Holiday Magic in Florence County: Make a December Getaway to Florence, SC
There’s Something Special About Florence at Christmas
Twinkling lights. Holiday music. Christmas performances. Local shopping. Cozy dinners with friends and family. By December, Florence County has traded fall festival season for holiday celebrations, creating the perfect setting for a weekend getaway before the rush of Christmas arrives.
Whether you’re planning a family trip, couples getaway, girls’ shopping weekend or simply need a change of scenery during the holidays, Florence County gives you plenty of ways to make the season memorable.
See Downtown Florence Shine
Beginning December 4, the Downtown Florence Music and Light Show transforms South Dargan Street into a walk-through holiday experience.
The free show runs nightly through December 31 from 5:30 to 10 p.m., combining Christmas lights and music in the heart of downtown.
Make an evening of it.
Arrive before dark to browse downtown shops, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then walk through the lights once the sun goes down.
Add hot chocolate or dessert afterward and you have the makings of a pretty perfect December night.
Celebrate Christmas in Lake City
Florence County’s holiday fun stretches beyond the City of Florence.
On Friday, December 4 at 6 p.m., Downtown Lake City hosts its Christmas Parade – After Dark. Illuminated floats, music, festive characters and plenty of Christmas cheer make their way through downtown before the celebration continues at East Main Green with the community Christmas tree lighting.
It’s an ideal night to explore Lake City and experience a small-town South Carolina Christmas.
While you’re there, make time to explore local shops, public art and dining around the downtown area.
Put a Holiday Performance on Your Wish List
December is also an excellent month for arts lovers.
The season begins with Christmas with Alliance Brass in Lake City on December 3, while Downtown Florence welcomes seasonal performances including The Nutcracker, presented by South Carolina Dance Theatre.
Throughout Florence County, you’ll find concerts, theater, community celebrations and family activities filling the December calendar.
Pair a performance with dinner and an overnight stay, and your holiday outing becomes a mini vacation.
Shop Local for Something Different
Skip the same online shopping cart you’ve been filling all month and spend an afternoon exploring Florence County’s locally owned shops.
Downtown Florence, Lake City and communities throughout the county offer opportunities to find gifts with a little more personality — artwork, clothing, home décor, specialty foods, locally made products and unique finds you won’t necessarily see everywhere else. And because shopping works up an appetite, consider it an excellent excuse to discover another local restaurant.
Make Florence Part of Your Holiday Tradition
Whether you’re visiting family, traveling along I-95 or looking for a festive weekend destination in South Carolina, December is a wonderful time to experience Florence County. Come see the lights. Hear the music. Shop local. Eat well. Stay the night. And maybe start a new holiday tradition while you’re here.
Stay Connected with Visit Flo
Before you hit the road (or the trail!), make sure you download the Visit Flo App at VisitFlo.com/app. It’s your pocket guide to Florence County — featuring events, restaurants, the SC Pecan Trail, outdoor adventures, and insider tips to help you make the most of your stay. Turn on notifications so you never miss a race, festival, or sweet treat along the way!
Need help planning your trip? Stop by and see us at:
📍 3290 W Radio Dr, Florence, SC
🕘 Open Daily | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Our team is happy to share maps, recommendations, and local favorites to make your visit unforgettable.
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