Trees trimmed and gifts wrapped (we’re assuming the gifts are wrapped), it’s time to treat yourself to the sights and sounds of Christmas. Greenville has so much to offer when it comes to Christmas spirit!
When thinking of what to include in this post, I almost pulled the plug. “Everyone already knows this stuff,” I thought to myself. Then, I remembered all the times people send messages asking what they should do with their families in town for the holidays, and where they should park to attend certain events, etc. So, I decided to go ahead and share this short list of things to do in/around Main Street.
First things first. Let’s talk about parking. We take for granted parking in this city. On a recent trip to Atlanta, I paid $20 to park in a garage for only a few hours. When I attend a Braves game, I pay $70 for a parking spot close to the stadium. In Nashville, we not only paid exorbitant prices to park in town, but paid a daily rate to park in the very pricey hotel lot. On my next trip out of town, I’m thinking of renting a car and driver. Considering gas and parking, that may be a cheaper option! Greenville is literally a parking heaven. Downtown streets offer over 900 free parking spaces. There’s a city garage on almost every corner. The first hour is free, $2 the 2nd hour and $1 each additional hour, with a $7 maximum. Anyone with a handicapped placard can park for free in any city garage. December 16-17, 24-25, and New Years Day many city garages are FREE (Merry Christmas from the (City of Greenville)! Click here for the complete 411.
There are several stunning additions to this year’s celebration. Poinsettia Postcards are scattered around Main Street. These holiday exhibits are contributions from area non-profits and schools. Merchants have put a whole new meaning to “window shopping” with special displays, aka, Window Wonderland. Check out the Interactive Holiday Map. Using this app, you’ll find all the holiday postcards, light displays and store window decorations. I believe the voting is closed, but definitely don’t miss seeing them. Download the Trolley Tracker app and ride if you’re not counting your steps. It’s like a free sight-seeing adventure. The trolley is completely free, but if you have a couple of extra dollars on ya, it’s always a nice gesture to tip the driver!
St. Francis Festival of Trees has been a favorite tradition for over 37 years. Christmas trees fill the Hyatt Regency Hotel and the Courtyard by Marriott lobby. Local businesses, organizations and schools put personal touches to specially decorated trees. Half the fun is guessing the tree’s sponsor by the items hanging from its’ limbs. You’ll want to dedicate an entire day to visit both locations.
Move over Grove Park Inn, the SpringHill Suites/Residence Inn is host to the 2nd Annual Greenville Gingerbread Exhibit. This should be added to your “Fun Things to do With Kids” list. Just inside the doors, children will want to participate in the Gingerbread Coloring Contest. Stroll throughout the lobby to see over thirty gingerbread creations. Edible displays from local chefs and home bakers will astound. This is not your typical gingerbread house contest, but an extraordinary presentation of all things gingerbread. Vote for your pick from both the professional and non-professional category. People’s Choice Awards will be announced on December 26.
Obviously, you want to grab a cup of hot chocolate or cider and schedule a time for Ice on Main. Ice skating has become a spectator sport for me. I almost broke my ankles the last time I attempted to put on skates. However, watching you brings me great JOY! Join me in the “viewing area” at the top of the rink, won’t you?! The Gingerbread Display & Ice on Main could very well be the closest we’ll get to seeing snow this year. Fun Fact: the last white Christmas in the Upstate was in 1993 when scattered snow showers were reported. The National Weather Service’s official reporting station is at the Greenville/Spartanburg airport. The last time the airport reported snow on Christmas Day was in 1975. I don’t know how you feel but, not being a fan of snow, I’m 100% OK with that!
It’s not on Main, but you will also want to check out A Very Grinchy Christmas at the Upcountry History Museum. The exhibit runs through January 21st. You don’t have to be a fan of Dr. Seuss to appreciate the history of the Grinch phenomenon.
On your way into (or out of) town, remember to drive down Earle Street to see the Santas! If you missed that story, read it here.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, Greenville!