Christmas Cheer Shines Bright in Aiken!
Aiken, South Carolina, is buzzing with excitement as the holiday season approaches, and this year’s Christmas decorations are sure to warm hearts and spread joy. The annual Christmas in Hopelands event is just around the corner, and it’s time to get a peek at the lovely decorations taking shape at the Doll House in beautiful Hopelands Gardens.
Festive Prep in Full Swing
On December 10, the lovely crew of the Country Gardeners club gathered with laughter and holiday spirit to kick off their Christmas decoration project at the iconic Doll House. Members like Marissa Evans and Cynthia Barrett spent the day brainstorming tree-trimming ideas and adding cheerful touches to this charming location. “We do it for the public, the children, and the city of Aiken, trying to spread the Christmas cheer around,” noted Cynthia Barrett, illustrating the heartwarming purpose behind their efforts.
But decorating isn’t just about grabbing a few ornaments and calling it a day; it takes teamwork, creativity, and a significant amount of work—something many remember fondly after participating in the event over the years. This year, the Country Gardeners have embraced the theme of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”, making sure there’s plenty of festive flair to delight visitors of all ages.
A Part of History
The Doll House isn’t just an adorable destination during the Christmas season; it’s a piece of Aiken history! Originally built as a playhouse and schoolhouse for the Iselin children in the early 1900s, this charming modular home reflects a unique architectural style and quaint stories of the past. The Iselin family from New York and Rhode Island cherished their time spent on the property, which they eventually bequeathed to the city of Aiken—an act of generosity that continues to benefit the community.
According to the Aiken municipal website, this year’s lineup also includes a beautiful tree donated by Cold Creek Nurseries that will be adorned with lights and ornaments, creating a stunning focal point for guests who stop by to enjoy the beauty of Hopelands Gardens.
A Bright Future After the Storm
In an unexpected turn of events, the area recently experienced the heavy winds and rains of Tropical Storm Helene. Fortunately, the Doll House, along with the beautiful gardens surrounding it, emerged unscathed. “The Doll House escaped damage, as did all the plants around it, and the live oaks behind us were saved,” said Peggy Thome, president of the Aiken Council of Garden Clubs, expressing immense relief and gratitude.
Despite the storm’s challenges, the club members were determined not to let it dampen their spirits, and they moved forward with decorating plans enthusiastically. The Country Gardeners have teamed up with several other clubs, including the Garden Makers, Green Gardeners, Cereus Gardeners, and Sunshine Garden Club, showcasing a collaborative community spirit.
Join the Festivities
Are you ready to join in the holiday cheer? This weekend marks the official opening of Christmas in Hopelands, running from December 14-23, where everyone is welcome to experience the magic of beautifully decorated gardens and the delightfully charming Doll House. Visitors can stroll through the enchanting grounds from 6 to 9:30 p.m. each evening, soaking up the spirit of the season—all for free!
So gather your family and friends, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and make your way to Hopelands Gardens for a memorable experience. Celebrating community, history, and the joy of the holidays, Aiken is ready to shine bright this Christmas!
For more information, you can visit the official website dedicated to the gardens. Come join the fun and let the Christmas festivities lift your spirits!
