Lowcountry Christmas Traditions

From festive plants and natural décor to iconic winter foods, many of the holiday traditions we know today either began here or were popularized in the Lowcountry of South Carolina.

Poinsettias

The beloved poinsettia’s American story starts in the Lowcountry, where Joel Robert Poinsett brought the brilliant red plant from Mexico in 1825. Its popularity spread nationwide, making it a lasting symbol of Christmas.

Christmas Trees

Although German families brought the Christmas tree tradition to the Lowcountry in the 18th century, it didn’t become widespread until 1850, when a decorated tree displayed by visiting singer Jenny Lind inspired locals and helped launch the trend across the South.

Citrus Gifts

In the 18th and 19th centuries, citrus was an expensive winter luxury. Today, oranges still appear in Lowcountry Christmas stockings, garlands, and centerpieces, keeping this historic tradition alive.

Oyster Roasts

Nothing defines a Lowcountry winter celebration like an oyster roast. Popular since the 1820s—and a longstanding indigenous food tradition—oysters remain a holiday staple throughout Hilton Head Island, Bluffton and Beaufort, South Carolina.

St. Cecilia’s Punch

This sparkling mix of rum, brandy, champagne, tea, and tropical fruit is one of the Lowcountry’s most iconic holiday drinks, tied to the region’s oldest social institutions and colonial-era hospitality.

Lowcountry Christmas décor 

Natural elements are showcased with a coastal elegance flair. The glossy, durable leaves of magnolia trees are a holiday staple for wreaths and garlands. Centerpieces often combine clippings from juniper, boxwood, sweetgrass and pine, all native Lowcountry plants, with berries, pinecones and white cotton bolls.

For a truly coastal holiday vibe, palmetto fronds, seashells and oyster shells are perfect accents for garlands, wreaths and tabletop accents.

Enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of this Lowcountry holiday season with a visit to Bluffton, Beaufort and Hilton Head Island.

Dreaming of making the Lowcountry traditions your own? Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hilton Head Bluffton Realty can help you make that dream come true.