Winter brings along cold weather that can make it feel like you’re stuck indoors all season. The good news it that Greenville and the Upstate area are bustling with fantastic winter activities. From family friendly fun to a date night out, we have you covered this winter! Ice skating, light shows with animals, holiday markets and more, finding an activity to fight off the winter blues will be a breeze.
Ice Skating
No snow? No problem! Ice on Main is a classic winter activity that many look forward to when the temperature starts dropping. Operating on Main Street in the heart of downtown Greenville, it truly feels like you’re in a winter wonderland when you’re there! With emerging restaurants like Indaco and O-Ku steps away, it makes it for a perfect night out. Ice on Main’s run started on November 15 and goes through January 15, 2024.
In the mood for some indoor skating? Skate in the rink the Greenville Swamp Rabbits hockey team plays on at the Bon Secours Wellness arena! This event starts on December 16 and runs through December 30. Public skating at the Pavilion Rec complex is also available year round, with rentals available. All of the above options offer rentals for skating walkers, making these great outings for all ages.
Holiday Markets
Looking for some last minute Christmas gifts? Our holiday markets have you covered! The Greenville Christmas Market located at the Grand Bohemian Lodge in downtown Greenville is quickly becoming a holiday favorite this year. With kid’s corner events on certain days and Santa meet and greets, this is a great kid friendly option. Check out their website for a list of vendors and the holiday shop hours.
The Swamp Rabbit Cafe has a holiday flea market on select weekends throughout December, offering a variety of vendors from baked goods to pottery. These holiday markets are a great stop for all ages, and, even if you’re done with your Christmas lists, browsing and shopping around makes a great activity and photo opportunity!
Light Shows
Experience the magic of holiday lights in Upstate! Whether you’re strolling or driving, there’s a dazzling display waiting for you to enjoy. The Upstate Holiday Light show is one that knocks it out of the park consistently every year. It is located at District Park and is said to have 32 million lights. The Upstate Holiday Light show started on Thanksgiving and runs through New Year’s Eve.
If you’re looking for more adventure in your light show, Hollywild in Wellford is the way to go. Just a 40 minute drive from the Greenville area, take a stroll through the preserve, see the lights, and feed some animals! The Greenville Zoo also puts up light displays throughout the zoo, check out their website to purchase tickets in advance for Holidays at the Zoo, held on select dates throughout December. Pro tip: stop by a coffee stop or local bakery for some extra treats to enjoy during the show.
Extra Fun!
The festivities continue! At downtown’s Hyatt Regency and Courtyard Marriott, the Bon Secours Festival of Trees showcases beautifully adorned trees at the hotels’ entrances. Running until December 25, this display is open to everyone, free of charge. Meanwhile, the Greenville Gingerbread Exhibit returns to the SpringHill Suites in downtown Greenville. Free for all, visitors can wander through the lobby admiring the intricately crafted gingerbread houses.
Before exploring the downtown hotels, make sure to drop by Kilwins for their renowned hot chocolate. Families seeking more entertainment can visit the Upcountry History Museum for “A Very Grinchy Christmas,” an exhibition celebrating The Grinch. Featuring original animation and sketches by Dr. Seuss, this exhibit, included in the museum ticket, runs until January 21, 2024.
Date night? Check! Family night? Check! Staying entertained in the midst of winter is no problem with the plethora of options and event held in and around Greenville. Say goodbye to the winter blues!
