Where Are the Best Free Christmas Light Displays in Charleston and Mount Pleasant?
The best free Christmas light displays in Charleston and Mount Pleasant can be found in several highly decorated neighborhoods, including Hidden Cove, Coopers Landing, I’On, Liberty Hill Farm, and Carolina Park in Mount Pleasant. Downtown Charleston offers beautiful holiday lights along East Bay Street, festive displays at Marion Square, and a nightly musical light show at the College of Charleston’s Cistern Yard. All of these displays are free and easy to explore by car or on foot.
If you’re planning a holiday light drive this season, Charleston and Mount Pleasant offer plenty of neighborhoods that make the experience easy and memorable. These areas are known for their creative displays, family-friendly routes, and a welcoming community spirit that feels especially warm this time of year.
Mount Pleasant
Hidden Cove
Hidden Cove, off Long Point Road, hosts a neighborhood decorating contest each year, and many homes join in. Yard signs mark the winners, which makes the route simple to follow. The nearby Landings Run has also been a beautiful stop in past years.
Coopers Landing
You’ll find some of Mount Pleasant’s brightest and most detailed holiday displays in Coopers Landing, off Whipple Road. Head toward the back of the neighborhood, especially around Hidden Bridge Drive.
I’On
The beautiful I’On neighborhood, located off Mathis Ferry Road, is made up of walkable streets, lakes, and classic Lowcountry architecture, making I’On especially charming during the holidays.
Liberty Hill Farm
A newer recommendation, just north of the Isle of Palms Connector, is the Liberty Hill Farm neighborhood, which has gained attention for its festive displays. Farmers Way, in particular, has been a standout.
Carolina Park
If you’re exploring North Mount Pleasant, Carolina Park is an easy choice for holiday lights. Agate Bay Drive and Goodwater Street are the two streets locals talk about most, thanks to their bright, themed displays that feel like a true candy cane lane. The route is simple to follow, and the neighborhood is wide and easy to drive, which makes it a great stop for families.
Downtown Charleston
East Bay Street
The historic homes along East Bay glow beautifully during the holidays and offer a classic Charleston backdrop.
Marion Square
This central Charleston park features a large Christmas tree, holiday displays, and a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for strolling. It’s close to shopping and dining, so it works well as part of a longer evening downtown.
Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston
A musical light show runs every half hour from 5:30 to 9, through January 1, 2026, in front of Randolph Hall. It’s quick, free, and a favorite for families visiting the area.
If you check out any of these displays, I’d love to hear which ones you enjoyed most. Wishing you a warm and bright holiday season in the Lowcountry.
