Festive Spirits Soar in Aiken: Celebrate the Season with Joy!
As the holiday season rolls into full swing, the beautiful city of Aiken is buzzing with excitement! From joyful concerts to dazzling holiday light displays, there’s no shortage of festive activities for everyone to enjoy. So grab your friends and family because there’s plenty happening in our lovely town!
Christmas Concerts to Get You in the Spirit
Mark your calendars, folks! The beloved Aiken Singers are back with their “Christmas Time is Here” concert, taking place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, December 12, at St. John’s Methodist Church, located at 104 Newberry St. Join in the fun again on Tuesday, December 17, at 1:30 p.m. This is the perfect opportunity to sing along to your favorite holiday tunes and immerse yourself in the spirit of the season!
A Dazzling Walk Through Christmas in Hopelands
Get ready for the 33rd annual Christmas in Hopelands event, lighting up the nights from December 14 to 23! This enchanting display features over two miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays, making it a magical destination for families and friends. The event runs from 6 to 9:30 p.m. each night and includes concerts on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage at 7 p.m. Don’t miss performances by the East Aiken School of the Arts on December 17 and the Aiken High School choir on December 19.
Hopelands Accessibility and Shuttle Services
Best of all, entrance to the event is absolutely free, as is the shuttle service! Shuttles will run regularly from Citizens Park, at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. Remember, no animals are allowed on the shuttle vehicles, so plan accordingly. Plus, handicap parking is available for those who need it!
Book Clubs and Community Gatherings
For book lovers in the community, there’s a book club meeting on Tuesday, December 17, at 2:30 p.m. at the Aiken County Public Library. Groups A and B will delve into “A Christmas Memory” by Truman Capote. Be sure to sign up at the information desk on the second floor!
If you enjoy music, why not join the Mountain Dulcimers of Aiken that same evening at 5:30 p.m. at Living Hope Fellowship Church? They welcome players of all levels, as well as those eager to learn about playing this beautiful instrument.
Support and Wellness Groups
Aiken also offers various support groups. The Awesome Aiken Al-Anon group meets at First Christian Church from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Meanwhile, the Nar-Anon Aiken For Comfort Family Group meets Tuesdays at the same time at St. John’s Methodist Church. Additionally, a Celebrate Recovery group gathers weekly at Cedar Creek Church for anyone needing support on their recovery journey.
Winter Fun for Kids
Don’t forget, there’s a Kids’ Book Club scheduled for Thursday, December 19, at 4 p.m. at the Aiken County Public Library. Children aged 5-10 can join in discussions about winter-themed books along with enjoying snacks and fun activities! What a great way to spark a love for reading!
Holiday Celebrations Wrap Up the Season
As we near the end of the year, Aiken will host a Noon Years Eve Party on December 31 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the library. This fun celebration is perfect for children ages 1 and older who want to ring in the New Year a little early with fun activities, snacks, and dancing!
With so many wonderful events planned, Aiken is truly the place to be this holiday season! It’s a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate, and create lasting memories. So let’s embrace the joy and cheer of this magical time! Happy holidays, Aiken!
