12/13/2021
We've got just the thing to make your Monday brighter: a trip with the family to Hopelands Gardens for our first night of live entertainment this season! TONIGHT, we will have the South Aiken High School Thoroughbred Chorale, Chamber, and Concert Choir. Join us for a stroll through the historic gardens, taking in the sights and sounds of the holiday season while you enjoy a warm cocoa or apple cider. Our enchanting walk-through exhibit features over two miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays, with over 100,00 twinkling lights!
HOW DO I GET THERE?: All guests should use the shuttle service to and from Hopelands, available each night. Shuttles run continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. The last shuttle to visit Christmas in Hopelands leaves Citizens Park at 8:45 p.m. General public parking is not allowed at Hopelands, Rye Patch, Fermata Club or The Green Boundary Club. However; handicap parking is available at 135 Dupree Place and 100 Berrie Road. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service.
WHAT IS THERE TO DO?: The Doll House, The Clifford S. Gerde Carriage Museum, Rye Patch, and the Rye Patch Stables will be open and decorated for visitors to enjoy. The Rye Patch Stables feature the exhibit; “Aiken’s Historic Horses”. Complimentary refreshments will be served in the Hall of Fame courtyard and outside of the Guest Cottage near Rye Patch. S’more kits are available for purchase for $5 (cash only) at Rye Patch, where you can roast your marshmallows at our s’more pit. Rye Patch will be the destination for fun holiday activities for children. Santa Claus will be here on select nights to hear your child’s Christmas wishes and take what is sure to become a treasured photo. After visiting Santa, children can stop by the craft station to make a keepsake to take home. Parents must accompany children at all times. Rye Patch will also host a Labyrinth display where guests can learn more about the Labyrinth in Hopelands. Live entertainment is provided on select nights on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage at 7:00 p.m. Spectators should bring a blanket or use the natural amphitheater seating to enjoy the shows.
WHAT IF IT RAINS?: In the case of inclement weather, Christmas in Hopelands may be cancelled. You can call the City of Aiken Rain Out Hotline at 803-643-4661. You can also check the City of Aiken website, City of Aiken PRT social media accounts or download the City of Aiken Explorer app for instant notification of any changes. You will need to sign up and enable notifications.
NEED MORE INFORMATION?: You can download the flyer at https://coa.page/3be2
or read the full Press Release at https://coa.page/ab8t. You can also contact the PRT Department at 803-642-7631 or visit www.aikenismagical.com.
