Top Christmas Markets in Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, turns into a joyful refuge during the holidays with its several Christmas markets. In these markets, celebrations would be perfect since they mix fine dining, gourmet cuisine, regional artists, and live events under cheerful decorations. From colorful holiday fairs to traditional Christkindlmarkts, Charleston’s Christmas markets suited all budgets whether one was searching for distinctive presents, rich seasonal cuisine, or family-oriented activities. This guide highlights the top five Christmas markets in Charleston, complete with essential details such as addresses, dates, parking, nearby accommodations, and restaurants to help you plan the perfect holiday experience. Texas locals will love exploring the Plano Christmas Market.

1. Charleston Christkindlmarkt

The Charleston Christkindlmarkt brings the magic of a classic German Christmas market right into North Charleston. Celebrated at the gorgeous Holy City Brewing, this market turns the area into a festive wonderland bursting with handmade goods, real German cuisine, and holiday cheer. Wandering the booths, guests will find seasonal-appropriate gifts, jewelry, and handcrafted items. Offering traditional German cuisine including bratwurst, pretzels, and glühwein (mulled wine), which gives guests a taste of European holiday customs, the market has highlights. Families will enjoy the children’s craft zone, where they may design their own festive decorations and the opportunity to meet Santa Claus in a cosy, adorned corner. The Christkindlmarkt is the ideal venue for holiday shopping and celebration with live music and caroling events so enhancing the festive mood. The Charleston Christkindlmarkt guarantees an incredible holiday experience for all ages, regardless of your interests—in unusual gifts, dining, or appreciating the festive mood.

• Address: Holy City Brewing, 1021 Aragon Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405
• Dates: December 2 – December 3, 2025
• Opening Times:
  • Sat: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Sun: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Free entry
• Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required. Event details available at Christkindlmarkt Charleston.

Nearest T Stations:

1. CARTA North Charleston Station
2. CARTA Montague Avenue Stop

Events:

1. Tree Lighting Ceremony: A festive kickoff to the market.
2. Live Music and Caroling: Performances by local artists and school choirs.
3. Children’s Craft Zone: Holiday-themed art and craft activities for kids.
4. German Food Tasting: Sample traditional German dishes and mulled wine.
5. Santa’s Arrival: Meet Santa and take photos in a festive setting.

Famous Shops or Stalls:

1. Handmade Ornaments Booth: Unique holiday decor and gifts.
2. Artisan Soap Vendors: Luxurious soaps and bath products.
3. Local Bakeries: Offering stollen, cookies, and festive treats.

Special Spots:

1. Central Christmas Tree: Perfect for holiday photos.
2. Santa’s Corner: A cozy space to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus.
3. Beer Garden: Enjoy locally brewed beverages.
4. Food Truck Alley: Delicious food options from local vendors.
5. Market Stage: Live performances throughout the day.

Parking and Parking Fee:

• Address: Holy City Brewing Parking Lot
• Fee: Free parking available on-site

Nearby Hotels:

1. Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Airport
2. Hyatt Place Charleston Airport/Convention Center
3. Courtyard by Marriott Charleston

Nearby Restaurants:

1. EVO Pizzeria (Wood-fired pizzas)
2. Nigel’s Good Food (Southern comfort food)
3. The CODfather (British fish and chips)

2. Charleston Holiday Market

The Charleston Holiday Market housed at the Gaillard Center is a top holiday shopping destination drawing people from all around the Lowcountry. This market is perfect for finding original gifts, handcrafted goods, and festive décor given so many vendors. Local artists showing their work will expose everything from gourmet cuisine and holiday wreaths to handcrafted jewelry and pottery. People with families like the market because it has events where they can interact with each other, like seminars on making gingerbread houses and holiday cooking demos. The magnificent Gaillard Center surrounds, brilliantly renovated for the season, give the shopping experience a sophisticated touch. Children will love seeing Santa Claus, even if adults value wine tastings including local options. Anyone looking to celebrate the season in fashion should most certainly go to the Charleston Holiday Market since it provides tasteful shopping combined with lively entertainment.

• Address: Charleston Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Dates: December 8, 2025 – December 10, 2025
• Opening Times:
  • Fri-Sat: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Sun: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: $3 per person; children under 12 enter free.
• Where to Buy Tickets: Tickets available at Charleston Holiday Market.

Nearest T Stations:

1. CARTA Calhoun Street Stop
2. CARTA Meeting Street Stop

Events:

1. Craft Demonstrations: Watch local artisans in action.
2. Holiday Cooking Classes: Learn festive recipes with local chefs.
3. Wine Sampling Booths: Taste selections from South Carolina wineries.
4. Kids’ Gingerbread Workshop: Hands-on fun for the little ones.
5. Holiday Concerts: Enjoy live seasonal music performances.

Famous Shops or Stalls:

1. Jewelry Crafters: Handmade necklaces, rings, and earrings.
2. Gourmet Food Vendors: Artisanal cheeses, sauces, and chocolates.
3. Home Decor Booths: Wreaths, garlands, and candles.

Special Spots:

1. Main Entrance Archway: Beautifully decorated for photos.
2. Community Art Exhibit: Holiday-themed pieces by local artists.
3. Santa’s Sleigh: Great for family pictures.
4. Central Fountain Area: Lit up with seasonal decorations.
5. Pop-Up Bookstore: Holiday reads for all ages.

Parking and Parking Fee:

• Address: Gaillard Center Parking Garage
• Fee: $5/hour

Nearby Hotels:

1. Francis Marion Hotel
2. Hotel Bennett
3. Hyatt House Charleston

Nearby Restaurants:

1. Halls Chophouse (Steakhouse)
2. 82 Queen (Lowcountry cuisine)
3. Poogan’s Porch (Southern classics)

3. North Charleston Coliseum Holiday Market

• Address: North Charleston Coliseum, 5001 Coliseum Dr, North Charleston, SC 29418
• Dates: December 15, 2025 – December 17, 2025
• Opening Times:
  • Fri: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Sat: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Sun: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: $5 per person; free for children under 10.
• Where to Buy Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at North Charleston Holiday Market.

Nearest T Stations:

1. CARTA North Charleston Coliseum Station
2. CARTA Rivers Avenue Stop

Events:

1. Holiday Fashion Show: Featuring festive apparel from local designers.
2. Gift Wrapping Station: Complimentary gift wrapping for all purchases.
3. Santa’s Workshop: Kids can create holiday crafts and meet Santa.
4. Holiday Cookie Competition: Sample and vote for your favorite cookies.
5. Festive Light Display: A mesmerizing illuminated walkway.

Famous Shops or Stalls:

1. Local Artisan Jewelry Booths: Unique, handcrafted designs.
2. Gourmet Popcorn Vendors: Offering holiday-themed flavors.
3. Pet Boutique: Gifts and treats for your furry friends.

Special Spots:

1. Grand Entrance Display: A beautifully lit welcome arch.
2. Holiday Craft Pavilion: Hands-on workshops and DIY kits.
3. Outdoor Snow Globe Photo Area: A favorite for family photos.
4. Live Music Stage: Performances by local musicians and choirs.
5. Santa’s Sleigh Display: Perfect for festive pictures.

Parking and Parking Fee:

• Address: Coliseum Parking Lot
• Fee: $10 per vehicle

Nearby Hotels:

1. Embassy Suites by Hilton North Charleston
2. Crowne Plaza Charleston Airport
3. Aloft Charleston Airport & Convention Center

Nearby Restaurants:

1. Sesame Burgers & Beer (Casual dining)
2. Nigel’s Good Food (Soul food)
3. Steel City Pizza Co. (Family-friendly dining)

4. Holiday Market at Middleton Place

The Holiday Market at Middleton Place combines the charm of Charleston’s history with festive holiday traditions. Held on the grounds of the historic Middleton Place, this market offers a unique opportunity to shop for handcrafted gifts while enjoying the beauty of one of Charleston’s most iconic landmarks. Stalls with locally produced jams and honey, wooden toys, and pottery let visitors peruse. Candlelight walks, horse-drawn carriage rides, and live choir concerts transport guests into the holiday season. The fire pit lounge, where patrons may warm up drinking hot cocoa or mulled wine, is a market highlight. Families will adore the beautifully ornamentated Christmas tree lawn, ideal for picture opportunities, and the children’s handcrafted workshops. Those wishing a festive experience combining history, culture, and holiday cheer will find the Middleton Place Holiday Market perfect.

• Address: Middleton Place, 4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414
• Dates: December 9, 2025 – December 10, 2025
• Opening Times:
  • Sat-Sun: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: $15 for adults; $5 for children under 12.
• Where to Buy Tickets: Tickets available at Middleton Place Events.

Nearest T Stations:

1. CARTA Ashley River Road Stop
2. CARTA Bee’s Ferry Road Stop

Events:

1. Historic Candlelight Tours: Explore the plantation’s decorated grounds.
2. Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: Scenic rides around the property.
3. Traditional Craft Demonstrations: Learn historic crafts and skills.
4. Live Choir Performances: Seasonal music by local groups.
5. Holiday Wine Tasting: Sample wines paired with festive foods.

Famous Shops or Stalls:

1. Handcrafted Pottery Booth: Traditional styles and local designs.
2. Wooden Toys Vendors: Unique, old-fashioned holiday toys.
3. Local Honey & Jam Stalls: Perfect for holiday gifting.

Special Spots:

1. Reflection Pool: Stunning views of the market lights at night.
2. Historic Gardens: Beautifully decorated with seasonal displays.
3. Holiday Pavilion: A central hub for entertainment and workshops.
4. Fire Pit Area: Cozy seating with complimentary marshmallow roasting.
5. Christmas Tree Lawn: A favorite for family pictures.

Parking and Parking Fee:

• Address: Middleton Place Parking Lot
• Fee: Free parking available on-site

Nearby Hotels:

1. The Inn at Middleton Place
2. Residence Inn by Marriott Charleston West Ashley
3. TownePlace Suites Charleston West Ashley

Nearby Restaurants:

1. Middleton Place Restaurant (Farm-to-table dining)
2. The Glass Onion (Southern cuisine)
3. Angel Oak Restaurant (American comfort food)

5. Charleston Farmers Holiday Market

• Address: 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Dates: December 2, 2025 – December 24, 2025 (Saturdays only)
• Opening Times: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: Free entry
• Where to Buy Tickets: No tickets required; details at Charleston Farmers Market.

Nearest T Stations:

1. CARTA Meeting Street Stop
2. CARTA Marion Square Stop

Events:

1. Holiday Bake-Off: Local bakers showcase festive desserts.
2. Christmas Choirs: Enjoy live caroling performances.
3. DIY Ornament Workshops: Fun, hands-on activity for all ages.
4. Seasonal Cooking Demos: Learn recipes for festive dishes.
5. Live Painting Sessions: Watch local artists create holiday-themed pieces.

Famous Shops or Stalls:

1. Local Farmer Booths: Fresh produce and holiday greenery.
2. Artisan Soap Makers: Unique, handmade bath products.
3. Gourmet Treats Vendors: Offering spiced nuts and holiday pastries.

Special Spots:

1. Marion Square Fountain: Lit with holiday colors for photos.
2. Tree Lane: A row of decorated Christmas trees.
3. Santa’s Workshop Booth: Meet Santa and pick up small gifts.
4. Outdoor Seating Area: Relax and enjoy live performances.
5. Holiday Craft Pavilion: A popular spot for hands-on fun.

Parking and Parking Fee:

• Address: Visitor Parking Garage, 399 King St, Charleston, SC
• Fee: $2/hour

Nearby Hotels:

1. The Dewberry Charleston
2. Renaissance Charleston Historic District Hotel
3. The Charleston Place

Nearby Restaurants:

1. FIG (Fine dining with seasonal dishes)
2. The Macintosh (Upscale Southern cuisine)
3. Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit (Famous for biscuits and pastries)