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Dec 1, 2016

The holiday season is just about here, so it’s the perfect time to plan ways to gather your loved ones and celebrate. Keep reading to explore several possibilities that’ll maximize your holiday cheer.

Go to the Children’s Garden Christmas

If you’re looking for a fabulous and free light display to enjoy, Edisto Memorial Gardens in Centennial Park is the place to be. Take the kids to sit on Santa’s lap, and let them marvel at thousands of colorful animated and still light displays. If chatting with Santa is a must-do part of your trip, keep in mind he’s at the gardens from six to eight every evening from now until Dec. 23. This light display is considered a notable option in the state.

Enjoy the Lights Before Christmas Exhibition

Marketed as the longest-running holiday tradition in Columbia, the Lights Before Christmas exhibition happens at the Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens. Although it’s not open on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, you can visit this attraction on other days from now through Dec. 30 from 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $11 for adults and $9 for kids aged two to 12. If your child is under age two, they can come to this light show for no charge.

Kids can visit with Santa from 6 p.m. onwards, and treats like s’mores and hot cocoa will be available to buy. One of the most impressive parts of this attraction is how many lights it features. All in all, there are nearly one million, and many of the light displays have moving parts. When you need a break from the cold, warm up at the holiday bonfire.

Check out Santa’s Workshop at the Prince of Orange Mall

When your kids want another chance to tell Santa what’s on their holiday gift list, buckle them in the car and drive to Orangeburg’s Prince of Orange Mall to see the Santa’s workshop display. Your youngsters can get their pictures taken by Santa’s friendly elves, so you’ll have a memorable souvenir from the day.

Photograph prices vary, and this attraction is open from Dec. 9 through Dec. 24. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. Also, take advantage of extended hours on Christmas Eve, when Santa will be in his workshop from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Get Shopping Done at the Junior League Holiday Market

Feeling a little behind on your shopping? Don’t worry! Just make your way to Columbia’s Junior League Holiday Market, which happens from Dec. 1 through 4 at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds in the Cantey and Ellison Buildings. See what approximately 150 merchants have for sale, and get your shopping done all in one place.

Also, if you’re planning to visit on Sunday, don’t miss the Sundaes with Santa event, which combines visits with Santa and an ice cream bar from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Now that you have several ways to celebrate in or around Orangeburg, it’s not hard to get into the holiday spirit. Consider taking advantage of these family-friendly events.