It’s totally normal to want a picture-perfect family Christmas. But holiday shopping, decorating, cooking + gift wrapping — all while trying to prep your home for overnight house guests (and plan what to do with them while you do all those aforementioned chores) — can make any family’s holiday resemble a scene from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.

Before you decide to skip town and vacation elsewhere (re: Vince Vaughn + Reese Witherspoon in Four Christmases) we suggest checking out this list of pre-planned holiday festivities happening around town, plus top local hotel stays so you can get some silent nights at home.

Festivity: Skate away in a winter wonderland

If you have little ones in town, this is a great way to make memories. The United Community Bank Ice on Main is open. Pro tip: Buy your tix ahead of time — prices are $10 per adult, $8 for kids ages 4-12 + include skate rental.

Festivity: Experience a night at the theatre

Our city takes tremendous pride in showcasing local talent + playing host to a large number of superb touring troupes every year. Take your pick of several holiday theatre performances happening all month long, from Elf: The Musical, to Annie + even COVID: The Musical.

Festivity: Catch a holiday parade

Take your pick of several parades happening Dec. 4-12 and watch as floats, marching bands, dancers, and, of course, Santa Claus (always the featured guest) celebrate a classic, festive tradition.

Festivity: A holiday orchestra performance

Unless you’re the Grinch himself, chances are you love a little holiday music this time of year. From classical pieces like "The Nutcracker" to timeless Christmas tunes, you'll be sure to have a holly, jolly Christmas! Choose from orchestral, ballet + vocal performances to see this season.

Festivity: Explore Festival of Trees festivities

Take the fam on a decor tour at the free 36th annual Bon Secours Festival of Trees. The spectacularly decked-out trees will line the entranceways at the Hyatt Regency Greenville, Courtyard by Marriott Greenville Downtown + Embassy Suites by Hilton Greenville Downtown RiverPlace. 🎄

Stay: Greenville Marriott, 1 Parkway E.

Just minutes from the Greenville Spartanburg Airport and ~20 minutes to downtown, your guests can schedule a massage or other service at the Greenville Marriott’s Grand Day spa. .

Stay: Embassy Suites by Hilton Greenville Golf Resort & Conference Center, 670 Verdae Blvd.

If a Christmas morning round of golf sounds like the best gift ever, here’s where you’ll want to book your stay. Channel your inner Dustin Johnson at the Preserve at Verdae, a championship golf course located right next to the resort. There’s an on-site restaurant with an outdoor bar + fire pit for some true chestnuts-roasting-on-an-open-fire vibes.

Stay: Hilton Greenville, 45 W. Orchard Park Dr.

Just off I-385, Hilton Greenville is a ~10 minute drive to downtown + walkable to business, shopping, dining, and entertainment

Stay: Embassy Suites by Hilton Greenville Downtown Riverplace, 250 Riverplace

Wake up Christmas morning in your suite and enjoy your coffee on a balcony overlooking the downtown skyline or your premium room package of assorted treats + bevs. Sizzling USDA Prime steaks + award-winning wines are on the menu at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, while the rooftop restaurant and bar, UP on the Roof, offers hand-crafted cocktails, local cuisine, and spectacular views. Relax with a dip in the saltwater swimming pool — the only indoor pool in downtown.

Stay: AC Hotel Greenville, 315 S Main St.

Just a block up from Falls Park, AC Hotel Greenville is located in the heart of downtown. Window shop with your guests + pretend you’re not still stocking up on stocking stuffers.

Explore more holiday happenings + VisitGreenvilleSC’s recommended hotels for your out-of-town guests (or for yourself — early Christmas present, anyone?). ❄️*

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