South Carolina’s Aiken is gearing up for the holiday season by inviting locals to the community’s 33rd annual Christmas in Hopelands from Dec. 14-23 from 6-9:30 p.m.
Hosted at the transformed Hopelands Gardens, located at 135 Dupree Place, guests can spend time with friends and family as they stroll through the gardens, taking in the sights and sounds of the holiday season while sipping hot cocoa and eating cookies.
“This enchanting walk-through exhibit features over two miles or lighted pathways and illuminated displays,” according to a press release from the City of Aiken. “With over 100,000 twinkling lights, this event should be at the top of your holiday bucket list.”
The Doll House, Clifford S. Gerde Carriage Museum, Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and the Rye Patch Stables will be open and decorated for visitors to enjoy.
In partnership with Overflow Foundation, s’more kits will be available for a donation of $5 during the event at Rye Patch, where participants can roast marshmallows at a fire pit and enjoy fun holiday activities for children.
“There will be crafts for children inside Rye Patch and Santa Clause will be there full of holiday cheer to hear your child’s Christmas wishes and snap a treasured photo” according to a press release from the City of Aiken. “Parents must always accompany children.”
Complimentary refreshments of hot cocoa, cider and cookies will be served in the Hall of Fame courtyard and outside the Guest Cottage, and live entertainment will be provided on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage at 7 p.m.
Spectators are encouraged to bring a blanket or use the natural amphitheater seating to enjoy the shows.
Scheduled shows are as follows:
- Saturday, Dec. 14 – Suzuki Strings Augusta
- Sunday, Dec. 15 – Aiken Tuba Christmas
- Monday, Dec. 16 – Horse Creek Ensemble
- Tuesday, Dec. 17 – East Aiken School of Arts
- Wednesday, Dec. 18 – Sheriffs Pipes and Drums
- Thursday, Dec. 19 – Aiken High School
- Friday, Dec. 20 – Renovate Ballet
- Saturday, Dec. 21 – The South Carolina Brass Band
- Sunday, Dec. 22 – Town Creek Baptist Church
- Monday, Dec. 23 – Josh Martin
All guests should use the free shuttle service to Hopelands, which runs continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45–8:45 p.m. each night. The last shuttle to view Christmas in Hopelands leaves Citizens Park at 8:45 p.m.
General public parking is not allowed at Hopelands, Rye Patch, Fermata Club or Green Boundary Club. However, handicapped parking is available at 135 Dupree Place.
“The City of Aiken Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism invites people of all ability levels to enjoy programs, parks, and facilities,” according to a press release from the City of Aiken. “Individuals needing special assistance to participate should notify PRT Administrative Office 48 hours in advance.”
While Christmas in Hopelands is a free event, donations are accepted with donation boxes placed at each entrance of the event.
Donations may also be mailed to: City of Aiken Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department, Christmas in Hopelands, P.O. Box 1177, Aiken, S.C., 29802.
For more information about Christmas in Hopelands, call 803-642-7600, then press 3 or visit www.christmasinhopelands.com
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Chick-Fil-A, Security Federal, and Southern Recipe Small Batch for their generous sponsorship, which adds a special touch of magic to Christmas in Hopelands,” according to a press release from the City of Aiken.
Businesses or organizations interested in joining as sponsors are encouraged to call 803-642-7650 to learn how to participate in this cherished and well-attended event.
Additionally, those looking to spread holiday cheer by volunteering can also call 803-642-7650 to explore opportunities to get involved.
In the case of inclement weather, Christmas in Hopelands may be canceled. Receive updates on cancellations by calling the City of Aiken Rain Out Hotline at 803-643-4661 or sign up and opt-in to receive notifications by texting AIKENRAINALERT to 91896.
