Fort Mill Gears Up for Holiday Celebrations with Christmas Village and Annual Parade

Fort Mill Celebrates Holiday Season with Exciting Events

FORT MILL, S.C. – The Town of Fort Mill is preparing for a festive holiday celebration with two major events scheduled for early December 2024. Residents and visitors alike are invited to join the community for the Christmas Village and Lighting of the Tree, followed by the 77th Annual Fort Mill Christmas Parade.

Christmas Village and Tree Lighting

The holiday festivities kick off on December 5, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Fort Mill Amphitheater, located at Walter Elisha Park, 345 N. White Street. The event will feature a lineup of entertaining performances on the Amphitheater Stage, including a handbell choir, a jazz band, dance teams, and school choirs.

At 6 p.m., locals can gather for the highly anticipated Tree Lighting Ceremony, which will see the park’s towering 50-foot Town Christmas Tree lit for the season. The ceremony will be graced by members of the Town Council, the 2024 South Carolina Strawberry Queens, and various local dignitaries, with a special guest—Santa Claus—helping to flip the switch.

In addition to the tree lighting, attendees can browse through the Christmas Village vendors, indulge in delicious offerings from numerous food trucks, and partake in various kid-friendly activities. A trackless train ride will be available for younger guests, and Santa will be on hand for photo opportunities. As the downtown area illuminates with festive decorations, residents are encouraged to explore local shops and restaurants.

77th Annual Christmas Parade

The festivities continue on December 7, 2024, with the 77th Annual Fort Mill Christmas Parade, which will commence at 11 a.m.. This year’s parade will be led by Grand Marshal S.C. House Representative Raye Felder, starting at the intersection of Tom Hall and Unity Street. The parade will make its way down Main Street and North White Street, concluding at Walter Elisha Park.

Participants in the parade will showcase an array of entries, including local schools, community organizations, businesses, and, of course, a special appearance by Santa. The parade will be filmed for local television coverage, with the filming taking place near the Fort Mill Fire Station at 121 Tom Hall Street. Emcees David Ward and Ashley Lang will announce each entry as they proceed.

The Parade Judges, including Fort Mill School District Teacher of the Year Jocquin Fuller, Support Staff of the Year Heather Aiazzi, and S.C. Strawberry Festival Pageant Director Danielle Lennon, will select winners for a range of categories. Awards will be given for categories such as Best Car, Best Golf Cart, Best Walking Group, Best Christmas Theme, Most Holiday Spirit, and Most Creative Entry.

A Community Celebration

These events are designed to bring the community together and spread the joy of the holiday season. With a blend of entertainment, local spirit, and an emphasis on family-friendly activities, Fort Mill residents are encouraged to come out and create lasting memories during this festive time. Whether enjoying the sights at the Christmas Village or joining the parade to celebrate the season, there is something for everyone to enjoy.