December is a magical time on Hilton Head Island, with a mix of holiday traditions, outdoor fun and locally curated experiences.
Here are some of the top events and things to enjoy in Hilton Head in December 2025 + plus a few tips.
Food, Spirits, Art & Fun:
A festive tradition continues Dec. 1-Jan. 3 as the Art League Gallery is transformed into a “Gallery of Gifts,” featuring handcrafted gift items, jewelry and artwork by local artists. (843) 681-5060 or www.artleaguehhi.org.
Dec. 1-28, the Society of Bluffton Artists holds its Holiday Market, a seasonal showcase featuring handcrafted, one-of-a-kind gifts by local artists. Explore and purchase a wide array of artfully crafted items. Each piece is thoughtfully created by talented Bluffton artists, making it an ideal stop for unique and personal holiday shopping. www.sobagallery.com.
Don’t miss the First Thursday Artisan Alley on Dec. 4. This monthly art walk at the Shops of Sea Pines Center features local artists, live music, food vendors, and community charity partners. Stroll through the plaza, discover unique handmade pieces, and support local creativity and causes. www.theshopsatseapinescenter.com/events.
On Dec. 12, 19 and 26, experience an unforgettable, all-ages dining experience on a two-hour Hibachi Dinner Cruise. Indulge in hibachi-style cuisine while enjoying the stunning views of the Lowcountry’s waterways. Bar offers beer and wine. (843) 686-4386 or www.islandheadhhi.com.
Join the holiday fun in Harbour Town on Dec. 27 and 28 to watch classic holiday movies, roast marshmallows and take a train ride. Movie and marshmallows start at 6 p.m. www.seapines.com/experiences/events/holiday-fun-harbour-town.
Sea Pines Beach Club hosts Sandy Sledding on Dec. 27 from 1-2:15 p.m. Bring on the holiday fun by sledding on the sandy beaches of Hilton Head Island. Showcase your team’s sled and be scored on speed, durability and creativity. www.seapines.com/experiences/events/sandy-sledding-1.
Performances:
Dec. 1-28, Frozen – The Broadway Musical is on stage at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated film, it includes all the film’s magic, humor and beloved songs. www.artshhi.com.
The Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra kicks off the holiday season with Holiday Pops at First Presbyterian Church on Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m. (843) 842-2055 or www.hhso.org.
The Hilton Head Choral Society presents “Celebrate the Holidays,” at 7 p.m. on Dec. 5 at the First Presbyterian Church. Enjoy an enchanting evening that brings together cherished seasonal traditions and beloved contemporary holiday classics. www.hiltonheadchoralsociety.org.
On Dec. 5, 12 and 19 at 8 p.m., the Comedy Magic Cabaret hosts a “VIP Backstage Close-up & Parlour Magic Experience.” Enjoy an intimate evening of close-up and parlour-style magic and fun. And, on Dec. 31, ring in 2026 with Kerry Pollock and a special guest will appear on the main stage along with special close-up performances. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, a champagne toast and prizes throughout the evening. (843) 681-7757 or www.comedymagiccabaret.com.
Relish the spirit of the holidays with an evening with Gregg Russell in Harbour Town on Dec. 23. Listen from 7:30-9 p.m., as he performs songs of the season. Following the concert, enjoy a visit from Santa. (843) 842-1979 or www.seapines.com/experiences/events/gregg-russell-christmas-concert-0.
On Dec. 30 at 11 a.m., enjoy a Polar Bear Swim in Sea Pines. Show your adventurous side with the other “polar bears” by taking a dip in the Harbour Town pool on a chilly winter day. Warm up after with hot chocolate and refreshments. www.seapines.com/experiences/events/polar-bear-swim.
Holiday Events:
Stop by Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina Dec. 1-31 for a holiday display of lights. Experience the “Coastal Christmas” boat lights, as you stroll the promenade, shop the boutiques and dine amidst a Lowcountry “winter.” This year’s dazzling display will deliver over 125,000 lights to savor and remember. www.sheltercovehiltonhead.com/holiday-lights-at-shelter-cove.
Harbour Town will be bustling with activities and live entertainment from Dec. 1-Jan. 1 with Harbour Town Lights. Stroll along the harbour and enjoy the illuminated seasonal figures and the towering Christmas tree! www.seapines.com/experiences/events/harbour-town-lights.
From Dec. 1-Jan. 1 enjoy the thousands of festive lights and decorated trees throughout Shelter Cove Towne Centre. Great for holiday picture taking, drive through or stroll for a walkable experience. And Mr. and Mrs. Claus will visit on Dec. 6, 21 and 24. www.sheltercovetownecentre.com/events.
On Dec. 5 from 5-8 p.m., bring your holiday spirit for Hilton Head Island’s annual official tree lighting at the Lowcountry Celebration Park. Santa Claus will be onsite for photos, as local talents take the stage. A spectacular laser show will cap off the festivities at this free event. www.culturehhi.org.
Don’t miss the Winter Wonderland Festival presented by the Island Rec Center and Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort on Dec. 6 from 3-6 p.m.at Shelter Cove Community Park. Visit with Santa and enjoy bounce houses, a parade, DJ and a Golden Candy Cane Hunt. www.islandreccenter.org/events/wonderland.
Dec. 6-8 from 6-8 p.m., enjoy a mesmerizing drive through the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park as it transforms into a winter wonderland! The beloved Holiday Nights & Lights event returns for the fifth year, bringing with it twinkling lights and fun holiday displays for folks of all ages. (843) 255-7301 or www.exploremitchellville.org.
You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, because Santa Claus is coming to Top Dawg Tavern & Pizzeria on Dec. 13! Bring your kids (and furry friends) to meet Santa from 6-8 p.m. and make sure to bring your Christmas List and your camera! www.topdawgtaverrn.com.
On Dec. 21 enjoy “Brunch with Santa” at Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar. The event will feature a buffet along with complimentary photos with the big man. Seatings at 10:15 a.m. and 12 p.m. Reservations are required. (866) 921-6639 or www.alexandersrestaurant.com.
On Dec. 28 at 1 p.m., don’t miss Paws and Claus Parade in Harbour Town. Your furry friends can show off their best holiday attire in a parade led by Santa himself. Enjoy a festive day filled with pet photo-ops with Santa. www.seapines.com/experiences/events/paws-and-claus-parade.
