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1. New Traditions Await

Swap the usual snowy scenes for sandy shores and join the locals at the Holden Beach Pavilion for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting, complete with a gingerbread house contest, to kick off the season with a sparkle​

2. Mild Winters

Typically, December temperatures stay around the mid-60s with plenty of sunshine. It's perfect for enjoying outdoor activities like daily walks on the beach without the chill! Or take part in the OKI Christmas by the Sea Parade & Festival, where the holiday spirit fills the air with arts, crafts, and delicious food.

3. Affordable Luxury

Off-season rates mean you can find great deals on oceanfront vacation rentals, providing spacious and cost-effective options for the whole family​! Take advantage of the season, while still being able to relax in warm waters, when you book a home with a hot tub or heated pool.

4. Starry Nights

Holden Beach nights are perfect for stargazing - and there's no better place to enjoy one of nature's most spectacular shows, the Geminid Meteor shower, than to watch these falling stars slice the dark heavens along the backdrop of the ocean. This annual mid-December showstopper is capable of producing up to 120 meteors an hour!

5. A Cosmic Christmas

If you miss the wonder of the meteor shower, you can still be dazzled by the Holiday Laser Music Show at Ingram Planetarium, where classic Christmas music meets mesmerizing laser lights,​​ or discover the 'Mystery of the Christmas Star' at Ingram Planetarium, offering a stellar journey back to the first Christmas

6. Festive Parades

From the Ocean Isle Beach Flotilla to the Calabash Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting, experience the joy of community parades against a backdrop of twinkling lights and holiday cheers. Or take part in the Shallotte Christmas Parade, where you can enjoy a jolly atmosphere with Santa sightings, candy, and festive floats, perfect for family fun!

7. Seasonal Celebrations & Shopping

Enjoy "HoliDAY at the Museum" with family-friendly activities and the beautiful Festival of Trees at the Museum of Coastal Carolina. Shop for unique holiday gifts at the Christmas Holiday Market at Silver Coast Winery, showcasing over 60 local artisans, or delight in the festive decorations and Christmas joy as you meander through The Christmas House in Southport or St. Nick Nacks, in Callahan's of Calabash! 

8. Historic Merriment

Delve into coastal history with "Historic Holidays" at the NC Maritime Museum, complete with period attire and festive crafts or explore 18th-century holiday traditions at the Fort Anderson state historic site, offering a taste of colonial life during the festive season.

9. World-Class Christmas Shows

Just a short drive south, you can take in "The Christmas Show of the South", as well as other incredible musical extravaganzas, at the Carolina Opry! If you're looking for a show with a mix of holiday classics and contemporary favorites, then check out The Alabama Theatre cast present "The South's Grandest Christmas Show"!

10. Beach & Quiet

Experience the peacefulness of spending the holidays at Holden Beach with your loved ones - free from the hustle and bustle that often accompanies the holiday season. With fewer crowds, reasonable prices, and reduced stress, you can gift your family with a holiday that all of you can relish and cherish.