This December, Charleston is buzzing with new energy, evolving into a must-visit cultural and culinary destination for 2025. From freshly opened restaurants and cozy cafés to unique local shops and festive holiday events, the city is serving up experiences that blend Charleston’s historic charm with modern flair. Here’s your guide to the latest spots and happenings shaping downtown and beyond this season.

Shop Local This Season 
​
If you love shopping small, supporting locals, or finding unique gifts — these are some of the best local-flavor stores in Charleston (many walkable if you park downtown with the Holiday Pass).
​
Shop / Boutique & Why It’s Worth Visiting
Candlefish – 270 King St
Known for hand-poured candles with unique scents, and especially fun if you want Charleston-themed candles or gifts. 

Southern Ruetz / Maker Mall – 128 Meeting St & upstairs vendor mallA great place for handmade jewelry, art, unique gifts — deeply rooted in local maker community and perfect for holiday gift hunting. 

George C. Birlant & Co. – Lower King Street antique districtIf you love antiques, vintage finds or collectible home décor, this longtime shop offers 18th/19th-century antiques and old-Charleston charm. 

The Charleston City Market – Meeting & Market StreetsA must-see for handmade crafts, sweetgrass baskets, local art, jewelry, and souvenirs — great for unique gifts and classic Charleston flavor. 

Hampden Clothing – King Street (Fashion District)For fashion lovers: this boutique offers curated clothing, accessories, and style with a Southern-meets-chic vibe — ideal for a holiday wardrobe refresh or gift. 

Bonus: many of these are centrally located (King Street, Meeting/Market, downtown), so you can park using the Holiday Pass garages and stroll between several in a few hours. 
 

Holiday Pop-Up Bars & Events Happening Around Charleston
Here are the season’s standout holiday pop-ups, themed bars, and festive markets — ideal for shopping local, cocktail hopping, and getting into the holiday mood. 
​
1. Holy City Holiday Market — Dec 19–21, 2025 (Old Park Circle)
A large multi-venue market with 200+ vendors, food trucks, live music, and family-friendly entertainment spread around Park Circle.
​
2. Soulful Holiday Pop-Up — Dec 18, 2025 (Sweetgrass Hall)
A community-driven market featuring jewelry, artisan gifts, clothing, sweets, and holiday sips.
​
3. Holiday Pop-Up Shops at The Palmetto Hotel — Dec 6, 13, 20 (2–6 pm)
Boutique-style market inside the hotel lobby with local makers and optional discounted cocktails for shoppers.
​
4. Sippin’ Santa — Nov 28–Dec 31 (Prohibition, Downtown)
A nationally loved tiki-holiday pop-up with collectible mugs, themed cocktails, and an over-the-top festive atmosphere.
​
5. Republic Garden & Lounge Holiday Pop-Up — Nov 19–Dec 31
Full holiday décor installation, seasonal cocktails, and photo-friendly backdrops.
​
6. Holiday Shopping Bazaar in the Stacks — Dec 4–5 (Charleston Library Society)
A curated bazaar featuring makers of sweetgrass baskets, chocolates, books, stationery, and artisan goods.
​
7. James Island Festival of Lights — Now through New Year’s (James Island County Park)
A Lowcountry holiday classic. Millions of lights, festive displays, Santa’s Village, marshmallow toasting, gift shops, holiday train rides, and nightly entertainment. Ideal for families or anyone wanting a nostalgic holiday outing.
​
8. Little Pine Pop-Up — at The Ryder (Downtown till January 5)
The Little Pine transforms The Ryder’s poolside lounge into a cozy alpine-themed pop-up with warm cocktails, chalet-style décor, and holiday treats.
​
9. Blind Tiger Christmas Pop-Up — December (Downtown Charleston)
Historic tavern turned festive hideaway for the season. Expect garlands, vintage Christmas décor, seasonal cocktails, and a lively after-work crowd.
​
10. Additional Seasonal Events
Expect rotating markets, art-focused holiday nights, ice skating, choir performances, and neighborhood pop-ups throughout December! Follow us on Instagram for daily happenings! 

This holiday season just got easier thanks to the city’s annual Holy City Holiday Park and Shop Pass — offering two hours of free parking at several downtown garages through December 31. Great if you want to hit up multiple shops without sweating parking fees.
​
Print Pass Here 

Discover American Gardens:
Charleston’s New Downtown Oasis
 
Charleston has a brand-new reason to pause, stroll, and soak in the city’s charm: American Gardens, a beautifully designed community park nestled between King Street and Meeting Street, has officially opened. This urban oasis blends nature, culture, and seasonal festivities, offering locals and visitors alike a serene space to gather, relax, and enjoy downtown.

🌳 What Makes American Gardens Special
Covering nearly one acre, American Gardens transforms a city block into a peaceful escape. The landscaping is thoughtfully curated, featuring 68 crepe myrtle trees, over 100 magnolias, eight stately live oaks, and two four-tier fountains framing a grand lawn with winding walkways. Developed by Beemok Hospitality Collection, the park prioritizes community green space over commercial development, giving Charleston residents a beautiful, accessible outdoor retreat.

Whether you’re sipping coffee on a sunny bench, walking your dog, or enjoying a quiet moment with a book, American Gardens already feels like a cherished part of the downtown landscape. Hundreds of locals attended the grand opening, with early visitors calling it a “peaceful retreat in the middle of downtown.” It’s clear that American Gardens is more than a park — it’s a community gathering place.
 
Holidays at American Gardens
This holiday season, American Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland:

• A 30-foot Fraser fir serves as the park’s centerpiece.

• A whimsical carousel offers complimentary rides for children.

• Holiday lights and décor illuminate the walkways for evening strolls.

• Holiday markets, children’s workshops, and Santa visits run throughout December.

• Live music and performances, often in collaboration with the Gibbes Museum of Art, add festive cheer.

​
It’s the perfect destination for family fun, seasonal photos, or a quiet festive escape right in the heart of Charleston.

​174 King St. (also spans to 141 Meeting St.) Charleston, SC 29401