Growing up, my favorite holiday tradition was visiting Christmas light displays in my town. The lights twinkled white, green, red, and blue in the darkness, filling my chest with warmth even on the coldest nights. Now as an adult, I still feel that childlike wonder each December, thanks to the many spectacular light shows in Greenville, SC, and in nearby cities. Each one is worth visiting at least once. Whether it's a drive-through or walk-through attraction, the following light shows are unique, creative, and just plain fun. 

Roper Mountain Holiday Lights

The first recommendation I have is Roper Mountain Holiday Lights because they are only 12 minutes from downtown Greenville. For 20 years they have put on an epic drive through show that features more than 200,000 lights and 100 displays. Visit with Santa, roast marshmallows, and stretch your legs at the gift shop. Cars are $10, activity vans are $20, and buses are $40. Dress warmly if you’re planning to get out of the car; it’s cold out there, y’all. 

Holidays at the Zoo

Another wild attraction that I recommend is Holidays at the Zoo, where individuals can stroll through the Greenville Zoo amongst twinkling lights. Enjoy Christmas music, visits with Santa, and holiday displays throughout the zoo. Say “hello” to Kendi the giraffe and Parker the African Painted Dog. Tickets are $14 for non members online. Be sure to check out the concession stand for hot cocoa and marshmallows to roast over the fire. It’s a simple yet magical experience. 

Night of Lights at Heritage Park

Just 22 minutes away from Greenville lies an incredible Christmas light extravaganza: Night of Lights at Heritage Park. I have not yet visited this one, but it looks impressive. They have a 65 ft tall Christmas tree and 200+ unique light displays. They also have a Christmas market, bounce houses, animal rides, a petting zoo, Santa’s Village, and much more. Adult tickets are $15; child tickets are $12. (But children 4 and under are free). The attraction runs from November 21- December 31. 

Upstate Holiday Light Show 

The Upstate Holiday Light Show is one of the biggest Christmas light attractions in the area. After driving through festive tunnels, park your car and enjoy a spectacular LED light show in Easley, SC. Set to music, it is a jolly and lighthearted family activity for individuals of all ages. They also have a petting zoo, featuring farm animals like goats and donkeys. Visit Christmas Village to shop for Christmas gifts and treasured souvenirs. Cars are $35, passenger vans are $75, and buses are $100. Come see the night sky lit up by thousands of beautiful twinkling lights this December. 

Magic of Lights by Hollywild

Finally, my last recommendation is one that I have been to for many years: Magic of Lights by Hollywild. Hollywild Nature Preserve is a home for endangered animals like deer, camels, bulls, pigs, and more. Every year, they host an impressive light show that is very popular. In Santa’s Village, individuals can take photos with Santa and the Grinch. Enjoy marshmallows and cacao around a fire and shop at Santa’s Bakery for a sweet treat. The drive through admission is $10 per person and additional amounts for the deer forest and Santa’s Village. The lines tend to be very long so I suggest arriving early in the day, closer to the 5:30pm start time. 

Whether you’re interested in strolling through the Greenville Zoo or driving through the smooth roads at Roper Mountain, the perfect holiday spot is just around the corner. Try one, or try them all. Christmastime is the best time to slow down, take a breath, and enjoy the wonder of the season.

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