This holiday season, Culture & Heritage Museums is bringing festive magic to the region through a series of thoughtful, family-friendly, and delightfully unique events. From candlelit historic tours to Seinfeld-inspired fun, these programs offer something for the whole family, and all just a short drive from Charlotte.
Christmas Candlelight Tours
When & Where: December 13 (3:00 PM) and December 14 (through 9:00 PM) at Historic Brattonsville in McConnells, SC.
Details: Step back in time to 1841 as Historic Brattonsville transforms into a charming candlelit village. Guests can explore traditional holiday activities including candle-dipping, card coloring, cornhusk doll making, sweetgrass basket weaving, glass-blowing, and live brass band music. Father Christmas will also be onsite for festive greetings.
Good to Know: Brattonsville will be closed until 3 PM on the event days, and Brattonsville Road will be closed from 2:45 PM–9 PM. Arrive about 30 minutes early to allow time for detours.
Why Go: It’s a beautiful blend of history and holiday cheer. It’s an ideal outing for families or anyone looking to experience an old-world Christmas setting.
Festivus: Seinfeld and the Natural World
When & Where: December 19, 6:30 PM–8:30 PM at the Museum of York County in Rock Hill, SC.
Details: A festive night out just for adults (21+), this playful Seinfeld-themed event invites guests to dress as their favorite character, don an iconic puffy shirt, and enjoy quirky games like Blow-hole Putt-Putt, “Dingo Ate Your Baby?”, Frogger, and feats of strength at the Festivus pole. A Seinfeld-themed planetarium show plus themed snacks and two drinks are included.
Good to Know: Pre-registration is required.
Why Go: This event mixes humor, nostalgia, and a dash of holiday irreverence, making it a standout seasonal celebration for friends or date night.
Holidays Heard ’Round the World
When & Where: December 3, 10, and 17 11:00 AM–12:00 PM at the Main Street Children’s Museum in Rock Hill, SC.
Details: Perfect for young children, this engaging program highlights winter celebrations from across the globe. On each date, the event focuses on a different theme Kwanzaa (Dec.3), Hanukkah (Dec. 10) and Winter Solstice (Dec. 17), offering themed crafts and interactive learning that introduce kids to the holiday’s traditions and values.
Why Go: It’s both educational and fun! It’s an accessible way for kids to explore cultural traditions and expand their understanding of global holiday celebrations.
Snow Globe Surprise
When & Where: December 20, 1:00 PM–4:00 PM at the Main Street Children’s Museum.
Details: Kids and caregivers can tap into their creativity during a hands-on snow globe workshop. Using jars, glitter, water, and miniature winter figurines, participants design their own keepsake snow globes to bring home.
Good to Know: Pre-registration is required. Cost: $2 for members and $12 for non-members.
Why Go: It’s an enchanting, relaxed afternoon of crafting that captures the magic of the season, and each child leaves with a winter treasure.
Make It a Holiday Season to Remember
These Culture & Heritage Museums programs offer more than holiday entertainment. They’re immersive experiences that bring together history, creativity, and community. Whether you’re heading down from Charlotte for a family afternoon or looking for a unique seasonal night out, each of these holiday events at Culture & Heritage Museums adds a memorable touch to your festive calendar.
