Shopping:
A festive tradition continues Dec. 1-Jan. 3 as the Art League Gallery is transformed into a “Gallery of Gifts,” featuring handcrafted gift items, jewelry and artwork by local artists. A free opening reception takes place on Dec. 4, 5-7 p.m. (843) 681-5060 or www.artleaguehhi.org.
All month long, the Society of Bluffton Artists holds its Holiday Market, a seasonal showcase featuring handcrafted, one-of-a-kind gifts by local artists. Explore and purchase a wide array of artfully crafted items. Each piece is thoughtfully created by talented Bluffton artists, making it an ideal stop for unique and personal holiday shopping. www.sobagallery.com.
Festive Fun in Sea Pines:
Harbour Town will be bustling with activities and live entertainment from Dec. 1-Jan. 1 with Harbour Town Lights. Stroll along the harbour and enjoy the illuminated seasonal figures and the towering Christmas tree! www.seapines.com/experiences/events/harbour-town-lights.
On Dec. 21 at 1 p.m., hop aboard the Polar Pine Express Holiday Wagon Ride full of holiday fun. Join us as we travel to our version of the “North Pole” for crafts, activities, hot chocolate and treats. (843) 842-1979 or www.seapines.com/experiences/events/polar-pines-express-holiday-wagon-ride.
Join the holiday fun in Harbour Town on Dec. 27 and 28 to watch classic holiday movies, roast marshmallows and take a train ride. Movie and marshmallows start at 6 p.m. www.seapines.com/experiences/events/holiday-fun-harbour-town.
Sea Pines Beach Club hosts Sandy Sledding on Dec. 27 from 1-2:15 p.m. Bring on the holiday fun by sledding on the sandy beaches of Hilton Head Island. Showcase your team’s sled and be scored on speed, durability and creativity. www.seapines.com/experiences/events/sandy-sledding.
On Dec. 29 at 1 p.m., don’t miss Paws and Claus Parade in Harbour Town. Your furry friends can show off their best holiday attire in a parade led by Santa himself. Enjoy a festive day filled with pet photo-ops with Santa. www.seapines.com/experiences/events/paws-and-claus-parade.
Performances
The Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra kicks off the holiday season with Holiday Pops at First Presbyterian Church. Performances are at 4 p.m. on Dec. 1 and 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 2. (843) 842-2055 or www.hhso.org.
On Dec. 3 at 8 p.m., the Comedy Magic Cabaret hosts “A Cabaret of American Classics & Holiday Favorites.” Enjoy an evening of live music, featuring Terry Herron and friends. This holiday set features hits from Frank Sinatra, Linda Ronstadt, Michael Bublé, Mariah Carey and more. Next, on Dec. 6, 13, 20 and 27 the Cabaret hosts a “VIP Backstage Close-up & Parlour Magic Experience” with close-up and parlour-style magic and fun. Then, on Dec. 31, ring in 2025 with Kerry Pollock and guest with special New Year’s Eve performance. (843) 681-7757 or www.comedymagiccabaret.com.
At the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina enjoy “Christmas in Ireland” with Celtic Thunder’s Emmet Cahill” on Dec. 10. Experience Cahill’s renditions of all your favorite Christmas carols sung in German, Irish and English. (843) 842-2787 or www.artshhi.com.
The Hilton Head Choral Society presents “A Night Divine” at 7 p.m. on Dec. 13 at the First Presbyterian Church. The program offers an eclectic variety of traditional carols as well as lighter holiday tunes. www.hiltonheadchoralsociety.org.
Relish the spirit of the holidays with an evening with Gregg Russell in Harbour Town on Dec. 23. Listen from 7:30-9 p.m., as he performs songs of the season. Following the concert, enjoy a visit from Santa. (843) 842-1979 or www.seapines.com/events.
Meet Santa
Stop by Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina Dec. 1-Jan. 1 for a holiday display of lights. Experience the “Coastal Christmas” boat lights, as you stroll the promenade, shop the boutiques and dine amidst a Lowcountry “winter.” www.sheltercovehiltonhead.com/holiday-lights-at-shelter-cove.
From Dec. 1-Jan. 1 enjoy the thousands of festive lights and decorated trees throughout Shelter Cove Towne Centre. Great for holiday picture taking, drive through or stroll for a walkable experience. And Mr. and Mrs. Claus will visit on Dec. 6, 21 and 24. www.sheltercovetownecentre.com/events.
Don’t miss the Winter Wonderland Festival presented by the Island Rec Center on Dec. 6 from 4-7 p.m.at Shelter Cove Park. Visit with Santa and enjoy bounce houses, a parade, DJ and a Golden Candy Cane Hunt. www.events.islandreccenter.org.
On Dec. 7 bring your holiday spirit for Hilton Head Island’s annual official tree lighting at the Lowcountry Celebration Park. The tree lighting takes place at 6:30 p.m. Santa Claus will be onsite from 5:45-7 p.m. for photos, as local talents take the stage. A spectacular laser show will cap off the festivities at this free event. Facebook page.
You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, because Santa Claus is coming to Top Dawg Tavern & Pizzeria on Dec. 14! Bring your kids and (and furry friends) to meet Santa from 5-7 p.m. and make sure to bring your Christmas List and your camera! www.topdawgtaverrn.com.
On Dec.15 enjoy “Brunch with Santa” at Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar. The event will feature a buffet along with complimentary photos with the big man. Seatings at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Reservations are required. (866) 921-6639 or www.alexandersrestaurant.com/santabrunch.
Events are subject to change without notice and many are subject to weather conditions. Please call or visit listed websites to confirm.
