easy
3–3.5 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels; light walking involved
Experience Charleston’s Festival of Lights with Adventure Sightseeing—over 700 illuminated displays and round-trip transportation included. This festive tour offers family-friendly fun and hassle-free holiday magic all in one.
BOOKING NOW! Let us do the driving while you experience the best Holiday lights in Charleston!
Experience the magic of Charleston's holiday Festival of Lights with Adventure Sightseeing! Enjoy over 700 dazzling displays and 2 million lights at James Island County Park. This enchanting tour includes transportation, a s'more kit, and 1.5 hours of festive fun, making it a perfect family adventure this holiday season!
Join Adventure Sightseeing for a magnificent time at the James Island County Park for Charleston's one and only holiday Festival of Lights! There are over 700 displays and 2 million lights. Running daily from November 11nd through December 31st (with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Days ). The tour will leave from the Charleston Visitor's Center located at 375 Meeting St. at 4:45 p.m.
This tour departs from the Charleston Visitors Center. However, we can offer pick up at downtown hotels via advance reservation. Please call our office at 843-762-0088 after booking to reserve a pick up time if needed. We can only pick up at hotels located on the peninsula
Included for your touring pleasure: • Transportation to and from downtown • Entry fee to the Festival of Lights • 1.5 hours in the Winter Wonderland area for shopping. s'mores, pictures with Santa, or pure enjoyment of festivities. • S'more kit- includes graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate and sticks for roasting!
Gift shop purchase, cost of pictures with Santa (if not taking your own), and additional food purchases. Gratuities are not included, nor required, but always appreciated for a job well done!
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Advance purchase is highly recommended and tours often sell out in advance. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance. Tickets can be purchased with Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.
What exactly will I see on the tour?
This 3.25 hour tour will allow viewing of Charleston's Festival of Lights with over 700 displays and over 2 million lights! You will have time to visit the gift shop, get your picture taken with Santa, or simply walk around to the sand castle and life size card displays.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded but can be rescheduled with 72 hours notice.
What if it rains?
The tours run rain or shine, so please dress according to the day’s forecast. Please keep in mind that most of the tour takes place on our vehicle so you will be out of the elements.
Are children allowed? What type of ticket should I buy?
Yes, and there is a reduced price for children's tickets. We actually encourage bringing young children on this tour as it is a great family adventure for all ages! We have reduced price tickets for children ages 4 to 11. Children ages 3 and younger can come for free with an accompanying adult ticket and must sit on their parent's lap.
Can I bring food or beverages on the bus?
Food and drinks are not allowed on the bus.
Are there any stops along the way?
There are no stops on the way so please ensure you have used the restroom prior to leaving. There will be an opportunity once there to use the facilities again.
Is the bus air conditioned?
Yes the bus is air conditioned.
Is the tour narrated?
No, the tour is not narrated. However, we will be playing Christmas music during the drive to enhance the holiday experience.
Is there a restroom on the bus?
No, but restrooms are located at the meeting location and will be available at the Festival once we arrive. We highly recommend using the bathrooms at the starting location before the tour.
Do you run year-round?
No. This is a special tour only offered November 11th thru December 31st except for Thanksgiving Day & Christmas Day.
What kind of a vehicle will we be travelling in?
Either a 25 passenger mini bus or a14 passenger van depending on bookings.
Is there assigned seating on the bus?
Seating is on a first come first serve basis. If you are traveling with a large group you may want to arrive 15 - 20 minutes prior to departure.
How should I dress for the tour?
Check the forecast, buses are climate controlled but there will be time outdoors.
Will we be able to purchase souvenirs or shop during the tour?
Yes! There is a gift shop with all sorts of goodies available for purchase!
Are pets allowed?
No. Bonafide Service animals are allowed, however. Emotional support animals are NOT allowed.
Does the tour start and end at the same place?
The tour starts and ends at the same location. Transportation is provided back to the meeting location or directly to your hotel if in the downtown area.
Is there parking?
Yes, there will be parking garages available by the meeting location. Exact meeting location and parking details will be provided immediately upon purchase of tickets.
Are gratuities included?
Gratuities are not included in the ticket price. While not required, gratuities are accepted and always appreciated by the tour guides.
Is smoking allowed on the tour?
Smoking is not permitted during the tour.
Can I bring luggage on the bus/leave my belongings on the bus?
No. We do not have space on the bus for large items such as luggage, wheelchairs, or strollers.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes! We can accommodate a variety of special requests.
Tours frequently sell out; advance purchase ensures preferred dates and times.
Layer up since the bus is climate-controlled, but you’ll spend time walking outside.
Bus stops directly at the festival, but no restrooms onboard; plan accordingly.
Arrive early to take advantage of nearby parking garages at the Charleston Visitor Center.
James Island County Park, where the Festival of Lights is held, has been a regional recreational hub since the 1970s, balancing outdoor fun with local tradition.
The festival promotes energy-efficient LED lighting and encourages minimal impact on natural habitats within the park setting.
Chilly evenings around the festival call for layers to stay comfortable outdoors.
fall specific
You'll spend around 1.5 hours walking the festival displays, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
Capture the vibrant lights and festive moments during your visit.
Stay hydrated before and after the tour, though no drinks are permitted on the bus.