Christmas is coming fast!  You’ll likely have a month filled with decorating (trees, houses, and cookies), work/church/family parties, shopping large sales and local markets, as well as trying to relax in what is supposed to be Peace on Earth and Goodwill to Men.   All this is wonderful if it brings a smile to your face during the season, but don’t forget to slow down and enjoy when you can.  I have plenty of ways to help you prepare for a languorous Christmas morning.  I can tell you to be sure to have batteries and chargers at the ready, have scissors availible for those tight plastic ties, and have your playlist of Holiday music cued up the night before (I love the youtube videos that have the snow falling outside your TV “window”!) amongst other things.  Honestly, it’s best to stick to what I know best, Breakfast!  I have some of our favorite make-ahead ideas to keep the tummies under control while seeing what the man in red has left everyone.

Let’s start with the top priority, coffee (obviously).  I know some are Die Hard (you caught that, right?) coffee fans, you know what you like and there is no need to mess with a good thing.  I hear you!  Just set your coffee pot up the night before so on your way to check your stocking all you have to do is hit brew.  If you are feeling a little festive celebrating the Lord’s birth you might want to add a cinnamon stick, heavy dash of clove and maybe even a little brown sugar to the basket along with your favorite blend. For those who don’t need the caffeine this morning (who are you people?)  here is a Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe that you can throw together the night before and either start it first thing in the morning or ask Santa to turn it on for you during the night.

• 6cups whole milk,
• 2 cansevaporated milk , (2-12 oz. cans)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 teaspoonsvanilla
• 3 cups chocolate chips (darker and higher quality is best)
• 8 Cinnamon sticks
• 8 cardamom pods
• ¼ cup Maple Syrup – if not sweet enough

The day before

Scald heavy cream with cinnamon sticks and cardamom pods.

Pour over chocolate, let sit for 3-5 minutes.  Whisk till smooth.

Pour all milks and chocolate mixture into slowcooker.

Two hours before ready to serve

Turn slowcooker on to low, whisk occasionally

Add vanilla and a pinch of salt.

Taste to see if you need any sweetener.

Enjoy

If you have been around Pettigru for any length of time you will know that we post our Crème Brulee French Toast recipe annually, because it’s just that good!  Simple to put together and full of custard-y goodness.   Here’s your reminder on how to make it.

Ingredients:

½ Cup unsalted butter

1 cup packed brown sugar

2 tablespoons corn syrup

6 ( 1 inch thick ) slices French bread

5 Eggs

1 ½ cups half and half

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon brandy-based orange liqueur (Grand Marnier)

¼ teaspoon salt

Directions

• Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Mix in brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring until sugar is dissolved.  Pour into a 9X 13 inch baking dish.
• Remove crusts from bread, and arrange in the baking dish in a single layer. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, orange brandy, and salt.  Pour over the bread.  Cover, and chill at least 8 hours, or overnight.
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F ( 175 degrees C ). Remove the dish from the refrigerator, and bring to room temperature.
• Bake uncovered 35 to 40 minutes in the preheated oven, until puffed and lightly browned.
• Serve with toasted almonds or topped with fresh fruit.

Now to feed a crowd from Grandma & Grandpa down to little Jr who just got his first tooth I am going to suggest  a Breakfast Board with a bit of everything.  Same as our previous recipes, do this all ahead of time so you enjoy your family and all the nibbles not slaving away in the kitchen.   Set your tray out in advance and choose a few fruits (Melons, berries, grapes), some protiens (soft boiled eggs, bacon, sausage balls, prosciutto), a little cheese (cheddar, burrata, thin sliced Manchego), a few bagels cut in quarters, and a few biscuits or waffle squares (use frozen, it won’t get you on the naughty list).  Arrange all this with a few pots of nut butter and jams, No one will be hungry until dinner!

Feel free to check out some of our past Christmas recipes!

But before Christmas morning, why not plan a visit to Greenville for markets and local shopping, plays, and Christmas lights.

Ongoing Events:

June 7, 2025 – January 18, 2026 – Upcountry History Museum – Avengers: Endgame – The Exhibition – The first exhibition of its kind in the United States, the project invites visitors of all ages to traverse the Marvel Universe. This once-in-a lifetime experience will explore the fourth installment in the Avengers saga and is the culmination of 22 interconnected Marvel films and the climax of a journey. The exhibit’s design and messaging will emulate Avengers: Endgame’s principles of friendship, teamwork, and setting aside differences to overcome impossible obstacles.

September 20, 2025 – February 1, 2026 – Upcountry History Museum – War Dogs: K9 Military Heroes   Twenty pieces of art paint a more complete picture of dogs at work, detailing the most menacing war dogs to goggled high-flying dogs to sleeping warriors and keen detectives. Artifacts include items used by war dogs and their handlers. Dog uniforms, medical kits and Purple Hearts share poignant stories of perseverance and bravery. Military working dogs have served and protected countless lives in war, this inspiring exhibition tells their amazing story.

October 18, 2025 – March 22, 2026 – Upcountry History Museum – Beyond Halloween Land/ Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas – Just in time for the holidays, the Upcountry History Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, will present an exhibition dedicated to Filmmaker Tim Burton. Beyond Halloween Land | Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas will offer visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of the iconic 1993 stop-action animated film by showcasing a carefully curated collection of models and original artwork used to bring the beloved film to life. The exhibition will invite visitors to reconnect with the endearing yet quirky characters from Burton’s iconic The Nightmare Before Christmas, such as Oogie Boogie, Bone Crusher, Sally, Dr. Finkelstein, and the beloved hero Jack Skellington. The exhibit will weave together maquettes originally crafted for Burton’s iconic film, and an array of artworks, inviting visitors to embark on their own imaginative journeys into the realms of fantasy.

December 1-31st – Upcountry History Museum- A Quilter’s Night Before Christmas This holiday classic has been reimagined in a national traveling exhibit titled, The Quilter’s Night Before Christmas. Curated by Sue Reich, an award winning quilter, AQS quilt appraiser, quilt author, historian, and lecturer, the exhibit was created by quilters across the country. Each quilter was assigned a part of the holiday poem to interpret in color, theme, stitch, and story.

December Sundays – New Realm Brewery –Buzzy Bee Farmers Market The Buzzy Bee Farmers Market is a community market that brings together local farmers, makers, and small businesses in a vibrant and welcoming space. Our market highlights fresh, locally grown produce, artisan goods, handmade crafts, and unique specialty items, all while supporting the entrepreneurs who make our community thrive.

December 3rd- 25th – Residence Inn Greenville Downtown 4th Annual Greenville Gingerbread Exhibit  Come to Residence Inn/SpringHill Suites in December to see the creative holiday gingerbread displays created by local bakers and vote for your favorite! Enjoy holiday food and beverage specials at Oak & Honey to round out your holiday experience!

December 4 – 28 – Greenville Christmas Market – Grand Bohemian – Wander through the beautifully decorated Grand Bohemian Lodge and keep the festivities going with live music, local vendors, holiday-themed food and beverages and photos with Santa Claus. Come and join us all season. 

December 1-31st   Night of Lights at Heritage Park Step into the radiant world of Nights of Lights, the Upstate’s favorite walk-through Christmas attraction. Our historic park becomes a luminous paradise this holiday season perfect for visitors, young and old. We’re proud to offer the latest in stunning light-show technology! 

December 1-31st Ice on Main United Community Ice on Main is an open outdoor ice skating rink in the heart of downtown Greenville, South Carolina. This year, this winter tradition and favorite activity of many in the Upstate is open from November 25, 2024 to January 20, 2025. Located at Village Green near the Courtyard Marriott, you’ll truly be skating in a winter wonderland when you come skate with them! The rink is open 7 days a week, excluding Christmas Day.

December 13-Jan 4 Holidays at the Zoo Holidays at the Zoo returns for another year of holiday cheer! Immerse yourself in thousands of dazzling lights, festive decorations, and cheerful music while you journey through the Greenville Zoo. Advanced reservations are recommended. Come see the Greenville Zoo in a whole new light!

Week by Week Daily Events:

December 1 – 7

December 2 – Peace Center – The Tenors: Joy to the World Tour This festive season, The Tenors return to the stage with their signature blend of stunning harmonies, powerhouse vocals, and undeniable charm. From timeless Christmas classics to fresh new renditions of your favorite holiday songs, Joy to the World is a heartwarming concert experience perfect for audiences of all ages.

December 4 – 7 – The Greenville Theatre – Irving Berlin’s White Christmas – You will no longer be dreaming of a white Christmas when Greenville Theatre brings “Snow” to the Upstate in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas the musical this holiday season. This beautiful telling of the beloved and timeless film will be the perfect holiday story for the whole family to enjoy together. Audiences will be swept away with show-stopping dance numbers, beautiful costumes, and heartwarming classic songs like “Count Your Blessings,” “Sisters,” “Happy Holidays,” “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm,” and of course, “White Christmas.” 

December 4 – 7– Centre Stage Theatre – Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some) – Get ready for the most unique and hilarious holiday experience of the season! Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some) is a fast-paced, side-splitting romp through every Christmas story you’ve ever heard—and a few you haven’t. Three actors take the audience on a wild ride through holiday classics, from A Christmas Carol to The Nutcracker, with plenty of unexpected twists along the way.  Whether you’re a fan of traditional tales or crave something a little more irreverent, this show delivers it all with heart, humor, and festive cheer. Featuring outrageous improvisation and interactive fun, Every Christmas Story Ever Told is a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that will have you laughing, singing, and celebrating the season in a way you never expected.

December 4 – 7 – Greenville Convention Center – Holiday Fair and Kringle Village – The Upstate’s largest Winter Festival!  For 55 years, the Holiday Fair has been a cherished tradition in the Upstate, bringing the joy of the season to families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts alike. Last year, we made history by combining the Holiday Fair with Kringle Village, creating Greenville’s largest holiday event in partnership with the Rotary Club of Greenville. This year, we are excited to continue our relationship with Holiday Fair 2025, benefiting the Rotary Club of Greenville.

December 5-7- Peace Center – The Nutcracker Greenville’s favorite holiday tradition returns as International Ballet and Artistic Director Vlada Kysselova present The Nutcracker. The International Ballet pre-professional Company and Academy students are joined by acclaimed principal guest artists for an enchanting production.

Enjoy Tchaikovsky’s timeless score performed by the Greenville Symphony Orchestra with the angelic voices of the Greenville Youth Chorale in the iconic snow scene. Join Clara and her Nutcracker prince as they battle mice, travel through a winter wonderland,

December 5 – First Fridays – Greenville Area Gallery Crawl – First Fridays invites you to navigate Greenville’s visual arts scene each month as galleries and venues are open to the public from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Follow the link here for a number of resources to help you plan your route. You can visit maps to find the main areas where the galleries are located. Our gallery directory contains contact information and directions through Google Maps to each location.

December 5 – 5:30 – 6:30 – Night of Lights – Come watch Main Street light up while you rock around our 30-foot Christmas tree adorned with 25,550 LED lights. We’ll count down with Mayor White and special guest, Jane Robelot from WYFF 4, as we light the official City of Greenville Christmas tree located in front of M. Judson Booksellers. This exciting free event includes food trucks and vendors, live music, and a special visit from Santa Claus. The official tree lighting will take place between 6 and 6:15 pm, so be sure you come early to ensure you don’t miss out on the magic.

December 5 – Bon Secours Wellness Arena – The Greenville Swamp Rabbits take on the Orlando Solar Bears.  Puck drops at 7:05

December 6 – Main Street Greenville – The Poinsettia Christmas Parade – For more than 75 years, the parade has signaled the start of the Christmas season in Greenville. Each year the parade attracts thousands of visitors downtown to view the holiday floats and activities.  Bring your chairs and get a seat along the parade route early! Parade begins at 6:30PM.

December 5 – 21 – Warehouse Theatre – The Game – Alyssa and Homer are feeling disconnected in their marriage.  Trying to start a family, Alyssa is hyper-focused on work while Homer has recently been laid off and thrown himself into an online video game.  Not knowing how to navigate this new normal Alyssa does what she’s least comfortable with; start a support group for other women in the same situation.  These strangers band together to devise a plan to get their partners back as they realize together, and only together, can they end this war.

December 6- Greer Farmers Market – Christmas Festival Your friends and family will be delighted with their high quality, locally handmade items. We have plenty of goods to bring to your holiday parties such as cookies, coffee, dips, and more.

December – Gunter Theatre – Amethyst Kiah On her new album Still + Bright, Tennessee-bred singer/songwriter Amythyst Kiah explores the vast expanse of her inner world: her deep-rooted affinity for Eastern philosophies and spiritual traditions, a near-mystical connection with the natural environment, the life lessons learned in her formative years as a self-described “anime-nerd mall goth,” and much more. Produced by Butch Walker (Taylor Swift, Green Day, Weezer) and recorded at his Nashville studio, Kiah’s second full-length for Rounder Records merges her revelatory storytelling with a darkly cinematic twist on the rootsy alt-rock of her 2021 breakthrough Wary + Strange—an LP that landed on Rolling Stone’s list of the 25 Best Country and Americana Albums of 2021.

December 6 -Emily’s Pantry – Christmas High Tea Join us for a special intimate afternoon on December 6, 2025 as we welcome the Christmas season with a Royal Tea, complete with champagne and all the trimmings.  Guests will enjoy a variety of sandwiches, savories, desserts, scones, tea & champagne.

December 6 – Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium – Napoleon Dynamite – Napoleon Dynamite makes us laugh – and laugh hard – over and over again. This unique evening includes a full screening of “Napoleon Dynamite” followed by a lively, freewheeling, interactive experience with fan-favorite cast members; Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite), Efren Ramirez (Pedro) and Jon Gries (Uncle Rico).

December 7 – Greenville First – “This is Christmas” with Tasha Layton and Brandon Heath Come and celebrate the reason for the season with two of Christian music’s most beloved artists, Tasha Layton and Brandon Heath. Join us for a powerful and moving night of Christmas songs and inspiring worship

December 8 – 14

December 9 – Furman University’s McAlister Auditorium- Christmas with the Chorale Experience the soaring beauty of Taylor Scott Davis’s Magnificat and the festive charm of Gustav Holst’s Christmas Day, alongside a delightful selection of your cherished Christmas favorites. The evening will also include a carol sing-a-long and even a special visit from Santa himself! Christmas with the Chorale promises an evening filled with glorious music and holiday cheer, creating unforgettable memories for the entire family. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this Greenville holiday tradition!

December 9 – The Sweet Design Shoppe – Christmas Cookie Decorating for Beginners enjoy a two-hour in person class as you learn to impress yourselves and others with your beautiful Christmas treats. 

December 11 – 14 – The Greenville Theatre – Irving Berlin’s White Christmas – You will no longer be dreaming of a white Christmas when Greenville Theatre brings “Snow” to the Upstate in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas the musical this holiday season. This beautiful telling of the beloved and timeless film will be the perfect holiday story for the whole family to enjoy together. Audiences will be swept away with show-stopping dance numbers, beautiful costumes, and heartwarming classic songs like “Count Your Blessings,” “Sisters,” “Happy Holidays,” “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm,” and of course, “White Christmas.” 

December 11-14– Centrestage Theatre – Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some) – Get ready for the most unique and hilarious holiday experience of the season! Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some) is a fast-paced, side-splitting romp through every Christmas story you’ve ever heard—and a few you haven’t. Three actors take the audience on a wild ride through holiday classics, from A Christmas Carol to The Nutcracker, with plenty of unexpected twists along the way.  Whether you’re a fan of traditional tales or crave something a little more irreverent, this show delivers it all with heart, humor, and festive cheer. Featuring outrageous improvisation and interactive fun, Every Christmas Story Ever Told is a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that will have you laughing, singing, and celebrating the season in a way you never expected.

December 12 – Bon Secours Wellness Arena – Trans-Siberian Orchestra returns to Greenville with two spectacular shows on Friday, December 12 at 4PM & 8PM. Tickets for Trans-Siberian Orchestra – The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO and More go on sale Friday, September 12 at 10am.

December 12 – Paper Moon – Rockabilly Reindeer Rumble get ready to jingle, jive, and rock around the Christmas tree at the most festive sock hop of the season.  With two live bands, Sparkle City Rockets –  50s/60s Rock & Roll and Rockabilly & Swamp Poney – Piedmont Punk Blues from Florida and a holiday Pin-Up Contest! Dress to impress in your retro holiday best! Let’s sleigh this holiday season – rockabilly style! 

December 12,13, &14 – Peace Center – Holiday at Peace Celebrate the magic of the season with Holiday at Peace, Greenville’s favorite family Christmas tradition! This year’s festive program features the stunning vocals of Broadway’s Aladdin, Michael Maliakel! Rooted in cherished traditions and filled with new surprises, this holiday spectacular unites nationally renowned artists and beloved local talent in a heartfelt celebration of family, community, and the spirit of the season.

December 13 – Main Street Greenville – Holiday Edition of the Saturday Market – Join us at the TD Saturday Market Holiday Edition to shop for holiday gifts! This special market will feature seasonal produce, specialty items (honey, fresh pressed juices, pasta/salsa), along with festive handmade crafts, holiday baskets and more.

December 13 – Bon Secours Wellness Arena – The Greenville Swamp Rabbits take on the Greensboro Gargoyles.  Puck drops at 7:05

December 14 – Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium – Jim Brickman: The Gift of Christmas – As a true artist that lives and breathes the music he creates, Jim Brickman is thrilled to introduce fans to his most recent songs and perform them live in concert halls across the world.

December 5 – 21 – Warehouse Theatre – The Game – Alyssa and Homer are feeling disconnected in their marriage.  Trying to start a family, Alyssa is hyper-focused on work while Homer has recently been laid off and thrown himself into an online video game.  Not knowing how to navigate this new normal Alyssa does what she’s least comfortable with; start a support group for other women in the same situation.  These strangers band together to devise a plan to get their partners back as they realize together, and only together, can they end this war.

December 15 – 21

December 17 – Bon Secours Wellness Arena – The Greenville Swamp Rabbits take on the Cincinnati Cyclones.  Puck drops at 7:05

December 19 – Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium – Bingo Loco – Bingo Loco is a high-energy, interactive stage show that transforms traditional bingo into a wild party experience. It features dance-offs, rave rounds, lip sync battles, and prizes ranging from vacations to novelty items. The event is known for its confetti showers, CO2 cannons, conga lines, and throwback anthems. It’s not your grandma’s bingo, but she might enjoy it too. 

December 18 – 21 – The Greenville Theatre – Irving Berlin’s White Christmas – You will no longer be dreaming of a white Christmas when Greenville Theatre brings “Snow” to the Upstate in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas the musical this holiday season. This beautiful telling of the beloved and timeless film will be the perfect holiday story for the whole family to enjoy together. Audiences will be swept away with show-stopping dance numbers, beautiful costumes, and heartwarming classic songs like “Count Your Blessings,” “Sisters,” “Happy Holidays,” “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm,” and of course, “White Christmas.” 

December 18-21– Centrestage Theatre – Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some) – Get ready for the most unique and hilarious holiday experience of the season! Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some) is a fast-paced, side-splitting romp through every Christmas story you’ve ever heard—and a few you haven’t. Three actors take the audience on a wild ride through holiday classics, from A Christmas Carol to The Nutcracker, with plenty of unexpected twists along the way.  Whether you’re a fan of traditional tales or crave something a little more irreverent, this show delivers it all with heart, humor, and festive cheer. Featuring outrageous improvisation and interactive fun, Every Christmas Story Ever Told is a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that will have you laughing, singing, and celebrating the season in a way you never expected.

December 20 – Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium –  Andrew Peterson’s Behold The Lamb of God – Join storied Nashville singer-songwriter and author Andrew Peterson as he presents the Advent song cycle.  Behold The Lamb of God The True Tall Tale of the Coming of Christ.  Now in its 26th year, Behold the Lamb will feature special guest artists Jess Ray, The Arcadian Wild, Andrew Osenga, Andy Gullahorn, Jill Phillips, and Skye Peterson.  The concert brings th singing and playing of Peterson’s original folk-roots infused rendition of the Christmas story as it  is foreshadowed in the Old Testament and brought to bear in the New.

December 20 – Bon Secours Wellness Arena – The Greenville Swamp Rabbits take on the Atlanta Gladiators.  Puck drops at 7:05

December 19- Gunter Theatre – The Rivertree Christmas Celebrate the Season with Rivertree Singers!  Join Rivertree Singers for an enchanting evening of music that captures the wonder and warmth of Christmas. Experience the joy of beloved holiday favorites alongside the beauty of traditional carols performed with the rich harmonies and heartfelt artistry that have made Rivertree Singers a treasured part of our community. Let the sounds of the season fill your heart and inspire your spirit.

December 19-21 – Peace Center – The Nutcracker: Once Upon A Time in Greenville  This charming production, infused with the spirit of Greenville, promises to leave spectators spellbound. Witness the courageous transformation of the Nutcracker from a wooden soldier to a valiant prince, and share in the heartwarming tale of Clara’s blossoming love. Prepare to uncover the magic of Christmas Eve in this unforgettable

December 20 – Downtown Greenville SC – Greenville Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl – Get ready to celebrate National Ugly Sweater Weekend in style with The Official Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl on Saturday, December 20th, 2025! Don your most outrageous, hilarious, or downright hideous ugly sweater and join the ultimate holiday celebration. Whether you’re flying solo, partying with friends, or meeting new ones, this ugly sweater bar crawl promises an unforgettable night of festive fun.

December 20- Furman University Daniel Chapel – J.S. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio Celebrate the season with the exquisite music of J.S. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, performed in full over two concerts. Featuring SC Bach Chamber Choir and Soloists as well as the North Carolina Baroque Orchestra

December 5 – 21 – Warehouse Theatre – The Game – Alyssa and Homer are feeling disconnected in their marriage.  Trying to start a family, Alyssa is hyper-focused on work while Homer has recently been laid off and thrown himself into an online video game.  Not knowing how to navigate this new normal Alyssa does what she’s least comfortable with; start a support group for other women in the same situation.  These strangers band together to devise a plan to get their partners back as they realize together, and only together, can they end this war.

December 22 – 31

December 26 – Bon Secours Wellness Arena – The Greenville Swamp Rabbits take on the Atlanta Gladiators.  Puck drops at 7:05

December 27 and 28 – Bon Secours Wellness Arena – The Greenville Swamp Rabbits  take on the Jacksonville Icemen.  Puck drops at 3:05

December 31 – Bon Secours Wellness Arena – The Greenville Swamp Rabbits take on the South Carolina Stingrays.  Puck drops at 6:05

Now all you need to do is decide which dates work best for your visit to Greenville.  Book below!