Christmas in Anderson
Discover Downtown Magic in Anderson this holiday season! Stroll through Downtown Anderson and take in the glow of more than 100,000 Christmas lights twinkling along Main Street—now stretching all the way to Linley Park and Cater’s Lake! It’s the kind of small-town sparkle that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie. While you’re here, shop small and find the perfect gifts from our local businesses, then enjoy the sounds of the season with carolers popping up around downtown every Thursday and Friday from 5–7 PM throughout December. Don’t forget to stop by Carolina Wren Park for a festive Christmas photo op. Snap a picture with family and friends and tag us @DowntownAnderson to share your holiday cheer!
Ice in the Park
Celebrate the holiday season with Ice in the Park, a real ice skating rink in the heart of Downtown. It’s the perfect spot for festive family fun, date nights, and making joyful winter memories right here in Downtown Anderson.
Location: Carolina Wren Park – 111 E. Whitner St. Anderson, SC 29624
Hours of Operation
NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 20
Monday – Friday: 5 – 9 pm
Saturday: 11 am – 9 pm
Sunday: 2 – 6 pm
DECEMBER 21 – JANUARY 3
Monday – Friday: 1 – 9 pm
Saturday: 11 am – 9 pm
Sunday: 2 – 6 pm
**Closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Pricing
Ages 6 and up: $5.00 per person*
Ages 5 and under: Free
*Price includes skate rental and skate aid, if needed.
City of Anderson Christmas Events
Tree Lighting & Ice Skating Performance
Join us for the annual Anderson County Tree Lighting at the Courthouse Plaza (100 S Main St. Anderson, SC 29621) on Friday, December 4th, 2026 at 6:00 pm. Following the Tree Lighting, head over to Carolina Wren Park to see a performance by professional figure skater Olivia Pellerin on our real ice skating rink at 7:30 pm.
City of Anderson Christmas Parade
Ring in the holiday season at one of Anderson’s most beloved traditions—the City of Anderson Christmas Parade! Join us on Sunday, December 6th at 3 pm on Main Street as more than 100 groups light up downtown with festive floats, marching bands, dancers, local organizations, and a special visit from Santa Claus himself. This event is free and open to the public.
PLEASE NOTE: The 2026 Christmas Parade is officially FULL, and parade applications are now closed. We have reached the maximum of 100 participating units.
Thank you to everyone who applied and for helping us make this year’s parade a special part of the holiday season!
Holiday Market
Get a head start on your Christmas shopping at the Downtown Anderson Holiday Market on Friday, December 4th from 5 – 9 pm! Come browse unique gifts and handmade treasures from local makers and small businesses. Grab a cup of hot chocolate, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and find something special for everyone on your list while supporting local businesses this holiday season!
Free Santa Night in the Park
Join us on Saturday, December 12, 2026, from 5–7 p.m. at Carolina Wren Park for FREE photos with Santa Claus and some of your favorite holiday characters! We’re also excited to welcome the Grinch, Cindy Lou Who, and Buddy the Elf from Mystical Events, who will be making a special appearance from 4–5:30 p.m. Bring the whole family and capture some holiday magic! Photos are first come, first served, so be sure to bring your own camera or phone to snap your pictures.
*You are responsible for taking your own photos with Santa. No photographer is provided.
Parking Downtown
