: 10am-8pm
TD Saturday Market Holiday Edition
Saturday, December 9: 9am-1pm
Holiday Flea at Swamp Rabbit Cafe
Saturday, December 2: 10am-3pm
Saturday, December 9: 10am-3pm
Saturday, December 16: 10am-3pm
Saturday, December 23: 10am-3pm
Greer Farmers Market: Christmas Festival
Thursday, December 7: 10am-2pm
Friday, December 8: 10am-2pm
TR Farmers Market: Very Merry Local Christmas Market
Saturday, December 9: 12pm-4pm
Read Next: Shop Local at Greenville’s Holiday Markets
Holiday Light Displays
Festival of Trees
November 17 through December 25
Downtown Greenville
View decorated trees along the entranceways of three hotels in downtown Greenville.
Upstate Holiday Light Show
November 23 (Thanksgiving) through December 31 (New Years Eve)
6:00pm-10/11:00pm
District Park
$35 to drive through
Anderson Christmas Lights
November 23 (Thanksgiving) through December 25 (Christmas)
5:30pm-10:00pm
Near the Anderson Civic Center
$10 per car
Holiday Lights Safari
November 17 through December 31 (New Years Eve)
5:30pm-9:00pm
Hollywild
$10 per adult/child
Night of Lights
Friday December 1, 2023: 5:30pm-8:30pm
Tree lighting ceremony in front of M. Judson Booksellers
Greer Christmas Tree Lighting
Friday, December 1: 5:00pm – 8:00pm
Head to Greer for this lighting event. Plus Santa will even show up around 7:15pm.
Roper Mountain Science Center: Holiday Laser Shows in the Planetarium
Friday December 8 | Saturday December 9
4:30pm | 6:00pm | 7:30pm
Friday December 15 | Saturday December 16
4:30pm | 6:00pm | 7:30pm | 9:00pm
Three shows a night for the first weekend and then 4 shows a night the following weekend.
$8 per ticket per show.
Holidays at the Zoo
December 8 through December 10
December 15 through December 23
December 26 through December 30
4pm-8pm
To see the lights, be sure to go after dark (advance tickets recommended).
Holiday Music & Shows
A couple of years ago I went to go see the “Christmas On The Rocks” at the Warehouse Theatre, and it was awesome. I’ve also seen a few Christmas plays at the Greenville Theatre, like the Sherlock Holmes Christmas one in 2017, and I loved it. So every year I take a look at the holiday shows to see if there’s anything that strikes my fancy.
All is Calm
Centre Stage
December 1-17, 2023
Wonderful Christmastime
Centre Stage
December 12, 2023
The Nutcracker
Peace Center: Carolina Ballet
December 1 – 3, 2023
The Nutcracker
Peace Center: International Ballet
December 8-10, 2023
Governor’s School’s Winter Dance Performance
Peace Center
December 9-10, 2023
Holidays At Peace
Peace Center
December 15 – 17, 2023
Celtic Woman: Christmas Symphony Tour 2023
Peace Center
December 18, 2023
Leann Rimes – Joy: The Holiday Tour
Peace Center
December 19, 2023
Holiday Events & Parties
Here’s a roundup of some of the best parties / celebrations I’ve heard about this holiday season. This list is always a work in progress as I hear about new events.
Holiday Events with Multiple Dates
Miracle | Southernside Brewing
December 8-29
Every Saturday, Santa will be there 1pm-5pm
This brewery will transform into a winter wonderland and holiday pop-up bar. Complete with decor, special menu, and special events throughout the month.
Elf’d Up | Up On The Roof
November 24 through December
Holiday pop-up bar.
Greenville Gingerbread House Display | Residence Inn / Springhill Suites
December 1st until December 26th
View gingerbread creations from celebrated local chefs and restaurants in a winter wonderland-themed lobby.
Kringle Holiday Village | Flour Field
Friday, December 8 – Sunday December 10
Santa’s village comes to Flour Field. This European-styled holiday market will include vendors, rides, music, Santa, food, and a beer garden. Plus a fireworks show Saturday night at 7:55pm. Tickets are $15.
Holidays at the Zoo | Greenville Zoo
December 8-10, 15-23, 26-30
Visit during the day to enjoy the Christmas decorations and see your favorite animals OR visit in the evening to check out the enchanting light displays (advance tickets recommended).
Gingerbread House Making | 13 Stripes Brewery
December 7 & December 13: 7pm-9pm
Gingerbread house making. $20 gets you all the supplies and your first beer.
One-Time Holiday Events
Sithmas | Liability Brewing Co
Friday, December 1: 5:00pm – 10:00pm
A celebration of Christmas and the dark side (by drinking 9 different dark beers on tap)!
Night of Lights | In front of M. Judson Booksellers
Friday, December 1: 5:30pm – 8:30pm
Official lighting of Greenville’s 30ft Christmas tree.
Greer Christmas Tree Lighting | Greer City Park
Friday, December 1: 5:00pm – 8:00pm
Head to Greer for this lighting event. Plus Santa will even show up around 7:15pm.
A Very Grateful Christmas | Grateful Brew
Saturday, December 9: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Photoshoot with Santa for children & dogs, seasonal drinks (coffee & beer), and a food truck. Photoshoot participants are asked to bring a donation (see details in link above). Registration is recommended.
Xmas Tree Making Class | 13 Stripes Brewery
December 14: 7pm
After watching a demo, each participant will be able to design and build their very own custom Ornament. Ticketed Event.
Ugly Sweater Christmas Party | Fireforge Crafted Beer
Friday, December 15: 6:00pm – 10:00pm
Put on that sweater and head to Fireforge for their annual party – complete with live music. Note that most Fireforge parties are not dog friendly.
Miracle at Southernside: Ugly Sweater Party | Southernside Brewery
Friday, December 15
Bust out your ugly sweaters and head to Miracle at Southernside! Whether it’s tacky or just plain festive… come dressed in your best holiday attire and join us for an all-day party.
Darkest Night | Grateful Brew
Thursday, December 21
Celebrate the winter solstice with Grateful Brew. You can receive a commemorative 5oz tasting glass to enjoy pours from a curated selection of dark specialty beers.
Ugly Sweater Party | 13 Stripes Brewery
Friday, December 21: 6pm-10pm
Head to Taylors Mill for this party featuring an ugly Christmas sweater contest, beer releases, and live music.
Miracle at Southernside: Family Friendly Holiday Bash | Southernside Brewery
Saturday, December 23
We’re throwing a huge, all-day-long, family-friendly holiday party! With entertainment for the whole family, and plenty of specialty seasonal cocktails + craft brews for grown-ups!
Cut Down Your Own Christmas Tree
I hate fake trees. My family always used to go to a Farmer’s Market and get our own tree. But since I’ve moved to South Carolina, Ryan and I now go and cut down our own tree. Well actually we go to a farm and pick out our tree, and then have someone experienced with a chainsaw cut it down. But you can do it yourself if you want.
Our favorite spot? Moss Tree Farm in Cashiers North Carolina. But there are other places you can go. I’ve put together an article covering all of the nearby options. Below are just a few nearby.
Read Next: Find the Best Christmas Tree Farms Near Greenville, SC
New Years Eve Parties
Here’s a roundup of some of the best parties / celebrations I’ve heard about so far for NYE! Listed alphabetically by the bar/restaurant/brewery.
I have yet to add these for this year! So Sorry!
Food + Drink
Try Some Holiday Food & Drinks
I love me some holiday themed drinks. Beers, coffees, lattes, and maybe even smoothies. And hello holiday treats. There’s a reason I gain like 10 pounds every December.
I’ve tried in previous years to list some of the drinks, but they are announced / removed quickly. I’d suggest checking the instagram of your favorite coffeeshop to see what seasonals they have available.
I usually have luck with:
Read Next: Where To Find the Best Coffee in Greenville, SC
Restaurant Week
January 11-21, 2024
Yes Greenville has two restaurant weeks! And the one in the winter is actually my favorite. It gets me out of the house on a dreary January week and into an amazing restaurant. I make an effort to eat at one new place every time Restaurant Week rolls around and this year you can bet that I’ll be keeping to tradition.
Do-It-Yourself Brewery Tour
Greenville has a great brewery scene. So for my birthday one year (which is in the winter), I planned my own brewery tour. Luckily I got Ryan to be my driver and we spent the day hitting up my favorite breweries around town. Different friends joined in at different parts, and we spent the day trying loads of different beers. Now we didn’t hit them all, but it was a great way to spend a Saturday birthday.
And now there are even more breweries in town for our next DIY tour! Check out all of the Greenville’s breweries and plan your own!
Read Next: Discover the Best Breweries in Greenville, SC
Winter Activities
Go Skating At Ice On Main
November 15, 2023 through January 15, 2024
I think Ice On Main is one of the most quintessential winter activities in Greenville. Open past Christmas, this isn’t just a holiday thing. And it’s open almost everyday during its run (check for holiday hours though as they are different on key days, and closed on Christmas). Tickets cost $10 and include rentals.
In order to control capacity levels, rink admission will be limited. Buying your tickets online and in advance is strongly recommended to guarantee skating.
Skating on the Big Ice
December 16 through December 30
Skate on the ice rink at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena! Tickets are $15 and include rentals. Check the schedule for exact hours and days they are open.
Valentine’s 80’s Dance Party
NOT YET SCHEDULED
Come party at 13 Stripes for their annual Valentine’s Day 80’s dance party. Where your best 80’s costume and get ready to party. There are prizes for best hair, best dressed, and best 80’s dance moved. 21+ and free to attend!
Yuletide Magic: Escape Room
Try Escape Room’s holiday themed adventure! Gather 4-8 family/friends together for this one hour experience. I’ve done one escape room in the past and loved it! And I’m thinking of treating my family to one this holiday season.
Axe Throwing
So in the past couple of years, Greenville’s ax throwing scene has really grown (in that we have 2 options now). I’ve only been to The Blue Ox, but I loved doing it. And it’s the perfect winter activity in my mind.
Go For A Hike
Hiking? In the winter? You might think that sounds odd. But it’s actually one of my favorite seasons to hit the trails. Several years ago I used a warm Saturday to tackle Table Rock.
I later went back and hiked it again in the spring, and I can tell you it was much nicer to do the climb in 55 degree weather than 80. Just make sure you get there early since it will get darker sooner (something we didn’t quite account for).
Another easier option I love is to head to Paris Mountain State Park for the afternoon.
Snow Day
This may only happen once a year. But yes it does snow in Greenville. And I urge you to take advantage of it. As someone who lived for several years up north where snow was not a rarity, it took me awhile to appreciate it. But now I look forward to our annual “snowstorm.” It never lasts very long (usually melting in just 24 hours). So get out there. Build a snowman. Go for a walk downtown to see the Falls bedazzled with the white stuff. I know you can’t do this everyday, so I debated to include it. But I like having it here as a reminder to simply be a kid when you can and enjoy the snow.
Read Next: 20 Photos of Greenville in the Snow
Arts, Crafts, & Music
Toasty Farmer
November 30, 2023 through March 2024
Every Saturday: 11:00am-2:00pm
Every Saturday from December to March, Fireforge has a kind of farmer’s market / craft show right in their brewery. I went a couple of times last year and bought bread, arugula, cheese, and earrings for my sister’s birthday. So it’s a pretty big mix of different farmers, crafters, and artists. Oh and there are food trucks on site as well.
Sporting Events
Swamp Rabbits Hockey Game
Okay so you know Greenville has a very popular minor league baseball team, but what about hockey? Meet the Swamp Rabbits. Though the name has changed over time, I still love to go and watch a game. (Hockey being one of my favorite sports to watch in person.) And with lots of tickets for under $20, this is a great way to beat the winter blues.
Winter Trips
Day Trip to Asheville To See The Biltmore
Okay so I may or may not go to Asheville every season, but there’s a reason I waited until winter to include it. The Biltmore is amazing. Think a castle located just an hour or so away. And during the holiday season, everything is decorated. I’ve been to the estate a few times, but seeing it in December was probably my favorite.
Take A Ski Getaway
The mountains nearby might make any west coaster scream in frustration, but if you’re craving some slope time, there are several options. A few years ago Ryan and I headed to Sugar Mountain. It’s a large-ish mountain with several options. And we got there on a great weekend, cold enough for some real snow but before the sleeting started.
Check out this article for some other nearby options.
My company asks employees to submit photos for possible use on our company Christmas cards (ones we send to our clients…we don’t sell them). I really like one of your photos of the Reedy River falls in winter, and I think it would be a winner for the Christmas card. The submitter of the prize-winning photo get a “whopping” $100 VISA gift card. How can I get your permission to use your photo? I’m happy to split the gift card with you or give it to you outright.
You can use my photo Barbara. I don’t mind. Are you able to save it from this post? If you need me to send it to you, can you email me at laura at musingsofarover.com and let me know which photo you’d like to submit?