7 Ways To Enjoy Christmas Lights In Charleston Wv

Christmas lights have a way of bringing people together and getting us into the holiday spirit. Charleston, West Virginia, is a city that goes all out during the holiday season, with numerous displays of festive lights that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Whether you're a local or just visiting, here are 7 ways to enjoy Christmas lights in Charleston, WV.

Experience the Magic of Downtown Charleston's Holiday Lights

One of the best ways to experience the magic of Christmas lights in Charleston is by visiting downtown. The city's central business district is transformed into a winter wonderland each year, with hundreds of thousands of lights adorning the streets, buildings, and trees. Take a stroll along the Kanawha River and enjoy the beautiful displays, or grab a cup of hot chocolate and take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the area.

Special Events and Activities

Throughout the holiday season, downtown Charleston hosts a variety of special events and activities that are perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Some popular events include the Charleston Christmas Parade, the Holiday Market, and the Winter Festival of Lights. These events offer a range of activities, including live music, food vendors, and visits with Santa Claus.

Drive Through the Winter Festival of Lights

If you're looking for a fun and festive activity to enjoy with family and friends, consider driving through the Winter Festival of Lights at Oglebay Park. This annual event features over a million lights and 90 displays, including animated scenes, holiday-themed displays, and a giant Christmas tree. The festival is open from late November through January 1st, and tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.

Tips for Visiting the Winter Festival of Lights

Before you head out to the Winter Festival of Lights, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Arrive early to beat the crowds and long lines.
• Bring some hot chocolate or coffee to keep you warm and cozy during the drive.
• Consider visiting on a weekday instead of a weekend, when the crowds are smaller.
• Don't forget to tune your radio to the special festival station, which features holiday music and information about the displays.

Take a Holiday Lights Tour

If you're looking for a unique and relaxing way to enjoy the holiday lights in Charleston, consider taking a guided tour. Several local companies offer holiday lights tours, which take you through the city's most festively decorated neighborhoods and landmarks. These tours are a great way to see the lights without having to worry about driving or parking, and many of them offer additional perks, such as hot chocolate and holiday cookies.

Benefits of Taking a Holiday Lights Tour

Taking a holiday lights tour in Charleston offers several benefits, including:

• A relaxing and stress-free way to enjoy the holiday lights.
• A knowledgeable guide who can provide information about the city's history and landmarks.
• A fun and festive atmosphere, complete with holiday music and decorations.
• A chance to see some of the city's most beautiful and historic neighborhoods.

Visit the Charleston City Hall Holiday Display

One of the most popular holiday displays in Charleston is the one at City Hall. Each year, the city's central building is transformed into a winter wonderland, with thousands of lights and decorations adorning the exterior and interior of the building. Visitors can take a stroll around the building to see the displays, or attend one of the special holiday events and activities that are held there throughout the season.

Special Events at Charleston City Hall

Throughout the holiday season, Charleston City Hall hosts a variety of special events and activities, including:

• A holiday market featuring local vendors and artisans.
• A visit from Santa Claus, complete with photos and holiday treats.
• A holiday concert series featuring local musicians and performers.

Go on a Holiday Lights Scavenger Hunt

If you're looking for a fun and interactive way to enjoy the holiday lights in Charleston, consider going on a scavenger hunt. Several local companies offer holiday lights scavenger hunts, which take you through the city's most festively decorated neighborhoods and landmarks. These hunts are a great way to see the lights and have some fun at the same time.

Tips for Going on a Holiday Lights Scavenger Hunt

Before you head out on a holiday lights scavenger hunt, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Make sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture photos of the displays.
• Wear comfortable shoes and dress warmly, as you'll be doing some walking.
• Bring some hot chocolate or coffee to keep you warm and cozy during the hunt.
• Consider going on a weekday instead of a weekend, when the crowds are smaller.

Enjoy the Holiday Lights at Oglebay Park

Oglebay Park is a popular destination for holiday lights in Charleston, with over a million lights and 90 displays throughout the park. Visitors can drive through the park to see the displays, or attend one of the special holiday events and activities that are held there throughout the season.

Special Events at Oglebay Park

Throughout the holiday season, Oglebay Park hosts a variety of special events and activities, including:

• A holiday market featuring local vendors and artisans.
• A visit from Santa Claus, complete with photos and holiday treats.
• A holiday concert series featuring local musicians and performers.

We hope you've enjoyed this article on 7 ways to enjoy Christmas lights in Charleston, WV. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's something for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season in Charleston.