CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau is inviting residents, visitors, businesses, and anyone who loves the Capital City to help put Charleston in the national spotlight by nominating it for Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Towns Contest.
The nationwide contest celebrates communities that embody the joy, traditions, and spirit of the holiday season. Community nominations will help determine which towns are recognized as America’s merriest Christmas destinations.
“Charleston truly shines during the holidays,” said Tim Brady, President and CEO of the Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Whether you’ve grown up here or visited during the Christmas season, you know there’s something special about the way our community comes together. We hope everyone who has experienced the magic of Christmas in Charleston will take a few moments to nominate our city.”
Charleston’s holiday season begins before Thanksgiving with Light the Night, West Virginia’s largest winter light festival. GoMart Ballpark is transformed into a spectacular winter wonderland featuring more than 2.5 million synchronized lights, carnival rides, games, ice skating, ice bumper cars, holiday shopping, seasonal treats, and festive entertainment. The event also gives back to the community through annual donation drives benefiting local charities.
Downtown Charleston officially welcomes the season on Black Friday with Holly Jolly Brawley, when more than 150 decorated Christmas trees created by local businesses and organizations transform City Center at Slack Plaza, Brawley Walkway, and Lee Triangle into a magical holiday village. Visitors enjoy live entertainment, family activities, local vendors, the city’s official tree-lighting ceremony, and a festive drone show during Small Business Saturday.
Throughout the holiday season, cherished traditions continue with the Charleston Christmas Parade, featuring marching bands, festive floats, fire engines, and Santa Claus, while the Charleston Boat Parade illuminates the Kanawha River with beautifully decorated boats.
Visitors can also experience holiday traditions from around the world at Capitol Market’s Holiday Village, where international foods, beverages, gifts, and cultural celebrations add a unique touch to Charleston’s Christmas season.
From dazzling light displays and festive celebrations to charitable giving and hometown hospitality, Charleston offers a holiday experience that captures the warmth and wonder of Christmas.
Community members are encouraged to submit a nomination and help Charleston earn recognition as one of Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Towns.
Nominations are open through August 10 and can be submitted at Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Towns Nomination Website.
For more information about Charleston’s holiday events, visit www.charlestonwv.com.
