Making it Sparkle
Holiday Decorating Tips from Decorating Den
When decorating your home for the holidays does it reflect your family’s Christmas spirit, or does it reflect the Spirit of Christmas Past? If your seasonal style needs updating, Gigi Willetts of Decorating Den Interiors offers some advice. “Instead of adding the usual holiday decor to your space, use the seasonal switch as an opportunity to reinvent the rooms you will use to welcome and entertain your guests in”, says Gigi. “Get inspired! Take this time of year to try something new by decorating your home with unconventional hues and textures that express your current style, while complementing the traditional pieces you already have.” Decide on a central holiday theme or time period and the colors that go with it. For example, if you prefer the wildly popular vintage or midcentury look, pick hues that are of that time, such as bright red, aqua blue, and white, and don’t stop with the Christmas tree! “Even if your whole home does not reflect this period, sprucing up smaller areas and focal points like an entryway, fireplace mantel, and table settings or centerpieces can add just enough to convey your holiday motif.” Gigi can help you figure out what pieces will fit best and how to integrate them. Contact her if you’d like a professional decorator to help you with your next remodel or redecorating project: decdensc@gmail.com or (803) 463-3000.
Brighten Your Space with Ethan Allen
With shorter days and winter on its way, you want to keep your house looking and feeling warm and bright. Accent lighting can go a long way towards creating that cozy atmosphere. Ethan Allen has an outstanding selection of lighting products at great savings. A floor lamp can bring subtle attention to a neglected, dark corner or provide just enough illumination for a favorite reading chair. Versatile, clear glass table lamps provide a nice glow and are available in a variety of sizes and shapes to best fit your existing home decor. A wall sconce or two can give you directional light – using either electricity or flame – and add flicker and flash to a dull wall or entryway. Candlelight creates ambiance all on its own. Ethan Allen’s large collection of candle holders will will display your tapers and pillars impressively, and a crystal chandelier can make any room more elegant. From embellished to rustic, Ethan Allen’s unique pieces are made with love by craftsmen and glassblowers from all around the world. Consider brightening your home for the upcoming holiday season for an inviting space that visiting friends and family will appreciate.
Shop for the Season at Carolina Imports
Carolina Imports is well known as a local importer and retailer of furniture and home accessories. They are also a fabulous destination for holiday shopping! Find something for everyone on your list – handmade furniture, lamps, art prints, pottery, porcelain, and various other home accessory items. Enjoy perusing their 8,000 square feet of warehouse space to find unusual Christmas gift ideas and get inspired to create seasonal displays throughout your home. Carolina Imports also has a large selection of South Carolina wood furniture, handmade from plantation grown mahogany, teak, oak, elm or pine, so you can have a table worthy of your holiday feast, and big enough to comfortably seat the whole family! Browse Carolina Imports’ showroom full of home decor and unique, low priced gifts. With additional items in every week, you never know what you’ll find!
Create Your Perfect Bedroom with Southern Bedding
Baby, it’s getting cold outside! This is the time of year when you need your bedroom, and especially your bed, to be a warm and comfortable retreat at the end of the now shortened days. Southern Bedding of Columbia has an incredible in-stock selection of reversible, single, double, queen, king, California king standard, pillow-top and memory foam mattresses to choose from at their 32,000 square-foot factory in downtown Columbia. They also offer bed frames and bedroom furniture to complete your perfect sanctuary. Friends and relatives will soon be in town for the holidays – make their stay as comfortable as possible by turning a guest bedroom into a lavish space away from their home that they will love. Southern Bedding of Columbia offers affordable quality bedding and furniture, and everything is 100% made in the South (most made right here in Columbia!). Stop in to Southern Bedding, “where sweet dreams start,” and see the area’s finest affordable bedding for yourself!
Give the Gift of Flowers from Blossom Shop
The Blossom Shop has a huge selection of gifts and florals for the holiday season! Whether you are shopping for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, or New Year’s, they have all of the flowers, wreaths, centerpieces, gourmet baskets and bouquets you need for decoration or as gifts. Their professional staff can help you pick the perfect arrangement and will make sure it’s there on time. Blossom Shop delivers throughout Columbia and offers same-day delivery for your last-minute gift needs at no extra cost! They also deliver quality flowers nationwide through their trusted florist network. Find the perfect gift for family, friends, coworkers or boss, for those not living nearby, or just treat yourself with a selection from The Blossom Shop. Plus, while you’re busy getting your shopping done, you can now buy flowers anytime, from the palm of your hand with Blossom Shop’s Floral App! It’s easy to use and takes just seconds to download. To help assure on-time delivery during the busy holiday season, place your orders at least one day prior to Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Holiday Events
The Polar Express 4-D Experience | Nov 5, 2016 through Jan 1, 2017
You’re invited on an extraordinary 4-D adventure this holiday season at the SC State Museum on The Polar Express! When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Show Run Time is 15 minutes. More here.
The Star of Bethlehem | Nov 5, 2016 through Jan 1, 2017
This full dome planetarium experience at the SC State Museum takes viewers back in time to Jerusalem and Bethlehem to investigate fascinating ideas about the “Christmas Star.” The show presents historical and scientific facts to unravel this 2,000-year old mystery through a special audiovisual display featuring popular Christmas carols. Run Time is 25 minutes. More here.
Laser Holidays | Nov 5, 2016 through Jan 1, 2017
Visit the SC State Museum for this exciting and unique way to celebrate the season! A display of colorful and dramatic laser lights is choreographed to a mix of holiday music favorites, including “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Deck the Halls,” “White Christmas” and more. Show Run Time is 30 minutes. More here.
Historic Holiday House Tours | Nov 18 – Dec 31
During this special time of year, the Historic Columbia invite families, school groups, tourists and the community to visit their historic properties for guided tours. Their house museums are decorated and offer a glimpse into the lives of three different holiday social scenes set in 19th and early 20th century Columbia. Enjoy the greenery and decorative faux food throughout each house while guides provide stories of holidays past. More here.
Heck the Dolls With Chardonnay | Nov 18 – 20, Dec 9 – 11
Heck the Dolls with Chardonnay is the touching story of Sue, a bored and lonely resident of Aged Oaks Retirement Home. When Sue is visited by Emma, her teen-age granddaughter, Sue takes Emma and the audience on a raucous trip down memory lane as she recalls the holidays of her past. The audience quickly discovers that Sue and her old best friend Becky were the Lucy and Ethel of their days. Sue’s flashbacks, which are reenacted on the stage, remind us that the stresses of the holidays usually result in the best and funniest memories of life. More at the Chapin Theatre Company website.
Main Street ICE | Nov 26 through Jan 18, 2017
Head to Boyd Plaza for Main Street ICE! The City of Columbia’s outdoor ice skating rink, located at the corner of Main and Hampton streets, returns for another year of fun for the whole family. Open from Thanksgiving Day until January 1, 2016. The rink will be closed on Christmas Day and will be open until 12 a.m. on New Year’s Eve. Open Monday – Thursday 4pm – 9pm, Friday 4pm – 10pm, Saturday 10am – 10pm, and Sunday 1pm – 9pm. More here.
North Pole Night Downtown | Dec 9, 16, & 23
Visit downtown Newberry on Fridays in December to experience an evening at the North Pole! Starting at 6pm and lasting until 8pm Santa play in Memorial park in their faux snow machines. The Newberry County Chamber of Commerce office will also be open in Community Hall for Storytime with Mrs. Claus. You won’t want to miss this special Newberry holiday event! Contact the City of Newberry Parks, Recreation, and Tourism office at 803-321-1015 for more information or click here.
Lancaster’s Christmas Events | Dec 10
Don’t miss this Annual Christmas parade that will begin at 6pm in the Cultural Arts District in Historic Downtown Lancaster! Lancaster’s Grand Marshal, Buford Varsity Ladies Softball State Champions, will lead the parade beginning on Main Street, at Springs Street, and continuing through historic downtown, then exiting onto Williams Street. Get your seats early and get ready for some holiday fun! More information on Lancaster events here!
A Christmas Carol: The Musical | Dec 2 – 18
Come to Town Theatre to see this PREMIERE performance of the classic holiday tale. Ebenezer Scrooge is a prosperous curmudgeon who believes personal wealth is far more valuable than the happiness and comfort of others. With an infuriated “Bah! Humbug!” Scrooge summarizes his feelings of Christmas tidings and charitable giving, but he’s forced to face his selfish ways when the ghosts of Christmas reveal his Past, Present and Future. Scrooge recognizes his faults and reconnects with those that mean the most to him. Through the music of Broadway’s Alan Menken and Lynn Ahrens, this A Christmas Carol has fantastic new life – just like Scrooge himself! Thursday – Saturdays at 8pm; Sundays at 3pm. Tickets on sale Nov 25. More here.
Christmas Candlelight Tours | Dec 3 & Dec 10
A Southern-style Backcountry Christmas comes to life during Historic Brattonsville’s annual Christmas Candlelight Tours! Through candlelit vignettes, costumed interpreters will recreate Christmas of the backcountry settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries. Learn of Christmas traditions old and new, relax around the campfire and enjoy musical entertainment. Children will enjoy hands-on activities and visits with Father Christmas. Food, hot drinks and baked goods will be available for purchase. Adults $10; Seniors $8; Youth 4-17 $6; 3 and under and Culture & Heritage Museum members free. Event is from 3-9pm. Info here.
Train Rides with Santa | Dec 3, 10 and 17
Come join the folks at the South Carolina Railroad Museum in Winnsboro for their annual Train Rides with Jolly Old St. Nick! Santa will be happy to take your children’s Christmas wish lists back to the North Pole with him so bring them along! Saturdays. More info here.
Florence Festival of Lights | Dec 9
The third annual Florence Festival of Lights will be held December 9 and 10, and on December 16, 17, and 18 at 5:30pm at Hoffmeyer Place. This premiere light display and holiday event will be fun for the whole family! After you drive through these stunning holiday lights, stroll through Santa’s Village to spread more holiday cheer with a cup of hot chocolate, a visit with Santa himself, or a balloon animal from Todd’s Twisted Balloons. More here.
Christmas at the Barn | Dec 9-10
Held at Harmon’s Tree Farm located at 3152 Augusta Highway in Gilbert from 6:30pm – 8:30pm. Features live Christmas music, a nativity, a bonfire, hot chocolate, s’mores, a photo booth and so much more. Admission is free! For additional information call 803.996.8802 or visit website here.
Columbia Christmas Pageant | Dec 9 – 11
Event will take place December 9 at 7pm, December 10 at 2pm and 5pm, and December 11 at 4pm at First Baptist Columbia. Tickets are free, but you need a ticket to enter. More here.
The Singing Christmas Tree | Dec 9 – 11
Shandon Baptist Church will hold this free event. A cast of 400, including a full orchestra, and a 25-foot tree holding 130 singers and over 50,000 lights make for an incredible holiday experience for all ages! December 9 at 7pm, December 10 at 2:30pm and 5:30pm and December 11 at 2:30pm and 5:30pm. All seating is general admission. Free tickets available online beginning November 1 and on Sunday mornings in the Gathering Place at Shandon Baptist Church beginning November 6. See their Christmas calendar.
40th Annual Candlelight Tour of Homes | Dec 10
Tour begins at Camden Archives Museum (1314 Broad St.) from 3-8pm
The Camden Junior Welfare League presents the 40th Annual Candlelight Tour of Homes on December 10, 2016. Join us in Historic Camden, SC to take a self-paced tour through some of the city’s oldest homes and Historic sites decorated beautifully for the season. This is a Holiday tradition you don’t want to miss! The event will take place rain or shine. The Tour begins at the Camden Archives Museum which is located at 1314 Broad Street. You may purchase tickets at the museum the day of and/or pick up your Tour booklet. Purchase tickets in advance here!
New this year, we’re celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Tour with a kick-off event the night before, on December 9th! This event will be held at the Kershaw-Cornwallis House with amazing food from Aberdeen Catery, live music from the Reggie Sullivan Band, and a silent auction full of items you don’t want to miss! Come celebrate the 40th Anniversary and the League’s mission to improve the lives of children in Kershaw County!
For more information and to purchase tickets for both events, visit: http://cjwltourofhomes.wixsite.com/2016. You do not want to miss this exciting weekend! We look forward to sharing our beautiful city with you!
8th Annual Van Wyck Christmas Parade and Candy Toss | Dec 10
This fun family event will start at 12 noon at the intersection of Steele Hill Road and Old Hickory Road in Van Wyck. Santa will arrive at the Community Center Building for photographs after the parade, where you can also enjoy Van Wyck Express train rides and Wilbur’s Last Ride BBQ. Bring your camera for pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus!
Christmas at the Park | Dec 10
The holidays are a great time for everyone to get together and renew friendships and meet new folks too! This event takes place at Blythewood Park at 126 Boney Road. Food, music, arts and crafts, gifts from the tree and Santa pictures! More here.
Newberry Christmas Tour of Homes | Dec 10
The Newberry County Chamber of Commerce invites you to join them for the annual Christmas Tour of Homes from 4-8pm. Tour several beautiful private homes of Newberry, fully decorated for the holidays! The Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church of Newberry will also be on the tour in celebration of the advent season. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Chamber at 803-276-4274.
Lancaster Christmas Parade | Dec 10
The City of Lancaster will hold their annual Christmas Parade at 6pm on Main Street, in the Cultural Arts District in Historic
Downtown Lancaster. The Grand Marshal, the Buford Varsity Ladies Softball State Champions, will lead the parade. This year’s theme is “Ugly Christmas Sweater” – you won’t want to miss this holiday tradition!
Cayce-West Columbia Holiday Parade of Lights | Dec 10
The Greater Cayce-West Columbia Holiday Parade of Lights is one of the most anticipated holiday parades in the Midlands! Starts at the corner of 12th & Meeting Street in West Columbia, proceeds down 12th Street and ends at City of Cayce Municipal Complex. This beloved night time parade begins at 5:30pm. Come grab yourself a viewing spot early!
Santapalooza | Dec 10
1403 N. Lake Drive Lexington, SC 29072 | (803) 359-9091
Visit Wingard’s Market for Santapalooza from 11am – 1pm, where the kids can meet Mrs. Claus, ride the Santa Train, enjoy hot apple cider and cookies and pick out a fresh North Carolina Fraser Fir Christmas tree! Don’t forget your camera for beautiful family photo ops throughout the Garden Center that you will treasure for years to come. Free admittance. Overflow parking available at Pilgrim Lutheran Church. More here.
Lancaster 2016 Christmas Parade | Dec 10
Beginning at 6pm on Saturday, December 10th in the Cultural Arts District in Historic Downtown Lancaster, you are in for a treat. Lancaster’s Grand Marshal, Buford Varsity Ladies Softball State Champions, will lead the parade beginning on Main Street, at Springs Street, and continuing through historic downtown, then exiting onto Williams Street. Set up on these streets with your chair for a good view. More here.
The Offering | Dec 10 – Dec 11
This Modern Christmas Experience presented by Worship East will take place December 10 and 11 in Worship East at Riverland Hills Baptist Church. FREE Tickets are required for this event. Tickets will be available online. More here.
Holiday Open House | Dec 10 – Dec 11
Lake Murray Country Visitors Center will hosts this Annual Open House on December 10 from 10am-3pm and December 11 from 12-4pm. The theme for the 2016 Holiday Open House is “Past and Presents.” Come enjoy light refreshments and holiday music as we get the Lorick Plantation into the holiday spirit. More here.
The Nutcracker | Dec 10 – Dec 18
at Koger Center for the Arts {1051 Greene St.}
Columbia City Ballet presents Nutcracker, Columbia’s holiday family tradition, has the distinction of being Koger Center’s first Nutcracker production and longest consecutively running annual arts event. With many snow-filled performances, including four matinees, Nutcracker is designed to accommodate the entire family’s holiday schedule. More here.
Christmas in Hopelands | Dec 10 – Dec 26
The 25th Annual Christmas in Hopelands is an enchanting walk-through exhibit in Aiken that features over 2 miles of lighted pathways, with over 100,000 twinkling lights and holiday displays. The Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame, Doll House, and Carriage Museum will be open and decorated, refreshments will be served in the Hall of Fame courtyard and outside of the Guest Cottage, you can roast marshmallows, holiday entertainment will be provided by schools, community groups, and church choirs each evening, and on select nights, Santa or Mrs. Claus will be inside The Rye Patch for photos! You must use the shuttle service to the gardens, which runs continuously from 5:45-9pm. For more info call 803-642-7631. Free admission charge. More info here.
Summerville Christmas Parade | Dec 11
Sponsored by Summerville DREAM, the Annual Christmas Parade starts at 2pm. It is a free, public event that brings the community together to spread Christmas cheer! Community members are encouraged to promote their organization, school or business to help celebrate the holiday. Spread Christmas cheer by dressing in holiday costume, handing out candy, etc. Only participants in the holiday spirit will be allowed to take part in the procession! More info here.
Blythewood Christmas Parade | Dec 11
This year’s Blythewood Christmas Parade is presented by Blythewood’s Transfiguration Church. All funds raised will go to the Christian Assistance Bridge in Blythewood, an organization devoted to supporting those in need in the community. The 21st annual parade will take place December 11 at 3pm. Registration forms for participants, as well as sponsorship forms, may be found on the town’s website. The deadline for parade entries is December 7. More here.
Christmas Open House | Dec 11
Come experience Christmas traditions of the past as the Lexington County Museum hosts its annual open house from 1-4pm. This event will feature live music, free refreshments, a cooking demonstration, and a blacksmithing demonstration. Many of the museum’s 30 historic structures will be open and will feature period Christmas decorations. More here.
Love Feast: Choir & Orchestra | Dec 11
A Christmas celebration rich in Christian community Shandon United Methodist Church, filled with beautiful music by the Chancel Choir and orchestra, with sharing of bread, coffee and warm fellowship. More here.
Summerville’s December Third Thursday | Dec 15
In Historic Downtown Summerville from 5pm – 8pm enjoy seeing Summerville all dressed up for the Holidays! Have you ever heard Storyteller Tim Lowry’s A Christmas Carol? If not, you’re missing a very special holiday delight. Tickets will be on sale soon for this one of a kind walking tour that will be held on December 15th. More here.
A Night Out at Trenholm | Dec 16
Catch the holiday spirit and enjoy a festive night out at Trenholm Plaza from 5pm – 7pm. Enjoy hot chocolate, coffee, treats, discounts + promotions, plus carriage rides, carolers & more. Rosso Trattoria will be out front, so be sure to sample some of their delicious house-made tiramisu, plus they will have an amazing assortment of wines to purchase at great prices. It’s sure to be a wonderful night!
Candlelight Tours & Carriage Rides | Dec 16 
Take a tour of the decorated, candlelit halls of Historic Columbia’s historic houses – the Robert Mills House and the Hampton-Preston Mansion. Before or after your house tour, enjoy a carriage ride through the Robert Mills historic district. Carriage rides run from 5:30pm until 8:30pm and the house tours start at 6:00pm! *Carriage Rides are considered an ‘add-on’ to the Candlelight Tours, so guests need to purchase the Candlelight Tour in order to book a Carriage Ride. Purchase Candlelight Tour ticket(s) here!! More here.
Santa’s Christmas Party | Dec 17
During this performance by the Columbia Marionette Theatre, Santa’s head elf decides to throw Santa a rockin’ holiday surprise party in celebration of the season, but Santa is on vacation and is nowhere to be found! Will he make it back in time to enjoy his own festivities? With dancing snowmen, figure skating, and Jack Frost’s own puppet show-within-a-puppet-show, this fun-filled performance will put audiences of all ages in the holiday spirit! At the Columbia Marionette Theatre at 11am. More here.
Candy Cane Hunt | Dec 17
Held at Crooked Creek Park from 3:30pm – 4:3pm for ages 2 – 8. Cost is $2 per child. Join us on the CCP Disc Golf Trail for a one-of-a-kind candy cane adventure! Santa and his elves will be hiding candy canes along the trail at Crooked Creek Park. Children should bring a basket or bag for their candy canes. There will also be prize candy canes hidden along the trail. Donate a new unwrapped toy and you’ll get to decorate a festive cupcake! More here.
2nd Annual Night Before Christmas | Dec 17
Ynotu2, a nonprofit that provides job and life skill development for disadvantaged job seekers, early childhood intervention and community outreach is organizing this holiday event. To be held at EdVenture Children’s Museum from 6 – 9pm for undeserved youth in the Columbia area. This event is NOT open to the public, as registration of your children is required, as they need to calculate the number of toys and food needed. Register here! Enjoy a seasonal atmosphere, vendors who will provide you with resources on programs, story time (celebrity guests will read a portion of the classic book “Twas the night before Christmas”, toy giveaway (while supplies last), educational challenge sessions, and Santa’s Workshop (Arts and Crafts for Kids) presented by Richland County Library. More here.
“Love is Born” | Dec 17 & Dec 18
This Living Nativity narrated drama (no speaking parts) will be held at Living Springs Lutheran Church (4224 Hard Scrabble Rd.) on Saturday and Sunday, December 17 & 18, at 7:00pm. It’s free and for the entire family! Pause from a hectic holiday pace to witness a 30-minute Living Enactment Of God’s Gift Of Love For You…the Birth Of Jesus! Bring A Lawn Chair…hot drinks provided! More here.
Holiday Memorial Service | Dec 18
This Christmas event will take place at Riverland Hills Baptist Church at 5:00 p.m. in the Worship Center. More here.
Wreaths Across America | Dec 17
Fort Jackson, along with many others across the United States, will be honoring the lives of those who served our country at over 1,100 locations. Two locations in the Columbia area will be participating in the national event, both the Fort Jackson National Cemetery and the Tree Site at Strom Thurmond Building for Survivor Outreach Services. More here.
Sing-Along Messiah | Dec 19
Visit Washington Street United Methodist Church at 7pm on Monday, December 19th for a joyous night of worship, instrumental music, and singing. Messiah, by G.F. Handel, is perhaps the best known and most popular oratorio ever written. Sing-Along Messiah was founded in 2002, on the principle that everyone in the metropolitan Columbia area, and anyone willing to travel to Columbia, should have the opportunity to sing some part of Messiah at least once a year. No Christmas season is ever truly complete without it, as the event is compromised of a 20-member professional orchestra, a core choir to lead the singing of the choruses and a professional conductor. One component that makes Sing-Along Messiah unique and gives it its identity is that the 600+ people who attend the event are invited to join in the singing! It is the only annual sing-along presentation of Messiah in South Carolina and is presented to the public without an admission charge, so don’t miss it! More here.
Christmas Party at The Woody | Dec 23
Eat, drink and be merry at the Naughty or Nice Christmas Party at The Woody in the Vista! Dress in your seasonal best, put on your dancing shoes and come let loose before settling down with your family and in-laws this Christmas.
Christmas Eve Service with Lord’s Supper | Dec 24
Service will take place at First Baptist Irmo from 4:30 – 5:30pm in the Church Sanctuary.
Children’s Christmas Eve Service | Dec 24
Service will take place at 5 pm in the Worship Center at Riverland Hills Baptist Church. Come celebrate Christmas with your entire family as the Sixth Grade Crossover Ministry presents “The Christmas Story.” You will want to make this a family tradition as you help your children understand the real meaning of Christmas. Service is appropriate for children of all ages. More here.
Christmas Eve | Dec 24
Join your friends at Shandon United Methodist Church, 3407 Devine Street, for worship services that will truly bring your spirit aligned with the Reason for the Season!
TRADITIONAL COMMUNION SERVICE
2:00 p.m., Sanctuary
FAMILY SERVICE
5:00 p.m., Sanctuary
LIFELINE CONTEMPORARY SERVICE
7:00 p.m., Dunn-Smith Ministry Center
COMMUNION AND CANDLELIGHT SERVICE
9:00 p.m., Sanctuary. Inspiring services filled with beautiful greenery, wonderful music, glowing candlelight and warm fellowship.
WOW! New Year’s Eve Carnival | Dec 31
Bring the kiddies to this family-friendly event with games, entertainment, food vendors and more. Held from 6pm – 10pm at Main and Hampton Sts. in downtown Columbia.
New Year’s Eve Masquerade Party | Dec 31
Make your way to The Woody in the Vista’s New Year’s Eve Fest! Featuring a champagne toast at midnight and party favors, including a mask, and The Woody Ball Drop with cash at midnight! Call 803.309.1283 or 803.309.2941 to get your tickets.
New Year’s Evening with the Newberry Opera House| Dec 31
Starting at 8pm, celebrate the going of the old and the coming of the new with food, dancing and fireworks! Newberry natives Reggie Deas and Deas Guyz return to play your favorite rhythm and beach hits of yesterday and today. Get a taste of Newberry in one night with food from local restaurants. Food and beverage are included. More here.
New Year’s Eve Dance Party at the Pickin’ Parlor | Dec 31
Bill’s Music Shop & Pickin’ Parlor located at 710 Meeting Street in West Columbia is the perfect place to ring in the New Year! Doors open at 7pm, catered dinner will be served. Bob Strickland & Freestyle (with guest performers) will begin playing at 8pm, and the dance party will begin! $25 per person. Website here. Call them at 803.796.6477 with any questions.
New Year’s Eve at Noon | Dec 31
EdVenture Children’s Museum’s doors open at 9am with activities celebrating New Year’s Eve around the world! As the countdown to noon begins, a giant illuminated ball descends and lands at the foot of EDDIE, kicking off the biggest mid-day celebration in town! Join them for a juicebox toast at noon. Free with membership or regular admission. Event lasts until 1pm. Website here.
Famously Hot New Year | Dec 31
Ring in 2017 on Main Street at South Carolina’s largest New Year’s Eve party! Join thousands of people in downtown Columbia for this free party and enjoy live entertainment until after midnight, free parking in downtown city garages, artists, clowns, jugglers and other buskers, free WiFi, food court and “Comfort Zone,” featuring food trucks and vendors, beer, wine and champagne and seating, special COMET services and park-and-ride locations, Budweiser alert cab, midnight countdown, the largest NYE fireworks display in the two Carolinas and much more! Kids will love the City of Columbia’s NYE Carnival for kids with rides, games and face painters, and the Main Street Ice Skating Rink on Boyd Plaza, in front of the Columbia Museum of Art. More info here.
Christmas Lights
Holiday Festival of Lights | Nov 11 – Jan 1
Each year, thousands of families create lasting memories at the Holiday Festival of Lights, where millions of multicolored lights illuminate the sky throughout 52 enchanting nights. Journey through three miles of over 700 magical light displays of all shapes and sizes. Park your car and enjoy family activities, shopping, food, entertainment, and so much more! More here.
Main Street Lights | Nov 18 – Dec 31
Newberry claims to have more lights than any other downtown in South Carolina! Take a drive through downtown any evening this holiday season and be dazzled by the amazing light displays, especially around the old courthouse. And on the Friday before Thanksgiving, November 18th, 2016, begining at 6:00 pm, the downtown area will be transformed into a mini-festival. Local vendors will be selling and giving away a variety of goods, from fresh wreaths and garlands, to free hot chocolate and popcorn. We’ll have new additions to our Downtown décor including a new ornament “sculpture” in Astwood Park as well as old favorites like our faux snow machines in Memorial Park. The Official Tree Lighting Ceremony of Main St. Lights begins at 6:30 pm, accompanied by local choruses and a special guest from WISTV News. Help us light our Community Christmas Tree, located in front of Community Hall, through festive song and fellowship. More here.
Lights Before Christmas at Riverbanks | Nov 19 – Dec 30
From 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The zoo will sparkle with nearly 1 million lights, countless animated images, visits with Santa (on-site beginning at 6pm each night through Dec 23), holiday cheer around the Jingle Bell Bonfire & more! Tickets are $11 for adults and $9 for children ages 2 to 12 and went on sale November 1st, so get yours now. Visit for More Info . *Closed Nov. 24, Dec. 24, and Dec. 25th.
Holiday Lights on the River | Nov 23 – Dec 31
Holiday Lights on the River at Saluda Shoals Park is the largest drive-through lights show in the Midlands. This dazzling light show will be open from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM and will feature over 400 animated displays. Look for our Merry Christmas Columbia light display this year!
Holiday Lights Activities Every Night! (except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas)
Fun-filled family activities offered at Holiday Lights on the River include:
- Hayride shuttle to the Wetland Walking trail
- Saluda Shoals train
- A laser light show along the wetland trail
- Tube slide
- New! Ice skating rink
- Crafts
- Santa’s Claus’et Gift Shop
- Roast marshmallows
Enjoy the walking trail along the boardwalk (purchase hot chocolate, hot cider, or other concessions for your stroll) that hosts a laser light show, and of course don’t miss the opportunity to get a photo with Santa (fees apply) from December 9 – 23. 
NEW ENTRANCE for 2016!
There’s a brand new Holiday Lights entrance off St. Andrews Road! All Holiday Lights traffic will enter Saluda Shoals Park at the east entrance located between Wendy’s and Aldi Foods at 6071 St. Andrews Road and exit onto Bush River Road. Holiday Lights visitors will enjoy an all new route this year. There will be no Holiday Light entrance on Bush River Road.
Holiday lights admission is $15 for cars, $25 for 15 passenger vans, and $40 for buses. For more information, More Info or call (803) 772-3903.
Roper Mountain Holiday Lights | Nov 24 – Dec 30
Roper Mountain Holiday Lights is the only not-for-profit holiday lights event in the Upstate, and 2016 marks the 25th year of this great event! Open Thanksgiving night through December 30, enjoy strolling through WinterWonderland, with its lighted walking trails, Santa Claus, balloon artist, concessions, giant holiday greeting cards created by local area students, see team mascots and performances by school groups, and drive through displays like Candy Cane Lane, Santa’s Sleigh and the Caterpillar. More here.
50th Annual Governor’s Carolighting | Dec 1
The Governor’s Carolighting will be held from 7-9pm and will feature a variety of musical groups prior to the lighting of the SC State Christmas tree, including Fort Jackson’s own 282nd Army Band. This year’s Carolighting event will correspond with First Thursday on Main, creating an entire evening of holiday activities in the capital city! More here.
Fantasy of Lights in Sumter | Dec 1 – Dec 31
Part of Sumter’s annual Poinsettia Festival, this is one of South Carolina’s largest Christmas light displays! The Fantasy of Lights takes place at beautiful Swan Lake Iris Gardens, one of the finest botanical gardens in the United States. Over 1 million lights and 150 twinkling figures light up the 150 acres of gardens! The gardens will be open from dusk until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and from dusk until 9pm Sunday – Thursday throughout the entire month of December. You will be amazed as the sun goes down and the gardens come alive with breathtaking light displays symbolizing the holiday season, as well as seeing some of your favorite cartoon characters: Blues Clues, Barney, Bob the Builder, Sponge Bob, Dora the Explorer, and more. The Pilot Club’s floating Christmas tree is an annual favorite, along with Santa, angels, and characters of song and story. Santa’s Village will be at the Heath Pavilion on Friday and Saturday nights (through December 10) with entertainment and refreshments. Kids can bring letters to Santa, and the Santa Express will send them straight to the North Pole! Opening ceremony on Dec 1 at 6pm. Drive-thru the Gardens; park and walk areas available. Admission is free. For more information visit website or call 803-436-2640.
Night of a Thousand Candles | Dec 1-3, 8-10, 15-18
See Brookgreen Gardens come to life amid the soft glow of more than 5,500 hand-lit candles and countless sparkling lights from 3 – 10 p.m. Walk the paths with a warm cup of cider, hear the sounds of hand bells ringing, carolers singing, and celebrate the season with family and friends.The 80-foot-tall fir tree decorated with 70,000 lights will be lighted in ceremonial fashion at 5:45 p.m. every night. More Info.
Florence Festival of Lights | Dec 9-10, 16-18
Beginning at 5:30pm at Hoffmeyer Place. Join us for the third annual Florence Festival of Lights to be held on December 9th and 10th and December 16th, 17th, and 18th. This premiere light display and holiday event will be fun for the whole family. After you drive through these stunning holiday lights, stroll through Santa’s Village to spread more holiday cheer with a cup of hot chocolate, a visit with Santa himself, or a balloon animal from Todd’s Twisted Balloons. More Info.
Christmas In Hopelands | Dec 10, 11, 15-23, 26
The 25th Annual Christmas in Hopelands is an enchanting walk-through exhibit that features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and holiday displays. There is no admission charge. Over 100,000 twinkling lights are a must-see during the Christmas season. Santa or Mrs. Claus will be inside the Rye Patch for photos. Be sure to purchase your s’mores kit for $5.00 at Citizens Park before you hop on the shuttle. Once you get to the gardens, head to the Rye Patch to roast your marshmallows. Parents must accompany children at all times. Shuttle departs from Citizens Park: 1060 Banks Mill Rd More Info.
Harborside Lights | Dec 12
See the Village Green and Town Center glow with thousands of twinkling lights and luminaries. Lake Carolina’s Harborside Lights celebration brings holiday tradition and family fun together. Enjoy musical entertainment, horse-drawn carriage rides, photos with Santa, holiday treats, millions of twinkling lights, over sixteen hundred luminaries and dozens of decorated trees at this annual holiday celebration! If you can’t make it for Harborside Lights, the community is lovely and decorated beautifully throughout the season. More Info.
Elgin Lights | Dec 15 – 24
From 6-9PM. Truly a labor of love by the Towns family of Elgin. See hundreds of antique tractors including a 1909 working steam engine, miniature trains and memorabilia and forty thousand lights. Families are invited to get out of their cars and walk around and/or take a hayride through the woods. Working blacksmith. Take pictures on 1939 John Deere tractor and Christmas-themed photo props. Four buildings – known as the “Elgin Smithsonian”! Free admission; donations appreciated with all proceeds given to Camp Kemo. The farm is located at 2433 Charlie House Circle in Elgin, SC. (803) 408-0131. Website Info.
Holiday Dining
Note: Please call each restaurant to verify information below before you head there.
Twisted Spur Brewing
803.764.0203 | 705 Gervais Street
Twisted Spur Brewing is a West Coast style brewpub that focuses on fresh unique food options and house made beers. They will be open Christmas Eve from 10am – 8pm as well as regular hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s day. Enjoy!
Old Mill Brewpub
803.785.2337 | 711 E Main Street, Lexington
Old Mill Brewpub offers inside and outside seating, lunch, dinner, amazing drinks — they’ve got you covered! Gather together and head on over to the best restaurant in Lexington to celebrate Thanksgiving! They will serve a traditional turkey dinner plate (mashed potatoes, green beans, stuffing, turkey) from 11am to 5pm. Yum!
They will also be open on Christmas Eve and will have a special late night menu. Enjoy Christmas drink + beer specials 11am – 5pm. Additionally, Old Mill Brewpub will be open on New Year’s Eve during regular hours and will have food specials. More details to come, so check back.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
803.212.6666 | 924-A Senate Street at the Hilton Columbia Center
Ruth’s Chris Steak House is the perfect place to eat, drink and be merry this holiday season. Whether you are looking to indulge in a winter feast with bone-in steaks and seafood selections from our award-winning dinner menu, cheers with friends or co-workers during our daily happy hour or host a festive holiday celebration in one of our private dining rooms, Ruth’s Chris is here to help make your holidays a little happier. Make your online reservations here!
And don’t forget about Ruth’s Holiday Sides to Go! Enjoy Ruth’s original recipe creamed spinach, velvety mashed potatoes or silky sweet potato casserole topped with a crunchy pecan-brown sugar crust. Each side dish is $29.95 and generously serves 10-12 people. Sides to go are available for pickup through December 24 (no pickups on Christmas Day). All orders must be placed online or by calling the restaurant directly at least 48 hours in advance of desired pickup.
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: 11 AM – 11 PM | Christmas Day: 11 AM – 10 PM | New Year’s Eve: 11 AM – Midnight | New Year’s Day: 11 AM – 10 PM
Liberty Taproom & Grill in the Vista
803.461.4677 | 828 Gervais Street 
Liberty means many things to many different people. It is a celebration of the great American farmer and the rich bounty he puts on our tables. It is a celebration of America’s melting pot of rich ethnic cooking styles. It is a celebration of the resurgence of the “handcrafted-brewing” style of the pre-prohibition small American brewery. It is a celebration of life, family and the pursuit of happiness. So bring them your hungry, your thirsty and fun-loving, they’ll send you home refreshed and fulfilled!
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: 11am – 4pm | Christmas Day: Closed | Open New Years Eve and New Years Day during regular hours
*Have fun ringing in the New Year at Liberty, as they will feature party drink specials and may even have a DJ rocking the place!
Gervais & Vine
803.799.VINE (8463) | 620-A Gervais Street
Need a break from all the shopping and hub-bub? Why not break at G&V, where you can relax on Wednesdays for their drop-in wine tastings? From 5:30 – 7pm, you can enjoy 4 wine-tastings and a nice little cheese plate for just 8 bucks! If you have friends and family in town, G&V is the perfect place to impress them, with its Mediterranean-inspired hot and cold tapas selections, pizzas from their 700° stone oven, wide selection of wine, craft beers and top-shelf spirits, and lively bar.
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: Closed | Christmas Day: Closed | New Year’s Eve: Open regular hours | New Year’s Day and January 2: Closed
Crêpes et Croissants
803.462.4779 | 1465 Sumter Street
Their menu is amazing from their Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwich to various crepes such as Paris, Turkey, and Wales. Laurent, owner of Crêpes et Croissants, came from his native France to bring his Master Crêpe Maker’s “Savoir Faire” to the South, so don’t miss out this special, holiday season. You deserve the best pastries, croissants, and crepes that they have to offer, as you step into this busy holiday season. Website.
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM | Christmas Day: Closed | New Years Eve: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
SakiTumi
803.931.0700 | 807 Gervais St #103
SakiTumi is one of the only restaurants in the Columbia area that receives fresh fish almost every single day of the week. Try their fresh, #1 blue fin tuna, delivered daily. SakiTumi is also a great low key place to hang out over the holidays. Especially on New Years Eve!
Enjoy delicious food with great discounts and enjoy watching the ball drop on one of their 4 large, flat screen televisions. They are sure to have an excellent champagne special and don’t forget about their awesome Thursday night supper special: 50 cent Sushi “by the piece” & $3 Pints! Choose from Cali, Philly or Spicy Salmon and wash them down with any one of their 12 import/craft brew pints.
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: Closed | Christmas day: Closed | New Years Eve: open regular hours (bar open later) | New Years Day: Closed
Join SakiTumi for a great dinner and champagne specials on New Years Eve! They’ll of course have the football games on the TV’s behind the bar, so it’s sure to be a fun time!
Liberty on the Lake
803.667.9715 | 1602 Marina Road, Irmo
Located just 30 minutes from downtown Columbia on the sunny shores of Lake Murray in Irmo, SC Liberty Tap Room is an upscale casual dining restaurant serving traditional American cuisine with a twist in a fun, modern atmosphere. Enjoy our elevated outdoor seating for killer views of the lake, just in time for boating season!
With 48 beers on tap, including our own line of microbrews, we have a brew to satisfy even the pickiest of beer snobs.
Liberty Tap Room specializes in all-American food made from the freshest ingredients, like our Certified Angus Beef® burgers, juicy steaks, and fresh-baked pizzas. Stop by with the whole family for dinner!
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. | Christmas Day: closed | New Years Eve & New Years Day regular hours
HuHot Mongolian Grill
803.407.3868 | 1260 A-8 Bower Pkwy
Dining at HuHot is unlike any experience in 
Columbia, as you pick what goes into your bowl and then they grill it for you…while you watch! Take a bowl, fill it with your choice of meats, seafood, noodles, and veggies from their food line, pour on 5-6 ladles of their signature and create-your-own sauces (they have a lot to choose from), and then take it to the grill and watch one of their skilled grill warriors cook your meal. Finish it off with your favorite toppings! Dine at HuHot during the holidays for a special dining experience!
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: open – 4pm | Christmas Day: Closed | New Years Eve: open – 8pm | New Years Day: Open reg. hours
Pearlz Oyster Bar
803.661.7741 | 936 Gervais Street
Pearlz Oyster Bar features an assorted mix of raw shellfish, local seafood, Lowcountry 
recipes and regional favorites. Their raw bar offers a variety of oysters and fresh seasonal selections. Ring in the New Year with Pearlz! Enjoy New Year’s Eve Dinner Specials, music by DJ Jade beginning at 10pm in the Upstairz Lounge and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight!
recipes and regional favorites. Their raw bar offers a variety of oysters and fresh seasonal selections. Ring in the New Year with Pearlz! Enjoy New Year’s Eve Dinner Specials, music by DJ Jade beginning at 10pm in the Upstairz Lounge and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight!Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: 12noon – 9pm | Christmas Day: Closed | New Years Eve: 12pm – 2am, live music + Champagne Toasting | New Years Day: 12pm – 12am
Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe
803.550.9979 | 930 Gervais Street 
For your special occasion this year visit Kaminsky’s and enjoy the dreamiest and most delicious desserts Columbia ever did see. If it were up to us we would direct Santa to stop here for the best cookies in Columbia, but he tends to be pretty busy this time of year. We know it’s a busy time of year with the hustle and the bustle of the season right at your heels, but slow down and savor each bite that you try at Kaminsky’s one delicious moment at a time. Good coffee, great cakes (for your holiday party?), yummy pies, amazing cookies, even more amazing holiday martinis and wonderful ‘adult’ milkshakes.
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: 5pm – 9pm | Christmas Day: Closed | New Year’s Eve: coming soon | New Year’s Day: Closed
Twin Peaks
803.602.3667 | 600 Gervais Street 
Welcome to your mountain lodge getaway! Twin Peaks offers hearty made-from-scratch comfort food, draft beer served at a teeth-chattering 29 degrees and all the best sports on TV shown on high-definition flat screens. All of this is served by their friendly and attentive Twin Peaks Girls, offering their signature “Girl Next Door” charisma and playful personalities to ensure that your adventure happens at the Peaks. Twin Peaks is your ultimate sports lodge!
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: Open 11am – 8pm | Christmas Day: Closed | New Years Eve: Open 11am – 2pm | New Years Day: 11am – midnight
Solstice Kitchen
803.788.6966 | 841 Sparkleberry Lane #4
Their cuisine can be labeled many things, but it is most definitely seasonal. Their service is professional, yet far from stuffy and their décor is modern, yet simple. Plus, Solstice Kitchen boasts an extensive wine list for you wine lovers. Click here to view their menu. Call them at 803.788.6966 to make a reservation.
Holiday Hours:
Closed: December 24 – December 26 | Open New Years Eve: Regular Hours| Closed: New Years Day
Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse
803.708.3151 | 410 Columbiana Drive
Rioz is the perfect place for family and friend gatherings this holiday season. Deliciousness is an understatement when it comes to all of the mouthwatering meat options that Brazilian cowboys bring around to the tables for your taste buds’ satisfaction. An authentic Brazilian steakhouse that you don’t want to miss this holiday season. Also don’t miss their After Christmas Day Special on Monday, December 26th! $34.95 –> $26.95 Dinner Buffet! Taking reservations! Open their doors at 5pm. Additionally, celebrate New Year’s Eve with them! Taking reservations for this too and they’ll open at 4pm. Enjoy!
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: 4pm – 10pm | Christmas Day: Closed | New Years Eve: Open at 4pm | New Years Day: Open at 4pm
Grill Marks
803.661.8932 | 711 Gervais Street
Located in the Vista, Grill Marks is a sophisticated burger joint with a full service bar 
and house-made milkshakes. You will love their Burgers and UnBurgers. All Grill Marks burgers are freshly ground from a custom blend of only the finest 100% Certified Angus Beef. Try the Hot Mess Burger, which includes two beef patties, a grilled hot dog, chili, cheddar, swiss, American applewood smoked bacon, onion straws, fried pickle, lettuce, and tomato. We’d love to see someone try to take a bite out of that monster! Or try the Hawaiian Punch burger: grilled pineapple, bacon, pepper jack cheese, jalapeño pesto, lettuce, and tomato. Let’s get tropical! Choose from over ten burgers – ALL #mouthwatering…you can’t go wrong. View their ENTIRE menu here!! It will leave your taste buds forcing you to visit asap. This is the perfect place to visit during the holiday rush because every bite is well worth it. Season’s Eatings! Give the gift of Grill Marks this season!
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: closed after lunch (2pm) | Christmas Day: Closed | New Years Eve and New Years Day open with regular hours
Cellar on Greene
803.343.3303 | 2001 Greene Street
You know something really great about Cellar on Greene? They don’t take reservations! So, if you are flexible and want to arrive with your party in your own time, or if your dinner plans are somewhat last minute — then this is the place for you!
Their December Giant Wine Sale & Tastings will actually be held EVERY single Saturday
Blythe’s Banana-Toffee Pie
in December leading up to Christmas: Saturday, December 5, December 12, and December 19 from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM don’t miss tasting over 30 new wines with them! The cost is $5 per person, waived with a two bottle purchase.
During normal business hours Cellar on Greene is a wine retail shop, with hundreds of wines from around the world! Then at 5pm they offer a full menu of snacks, pizzas, small plates and desserts all perfect for sharing and a nightly three-course menu for $22.
Holiday Hours:
Closed: December 24 – December 26 | Open New Years Eve: Regular Hours| Closed: New Years Day
Sato Japanese Steak & Sushi House
803.782.1064 | 1999 N. Beltline Boulevard
Are you tired of having the same old boring dinner? During the holidays are you looking to 
mix things up a bit? Why not try SATO’s fully stocked sushi bar! Their sushi bar displays a wide selection of delicious options. They say whether you are new to sushi or you’re a sushi expert, you will love their sushi bar — see if they’re right. For beginners, their sushi bar offers a large selection of sushi, so you can try different kinds to discover your favorites. They have the most popular sushi as well as unique sushi you will only find here. Between their extensive menu (for you non-sushi folks too!) and their amiable, professional staff, they will be sure to make your experience as enjoyable as possible this holiday season.
They use fresh ingredients, mixed with delectable sauces and seasonings that create a one of a kind meal that is sure to please. Yes please! For your next holiday event or holiday get together, keep their banquet room in mind also. No matter the size of the group, they can help. Call (803) 782-1064 for availability.
Holiday Hours: Open Christmas Eve 11:30am – 2pm, 5pm – 9:30pm. Closed on Christmas Day. | Normal hours New Years Eve & New Years Day
Rosso Trattoria Italia
803.787.3949 | 4840 Forest Drive 
Planning a dinner, cocktail party or private affair for the holidays? Let Rosso accommodate your event at their private loft at 701 Whaley Street, and have your meal prepared by one of their Chefs. The restaurant, with its refined, enjoyable atmosphere, is also available for private luncheons, bridal showers, business lunches or brunch. Rosso can also cater a lunch, brunch or dinner party at your home, business office or venue of your choice. Rosso’s annual gift card promotion: For every $100 dollars you spend you will receive a free $10 gift card. Great for stocking stuffers or company giveaways! Also, as you shop around Trenholm plaza, keep your receipt from the current day and stop in to enjoy a discounted glass of wine.
Rosso’s Christmas Eve menu 2016 has been set. Enjoy an array of appetizers and entrees from grilled sea scallops, pan seared Salmon, to Shrimp and Polenta! Will be open Christmas Eve at 5pm with a last seating at 8:30pm. Call 803.787.3949 for reservations.
Holiday Hours: Open Christmas Eve 5pm with a last seating at 8:30pm. Enjoy a special menu that will include some of the Rosso favorites. Call for reservations: 803.787.3949.
Moriarty’s Irish Pub
803.888.6462 | 902 – B Gervais Street
Moriarty’s Irish Pub not only serves amazing burgers and has a varied menu that includes Appetizers, Salads and Sandwiches, they also offer delicious Gaelic Fare including favorites like Gaelic and Guiness Stew, Cottage Pie, Highland Poached then Grilled Bangers and Mash, and the like. Like the burgers, everything is made-from-scratch, in-house (including their Corned Beef!). A great place to watch your team and get your food and drink on!
Holiday Hours: Coming Soon!
City Bar Martinis & Fondue
803.764.6125 | 700 Gervais Street
At City Bar, they believe that a night for celebration can be any night! The food and beverage menus have been created to focus on the traditional French approach combined with new Southern flair. Special occasions are made even more special at City Bar, with specials for birthday celebrations and their “Fondue for Two” menu option with cheese fondue appetizer, table-side prepared Caesar salad, entrée selection,
and choice of sweet chocolate fondue for dessert for only $65!
Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: Open regular hours | Christmas Day: Closed | New Year’s Eve: Open regular hours | New Year’s Day: Closed
Cock n’ Bull
803.251.4474 | 326 S. Edisto Avenue 
Located in the heart of Rosewood, the Cock N’ Bull Pub is a British style neighborhood pub. Their friendly warm staff, great food and beer, and their amazing fish & chips every Friday night will make you want to keep coming back for more. Featuring 21 beers on tap including imports and craft beers from around the United States. Check out their Happy Hour specials and delicious brunch menu!
Holiday Hours: Closed Christmas Day, open New Years Eve & New Years Day
Wasabi Japanese Restaurant
803.736.9687 | 4561 Hard Scrabble Road 
Wasabi can be described in two words: heavenly sushi. Treat yourself this holiday season to some of the best sushi in Columbia! You’ll love their unique selection of sushi creations like the Double Decker Roll, Victoria Secret Roll, Godzilla Roll, Salmon Skin Roll, Jalapeno Popper Roll, Happy Birthday Roll and Bulgogi Roll! Try Wasabi’s other delicious Japanese fare like Hand Rolls, Teishoku Combos and Bento Boxes. Cold outside? Don’t feel like cooking? Get sushi delivered right to your door from Wasabi with 256togo.com!
Mr. Friendly’s
803.254.7828 | 2001 Greene Street
Mr. Friendly’s has been a dining institution in 
Columbia for almost 20 years! They serve New Southern Cuisine in a sophisticated, yet casual environment using only the freshest ingredients and simple preparations. Check out their fresh fish and seafood specials, innovative meat, poultry, and wild game dishes, extensive wine list and wide variety of craft beer, small batch Bourbon, flavored Vodkas and single-malt Scotch.
Columbia for almost 20 years! They serve New Southern Cuisine in a sophisticated, yet casual environment using only the freshest ingredients and simple preparations. Check out their fresh fish and seafood specials, innovative meat, poultry, and wild game dishes, extensive wine list and wide variety of craft beer, small batch Bourbon, flavored Vodkas and single-malt Scotch.Holiday Hours:
Closed: December 24 – December 26 | Open New Years Eve: Regular Hours| Closed: New Years Day
Tombo Grille
803.782.9665 | 4517 Forest Drive 
Reservations are recommended because who doesn’t love this neighborhood restaurant in Columbia? They serve only the freshest of foods and are sure to set your taste buds ablaze this December! They will have a special menu for Christmas Eve, so don’t miss it. Also check out their dinner specials which change nightly, as do their featured beers and wines. Tombo boasts the largest half-bottle wine list in Columbia, with something for everyone and every occasion. Need a lunchtime event catered during the holidays? Tombo offers family-style lunchtime catering, with customized menu options available. And if you’re looking for a great gift for the foodie in your life, they’ll love a Tombo Grille gift certificate!
Holiday Hours: coming soon!
Little Pigs BBQ
803.788.8238 | 4927 Alpine Road 
Open on Christmas Eve until 2pm and will be open New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day during regular business hours. Need to cater your Thanksgiving or Christmas event? Little Pigs offers a wide array of food options for your special occasion! Call their Catering Hotline at 803-318-6682 and they will work with you to come up with the ideal menu for your event.
Visit Santa Claus
Write Your Own Letter to Santa | Now – Dec 23
Write your very own letter to Santa during Lights Before Christmas at Riverbanks Zoo. Santa will also be greeting guests beginning at 6pm each evening through December 23rd. Lights before Christmas takes place from 5pm – 9pm nightly through December 30th (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas). More event info here.
Meet Santa at Village at Sandhill | Nov 18 – 23
Visit Santa’s Village, next to Champs Sports. And be sure to ask about having one of our professionals take your child’s picture with Santa! Santa will have regular daily breaks. Please visit Santa’s village to see detailed hours. More here.
Santa at Columbia Place Mall | Nov 19 – Dec 24
Santa takes his place at Columbia Place Mall from 12pm – 7pm each day listening to kiddies’ wish lists and helping everyone with their Christmas Spirit!
Dutch Square | Nov 25 – Dec 24
Santa will arrive at Dutch Square mall for photo opportunities with your children AND your four-legged friends! Bring your own camera to the mall from Friday, November 25 to Saturday, December 24 and take a free picture with St. Nick as a holiday keepsake! Pet photos will be taken on the following Sundays: Nov. 27, Dec. 4, Dec. 11 and Dec. 18. Call 803-772-3864 for times and additional information.
Columbiana Centre | Nov 12 – December 24
Santa will be at Belk Court Monday – Saturday from 12 – 8pm and Sundays from 12 – 6pm, with special hours December 16 – December 23 from 9am – 9pm, December 18 from 10am – 9pm and on Christmas Eve from 9am – 5pm, with break from 12:30-1:30pm. Reservations and photo purchases are not required to visit Santa. You can also bring your cat or dog to see Santa and pose for a photo! Pet photos will take place on Mondays (Nov. 14, 21, 28, Dec. 5 & 12) at Center Court in Columbiana. See Santa the smart way, by making a reservation and spending less time in line (you can also save 30% on your photos by pre-ordering online). Slots fill up fast, so book your time now by visiting the website!
North Pole Nights | Dec 2, 9, 16, 23
Santa will be in downtown Newberry in Memorial Park visiting with children from 6-8PM as they run around in the snow falling from their snow machines. Visit downtown Newberry on Fridays in December to experience the North Pole! From 6-8pm Santa will be in Memorial Park to hear your Christmas wishes in the fluttering snow. The Newberry County Chamber of Commerce office will also be open in Community Hall for Storytime with Mrs. Claus. You won’t want to miss this special Newberry holiday event! More information here.
Breakfast with Santa | Dec 3
Richland County Recreation Commission will hold this event from 9am – 12pm at Richland Mall. Enjoy a Saturday morning with fun activities, breakfast, 
pictures taken with Santa, a performance of “Holiday Cinderella” by the Columbia Children’s Theatre and much more! Admission fee of $15/person includes admission tickets, breakfast and picture with Santa. Tickets are available at the Columbia Children’s Theatre, or online at their website. Visit Richland County website for event information or call Takequita Lewis at 741-7272 ext. 143.
Christmas in the City | Dec 3
Christmas in the City will take place in the Cultural Arts District of Historic Downtown Lancaster. The event will feature tons of holiday fun such as live music, outdoor vendors, festival food in a lively holiday atmosphere, Santa’s Workshop, Carousel, Gingerbread House Contest, Photos with Santa, free Ugly Christmas Sweater ornaments at L & C Railway Museum, and much more! Trolleys will be available to take visitors from holiday stop to holiday stop throughout downtown Lancaster. There will be something for everyone! More information at Facebook page.
St. Nicholas Festival | Dec 3
The Saint Nicholas Festival is Presented by Holy Apostles Orthodox Church. The festival will feature choral presentations by the Holy Apostles Orthodox Choir singing ancient Church hymns, holiday Crafts, craft ideas, and artwork available for purchase, Russian food and collectibles, handmade beeswax candles, Russian Bell Ringing with their bronze Russian Pyatkov bells, and children can visit with the “REAL St. Nicholas”! For more information see website.
Story Time with Santa | Dec 3
Come to Seven Oaks Park from 10am-12pm and listen as Santa reads his favorite holiday book to all the children on his nice list! Participants will also decorate cookies, sip hot cocoa and create a holiday craft. After the story, participants will enjoy a candy cane hunt. For ages 2-8. See Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission’s website for more info.
Santa & The Grinch Holiday Bazaar | Dec 3
The Cayce-West Columbia Chamber presents The Santa & Grinch Holiday Bazaar at Mt. Tabor Lutheran Church in West Columbia. Come and visit with Santa & The Grinch, shop for holiday gifts from local vendors, get Christmas pictures, and enjoy activities for the kids! More here.
Christmas Candlelight Tours | Dec 3 & Dec 10
A Southern-style Backcountry Christmas comes to life during Historic Brattonsville’s annual Christmas Candlelight Tours! Through candlelit vignettes, costumed interpreters will recreate Christmas of the backcountry settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries. Learn of Christmas traditions old and new, relax around the campfire and enjoy musical entertainment. Children will enjoy hands-on activities and visits with Father Christmas. Food, hot drinks and baked goods will be available for purchase. Adults $10; Seniors $8; Youth 4-17 $6; 3 and under and Culture & Heritage Museum members free. Event is from 3-9pm.
Sundaes with Santa | Dec 4
The Junior League of Columbia will hold this new children’s event as part of its Holiday Market festivities, from 10am-2pm at the State Fairgrounds. Dress your children in their Sunday best for photos with Santa, enjoy games and crafts with your family, and top off the fun with an ice cream sundae bar! Tickets are $8 per child, and children 12 months and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased at the door and online at their Facebook page.
Visits and Photos with Santa | Dec 9 – Dec 23
Santa will be visiting Holiday Lights on the River at Saluda Shoals Park! A professional photographer will be available for photos with Santa from 6-10pm. Photography fees and Holiday Lights admission apply. More here.
Florence Festival of Lights | Dec 9 & 10, Dec 16-18
The third annual Florence Festival of Lights will be held December 9 and 10, and on December 16, 17, and 18 at 5:30pm at Hoffmeyer Place. This premiere light display
and holiday event will be fun for the whole family! After you drive through these stunning holiday lights, stroll through
Santa’s Village to spread more holiday cheer with a cup of hot chocolate, a visit with Santa himself, or a balloon animal from Todd’s Twisted Balloons. See website for more information.
Santapalooza | Dec 10
1403 N. Lake Drive Lexington, SC 29072 | (803) 359-9091
Visit Wingard’s Market for Santapalooza from 11am – 1pm, where the kids can meet Mrs. Claus, ride the Santa Train, enjoy hot apple cider and cookies and pick out a fresh North Carolina Fraser Fir Christmas tree! Don’t forget your camera for beautiful family photo ops throughout the Garden Center that you will treasure for years to come. Free admittance. Overflow parking available at Pilgrim Lutheran Church. More here.
Breakfast with Santa | Dec 10
Girl Scout Troop 1198 will host this event at Spring Valley Presbyterian Church, 125 Sparkleberry Lane in Columbia. Participants will be served breakfast from 9:30-10:30am, children and adults can make Christmas crafts, and each child will get to visit with Santa and take a picture, so bring your camera! Please bring a can or two to donate to God’s Storehouse. Cost is $8 per person and reservations are required by December 2. Call Becky Lewis at (803) 609-5366 or email at rebecca_e_lewis@yahoo.com. More here.
Grill Marks: A Burger with the Big Guy | Dec 11
From 3pm – 6pm on Sunday, December 11th get the chance to tell Santa what you want for Christmas & don’t forget to tell him a Grill Marks gift certificate! Join Santa this Sunday for an early supper with the kids, enjoy a complimentary photo with Santa, and the opportunity for the kids to make some “Reindeer Treats” to make sure Santa’s Reindeer lead him to your house! So fun!
Santa at EdVenture
Santa will visit EdVenture Children’s Museum on December 10, 11, 17, 18, 23 and 24. Click here for more information.
Breakfast with Victorian Santa | Dec 17
Join Historic Columbia for this holiday treat, where you can enjoy a continental breakfast in the cozy Robert Mills Carriage House while listening to seasonal music, from 8-11am. After your meal, view the decorated halls of the Hampton-Preston Mansion, see a Victorian Christmas tree, make a holiday craft to take home, and don’t forget to take a picture with Victorian Santa Claus! Reservations and other info at their website.
Rustic Chic Interiors: Morning with Santa | Dec 17
Join Rustic Chic Interiors on Saturday, December 17th from 8am – 10am for a Morning with Santa in the loft. Bring your little ones (ages 2 to 10) and make some memories this Christmas season. Spaces are limited so reserve your spot today here! The party starts at 8am sharp with breakfast to include a variety of donuts, pastries and cookies as well as juice for the little ones and coffee and/or hot tea for mom and dad. Following breakfast, their in-house photographer will snag a pic of your little one(s) with Santa in their Rustic Chic styled corner. Their paint professionals will then teach your kids how to paint using the all-natural chalk and clay-based paint available in store. Every child will get to select one wooden word measuring 9″ x 1″ x 2 1/2″. “Faith”, “Hope” and “Love.” More info on website here. Call them at 803.673.9000 with questions or stop by their shop Wednesday – Saturday 10am – 6pm.
Holiday Music
Tis the Season | Nov 20
Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra presents ‘Tis the Season, with seasonal fall and winter favorites at 3:30pm. 7300 College Street. Website here.
Mannheim Steamroller 
Christmas Tour | Nov 27 | 7pm
This year marks the 32nd Anniversary of the Mannheim Steamroller Christmas tour! Two traveling ensembles will hold performances across the country and they plan on coming to Columbia, SC. The show features classic Christmas hits from Mannheim Steamroller all with dazzling multimedia effects in an intimate setting. The spirit of the season comes alive with the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller. More here.
Palmetto Concert Band
Tuesday November 29 | 7:30pm
Concert For A Cause – Music can make you feel good, but so can helping others. Please join the Palmetto Concert Band for their 2nd Annual Concert For A Cause. They will be accepting non-perishable food donations for Harvest Hope Food Bank in the lobby of the Koger Center prior to this season opening performance. Click here to view a list of their most needed items.
Program will include:
In This Broad Earth – Steven Bryant
Blessed Are They (from “A German Requiem”) – Johannes Brahms/Buehlman
Trittico – Vaclav Nelhybel
The Black Mask – Al Hayes/Foster
Wings of Apollo – Vince Gassi
My Eyes are Full of Shadow – Joel Puckett
Galactic Mission – Joshua Hinkel
there are no words – James Stephenson
Get more info on the band’s Facebook page for additional news and information.
USC Concert Choir Christmas Concert | Dec 2
USC’s premier choir presents their free annual Christmas Concert from 7:30 – 9pm at First Presbyterian Church (1324 Marion Street). More here.
Carols Along the Riverwalk | Dec 2
The sounds of Christmas will be heard throughout the Cayce Riverwalk Park, where several area church choirs and local musicians will be performing within the first half mile of the park. Visitors can wander from group to group, enjoying various holiday musical selections! The Riverwalk will be lighted with luminaries and hot apple cider will be served free of charge. Event will be held 6:30pm at the N Avenue Entrance, Cayce Riverwalk Pavilion. More here.
Christmas with the Celts | Dec 4
As featured on PBS, this night of live music and dance blends traditional Celtic tunes with holiday classics. The high-stepping spirited musical selections range from classic Irish reels that will have audiences clapping along, to ancient hymns and lively renditions of popular contemporary Christmas classics. Starts at 7pm, at the Newberry Opera House. More info.
Children of the World | Dec 4
Hear a choir of children from countries all over the world sing tunes that will put in the holiday spirit! The Children of the World concert will take place at 6:30pm in the Fellowship Center at Spring Valley Baptist Church in Columbia. Website here.
USC Concert Choir Christmas Concert | Dec 4
USC’s premier choir presents their free annual Christmas Concert at 7pm in the Sanctuary at Shandon United Methodist Church (3407 Devine St.) More info.
Christmas Concert at First Nazareth Baptist | Dec 4
First Nazareth Baptist church will hold a special holiday performance on December 4th at 6pm! Call the church office at 803-254-6232 for additional information. 2351 Gervais Street. Website here.
Messiah Christmas Concert | Dec 4
The First Presbyterian Church of Columbia will hold this seasonal performance of Messiah (Part 1) by Handel at 4:30pm in the church Sanctuary, during the evening worship service. More here.
Christmas Joy Concert | Dec 4 – 5
The choir & orchestra at Riverland Hills Baptist church will present “Christmas Joy” two nights this December – December 4th and December 5th at 7pm in their Worship Center. 201 Lake Murray Blvd. Website here.
Governor’s Mansion Open House | Dec 5
This will be Governor Haley’s last Christmas in the mansion as she has accepted the post of Ambassador to the UN. Join the Haley family as they celebrate Christmas with Santa, cocoa and cookies, music provided by the Carillon Carolers and the Heart of Columbia Chorus. Free and no RSVP required. 5:30 – 7:30pm.
Fort Jackson’s 282nd Army Band Holiday Concert | Dec 5
Fort Jackson’s 282nd Army Band will perform a holiday set at the Koger Center for the Arts from 7-9pm. Call 803.251.2222 for tickets or visit the Koger Center box office. More here.
Children’s Choirs Christmas Concert | Dec 7
The Riverland Hills Baptist Church Children’s Choirs Christmas Concert will take place at 6:45pm in the Worship Center. See their holiday calendar.
A Christmas Carol Live | Dec 8
This classic story will be performed by Frank Thompson, along with others at 7pm in the Wood Auditorium of the Fine Arts Center of Kershaw County. Suitable for all ages. Cost is $15 for General Admission. Website here.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra | Dec 10
The Trans-Siberian Orchestra, presented by Hallmark Channel, returns to The Colonial Life Arena at 3:30pm for performances of The Ghosts of Christmas Eve, The Best of TSO and more! Doors open 1 hour prior to show and ticket prices start at $40. Click here to learn how to give the gift of rock this holiday season by purchasing Trans-Siberian Orchestra Gift Tickets for fans on your Christmas list! More info and tickets here.
Camden Community Christmas Concert Band | Dec 11
This Fine Arts Center affiliate of over 50 performers who love to make music will perform the holiday classics you love! Come and enjoy their melodious sounds, free of charge at Camden High School Auditorium at 3pm. Website here.
Christmas Cantata | Dec 11 & Dec 18
Greenlawn Baptist Church seasonal program will feature the Adult Choir on December 11, and the Children’s Choir on December 18. Visit website for more information.
Christmas Choir | Dec 11
The First Presbyterian Church of Columbia will hold the Children’s Choirs and Youth Chorus Christmas Service at 6pm in the church Sanctuary. More here.
Two from Galilee | Dec 11
Enjoy this Christmas musical about the love story of Mary and Joseph. Performances will be held at 5:00 pm and 7:30 pm at Spring Valley Baptist Church. Call the church at 803.736.0624 with questions. Website here.
An Evening with Scot Bruce: Blue Suede Christmas | Dec 13
Starring Scot Bruce, this riveting and rockin’ holiday tribute concert features the wonderful Christmas songs recorded by Elvis Presley – such as “Santa Bring My Baby Back,” “Blue Christmas, ” and more! Starts at 8pm at the Newberry Opera House. A show guaranteed to have you “All Shook Up!” Website here.
Holiday Handbells Concert | Dec 14
Concert will take place in the Worship Center at Riverland Hills Baptist Church at 6:45pm. More here.
Legends: A Christmas Celebration | December 15 & 16
Comprised of 32 voices, the Sandlapper Singers are a professional choir based in Columbia. Experience the joy of the season with an unforgettable evening of holiday music. With favorite arrangements from legendary conductor Robert Shaw, as well as hits from the Billboard 100, this is a Christmas tradition you and your family won’t want to miss! Two shows: December 15 at 7:30pm at Spring Valley Presbyterian Church, and December 16 at 7:30pm at St. Michael and All Angels’ Episcopal Church. More info.
“In Heaven the Bells are Ringing” | Dec 18
This Christmas Cantata, with script by Ellen Merritt and music by Mark Merritt, will take place at 11am at Grace United Methodist Church (410 Harbison Blvd). Come and enjoy the wonderful holiday music! Website here.
Adult Choir Christmas Presentation | Dec 18
Performance will take place at First Baptist Irmo on Sunday, December 18 from 6 – 7pm. 7068 Nursery Road. Visit Website here.
Chamber Choir and String Orchestra | Dec 18
The Chamber Choir and String Orchestra will be singing and playing during the Service of Lessons and Carols at The First Presbyterian Church of Columbia, at 6pm in the Sanctuary. More here.
Christmas Benefit Concert | Dec 18
This Christmas Benefit Concert will be held at Shandon United Methodist Church at 5pm on December 18th. “Eddie Huss and Friends” will benefit Alzheimers Research, with a free-will offering. This event will take place in the Sanctuary and is open to the public. For more info, visit shandon-umc.org, or call (803) 256-8383.
Sing-Along Messiah | Dec 19
Visit Washington Street United Methodist Church at 7pm on Monday, December 19th for a joyous night of worship, instrumental music, and singing. Messiah, by G.F. Handel, is perhaps the best known and most popular oratorio ever written. Sing-Along Messiah was founded in 2002, on the principle that everyone in the metropolitan Columbia area, and anyone willing to travel to Columbia, should have the opportunity to sing some part of Messiah at least once a year.
No Christmas season is ever truly complete without it, as the event is compromised of a 20-member professional orchestra, a core choir to lead the singing of the choruses and a professional conductor. One component that makes Sing-Along Messiah unique and gives it its identity is that the 600+ people who attend the event are invited to join in the singing! It is the only annual sing-along presentation of Messiah in South Carolina and is presented to the public without an admission charge, so don’t miss it! More here.
Holiday Workshops
Seasonal Craft | Nov 1, 15, 22, 29 – Dec 6, 13, 20
On the above dates at Crooked Creek Park from 4-5pm. Create different seasonal crafts (ornaments, plate for Santa, scarecrow/snowman, snowman). Craft supplies and snack are provided. Ages 3-9. $5. Call 345-6181 to reserve; seats fill up fast. View the Activity Guide here.
Make It Merry Ornament Event | Nov 12
Make a Christmas ornament for your tree at Michael’s on November 12th from 1pm – 3pm. Enjoy some hands-on family crafting! Grownups and kids will work together to design and create colorful thumbprint ornaments. Buy the ornament and the rest of the supplies are free. Website here.
Make It Merry Wreath Event | Nov 19
On Saturday, November 19 from 1 pm – 3pm. Create a traditional wreath featuring a cheerful red Cardinal or a winter-white wreath with pristine Poinsettias. Buy the wreath base, and the rest of the supplies are free. More Info.
Advent Workshop | Nov 20
Virginia Wingard Memorial United Methodist Church will hold this workshop from 3 – 5pm, which will feature crafts for all ages in preparation for the Advent Season! For more information call 803-772-0794 or visit website.
Free Cookie Decorating Class | Nov 29
Come to Michael’s and create classic holiday treats with gingerbread shapes and icing. Supplies not included. Class time is 6:30 – 8:30 pm. Cost of supplies up to $5. More Info.
Kid’s Club- Sprout Stocking| Dec 3
Come to Michael’s and your kids can craft while you shop! Kids 3 and up can enjoy a quick project and take home a finished masterpiece. Sign up in store or online, or just drop in. $2 per project, supplies included. From 10 am – 12 pm. Parent or guardian must remain on premises during the event. More Info.
Build and Grow: Christmas Ornaments | Dec 3
Bring your children to Lowe’s at 10am to make a beautiful ornament for your Christmas tree! Registration opens November 21st. Free. Website here.
Mann Tool Holiday Open
House and Learn-to-Turn Event | Dec 10
Come in from 9am-1pm and turn your own ornament with the guidance of a Palmetto Woodturner. The fee is only $5 and all proceeds go to Epworth Children’s Home. While you’re here, see the selection of amazing hand-crafted ornaments donated by members of the Palmetto Woodturners. All proceeds from ornament sales also benefit Epworth. It’s a fun event for a great cause!
Nature’s Ornaments | Dec 15
Enjoy this workshop designed for ages 2-5 at Riverbanks Zoo from 10 – 10:45am. Use natural materials to make holiday decorations that you can share with your family and friends! This session is focused mainly on fun and creativity and sharing with others for the holidays. More information here.
Christmas Centerpiece Design Class | Dec 19
The Floral Design School of Columbia will hold this class, where you will make a fresh, beautiful and long-lasting centerpiece for your holiday table! The casual and fun class welcomes you to bring your own beverages to drink as you design. Class will be held from 6-8pm at 302 Senate Street in Columbia. Registration fee is $45 and includes all materials and instruction, so sign up now as there is a limited number of participants. Call (803) 730-5096 or check their Facebook page.
Winter Break ART Camp | Dec 27 – 30
Want to get your child out of the house and have them enjoy art at the same time? Bring them to a 4-day Winter Break Art 
Camp. This camp is designed to allow your child to experience pottery as well as mixed media art. From 9am – 12pm they will be very busy creating art. Camp is Tuesday-Friday December 27-30 and will be held at the Columbia Art Center, 1928 Calhoun Street. The age limit for this camp is ages 5 – 9. Minimum of 4 and maximum of 10 allowed in camp. Registration fee of $65 is due by December 9. Students should bring a snack for mid morning break. Questions contact Brenda Oliver at bloliver@columbiasc.net or 545-3093. More Info.
Richland County Adult Activity Center
These classes offer a fun new craft that anyone can do. You can make a special holiday gift or just learn a new hobby:
Crocheting: Thursdays from 10am – 12pm. Free. Have you ever wanted to learn how to crochet? Their instructor will help you learn.
Basket Weaving: Tuesdays from 10am – 12pm. $10/month. Would you like to learn the art of basket weaving to create beautiful works of art using pine straw and other natural materials? This class is for you! More Info.
Party Planning
Phillips Market Center
117 Ballard Court
3,600 square feet, with a 1,160 sq. ft. chef’s kitchen. Multi-purpose hall can hold up to 250 guests, 31 banquet tables (round 60 in. tables). Linens are available upon request for a fee. Suggested catering list and approved bartenders provided. Large covered patio seats 72. Contact Jessica Orso at 803-737-4588.
Gervais & Vine
620 Gervais St. | 803.799.8463
Quiet, cozy private dining seats about 40 people – located in separate part of the restaurant from the main dining room. Can design custom menus and provide live music to suit the event & budget; no rental fee or deposit. Available during lunch or on Sundays upon request.
The River Center
5605 Bush River Road
Whether planning for 25 or 250 guests, The River Center can accommodate your event. Add some sparkle to your party by including Holiday Lights on the River – the Midlands Largest Drive-Through Lights Show. (Discounted tickets are available for guests who book a party at the River Center and purchase ten or more passes.) Call 803-213-2015.
Solstice Kitchen
841 Sparkleberry Lane – Suite 4
Accommodates 35 seated or 50 standing w/ several seating plans available; plated dinner or reception/buffet style w/ custom menu. Pressed, white linens & elegant settings. Kristen Moore at: solsticekitchen@gmail.com or 803-788-6966
Liberty Taproom
828 Gervais St. & 1602 Marina Rd.
Appetizer/Dinner buffet menus available, as well as three course dinner options. Lincoln St. location accommodates up to 80 guests; Lake Murray (Irmo) location hosts up to 100. 803-461-4677 (DT) & 803-667-9715 (Irmo)
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
924-A Senate Street
Many private areas to choose from: The Carolina Wren Room at 728 sq. ft. hosts up to 50; Palmetto State Ballroom at 3,600 sq. ft. accommodates up to 280 guests. Features several banquet menus and a wine/spirits menu. Contact Amber Van Patton at 803-476-1305, or Catering at 803-476-1306.
Moriarty’s Irish Pub
902-B Gervais Street | 803.888.6462
Both an interior area and an outdoor area that can be reserved for large groups, each able to accommodate about 50 people. Menus can be created to fit the needs of the party. Catering services.
Old Mill Brewpub
711 E. Main St., Lexington | 803.785.2337
A semi-private room can accommodate up to 35 people, with capacity to “spill out” into the mill hallway which can seat many more. OMB has hosted events with 120 people in the past. Menus are tailored to the group’s needs and budget and most items prepared are not on the house menu. Their incredible chef can create almost anything you’d want!
Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse
410 Columbiana Drive | 803.708.3151
An extraordinary event space. Two private dining spaces, which can be combined into one large space. The rooms for private dining are available Sunday – Thursday. One accommodates 75 guests, the other up to 50 guests. They can be combined to entertain up to 140. Parties can enjoy the full feast or a special menu can be created for the party.
City Bar Martinis and Fondue
700 Gervais Street | 803.764.6425
French inspired cuisine with a Cajun twist! City Bar Martinis & Fondue offers groups a semi-private area that can hold up to 24 guests. A custom menu can be created as City Bar’s chef has a catering background.
Twin Peaks
600 Gervais Street | 803.602.3667
Complimentary parking behind Twin Peaks and free Pulaski St. parking (evening)! A unique old-timey lake lodge feel with over 65 screens showing every sporting event out there. Your crowd can enjoy a covered and enclosed (if needed) patio area (24 seats) with fireplace or sections of seating in the restaurant that provide good separation and privacy. Twin Peaks’ culinary staff can create a customized menu or guests may select from many options on their house menu to a full party/catering menu.
Rosso Trattoria Italia
4840 Forest Drive
Have the curtains drawn on your dining event! A semi-private room can accomodate 35-40 people. Custom dinner menu can be created and catering services are available. Linens can be provided upon request. A minimum fee is required. Contact Tammy Palmer at: 803-787-3949
Cut Your Own Christmas Tree
Price’s Christmas Tree Farm
Fraser Fir
Price’s is busy getting ready for the Christmas season! They sell a variety of trees every year and will be open beginning Saturday, November 19, 2016 at 9am. They bring in freshly cut Fraser Firs from the mountains of Virginia and NC and keep them in fresh water to ensure the freshest tree for your family to enjoy! They grow Leyland Cypress, Cedar, and Carolina Sapphire trees year round, and you can pick one out and cut it yourself. They also offer fresh, handmade wreaths, a variety of bows, great crafts, and a Christmas cabin to visit. Hours will be Sunday from 12 noon – 6pm, Monday – Thursday 3pm-6:30pm, Friday & Saturday 9am – 6:30pm. They will be CLOSED Thanksgiving Day. They are located at 228 Maple Road Lexington, SC 29073. You can contact this tree farm at (803) 356-4005 or visit their Facebook page!
Hollow Creek Christmas Tree Farm
Concolor Fir
This year Hollow Creek Christmas Tree Farm will highlight the freshly cut Concolor Fir out of Virginia. Hollow Creek is the Midlands’ only source for this amazing Christmas tree! Concolor fir is rare, and has attributes that make it one of the world’s most desirable Christmas trees: citrusy aroma, superior needle retention, soft, plush, blue-green foliage, and sturdy limbs (good for medium-weight ornaments). Hollow Creek will also offer free hayrides on the weekends and free hot chocolate every day! In addition, they have fresh wreaths and garland, handmade bows, and Jim Shore figurines for sale. Open November 23 to December 18. Hours: Monday – Saturday 9am – 5:30pm, Sunday 1 – 5:30pm. Located at 228 Windmill Road, Gilbert, SC 29054 and phone number is 803-892-3662. Call them or go to website.
Bear Creek Christmas Tree Farm
Leyland Cypress
Bear Creek was founded by Charles Wessinger and opened for business in 1981. At Bear Creek you will find Christmas trees, wreaths, garland, poinsettias, and Christmas cactus! Their Christmas trees include Leyland Cypress, Murray Cypress, Virginia Pines, Blue Ice, Carolina Sapphire, Deodar, White Pines, and Frasier Firs from NC. Come on out for a hot cup of cocoa and cut down your own Christmas tree! Bear Creek opens the Friday after Thanksgiving each year and the hours are: Saturday 9am – 5:30pm, Sunday 1 – 5:30pm, Monday – Fridays 3 – 5:30pm. They are located at 564 Amicks Ferry Road, Chapin, South Carolina. Call them at (803) 345-5607 or visit their Facebook page for more info.
Old Congaree Run Tree Farm
White Pine
Old Congaree has a wide variety of trees as well as custom made wreaths! They are a family-run choose and cut Christmas Tree farm. This tree farm grows the Carolina Sapphire, Eastern Red Cedar, Leyland Cypress, Virginia Pine, White Pine, and Clemson Greenspire. Come enjoy hot chocolate/hot cider while on a hayride around the property! They are open from November 25 – December 19. Their hours are Friday and Sunday 12 – 4pm and Saturday 10am – 4pm. Their address is 219 Old Congaree Run Eastover, SC 29044. You can contact them at (803) 622-4901 or visit their Facebook page.
Taylor’s Christmas Tree Farm
Deodar Cedar
Taylor’s grows a wide variety of Christmas trees for your family’s holiday traditions including: White Pine, Eastern Red Cedar, and Leland Cypress, as well as the majestic Deodar Cedar and the fragrant Carolina Sapphire. They also import Frazier Firs from the NC mountains. Once you select your tree from the field they will cut it for you (unless you want to do the honor), bring it back to shed to be shaken of loose needles and if needed, bored for a stand. Taylor’s opens the day after Thanksgiving, and has hours on Saturdays and Sundays from 9am – 6pm. Located at 1129 Windy Road, Gilbert, SC 29054. Call them at 803-238-1354 or visit their Facebook page.
Eastern Red Cedar
Wright’s Christmas Tree Farm
Wright’s Tree Farm is one of South Carolina’s oldest tree farms. Their 105-acre farm grows Leyland Cypress, Carolina Sapphire, Eastern Red Cedar, Deodar Cedar, Eastern White Pine and Virginia Pine, and fresh cut Fraser Fir trees, so you’ll have plenty of varieties and sizes to select from! You can also enjoy an open fire pit for roasting marshmallows, tractor hay rides, a great crafts canteen, and plenty of activities. Wright’s Tree Farm also participates in the Trees For Troops program, which distributes real Christmas trees to families of military service members. Hours: Monday-Wednesday 3:30 – 5:30pm, Thursday – Saturday 10am – 5:30pm and Sunday 1-5:30pm. Visit Wright’s at 255 Christmas Tree LaneWard, SC 29166. Call them at 803-685-7860 or visit their website for more information.
Turkey Creek Christmas Tree Farm
Virginia Pine
Take a hayride at Turkey Creek to find your perfect tree! Turkey Creek offers choose & cut tree varieties like Blue Ice, Carolina Sapphire, Eastern Red Cedar, Leyland Cypress, Murray Cypress, Virginia Pine, and White Pine, as well as fresh pre-cut Fraser Firs from NC and fresh wreaths. Saws are available if you wish to cut your own tree, and tree drilling, shaking and baling, and assistance with loading is available. While you visit enjoy a free cup of hot chocolate or apple cider while the kids take a ride on their tractor-drawn train! Hours are Friday-Sunday from 10am – dark. Located at 211 Wade Morgan Rd., McCormick, SC 29835. Call them at 803-637-3930 or visit website.
Pa Pa John’s Christmas Tree Farm
Carolina Sapphire
Pa Pa John’s offers a variety of beautiful trees to choose from ranging from 5-15ft, on approximately 40 acres of farmland. Catch a ride with the staff to pick out your Christmas tree; Choose & Cut varieties include Blue Ice, Carolina Sapphire, Eastern Red Cedar, Leyland Cypress, and Virginia Pine, and pre-cut Fraser Firs to choose from. They also have five varieties of fresh wreaths available, which are hand-made on the farm. Services also include tree stands, saws for cutting your trees (or staff will cut the tree for you), shaking and bailing and then tying the tree to your vehicle for easy transport. Hours are Wednesday-Saturday from 10am-5pm and Sundays from 1-5pm. Located at 6980 Flat Creek Road, Kershaw, South Carolina 29067. Call them at 803-475-9247 or visit website.
Cool Elf on the Shelf Ideas
Ho ho ho! Santa has sent one of his elves to see how your little ones are behaving this holiday season. And that swift little elf is always getting into trouble and hiding in cool places! (That elf must be pretty clever!) Below are FIVE cool, creative ideas for your mischievous elf:
Open up ALL of the cabinet/pantry doors in the kitchen and knock over the napkin holder on the table. You think your kitchen is normally messy? Just wait until you 
see this one! Your elf could be found under a pile of pots and pans sleeping after his/her eventful night.
- Squirt out a puddle of shaving cream and hand your hilarious elf its very own shaver.
- Get out the games from the game closet! It’s clear what your elf did all night long – played board games, card games, allll the games.
- Your elf found the underwear drawers! Hang them up on the Christmas tree, on the mantle, or throw them all around the house…this could very quickly turn into a scavenger hunt for all of your lost kids’ underwear. Mom/Dad: “That elf did what??? He emptied out your whole drawer?? Well, where did he put them all? Now we have to find them!”
- Books galore. Your elf loves to read! Take all of the books off the book shelf and make quite the messy, colorful pile.
Delicious Dishes!
Brie Tartlets With Grape Relish
Brie Tartlets With Grape Relish
Ralph Anderson; Mindi Shapiro Levine
Add a touch of France to your holiday hors d’oeuvre, by using Brie as the filling in these tartlets. Grapes make an elegant topper, adding color to this simple recipe. We say oui oui!
Ingredients
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 (15-oz.) package refrigerated piecrusts
1/2 (8-oz.) Brie round, rind removed
3/4 cup seedless red grapes, chopped
1 green onion, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Garnish: fresh rosemary sprigs
Preparation
1. Place walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly toasted and fragrant. Increase oven temperature to 425°.
2. Unroll piecrust on a flat surface. Cut into 24 rounds using a 2-inch round cutter. Press rounds into bottoms of ungreased miniature muffin cups (dough will come slightly up sides, forming a cup). Prick bottom of dough with a fork.
3. Bake at 425° for 6 to 7 minutes or until golden. Remove from pans, and cool on a wire rack 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 300°.
4. Meanwhile, cut Brie round into 24 pieces. Stir together grapes and next 4 ingredients.
5. Arrange pastry shells on a baking sheet. Place 1 Brie piece in each pastry cup; sprinkle Brie pieces evenly with toasted walnuts.
6. Bake at 300° for 4 to 6 minutes or just until cheese begins to melt. Top tarts evenly with grape mixture. Garnish, if desired. Serve immediately.
Pancetta Crisps With Goat Cheese and Pear
Pancetta Crisps With Goat Cheese and Pear
Ralph Anderson; Mindi Shapiro Levine
Baked pancetta on top of Bartlett pear slices, crumbled goat cheese, and a drizzle of honey makes an easy, salty-sweet appetizer recipe that tastes delicious and looks gorgeous!
Ingredients
12 thin slices pancetta (about 1/3 lb.)
1 Bartlett pear
1/2 (4-oz.) package goat cheese, crumbled
Freshly cracked pepper
Honey
Garnish: fresh thyme sprigs
Preparation
1. Arrange pancetta slices in a single layer on an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet.
2. Bake at 450° for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden. Transfer to a paper towel-lined wire rack using a spatula. Let stand 10 minutes or until crisp.
3. Core pear with an apple corer. Cut pear crosswise into 12 thin rings. Arrange on a serving platter. Top evenly with pancetta and goat cheese; sprinkle with pepper. Drizzle with honey just before serving. Garnish, if desired.
Caramelized Onion-and-Apple Tassies
Courtesy: Southern Living
Be sure to press the cream cheese pastry dough all the way up the sides of the mini muffin cups so the tart shells will be deep enough to hold a generous amount of filling.
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup (4 oz.) shredded Asiago cheese, divided
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter
1 3/4 cups diced sweet onion
1 3/4 cups peeled and diced Granny Smith apples (about 2 large)
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon table salt
4 bacon slices, cooked and finely chopped
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
Preparation
1. Beat first 2 ingredients and 1/2 cup Asiago cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add flour, beating at low speed until blended. Shape mixture into 24 balls; place on a baking sheet. Cover and chill 1 hour.
2. Meanwhile, melt 2 Tbsp. butter in a medium skillet over medium heat; add onion, and sauté 5 minutes. Add apple and next 4 ingredients, and cook, stirring occasionally, 10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from heat, and cool completely.
3. Preheat oven to 350°. Place dough balls into cups of a lightly greased 24-cup miniature muffin pan; press dough into muffin cups, forming a shell. Sprinkle bacon into shells; top with apple mixture, mounding mixture slightly. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup Asiago cheese.
4. Bake at 350° for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to a wire rack, and sprinkle with thyme.
Herb-and-Potato Chip-Crusted Beef Tenderloin topped with Cherry Chutney!
Herb-and-Potato Chip-Crusted Beef Tenderloin
Photo: Jennifer Davick; Styling: Amy Burke
Add a little crunch to a juicy beef tenderloin with a flavorful coating of panko breadcrumbs, kettle-cooked potato chips, and fresh herbs. Top each serving with a bit of Cherry Chutney and blue cheese crumbles.
Ingredients
1 (4- to 5-lb.) beef tenderloin, trimmed
3 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
3/4 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
3 garlic cloves, pressed
2 teaspoons coarsely ground pepper, divided
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 1/4 cups crushed, plain kettle-cooked potato chips
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme
1 bay leaf, crushed
1 egg white, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Garnish: fresh sage
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 400°. Sprinkle tenderloin with 2 tsp. salt. Let stand 30 to 45 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, sauté panko, garlic, 1 tsp. pepper, and remaining 1 tsp. salt in 1 Tbsp. hot oil in a skillet over medium heat 2 to 3 minutes or until deep golden brown. Let cool completely (about 10 minutes). Stir in potato chips and next 4 ingredients.
3. Pat tenderloin dry with paper towels, and sprinkle with remaining 1 tsp. pepper. Brown beef in remaining 2 Tbsp. hot oil in a roasting pan over medium-high heat until browned on all sides (about 2 to 3 minutes per side). Transfer tenderloin to a wire rack in an aluminum foil-lined jelly-roll pan. Let stand 10 minutes.
4. Spread mustard over tenderloin. Press panko mixture onto top and sides.
5. Bake at 400° for 40 to 45 minutes or until coating is crisp and a meat thermometer inserted into thickest portion registers 130° (rare). Let stand 10 minutes. Garnish, if desired.
Note: For medium-rare, cook tenderloin to 135°; for medium, cook to 150°.
Cherry Chutney
Chunky Cherry Chutney is a slightly sweet condiment used to enhance your favorite dishes. Made with red bell pepper, green onions, and dried cherries, try this over beef tenderloin or pork.
2 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 cups diced red bell pepper
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
1/2 cup coarsely chopped dried cherries
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon finely chopped thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in bell pepper and green onions; cook, stirring occasionally, 12 to 15 minutes or until browned and tender. Stir in cherries, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and thyme. Cook, stirring often, 2 to 5 minutes or until slightly thickened. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Onion Pudding
Courtesy: Better Homes and Gardens
Onions, cheese, garlic, and olive oil combine in this delicious holiday side-dish recipe.
Ingredients
2 medium onions, cut into 8 wedges each, root end attached
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
1 clove garlic, minced
3 eggs
1 1/2 cups milk
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
4 ounces white cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon snipped fresh sage
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 400 F. In a large skillet cook onions in hot oil 5 minutes over low heat; season with salt and pepper. Add 2 tablespoons of the butter and garlic; cook 8 minutes more or until onions are tender. Remove from heat; set aside.
Grease 10 to 12 (5- to 7-ounce) baking dishes with the remaining butter. In bowl, combine eggs and milk; whisk in flour. Add cheese and the snipped sage; combine. Spoon onion in dishes; pour egg mixture over. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until puffed and golden. Remove; let stand 10 minutes. Serve warm with fresh sage leaves. Serves 10 to 12.
Better Homes & Gardens
Unique Holiday Desserts!
Blackberry-Apple Pie
This apple-and-berry-packed pie is extra-tasty because of the white-Cheddar cheese crust that provides a sigh-worthy companion for the sweet fruit filling.
Blackberry-Apple Pie
Photo: Jennifer Davick; Styling: Lydia Degaris Pursell
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup cold butter, cut into pieces
1 1/2 cups (6 oz.) shredded white Cheddar cheese
1/2 to 3/4 cup ice water
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Blackberry-Apple Pie Filling
1 tablespoon sparkling sugar
Preparation
Stir together flour and salt in a large bowl. Cut butter into flour mixture with a pastry blender until mixture resembles small peas. Stir in cheese. Drizzle 1/2 cup ice water over flour mixture, stirring with a fork until dry ingredients are moistened and dough is crumbly but forms a ball when pressed together, adding more ice water, 1 Tbsp. at a time, if necessary (up to 1/4 cup). Divide dough in half. Place each half on a large piece of plastic wrap. Shape each dough half into a flat disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap, and chill 2 to 24 hours.
Preheat oven to 400°. Place 1 dough disk on a lightly floured surface; sprinkle dough lightly with flour. Roll dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Starting at 1 edge of dough, wrap dough around rolling pin. Place rolling pin over a 9-inch pie plate, and unroll dough over pie plate. Press dough into pie plate; trim off excess crust along edges. Brush edges of crust lightly with egg; reserve remaining egg. Spoon Blackberry-Apple Pie Filling into crust, mounding filling slightly in center.
Roll remaining dough disk to about 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Cut dough into 9 (1-inch-wide) strips. Arrange strips in a lattice design over filling; gently press ends of strips into bottom crust; crimp edge of crust. Brush lattice with reserved egg; sprinkle with sparkling sugar. Place on a baking sheet.
Bake at 400° on lower oven rack 45 to 50 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to prevent excessive browning, and bake 25 more minutes or until juices are thick and bubbly. Cool on a wire rack 2 hours.
Try This Twist! Cranberry-Apple Pie: Substitute Cranberry-Apple Pie Filling for Blackberry-Apple Pie Filling. Prepare as directed.
Blackberry-Apple Pie Filling
Make ahead: Prepare through Step 2. Chill up to 1 week. Stir in berries before spooning into crust.
Ingredients
3 pounds Granny Smith apples
3 pounds Braeburn apples
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter
1 (12-oz.) package frozen blackberries (2 cups)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Preparation
Peel apples, and cut into 1/2-inch-thick wedges; toss with sugar and 1/2 cup flour. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat; add apple mixture, and saute 15 to 20 minutes or until apples are tender. Remove from heat. Cool completely (about 1 hour). Toss frozen blackberries with 1 Tbsp. flour, and stir into apple mixture. Use immediately.
Try This Twist! Cranberry-Apple Pie Filling: Omit blackberries and 1 Tbsp. flour. Reduce remaining flour from 1/2 cup to 1/3 cup. Stir in 1 cup sweetened dried cranberries just before removing apples from heat in Step 2.
Need to bring a dish this holiday? Check out these easy to transport Casserole Dishes!
Cheddar-Pecan Green Bean Casserole
The crunchy topping on this side-dish casserole gives way to a cheesy interior, resulting in a comfort food winner. A bonus with this dish is that you can make the casserole ahead–assemble and refrigerate it until time to bake. Sprinkle the cornflakes over the casserole just before baking.
Cheddar-Pecan Green Bean Casserole
Photo: Beth Dreiling Hontzas; Styling: Rose Nguyen
Ingredients
Buttermilk White Sauce
1 cup finely chopped jarred roasted red bell peppers
1 cup (4 oz.) freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided $
Simple Blanched Green Beans
1 cup French fried onions, crushed
1/2 cup Japanese breadcrumbs (panko)
1/2 cup chopped pecans
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°. Combine Buttermilk White Sauce, peppers, and 1/2 cup cheese in a large bowl; add green beans, tossing gently to combine. Place in a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch or 3-qt. baking dish. Combine French fried onions, Japanese breadcrumbs, chopped pecans, and remaining 1/2 cup cheese, and sprinkle over green bean mixture. Bake at 350° for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Serve immediately.
Ingredients for Buttermilk White Sauce
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon Ranch dressing mix
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Preparation
Melt butter in a medium-size heavy saucepan over medium heat; whisk in flour until smooth. Cook 1 minute, whisking constantly. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups milk; cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, 3 to 4 minutes or until mixture is thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat, and whisk in buttermilk and remaining ingredients.
Note: Sauce can be made up to two days ahead. Prepare recipe as directed; cover and chill in an airtight container. Whisk in 2 Tbsp. milk, and microwave at HIGH 1 minute, stirring at 30-second intervals.
Wild Mushroom-and-Sweet Potato Gratin
Chanterelle mushrooms and fontina cheese contribute a delicate, nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with sweet potatoes in this dish. Serve this casserole with roasted pork loin or ham.
Wild Mushroom-and-Sweet Potato Gratin
Becky Luigart-Stayner; Lydia DeGaris-Pursell
Ingredients
2 teaspoons olive oil
4 cups (1/4-inch-thick) sliced cremini mushrooms (about 8 ounces)
3 1/2 cups (1/4-inch-thick) sliced chanterelle mushrooms (about 8 ounces)
1/3 cup finely chopped shallots
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley, divided
1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, divided
4 cups peeled sweet potatoes, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices (about 1 1/2 pounds)
Cooking spray
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded fontina cheese
1/2 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
Preparation
Preheat oven to 425°. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, shallots, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper; sauté 5 minutes or until moisture evaporates, stirring frequently. Remove from heat; stir in 1 tablespoon parsley and 1 tablespoon chives. Arrange half of potato slices in a single layer in an 11 x 7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray; sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Spoon half of the mushroom mixture over potato slices; sprinkle with half of cheese. Repeat layers, ending with cheese; add broth to dish. Cover and bake at 425° for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Sprinkle with remaining parsley and chives.
