The holidays are always a special time for our family. Exploring festive events, whether close to home or on the road, is one of our favorite traditions. So, when we were invited to experience the Old 96 District in South Carolina and its cherished holiday celebrations, we couldn’t pass it up!
Where Is the Old 96 District?
If you’ve never heard of the Old 96 District, you’re not alone—I hadn’t either! Despite living in Atlanta for nearly 25 years, this charming and historic area was a delightful surprise. Located in the Upper Western section of South Carolina, it’s only about a three-hour drive from Downtown Atlanta. The district is made up of five unique counties, each brimming with culture, history, and holiday cheer: Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick.
The holiday events in this region are nothing short of magical. They’re family-friendly, mostly free or low-cost, and truly capture the festive spirit of the season. Whether you’re seeking cozy traditions or new adventures, the Old 96 District is the perfect place to immerse yourself in holiday joy.
Tips for Visiting Holiday Events the Old 96 District
Here are some highlights from our trip, along with practical tips to help you plan your visit.
Where to Stay
We stayed at the Inn on the Square in Greenwood, South Carolina, and it felt like a home away from home. Conveniently located in beautiful Uptown Greenwood, this boutique hotel offers exceptional hospitality in a welcoming atmosphere. With modern amenities, a full-service restaurant, a cozy bar/lounge, and beautifully decorated rooms, it’s a perfect base for exploring the area.
Holiday Events in the Old 96 District
Abbeville, SC
Our first stop was Abbeville, a town alive with holiday cheer.
- Holiday Open House at The Burt Stark Mansion & Santa on the Square
We kicked off our visit at the historic Burt Stark Mansion. Kids will love meeting Santa here, but if you miss him, don’t worry—he’s also on the town square, spreading cheer and snapping photos. Evening carolers add a magical touch to the atmosphere. My daughter Leila even joined in!
- Walk Through Bethlehem
One of the highlights of our trip was the interactive Walk Through Bethlehem at Cold Spring Mennonite Church. This unique event takes visitors back in time to experience the story of Jesus’ birth through live animals, authentic costumes, and creative displays. Afterward, enjoy cookies and hot chocolate with friends and family. It’s a truly heartwarming experience.
- Pancakes with Santa
The next morning, we enjoyed Pancakes with Santa at Refuel, a delightful breakfast spot. Santa and Mrs. Claus made the event extra special, and Refuel’s delicious pancakes earned a spot on our all-time favorites list!
McCormick, SC
Our next stop was McCormick, just a 30-minute drive from Abbeville.
- Festival of Trees at Dorn Mill
This historic grist mill transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Visitors can explore beautifully decorated trees and shop at the Holiday Market, featuring local artisans selling everything from jewelry to baked goods. By the way…do you know the meaning of the upside down Christmas tree??
- Small-Town Charm
A quick visit to the McCormick County Chamber Office turned into an enlightening experience. We learned about the rich history and culture of the Old 96 District. Renee Robertson, the Chamber CEO/President, could be the star of any Hallmark Christmas movie with her passion for the community and dedication to preserving its charm. - Local Eats
For dining, don’t miss Main Street Coffee Shop for a quick pick-me-up or Mojitos Mexican Bar, where the Carne Asada was absolutely mouthwatering!
Edgefield & Trenton, SC
Our final stop was the Edgefield area, a bit of a drive but well worth it.
- December Shopping Market at Cook’s Farm
This outdoor market is perfect for holiday shopping, with unique gifts, local crafts, and delicious treats like funnel cakes and fried Oreos. - Santa’s Southern Lights at Sara’s
A must-visit attraction, Santa’s Southern Lights is a ticketed event packed with activities. Enjoy the walkable Trail of Lights, a live light show, photos with Santa, s’mores, a petting zoo, and more. For an additional cost, you can try fun extras like apple cannons and goat feeding. Kids 2 and under get free admission, making it a great family outing!
More Holiday Magic
Though we couldn’t attend every event, we heard rave reviews about others, like the Connie Maxwell Baptist Church’s Annual Event and the McCormick Holiday Parade.
Our trip to the Old 96 District was unforgettable. From festive events to cozy small-town vibes, this hidden gem has quickly become one of our favorite holiday destinations. Whether you’re seeking new traditions or just looking for a weekend getaway, the Old 96 District is a place you’ll want to visit year after year.
Learn more about the Old 96 District and upcoming events HERE.
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