While there is still plenty to do on the island during your trip, and Hilton Head’s holiday calendar is looking rather full this year, visitors sometimes like to venture over the bridge to other nearby cities and towns. If you’re one of those people, we’ve made a list of holiday events that might be taking place during your trip. If you normally keep to the island and have been wanting a reason to explore Bluffton, Beaufort, or Savannah first-hand, maybe one of these events will catch your eye and be worth planning that day trip for!
The following events are listed by city or town, and from there, listed by date. Happy Holidays!
BLUFFTON, SC
SOBA Gallery Annual Holiday Market
Nov. 3-Dec. 28, 2025
SOBA Art Gallery in Old Town Bluffton
6 Church St, Bluffton, SC 29910
The Society of Bluffton Artists Gallery will host its Annual Holiday Market for the entirety of the holiday season, making it easy for visitors to find that perfect, unique gift for everyone on their list! This seasonal showcase will feature handcrafted, one-of-a-kind gifts by local artists including wreaths, small paintings, holiday decor, and more.
Bluffton Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friday, December 5, 2025 | 5:30pm
Martin Family Park
68 Boundary St, Bluffton, SC 29910
Beginning at 5:30 pm, gather with friends and family to celebrate the holiday season as the Town of Bluffton lights its tree in Martin Family Park. Santa’s Workshop will immediately follow in nearby, DuBois Park’s Pavilion. Stay and watch the movie, “Arthur Saves Christmas” at 6:30 in Martin Family Park. If you’re planning on watching the movie, make sure to bring blankets and/or chairs so you’re comfy and warm while you watch!
54th Annual Bluffton Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 10:00am
Historic Downtown Bluffton
A favorite tradition among locals in Bluffton and Hilton Head, the Town of Bluffton will be hosting the 54th annual Bluffton Christmas Parade! Kicking off at 10am on Saturday, head to downtown early to get a prime viewing spot ahead of time!
BEAUFORT, SC
Night on the Town & Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 5, 2025 | 6:00-9:00pm
Downtown Beaufort
1301 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902
This event will take place downtown where the community will celebration its favorite holiday tradition! Enjoy live music on multiple stages, delicious eats from local food vendors, and lots of arts, crafts, and goodies from local businesses and non-profits before gathering for the city’s official Christmas tree lighting.
Gullah Taste of Christmas & Rice Cook-Off
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 11:00am-4:00pm
Henry C. Chamber Waterfront Park
700 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902
All are welcome to this free event that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Gullah people, who’s ancestors brought rice to the United States and transformed South Carolina into the wealthiest colony before the Revolutionary War. This event is a tribute their contributions to American society, cuisine, and the economy. Contestants will be cooking onsite, and the competition will be live-streamed. Whether you’re a contestant or a spectator, come be a part of this festive celebration and witness the culinary talents that continue to shape our culture!
Annual Light Up the Night Boat Parade
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 5:30pm
Henry C. Chamber Waterfront Park
1014 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902
Head to Downtown Beaufort and snag a spot along the waterfront for the best-lighted boat parade around. Enjoy an evening filled with festive lights, beautifully decorated boats, and a large amount of holiday spirit as Beaufort celebrates the season on the Beaufort River! Arrive early to attend the Gullah Taste of Christmas and Rice Cook-Off at the park from 11am-4pm, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many delicious restaurants along Bay Street.
Annual Christmas Parade
Sunday, December 7, 2025 | 3:00pm
Downtown Beaufort
500 Carteret St, Beaufort, SC 29902
If you fancy a trip to the beautiful and historic, Beaufort, you won’t want to miss the Christmas Parade led by Santa himself! This kid-friendly event will have you feeling the holiday spirit as you cheer on all of the holiday floats, marching bands, and more! Stick around after the parade for a walk along the waterfront park, or to grab a bite at one of the restaurants along Bay Street. Let’s not forget about the many locally owned retailers that offer perfect gifts for your loved ones!
SAVANNAH, GA
Christmas on the River
November 20-December 31, 2025
Plant Riverside District
400 W River St, Savannah, GA 31401
Enjoy over a month of Christmas cheer with a ton of different events and activities at Plant Riverside District. Enjoy the European-style outdoor Savannah Christmas Market that features 50 booths that mix local and regional vendors. The Festival of Trees will also be ongoing during Christmas on the River, with additional scheduled events and activities like trivia, Holiday Cookie Decorating, Brunch with Santa, and much more. On December 12 and 13, see a variety of local dance and musical groups ending just in time to see the Lighted Christmas Street Parade that steps off at 5:30pm.
Savannah Santa Train presented by Coastal Heritage Society
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 9:00am-3:00pm
Georgia State Railroad Museum
655 Louisville Rd, Savannah, GA 31401
Purchase your tickets to reserve your spot on Savannah’s favorite family holiday event. Running every 20 minutes throughout the day, you’ll have a chance to hop aboard a holiday-themed train ride experience along with other activities, crafts, and performances throughout the day.
Kwanzaa Marketplace hosted by Savannah African Art Museum
December 6, 13 & 20 | 12:00-4:00pm
Savannah African Art Museum’s Courtyard
201 E. 37th St, Savannah, GA, 31401
Mark your calendars for the third annual Kwanza Marketplace, featuring vendors and artists selling handmade items, art, clothing, and more. Find unique items and gifts that are all inspired by Africa, African Art, and African Culture. This event is open to the public and allow visitors to learn more about the African American celebration, Kwanzaa, that is based on the celebration of “First Fruits.”
