The holiday season in Augusta, Georgia, is a magical time filled with festive cheer and community spirit. From dazzling Christmas parades to enchanting tree lighting ceremonies, the River Region offers a variety of ways to celebrate the season. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly events or nostalgic outings under sparkling lights, Augusta's holiday traditions promise unforgettable memories. Check out our guide to the best Christmas parades and tree lightings in Augusta for a holiday experience you won’t want to miss!
North Augusta Tree Lighting
Live holiday music by local school bands, s'mores, and Hot Cocoa. More information here.
Where: Calhoun Park, 798 Georgia Ave. downtown North Augusta, SC 29841
When: Tuesday, December 3 from 5 - 7 p.m.
Fort Eisenhower's Christmas Festival & Tree Lighting
No matter what holiday you celebrate this season, everyone is encouraged to join in for some fun and festive activities. There will be children’s crafts, hayrides, and a bonfire, as well as cookies, candy, and refreshments. Enjoy live entertainment and Christmas carols as they prepare to light the tree! More information here.
Where: Barton Field between Brainard and Barnes Avenues, Fort Eisenhower, GA 30905
When: Thursday, December 5 from 4 - 8 p.m.
Aiken's Christmas Tree Lighting
Celebrate the holidays with a special evening on Newberry Street in downtown Aiken. There will be music, crafts, refreshments, and a countdown to the lighting of the tree, as well as a special appearance by Santa. More information here.
Where: At the corner of Park Ave SW & Newberry St SW in downtown Aiken, SC 29801
When: Friday, December 6 from 6 - 8 p.m.
Grovetown Christmas Parade
The City of Grovetown presents its Annual Christmas Parade. This year's theme is "Rock N' Roll Re-Do" so grab your cozy scarf and get ready to celebrate the holiday season in style! More information here.
Where: Runs from Augusta Tech to Grovetown Middle School, Grovetown, GA 30813
When: Saturday, December 7 at 10 a.m.
Augusta's Christmas Parade
Enjoy the Christmas season with decorative floats and a glance of Santa with a few of his reindeer at the annual Augusta Christmas Parade! This year features a Light Up Spectacular! show at 4 p.m. and Christmas Tree Light Up with Fireworks at 6 p.m. in the Augusta Commons. More information here.
Where: 12th Street in Downtown, Augusta, GA 30901
When: Saturday, December 7 starting at 2 p.m.
Grovetown Christmas Festival
Visit Grovetown for the Christmas Festival. Take your picture with the Big Man in the Red Suit, Santa, and as a special treat, he’s bringing the SNOW. More information here.
Where: Liberty Park, 1040 Newmantown Road, Grovetown, GA 30813
When: Friday, December 7 from 5 - 8 p.m.
Edgefield Town Square Christmas Parade
Bring your family and friends! The annual Christmas Parade will feature this season's favorite, Santa! More information here.
Where: Downtown Edgefield, Edgefield, SC 29824
When: Sunday, December 8 from 3 - 4 p.m.
Columbia County Christmas Parade
The parade will feature several decorative floats and local organizations. After the parade ends, take a stroll through the full Christmas vendor village, free Santa photos, free train rides, ice skating, and more at Evans Towne Center Park! More information here.
Where: Evans Towne Center Park, 7016 Evans Town Center Blvd, Evans, GA 30809
When: Sunday, December 8 from 3 - 5 p.m.
North Augusta Christmas Parade
The Annual North Augusta Lions Christmas Parade is sure to bring cheer. Each year presents exciting new themes, this year being "Game Time." Watch your favorite board games, video games, game shows, and sports come to life on every float. More information here.
Where: Georgia Avenue in downtown North Augusta, SC 29841
When: Sunday, December 8 at 3 p.m.
Downtown Aiken Christmas Parade
The Aiken Jaycees’ Christmas Parade brings the holiday season to life on the streets of downtown Aiken. Pick your spot and enjoy a wide variety of floats, music, and fun traveling down the streets of downtown. More information here.
Where: Begins on the corner of Barnwell Ave & Laurens Street NW and turns down Park Avenue in downtown Aiken, SC 29801
When: Sunday, December 8 at 2 p.m.
Come See Augusta
Augusta’s unique blend of holiday cheer, local shopping, and delicious dining options makes it an ideal holiday weekend destination. From light displays to historic sites, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to download the OFFICIAL Augusta Experience Guide for more ways to explore the city, and check out our other blog posts for ideas on where to go, what to do, and how to make the most of your visit. Make Augusta your go-to holiday destination!
Cassidy Veach
Cassidy is a self-proclaimed goofball who loves collecting bumper stickers, hiking with her dogs, and playing rugby. When she’s not out and about trying an a new experience or making friends in the community, she’s volunteering at a local sporting event or trying the latest restaurant.