Welcome to Aiken: The Cutest Christmas Town in the South!
Hey there, holiday lovers! If you’re searching for the perfect spot to celebrate the season, look no further than Aiken, South Carolina. This charming city has just been named one of the “Cutest Christmas Towns in the South” by a popular magazine, and it’s easy to see why!
A Festive Ranking That Brings Pride
Can you believe it? Aiken snagged the 14th spot on the list of 18 enchanting towns, making it a must-visit this holiday season! When the news broke, local tourism manager Eric Gordon couldn’t hold back his excitement, saying, “I’m really happy about that. It’s always nice to be written up in a well-respected magazine.” This recognition highlights some of Aiken’s most festive attractions, including the lively singing Christmas tree on Newberry Street and the incredible Night of 1,000 Lights.
Peek Into Aiken’s Holiday Magic
Imagine a town filled with twinkling lights, cheerful carolers, and a parade that brings the community together. This magical atmosphere is exactly what Aiken aims for every year. Aiken’s very own president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, Jim Tunison, chimed in with pride, stating, “If you want to experience a Hallmark Christmas, just visit Aiken.”
But wait, there’s more! The highlight of the season has to be the annual Aiken Hoofbeats Christmas Parade. Last year, the event kicked off in true holiday spirit, with Mayor Teddy Milner riding a horse-drawn wagon, dog in tow, joining the local festivities. How cute is that?
Community Spirit Makes It Possible
One of the best parts about Aiken’s holiday vibe is the teamwork that makes it happen. Jim Tunison explains that it takes the whole community to create this festive atmosphere. “It takes great communication between all of our partners and volunteers. It’s really a team effort here,” he adds. With a rich history and a vibrant downtown packed with unique small businesses, Aiken certainly has an unbeatable charm.
Spreading the Word About Aiken’s Holiday Wonders
Over the past couple of years, the city has doubled down on sharing its holiday magic with the world. Gordon mentioned that Aiken has launched a campaign called “Aiken is Magical,” showcasing the city’s festive spirit through advertisements and a dedicated website highlighting all the holiday events happening in December. The campaign has included digital ads targeting visitors from within 250 miles, as well as billboards up to 80 miles away!
As the message spreads, more and more visitors are discovering Aiken’s warm and welcoming atmosphere. Gordon happily shared, “I think in the past it was a lot more of a local event, which is great, and now it’s grown into more of a regional event.”
Aiken: A Festive Destination Worth Exploring
With Aiken ranking high on festive lists, you might be wondering what other towns made the cut along with it. Besides Aiken, South Carolina, the only other state on the list is Rock Hill, taking the 15th spot. Towns from all over the South and beyond join in the holiday fun, including Searcy, Arkansas; Georgetown, D.C.; Canton, Mississippi; and many more!
Whether you’re a local or planning to visit, Aiken is bustling with holiday cheer. From breathtaking light displays to community parades, the city offers something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the festivities—make your plans to visit Aiken and create your own holiday memories!
