Home for the Holidays

Night of Lights

Known for our twinkling lights year-round, Main Street is even more luminous at Christmas time, and the centerpiece of this winter wonderland is the official Greenville Christmas tree in Court Street Plaza. On the Night of Lights, Mayor Knox White will light this 30-foot beauty, generously festooned with 25,550 LED lights. The evening wouldn’t be complete without food trucks, vendors, live music and—somehow he’s never too busy to swing by—Santa.

Outside of M. Judson Booksellers, downtown Greenville. Dec 3, time to be determined. Free. events.greenvillesc.gov

The Nutcracker

The Upstate is fortunate to have two excellent opportunities to experience the holiday tradition that is The Nutcracker. Two acclaimed ballet companies present their own versions of the crowd-pleasing tale set to Tchaikovsky’s famous score. The Carolina Ballet’s European-inspired production is a reinvention of the story that highlights Victorian societal expectations while Clara dances through beloved Greenville landmarks. The International Ballet’s traditional version features guest artists Cara Marie Gary and Lucas Segovia along with the Greenville Symphony Orchestra.

Peace Center Concert Hall. The Nutcracker: Once Upon a Time in Greenville / Carolina Ballet Theatre. Dec 3–5. $20-$55. carolinaballet.org; The Nutcracker / International Ballet Theatre. Dec 10–12. $20-$75. internationalballetsc.org

Poinsettia Christmas Parade

This holiday classic offers something to get anyone in the spirit, whether you prefer decked out floats, marching bands, horses, waving community leaders or simply the experience of gathering in the brisk air to absorb some holiday magic. While you’re there, don’t miss Poinsettia Postcards—grand holiday cards, built and decorated by local nonprofits and school groups. You’ll find them displayed throughout Main Street’s plazas.

Main Street, downtown Greenville. Dec 4, 6 p.m. events.greenvillesc.gov

TD Holiday Market Holiday Edition

It’s everything you love about the TD Saturday Market—reinvented for the holidays. This is a great opportunity to purchase gifts with a local bent, including plants, crafts, pottery, candles, and much more. And of course, you’ll find the tasty breads, fresh flowers, hot coffee and locally grown produce you’d expect at this popular market.

Main Street, downtown Greenville. Dec 4 & 11, 9am–1pm. saturdaymarketlive.com

Christmas with the Chorale—Handel’s Messiah

Wildly popular since it was first performed in 1742, audiences are still transfixed by this rousing masterwork. The Chorale Orchestra, along with several soloists, will team up with the Greenville Chorale for this celebratory tradition, culminating with the exhilarating “Hallelujah Chorus.”

McAlister Auditorium, Furman University. Dec 7, 7:30pm. $40 (adult); $20 (student); $10 (children under 12). greenvillechorale.com

Holiday at Peace

This Greenville Symphony Orchestra favorite is chock-full of seasonal classics, including music from The Nutcracker and Frozen. Jamarcus Gaston from WSPA TV hosts a program that features talented special guests, including the International Ballet, soprano (and South Carolina native) Karen Parks and, of course, a visit from the man of the hour, Santa Claus.

Peace Center Concert Hall. Dec 17–19. $22-$65. peacecenter.org

United Community Bank Ice on Main

While you’re downtown, don’t miss Greenville’s only outdoor ice rink, which is quickly becoming a favorite tradition for people of all ages. Haven’t skated in a while? Grab a “skate scooter,” those popular blue accessories provided by the Blood Connection that keep even the least steady skater upright. Or opt for some popcorn and a cup of cocoa and watch the fun from a comfortable perch near the Courtyard Marriott. Courtyard Marriott, downtown Greenville. Thru Jan 17. $5-$10. greenvillesc.gov/1654/UCB-Ice-on-Main