The 31st Annual Christmas in Hopelands event will transform Hopelands Gardens in Aiken, South Carolina, December 10-22 from 6:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Guests can spend time with friends and family as they stroll through Gardens, taking in the sights and sounds of the holiday season while sipping hot cocoa or apple cider. This enchanting walk-through exhibit features over two miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays. With over 100,000 twinkling lights, this event should be at the top of your holiday bucket list.

The Doll House, The Clifford S. Gerde Carriage Museum, The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and the Rye Patch Stables will be open and decorated for visitors to enjoy.

Complimentary refreshments will be served in the Hall of Fame courtyard and outside the Guest Cottage. In addition, Santa Claus will be at the Guest Cottage on select nights to hear your child’s Christmas wishes and take what is sure to become a treasured photo (parents must accompany children at all times). Live entertainment is provided on select nights on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage at 7:00 p.m. Spectators should bring a blanket or use the natural amphitheater seating to enjoy the shows. Performances are subject to change.
December 10 – Suzuki Strings of Augusta
December 11 – Catherine GGT Productions Presents “A Merry Christmas”
December 12- Southern Elite Cloggers
December 13 – East Aiken School for the Arts
December 14 – Hillview Baptist Church Choir
December 15 – Aiken High Jazz Band
December 16 – Joyful Noise Ringers
December 17 – Aiken Youth Orchestra
December 18 – Garden City Quartet
December 19 – Whovillation Christmas Light Show Celebration
December 20 – TBD
December 21 – TBD
December 22 – Josh Martin
All guests should use the shuttle service to Hopelands, which runs continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 p.m. – 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 The Green Boundary Club. However, handicapped parking is available at 135 Dupree Place. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service.

While Christmas in Hopelands is a free event, donations are accepted. Donation boxes are located at each entrance. Donations may also be mailed to: City of Aiken Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department, Christmas in Hopelands, P.O. Box 1177, Aiken, SC 29802. If you have any further questions about Christmas in Hopelands, please call 803-642-7631 or visit www.aikenismagical.com.

We still need volunteers to assist with this great Aiken tradition – it is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and serve your community. If you are interested in learning more about our volunteer opportunities, call (803) 642-7650.