Celebrate the holidays on Hilton Head Island! Hilton Head is the perfect choice for your beach holiday getaway this year, and there are plenty of family-friendly fun events to have your whole group entertained!
Hilton Head Island offers a unique holiday experience that combines mild winter temperatures, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed, chill atmosphere. Unlike other more traditional winter holiday destinations, the island’s temperate climate, scenic beaches, bike trails, and lowcountry charm provide an ideal setting for making holiday memories. Plus, Hilton Head is known for its exceptional hospitality, making it a top choice for families, couples, and friends looking to escape the usual holiday rush.
From sunny beaches, world-class golf, and outdoor adventures in nature to alfresco oceanfront dining, enticing shopping, and everything in between, you’ll find your coastal home for the holidays and peace of mind on Hilton Head with Sunset Rentals.
HILTON HEAD ISLAND HOLIDAY EVENTS
HARBOUR TOWN LIGHTS
Date: November 29, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Time: All Day
Location: 149 Lighthouse RoadHilton Head Island, SC 29928
Cost: Free!
Stroll along the harbour and enjoy the illuminated seasonal figures, including the centerpiece attraction –a towering Christmas tree! The perfect place to spend the holiday season with your
family, Harbour Town will be bustling with activities and live entertainment. The official tree lighting will take place just prior to the Gregg Russell concert at 7:30pm Friday, November 29.
While you’re enjoying the holiday season, help the Deep Well Project make a difference in someone’s life. Drop off a couple of canned goods or a new, unwrapped child’s toy in the well by the Liberty Oak stage.
LIGHT UP THE HARBOUR
Date: December 1 – December 31, 2024
Time: 5 PM
Location: 1 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head
Cost: Free!
The holiday lights at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina are a must-see during your winter vacation on Hilton Head. As the sun sets, the harbour transforms into a colorful coastal winter wonderland with brightly lit boats, local holiday shopping, and waterfront restaurants along the marina.
Local’s Tip: Reservations are always recommended for dinner.
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is beautifully lit with over 100,000 holiday lights, brightly decorated boats in the marina, and waterfront shops and restaurants adorned in festive décor. Take a stroll along the waterfront promenade to soak up the sights and be sure to stop by Francesca’s at Shelter Cove Town Center for a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
HILTON HEAD COMMUNITY MARKET
Date: Weekly on Saturday
Time: 9 AM – 12 PM
Location: 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head
Cost: Free!
Start your winter adventures with a stroll through the Hilton Head Community Market at Shelter Cove Community Park. Browse and shop an array of handcrafted goods, locally sourced produce, and unique artisanal creations.
Upcoming Dates:
December 14, 2024 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
December 21, 2024 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
December 28, 2024 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
at Lowcountry Celebration Park
Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 5 PM – 7 PM
Location: Lowcountry Celebration Park
Cost: Free!
Lowcountry Celebration Park will be aglow with twinkling lights and a wealth of good cheer as the Town’s official 30-foot-tall Christmas tree is lit up. Hot chocolate, popcorn and maybe a movie on the big screen. This is a fun event! Bring chairs, and blankets.
BLUFFTON CHRISTMAS PARADE
Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 10 AM – Finish
Location: Historic Downtown Bluffton
Cost: Free!
The Town of Bluffton hosts the 53rd annual Bluffton Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting. The Bluffton tree-lighting ceremony will begin at 5:30 PM on Friday, December 6th, 2024, and the Bluffton Christmas parade will begin at 10:00 AM on December 7th, 2024.
2024 Event Schedule Below
Bluffton’s Tree Lighting ceremony will begin at 5:30 PM, Friday, December 6, at Martin Family Park, followed by Santa’s Workshop at DuBois Park’s Pavilion. The movie “Polar Express” will begin at 6:30 PM at Martin Family Park. Please bring blankets and/or chairs. Martin Family Park and DuBois Park are adjacent to each other on Boundary Street in the Historic District.
This year, train rides will be available at the tree lighting from 6 PM to 8 PM The miniature train will take passengers around Martin and DuBois Parks. The Town’s Christmas tree lighting, Santa’s workshop and parade are the official kickoff to Bluffton’s holiday season.
BRUNCH WITH SANTA
Date: Sunday, December 15, 2024
Time: Two seatings: 10:30 AM & 12:30 PM
Location: 76 Queens Folly Road, Hilton Head
Cost: $43 for adults | $25 for kids
**Reservations are required.
Bring your wish list to the annual Brunch with Santa at Alexander’s Restaurant in Palmetto Dunes. Tuck into a tasty breakfast brunch and delicious holiday desserts, take a family photo with Santa fireside, and bring along an unwrapped gift to support the local Deep Well Project on Hilton Head.
Local’s Tip: Book online or call (866) 921-6639 for reservations.
Audubon Christmas Bird Count
Date: December 16, 2024
Time: All Day!
Location: 175 Greenwood DriveHilton Head Island, SC 29928
Cost: Free!
Help the Hilton Head Island Audubon Society as it works with communities across America, including Sea Pines, to conduct the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count. To register, email hhicbc@gmail.com or visit hiltonheadaudubon.org.
Polar Pines Express Holiday Wagon Ride
Date: December 21, 2024
Time: Starts at 1:00PM
Cost: $17/adult – $19/child
All aboard our festive wagon full of holiday fun. Join in on the fun as we travel to our version of the “North Pole” for crafts, activities, hot chocolate and treats. Along the way sing along to some holiday tunes and listen to the famous story “The Polar Express”.
GREGG RUSSELL CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Date: December 23, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM – 9 PM
Location: 147 Lighthouse Rd, Hilton Head
Cost: Free!
Gather friends and family under the iconic Liberty Oak for a spirit holiday performance by acclaimed Hilton Head entertainer Gregg Russell. This heartwarming Hilton Head tradition is filled with festive tunes, sing-alongs, and hilarious humor with a special visit from Santa Claus for the kids.
SANDY SLEDDING AT SEA PINES
Date: December 27, 2024
Time: 1 PM – 2:15 PM
Location: 87 N Sea Pines Dr, Hilton Head
Cost: $40/team up to 6 people
Trade snowy slopes and frozen toes for sandy sledding on Hilton Head Island. You’ve still got time to reserve your space, build your team, and design your dream holiday themed sand sled! The event takes place in front of the Sea Pines Beach Club with an oceanfront restaurant, rooftop bar, and beach bar to make a day of it.
HOLIDAY FUN IN HARBOUR TOWN
Date: Daily Friday and Saturday until Sat, Dec 28 2024
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: 147 Lighthouse Rd, Hilton Head
Cost: Free!
Tickets: Train rides – $6/passenger, starting at 5:30pm
The festive fun in Harbour Town extends beyond the holiday lights! Enjoy a day of rest after Christmas then head to Holiday Fun in Harbour Town for two days of holiday movies, marshmallow roasting, family activities, and train rides around Hilton Head’s most famous marina. Entry is free with the donation of a canned food item.
PAWS AND CLAUS PARADE
Date: Daily Friday and Saturday until Sat, Dec 28 2024
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: 147 Lighthouse Rd, Hilton Head
Cost: Free!
Join in on the fun for the Paws and Claus Parade in Harbour Town! After Christmas, your furry friends can show off their best holiday attire in a parade led by Santa himself. Enjoy a festive day filled with holiday cheer and a photo op with Santa! All breeds and sizes are welcome—bring your pups and celebrate the season together! Registration begins at 12:15pm in front of Quarterdeck Market. Parade begins at 1pm also starting at Quarterdeck Market and ending near the Liberty Oak Stage. After the parade enjoy dog games around the Liberty Oak stage.
MERRY PINES WAGON RIDE
Date: December 29, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Location: 175 Greenwood DriveHilton Head Island, SC 29928
Cost: $22/adult, $18/child
Join in for a magical evening aboard our illuminated wagon as we journey through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve! Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a delightful sing-along featuring your favorite festive tunes. Cozy holiday attire recommended. Hot chocolate and treats provided.
POLAR BEAR SWIM
Date: December 30, 2024
Time: 10 AM
Location: 1 Lighthouse Lane, Hilton Head
Cost: Free!
While it’s not the Rocky Mountains, the winter water temperatures on Hilton Head still offer a refreshing, polar bear worthy chill for those seeking a New Year’s plunge! Come and embrace our island’s winter spirit with a polar bear plunge in the Harbour Town Pool in Sea Pines.
NEW YEARS EVE CELEBRATION
Date: December 31, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Time: 6 PM – 12:30AM
Location: 149 Lighthouse RoadHilton Head Island, SC 29928
Get ready for a festive New Year’s Eve ball drop from the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse! Enjoy food, entertainment and live music throughout Harbour Town, then count down to the ball drop as we welcome the New Year! There will be two drops: 7pm and midnight.
HEAD HOME TO A SUNSET RENTAL
Whether you’re looking to bask in the glow of holiday lights, enjoy festive music, or ring in the New Year with fireworks over the water, Hilton Head Island offers a variety of experiences that will make your holiday season truly magical. With its charming atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and unforgettable events, it’s the perfect destination for families, couples, or anyone looking to celebrate the holidays in a unique and memorable way.
Our on-island team has been welcoming families to celebrate the holidays in our luxury homes on Hilton Head Island for more than 25 years. The holiday season kick-off festivals have begun and no matter how you like to celebrate the holidays, there are fun festivities for the whole family on Hilton Head Island.
The most important factor in planning events for your Hilton Head vacation is finding a home away from home, hosted by a local team that cares! Sunset Rentals has been proudly serving guests on the island for more than 25 years – come and experience the Sunset Advantage on Hilton Head!
