The Christmas Season is special, with an old-time feeling of warmth, children with a sparkle in their eyes and lights of all colors illuminating the streets. And the City of West Columbia is bursting with holiday cheer this season. From the 21st Annual Christmas Tree Lighting to the Meeting Street Artisan Markets, Night Time Parade of Lights, and community and school events, there is something for everyone. Plan to “Head West” and celebrate the season in style.

Santa’s Mailbox at Carraway Park – Important Dates and Details

Get ready to spread some Christmas cheer! Children are invited to bring their own letters or use the festive postcards provided at Santa’s Post Office and drop them into Santa’s Mailbox at Carraway Park, 212 Hudson Street, West Columbia.

Be sure to include your child’s name, age, and return address so Santa and his elves can send a reply! Parents, please assist younger children to ensure their information is clear and legible.

Letters accepted: November 17 – December 24
To receive a response by Christmas Eve: Mail by December 14. Santa will select two letters received by November 30 to be read aloud by Mrs. Claus during the City’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting on December 5 at 6:30 PM at City Hall.

Click Here For More Info: Santa’s Mailbox

21st Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

Kick off the holidays with an evening of cheer, including holiday carols, a Christmas message, hot chocolate, cookies, and the 21st Annual lighting of the City’s Christmas tree. Celebrate the creativity of local students as winners of the “What Christmas Means to Me” essay contest share their works. Winning student artwork will also be displayed at the Art on State wall in the Interactive Art Park.

• When: Friday, December 5, 2025, at 6:30 PM
• Where: City Hall Lawn, 200 N. 12th Street, West Columbia

Special Guests

• Pastor Dow Welsh, Holland Avenue Baptist Church – Master of Ceremonies
• Cyril B. Busbee Creative Arts Academy Chorus
• Northside Middle School Concert Choir
• East Point Academy Cub Chorus
• East Point Academy Panda Performers
• Mrs. Claus

Click Here For More Info: West Columbia Christmas Tree Lighting

Meeting Street Artisan Markets – Holiday Edition

• When: Saturdays – December 6, 13, and 20, 2025, from 11 AM to 3 PM
• Where: Interactive Art Park – 425 Meeting Street, West Columbia

Celebrate the holiday season at the Meeting Street Artisan Holiday Markets on the first three Saturdays of December at the Interactive Art Park, 425 Meeting Street, West Columbia, featuring:

• Unique, handmade treasures crafted by talented local artisans.
• Artisan booths with handcrafted jewelry, stunning artwork, baked goods, and more.
• Holiday music and delightful treats create a festive atmosphere.
• Opportunities to support local businesses while exploring West Columbia’s entertainment scene.

The markets are more than just shopping. They are a chance to connect with the community, create memories with loved ones, and embrace the holiday spirit. Don’t miss this unforgettable holiday experience!

Click Here For More Info: Meeting Street Artisan Market

Greater CWC Chamber Parade Day
Parade Day Festivities kick off on Saturday, December 13, beginning at noon at the North Pole at the Greater CWC Chamber Office, 1006 12th Street, featuring live entertainment, amusements, family activities, shopping, and more. Visitors can enjoy the Holiday Business Shuttle, a free hop-on, hop-off ride connecting four festive stops throughout West Columbia and Cayce, including the Meeting Street Artisan Market (11 AM – 3 PM), restaurants, breweries, shops, and art along State Street.

As night falls, the North Pole transforms into Parade Headquarters, complete with a performance area, parade judges, and bleachers, for the Holiday Parade of Lights, which begins at 5:30 PM along 12th Street.

Make it a weekend getaway with 18% off hotel rates at TownePlace Suites and Residence Inn in West Columbia. Book your stay and learn more at CWC Parade Day. For vendor inquiries, contact [email protected].

City Hall Closings & Sanitation Information for the Holidays

Thanksgiving Closings

The City of West Columbia City Hall will be closed on Thursday, November 27, 2025, and Friday, November 28, 2025, in observance of Thanksgiving. The City will resume regular hours on Monday, December 1, 2025.

Thanksgiving Sanitation Changes

If sanitation services are normally received on Thursday, November 28, they will be provided on Wednesday, November 27, 2025. There will be no yard trash pickup on Friday, November 28, 2025.

Download the WeCo Info App in the Apple or Google Play Stores for alerts and information. More information can be found at https://westcolumbiasc.gov/sanitation-recycling.

Christmas and New Year’s Day Closings

City Hall will be closed on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, December 24, 25, and 26, 2025, and on Thursday, January 1, 2026.

Lexington Two High School Holiday Events

Mark your calendars! Lexington Two’s high schools are inviting community families to their free annual family-friendly winter festivals.

Brookland-Cayce High School’s Winter Wonderland is set for 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday, December 9 on the school campus, 1300 State St., Cayce. The walk-through event will include special treats and activities like letter-writing to Santa, pictures with Bearcat Santa, and more. The school’s dance team will perform at 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Airport High School’s Winterfest is set for 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Friday, December 12, on the school campus, 1315 Boston Ave., West Columbia. Walk decorated school halls, collect stocking stuffers, enjoy games, crafts, and snacks, and more.

District and community families are invited.  Admission is free to both events.
Other Lexington Two schools have holiday events on tap that are open to the community. Click this link for a list of activities.