Christmas at Boone Hall Plantation is like a holiday postcard. The plantation transforms into a Lowcountry Christmas wonderland. And giant oak trees, festive lights, and good ol’ southern hospitality welcome folks of all ages. As far as history, charm, and holiday magic go, Boone Hall’s got it in spades.
Ready to discover Christmas at Boone Hall Plantation? Let’s get into it:
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Dates and Times
Mark your calendar! Christmas at Boone Hall Plantation runs from December 4, 2023, to January 1, 2024. Here’s the rundown:
Monday to Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Sunday: 12 PM – 5 PM
(Note: They’re closed Christmas Day, so plan around it!)
Holiday Decorations and Vibe
The decorations are (obviously) something else! Christmas trees in every room, sweetgrass ornaments, and wreaths made from magnolia leaves picked right on the property. Even the air smells like fresh-cut pine—there’s not a plastic tree in sight. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a living, breathing Christmas card.
Here are a few standout details around the plantation home:
Sweetgrass ornaments on one tree, handmade from local grass
Cotton and berry decorations grown right there on the plantation
Magnolia wreaths (yep, grown on the grounds)
Live fruit arrangements welcoming you at the entrance
And, of course, that iconic Avenue of Oaks, which will stop you in your tracks.
Tours and Admission
The best part? Touring the mansion, beautifully decorated as it is, is included with regular admission. No extra fee for all that holiday cheer! Just pay the standard ticket price, and you’re good to go.
Special Events at Boone Hall: Christmas Magic You Don’t Want to Miss
They don’t do Christmas halfway at Boone Hall Plantation—it’s the whole package, from twinkling lights to festive concerts. So, grab your cocoa and get started on enjoying a Merry Christmas!
Christmas Tree Festival
Kicking off the season the weekend before Thanksgiving, Boone Hall Farms hosts the Christmas Tree Festival. Admission is totally free, thanks to Starling Chevrolet and Beacon Community Bank. Here’s what you can expect:
Family-friendly Christmas activities
A Gullah Christmas Concert that’ll add a unique Lowcountry twist to your holiday soundtrack
Lots of festive vibes to get you into the spirit
Gullah Christmas at the Cotton Dock
Ever heard of Gullah Christmas traditions? Boone Hall Plantation keeps this rich history alive with an intimate evening of storytelling at the Cotton Dock. It’s a cozy, cultural experience that offers a deeper look into Southern holiday traditions.
Santa’s Castle
Here is where the magic kicks into overdrive. Santa’s Castle feels straight out of one of those classic Christmas movies. You’ll get to wander through Santa’s workshop, watch elves hard at work, and even check out Mrs. Claus whipping up treats in her kitchen.
Special feature? You get to wear 3D glasses that bring the whole place to life! And yes, Santa himself shows up for photos, so don’t forget your camera!
Holiday Hayride
Hop aboard a 20-minute Holiday Hayride through the woods, where you’ll get a narrated retelling of A Christmas Carol—Scrooge, ghosts, and all. With festive lights and music setting the scene, it’s like riding through your very own holiday storybook.
Why You Should Visit Boone Hall This Christmas
If Boone Hall’s charm wasn’t enough, USA TODAY’s 10BEST just ranked it as the #1 Plantation in the Charleston area. And it certainly lives up to the hype, befitting America’s most photographed plantation. During the Christmas season, it’s more than just pretty decorations:
Southern hospitality in its holiday best
A peek into historical Christmas traditions
The breathtaking beauty of a Lowcountry plantation, decked out in all its festive glory
More Christmas Holidays Fun Around Mount Pleasant, SC
If you’ve got time to spare (or just want to keep the holiday train rolling), Mount Pleasant has plenty more to offer this season. Here are a few fun options to check out while celebrating Christmas in Charleston, SC:
Holiday Market & Craft Show
Date: December 14, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Highlights: Local artisans showing off handmade Christmas ornaments, crafts, and artwork. Plus, live entertainment and activities for the kiddos. The perfect event for a laid-back family day.
Mount Pleasant Christmas Light Parade
Date: December 15, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Details: Imagine dazzling floats, tons of twinkling lights, and a community parade that kicks off with fireworks. It all goes down on West Coleman Boulevard, and trust me, it’s a sight to see.
Ice Skating at the Point
Location: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina
Ever tried ice skating with an ocean view? Well, now’s your chance. They’ve got a synthetic rink set up, plus fire pits for roasting s’mores when you’re done. Sounds like a great way to wrap up the day!
Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park
Dates: November 15 – January 5
Location: James Island County Park
Over two million lights. That’s right, two million. Drive through this epic display, then hit up Santa’s Village for marshmallow roasting, train rides, and all the holiday magic you can handle.
Tl;dr
Christmas at Boone Hall Plantation has the history, the beauty, and the festive cheer all wrapped up with a bow. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Charleston for the holidays, this is one stop you don’t want to miss.
