Magic is in the Air: Christmas in Hopelands is Just Around the Corner!
Get ready, Aiken residents! The twinkling lights, festive music, and warm holiday treats are about to fill the air again as we kick off the 33rd annual Christmas in Hopelands. Starting from December 14, this beloved local tradition is set to transform the gorgeous Hopelands Gardens into a dazzling holiday wonderland.
When the Magic Happens
The festivities will light up the night from 6 to 9:30 p.m. every evening, running until December 23. With over 100,000 twinkling white lights decorated along more than 2 miles of winding pathways, this is an event that promises to create beautiful memories for families and friends alike.
Festivities Just Around the Corner
What’s on the agenda for this year? Well, besides the stunning light displays, the Dollhouse will be ready for the season, and visitors can warm their hearts with delicious hot chocolate, hot apple cider, and freshly baked cookies, available at the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum.
Fun for the Little Ones
This year, kids will find a variety of holiday crafts to engage their creative spirits, and the magic doesn’t stop there! Santa Claus will be waiting inside the Rye Patch to share smiles and take photos with little ones—a perfect opportunity to capture those priceless holiday moments!
Live Entertainment All Night Long
As if that wasn’t enough, each night beginning at 7 p.m., local performers will take the stage at the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets to sit on the grass and soak in the wonderful performances, which will surely add more joy to this magical evening.
How to Get There
When it comes to parking, it’s important to note that only handicapped individuals, volunteers, and performers are allowed onsite parking. Don’t fret! A convenient shuttle service will be continuously running from Citizens Park located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. each night, making it easy for everyone to join in the holiday spirit. It’s also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring along well-behaved, leashed animals!
No Admission Fee!
The icing on the cake? There is no cost to enter the event or to use the shuttle service. It’s truly a gift to the community—a chance to revel in the holiday spirit without breaking the bank!
Performance Schedule
Mark your calendars for the special lineup of performances happening each night:
- Dec. 14: Suzuki Strings Augusta
- Dec. 15: Aiken Tuba Christmas
- Dec. 16: Horse Creek Ensemble
- Dec. 17: East Aiken School of Arts
- Dec. 18: Sheriffs Pipes and Drums
- Dec. 19: Aiken High School
- Dec. 20: Renovate Ballet
- Dec. 21, 22: TBA
- Dec. 23: Josh Marin
With each performance set to begin at 7 p.m., these nights promise to be filled with incredible talent and festive cheer!
So, Aiken, gather your family and friends, bundle up in your coziest scarf, and head over to experience the Christmas in Hopelands. Let’s spread that holiday magic together!
For More Information
If you’re looking for more details, don’t hesitate to visit hopelandsgardens.com. Happy Holidays!
