The Christmas season will officially kick off in South Carolina before the Thanksgiving holiday....
The 59th Annual Governor’s Carolighting at the State House in Columbia takes place this Sunday at 6 p.m. (November 23, 2025).
Governor Henry McMaster and First Lady Peggy McMaster will host this year’s program, with Miss South Carolina 2025, Sarah Kay Wrenn, serving as emcee.
Before the big moment—lighting this year’s State Tree, a 35-foot Norway spruce from Henderson Tree Farms in Morganton, North Carolina—guests can enjoy traditional carols on the north steps of the State House, along with performances by local artists.
If you can’t make the trip to Columbia, no worries: SCETV will provide television coverage and livestream the event on their website.
Press Release from the Governor's Office below:
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster and First Lady Peggy McMaster will celebrate the beginning of the holiday season with the 59th Annual Governor's Carolighting at the South Carolina Statehouse's North Steps on Sunday, November 23 at 6:00 PM. Those unable to attend in person can view the event on television or online via SCETV.
"Each year, Peggy and I look forward to joining families from across our state for the Carolighting," said Governor Henry McMaster. "It's a cherished tradition that brings South Carolinians together to celebrate the start of the Christmas season."
The program will feature a mix of traditional carols, performances by local artists, and the lighting of South Carolina's official Christmas tree.
This year's State Christmas tree is a 35-foot-tall Norway Spruce from Henderson Tree Farms in Morganton, N.C. The tree was purchased by the Columbia Garden Club with support from the Garden Club of South Carolina. TimberTech of Greer, S.C. donated their delivery services to bring the tree to Columbia for the 21st consecutive year.