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Camden, SC: A Holiday Wonderland on the Little Pee Dee River

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, December 16th 2025 at 16:56 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Camden, South Carolina, in Full Holiday Splendor

If the “quiet‑town, Southern‑charm” postcard is your idea of the perfect Christmas setting, then Camden, South Carolina, should be on your itinerary. A mid‑town gem nestled on the shores of the Little Pee Dee River, Camden is famous for its well‑preserved 19th‑century architecture, river‑front promenades, and the warmth of a community that knows how to put a festive spin on its storied past. The Travel + Leisure article “Camden, South Carolina Christmas” (https://www.travelandleisure.com/camden-south-carolina-christmas-11865282) does a brilliant job of laying out why the city turns into a holiday wonderland each December, and why a trip to Camden during this season is an experience you’ll want to relive for years to come.

A Town that Lights Up

Central to the town’s Christmas identity is the Camden Christmas Parade. Held every year on the Sunday that falls between December 6 and 12, the parade is a colorful procession that weaves its way through the historic district. Local high‑school marching bands, the city’s community choir, and a host of floats—some hand‑crafted by local artisans—celebrate the season with a parade that has become a regional tradition. The article points out that the event is free and open to everyone, and that the town’s historic courthouse stands as a backdrop, its ornate columns glittering in string‑light.

A few blocks away from the parade route, the Holiday Market at the Camden Courthouse (link in the article to Camden’s own “Holiday Market” page) offers shoppers a chance to browse local crafts, baked goods, and the town’s famed “Carolina Coffee.” Vendors sell everything from handmade ornaments to holiday-themed mugs, all while the sound of carolers fills the air. The market’s hours run from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the week, with the main event on the Sunday of the parade. There’s a small admission fee of $1 for those who want a free pass to the market’s “Christmas in the Square” fireworks show, a nightly display that culminates on December 24.

The town’s downtown streets are also lined with Christmas Lights—an annual installation that covers the historic buildings, the riverbank, and the quaint storefronts of Main Street. The Lights are activated on the first Friday in December and remain on through the end of the holiday season. The article notes that visitors can walk the “Lights Trail,” a self‑guided route that stops at key points such as the old Post Office, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, and the historic Camden County Courthouse. The route is marked by LED-lit signs that encourage travelers to take photos and soak in the ambience.

A Taste of Holiday Hospitality

While the sights are the main attraction, Camden also offers a culinary experience that truly embodies Southern hospitality. The article’s “Dining” section recommends several restaurants that are particularly festive during the Christmas season:

• Miller’s Kitchen – A long‑standing local favorite that serves a “holiday menu” featuring dishes such as roasted chestnuts, turkey pot pie, and a signature “Camden Apple Cider.” The cozy, candle‑lit setting is perfect for a family dinner.
• The Green Dragon – Known for its creative Southern cuisine, the Green Dragon hosts a “Christmas Brunch” on December 24. The brunch menu includes baked eggs, biscuits and gravy, and a festive peach cobbler.
• The River Café – Located right on the riverbank, this restaurant offers live music and a “holiday sampler” that includes shrimp and grits, a holiday salad, and a warm chocolate drink.

The article links directly to each restaurant’s website, where visitors can view menus, reserve a table, and learn about holiday hours. For food lovers, a highlight is the “Holiday Wine Tasting” at the Camden Winery (link provided in the article). The winery offers a free tasting of its Christmas‑season blends, accompanied by a tour of the cellar and a discussion of how the local terroir contributes to the unique character of the wines.

Events for All Ages

Beyond the parade and market, Camden’s holiday calendar offers a variety of activities that appeal to families and couples alike:

• Caroling at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church – On the evening of December 6, the church opens its doors to a community caroling event. It’s free and open to the public, with a small donation requested to support the church’s outreach programs.
• Christmas at the Camden Civic Center – The civic center hosts a “Holiday Concert” featuring the Camden Youth Orchestra, the local choir, and guest performers. The article links to the city’s event page, which lists ticket prices, dates, and rehearsal schedules.
• Holiday Crafts Workshop – For those who like to make their own gifts, the Camden Historical Society runs a workshop on December 10, where participants learn how to craft holiday wreaths using native pine branches. The article highlights that the workshop is free, but a small fee is charged to cover materials.

Travel + Leisure also recommends that visitors spend an evening at the Camden Riverwalk. The riverwalk, which stretches along the Little Pee Dee, features a small Christmas tree that is lit in a ceremony on the first full weekend of December. The tree’s illumination is accompanied by a local choir performing carols, making it a serene way to wrap up a day of holiday exploration.

Planning Your Visit

The article gives practical advice for planning a trip to Camden during Christmas. It advises checking the Camden Tourism Office website for the most current event schedule and for any changes due to weather or public health concerns. The office’s page (linked in the article) also provides a downloadable “Camden Christmas Calendar” that details the dates, times, and locations of each event, plus a suggested itinerary for visitors who only have a weekend.

Accommodation recommendations include the Camden Hotel, which offers a “Holiday Suite” package that includes a welcome bottle of wine and a gift card to a local restaurant. Another option highlighted is the Camden Bed & Breakfast, which offers rooms in a historic Victorian home and a complimentary holiday breakfast featuring fresh biscuits and local jam.

The article encourages readers to consider booking a stay at one of these lodging options early, as the town’s small population and popular holiday events can lead to a quick sell‑out.

Why Camden’s Christmas Stands Out

What sets Camden apart from other holiday destinations is its blend of history, community spirit, and Southern charm. The Travel + Leisure article emphasizes that Camden’s Christmas is less about large‑scale commercialism and more about local traditions and genuine hospitality. The town’s residents have a way of making visitors feel part of the celebration, whether it’s through the warm greetings at the Holiday Market stalls or the invitation to join the “Christmas Lights Trail.”

For travelers looking for a holiday experience that is both festive and authentic, Camden offers a small‑town feel that is amplified during December. With its historic courthouse, vibrant market, and community‑run events, Camden becomes a true “Christmas town” that stays in your memory long after you leave the Little Pee Dee River.

In summary, the article paints a picture of Camden, South Carolina, as a destination that’s perfect for anyone seeking a cozy, celebratory holiday escape. From the joyous parade to the delicious seasonal food, Camden’s Christmas delivers a complete sensory experience that’s both heartfelt and unforgettable. If you’re planning a winter getaway, consider adding Camden to your list of Christmas destinations—just be sure to check the linked city resources for the most up‑to‑date event information.