Have a Historic Holiday

It’s that time of year again! Historic Columbia’s Candlelight Tours & Carriage Rides return on Friday, Dec. 15. There is something for everyone at this annual holiday celebration. Here are five reasons you don’t want to miss this year’s celebration!

1. You can see two of Columbia’s historic homes at night. Explore the halls and candlelit grounds of the Robert Mills House & Gardens and the Hampton-Preston Mansion & Gardens to see what a South Carolina Christmas looked like in years past. Holiday guides will share fascinating tidbits on how current traditions emerged in our community while others have faded away.
2. You can take a horse-drawn carriage ride. Bundle up and enjoy a carriage ride through one of Columbia’s most historic neighborhoods, the Robert Mills Historic District. Learn about Columbia’s history and see several historic sites on your stroll through the neighborhood.
3. You can pick up a signed copy of Patricia Moore-Pastides new book. As a special treat this year, author Patricia Moore-Pastides, the First Lady of the University of South Carolina, will host a holiday book Meet the First Lady from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., hear a presentation at 7 p.m. and pick up a personalized copy of her new book At Home in the Heart of the Horseshoe.
4. You can check off your last-minute shopping list. Historic Columbia’s Gift Shop will hold a holiday open house featuring refreshments, holiday tunes and giveaways. The Gift Shop has something for everyone on your list – from locally-made merchandise and food products, to books and jewelry, to toys for the kids and more! 
5. You can enjoy a family-friendly evening. Throughout the event, families can visit with Victorian Santa, listen to holiday music, stay warm with hot chocolate and enjoy a variety of festive children’s activities.

Have a historic holiday and make the Candlelight Tours and Carriage Rides part of your holiday tradition. Get your tickets today!