Holiday Lights on the River returns to Saluda Shoals Park

A light display billed as one of the Midlands’ favorite holiday traditions is ready to shine!

Holiday Lights on the River is scheduled to return to Saluda Shoals Park, with organizers inviting families and friends to experience a drive-through journey filled with millions of twinkling lights, animated displays and festive holiday fun.

Recognized as the Midlands’ largest drive-through holiday light show, Holiday Lights on the River welcomed more than 100,000 visitors last year.

“This year’s display promises another unforgettable experience, featuring a 3-mile route illuminated by more than a million lights and hundreds of animated displays,” a news release says.

Guests will travel through a variety of themed areas, including the beloved 12 Days of Christmas, Lake Murray Country and a patriotic display celebrating the holiday season. Along the way, visitors can enjoy familiar favorites and discover new additions, including:

• Rocking Pirate Ship: An attraction custom-designed and built by students from Lexington-Richland School District Five’s Center for Advanced Technical Studies.

• Expanded Saluda Shoals Train Display: A new car added to the park’s signature holiday train display.

• Holiday Farm Scene: A festive new scene bringing a little extra country charm to the holiday experience.

• Dual Winter Wonder Tube Slides: Double the fun with two exciting winter-themed slides.

The holiday fun doesn't stop with the lights. Admission also includes a variety of family-friendly activities, including a hayride, train ride, tube slides and a laser light show along the Wetland Walking Trail. Children can also write their Letters to Santa and stop by Santa’s Claus’et Gift Shop for a little holiday shopping.

Guests can enjoy seasonal concessions available for purchase and gather around to roast marshmallows and make s’mores for a classic holiday treat.

Santa Claus will make special appearances on Nov. 27-29, Dec. 4-7, Dec. 11-13 and Dec. 17-23. Professional photos with Santa will be available for purchase.

While additional activities will not be available on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, the drive-through light show will remain open for guests to enjoy.

Holiday Lights on the River opens to the public on Wednesday, Nov. 25, and runs nightly from 6-10 p.m. through Dec. 31.

Guests can enter at 6071 St. Andrews Road, Columbia, and exit onto Bush River Road. Advance ticket purchases are encouraged. For admission details, tickets and additional event information, visit www.icrc.net.

Holiday Lights on the River is presented by the Irmo-Chapin Recreation Commission in partnership with Lexington Health and other community partners. For more information, call 803-772-1228 or visit www.icrc.net.