This December, the South Carolina State Museum is bringing holiday cheer with its annual events and shows for all ages. Mark your calendars for festive activities, extended hours, and special experiences starting with the Holiday Planetarium Lighting on Thursday, December 5, from 4 to 7 p.m.

Holiday Planetarium Lighting Highlights:

  • Holiday Shows: Watch Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4-D and Áróra in the museum’s 4D Theater and Planetarium. Select showtimes will feature an ASL interpreter.
  • Extended Shopping: Shop for holiday gifts with extra hours at the Museum Store.
  • Meet Santa: Get a chance to see Santa and share your holiday wishes.
  • Night Sky Observing: Weather permitting, enjoy an evening of stargazing.
  • Planetarium Dome Lighting: Witness the 55-foot planetarium dome light up for the holidays with a special surprise guest and partners from Ambient Media. The dome will remain lit nightly throughout December.

The museum is offering a PAY-AS-YOU-MAY admission model, allowing visitors to set their own price for general admission. Proceeds support the South Carolina State Museum Foundation’s educational programs. Tickets for planetarium or 4D shows are $5 each ($4 for members), with limited capacity—advance purchase is recommended.

Additional Holiday Events and Programs:

  • Santa Saturdays (Nov. 30; Dec. 7, 14, 21 | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.): Visit with Santa Claus for fun family photo opportunities.
  • Member Holiday Party (Dec. 13 | 6 – 9 p.m.): Members can enjoy an exclusive PJ-themed party with crafts, contests, and holiday shows.
  • Accessibility Mornings (Dec. 14 | 9 – 11 a.m.): A sensory-friendly program for families, featuring quiet showings, disability-adapted activities, and ASL interpretation. Pre-registration encouraged.
  • State Employee Discount Week (Dec. 1–7): SC state employees can enjoy extra discounts at the Museum Store, with additional savings for members.
  • Member Discount Day (Dec. 14): Members receive 20% off purchases at the Museum Store.

Ongoing and Upcoming Holiday Shows:

  • Áróra (Through Feb. 28): Explore the breathtaking Northern Lights and the myths surrounding them in a visually stunning planetarium show.
  • Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4-D (Through Dec. 23): Relive the classic holiday tale with immersive 4D effects.
  • Coastal Predators: A 4-D Experience (Starts Dec. 26): Dive into the underwater world of sharks, dolphins, and whales in this thrilling new show.

General Information:

General admission: Adults $13, Seniors $11, Children (3-12) $10, Infants 2 and under free.
Show tickets: $5 each ($4 for members).
Museum hours:

  • Tuesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Sunday: Noon – 5 p.m.

For more details, visit scmuseum.org.

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