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2026 Holidays
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A Season to Remember at The Lantern

LET THE HOLIDAYS SHINE

Celebrate the most wonderful time of year in Columbia, where twinkling lights, festive traditions, and memorable moments await. From holiday markets to seasonal performances, discover the magic of the season with The Lantern Hotel as your home away from home.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS: ALL IS BRIGHT

Watch Columbia glow with the spirit of the season. From millions of twinkling lights to illuminated garden displays, these festive experiences bring a little extra sparkle to your holiday plans.

a group of ornaments from a tree
a crowd of people with their hands up in the air
a christmas lights on a street

HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON THE RIVER 3 Late November – December 31 Saluda Shoals Park | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Admission: Generally starts at $25–$35 per standard vehicle, depending on date. Experience one of the Midlands’ favorite holiday traditions with a drive through millions of sparkling lights and themed displays. Enjoy visits with Santa on select nights, seasonal treats, and a holiday gift shop for an evening filled with festive cheer.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON THE RIVER 2 Late November – December 31 Saluda Shoals Park | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Admission: Generally starts at $25–$35 per standard vehicle, depending on date. Experience one of the Midlands’ favorite holiday traditions with a drive through millions of sparkling lights and themed displays. Enjoy visits with Santa on select nights, seasonal treats, and a holiday gift shop for an evening filled with festive cheer.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON THE RIVER Late November – December 31 Saluda Shoals Park | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Admission: Generally starts at $25–$35 per standard vehicle, depending on date. Experience one of the Midlands’ favorite holiday traditions with a drive through millions of sparkling lights and themed displays. Enjoy visits with Santa on select nights, seasonal treats, and a holiday gift shop for an evening filled with festive cheer.

GIFTS, GOODIES & HOLIDAY CHEER

Find something special for everyone on your list. Browse handmade treasures, seasonal treats, and festive finds at Columbia’s holiday markets, where shopping comes with a little extra cheer.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON

Take your seat for a little holiday magic. From beloved classics to festive concerts, Columbia’s stages come alive with performances worth celebrating.

a group of ornaments from a tree
a crowd of people with their hands up in the air
a christmas lights on a street

HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON THE RIVER 3 Late November – December 31 Saluda Shoals Park | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Admission: Generally starts at $25–$35 per standard vehicle, depending on date. Experience one of the Midlands’ favorite holiday traditions with a drive through millions of sparkling lights and themed displays. Enjoy visits with Santa on select nights, seasonal treats, and a holiday gift shop for an evening filled with festive cheer.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON THE RIVER 2 Late November – December 31 Saluda Shoals Park | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Admission: Generally starts at $25–$35 per standard vehicle, depending on date. Experience one of the Midlands’ favorite holiday traditions with a drive through millions of sparkling lights and themed displays. Enjoy visits with Santa on select nights, seasonal treats, and a holiday gift shop for an evening filled with festive cheer.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON THE RIVER Late November – December 31 Saluda Shoals Park | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Admission: Generally starts at $25–$35 per standard vehicle, depending on date. Experience one of the Midlands’ favorite holiday traditions with a drive through millions of sparkling lights and themed displays. Enjoy visits with Santa on select nights, seasonal treats, and a holiday gift shop for an evening filled with festive cheer.

THE JOY OF DISCOVERY

See Columbia through a festive new lens. From illuminated neighborhoods to beautifully decorated historic homes, discover the stories and traditions that make the season special.

MERRY MOMENTS FOR ALL

Make time for togetherness this season. From festive outdoor adventures to hands-on holiday activities, Columbia offers plenty of ways to celebrate with the whole family.

a group of ornaments from a tree
a crowd of people with their hands up in the air
a christmas lights on a street

HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON THE RIVER 3 Late November – December 31 Saluda Shoals Park | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Admission: Generally starts at $25–$35 per standard vehicle, depending on date. Experience one of the Midlands’ favorite holiday traditions with a drive through millions of sparkling lights and themed displays. Enjoy visits with Santa on select nights, seasonal treats, and a holiday gift shop for an evening filled with festive cheer.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON THE RIVER 2 Late November – December 31 Saluda Shoals Park | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Admission: Generally starts at $25–$35 per standard vehicle, depending on date. Experience one of the Midlands’ favorite holiday traditions with a drive through millions of sparkling lights and themed displays. Enjoy visits with Santa on select nights, seasonal treats, and a holiday gift shop for an evening filled with festive cheer.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON THE RIVER Late November – December 31 Saluda Shoals Park | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Admission: Generally starts at $25–$35 per standard vehicle, depending on date. Experience one of the Midlands’ favorite holiday traditions with a drive through millions of sparkling lights and themed displays. Enjoy visits with Santa on select nights, seasonal treats, and a holiday gift shop for an evening filled with festive cheer.

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CHEERS TO 2027: THE DROP ON MAIN

December 31 | Main Street, Columbia

Ring in the new year with live music, food vendors, fireworks, and a festive countdown at Columbia’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration.

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STAY A LITTLE LONGER

Make the most of every holiday moment with a stay at The Lantern. Settle into thoughtfully designed accommodations, enjoy warm hospitality, and discover Columbia’s seasonal celebrations from your home base in the Vista.

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