Festival History

From its humble beginnings in 2006, ChristmasVille has blossomed into a beloved holiday treasure and a staple of our town. Combining Rock Hill’s community spirit and festive holiday joy makes our festival genuinely unique. Inspired by the whimsical artistry of Vernon Grant, ChristmasVille captures the essence of childhood wonder, bringing families and friends together to celebrate the magic of the season.

As you stroll through the enchanting streets filled with dazzling lights and joyful laughter, you become a part of a legacy that continues to spark imagination and create cherished memories for generations to come.

The Story of ChristmasVille

Step into a world of holiday magic, where twinkling lights, festive cheer, and timeless traditions bring Rock Hill, South Carolina, to life each winter. ChristmasVille isn’t just a festival—it’s a celebration of wonder, community, and the artistic legacy of Vernon Grant, Rock Hill’s adopted son. Grant, a renowned children’s illustrator, is best known for creating Kellogg’s® beloved Snap!® Crackle!® Pop!® characters, whose whimsical charm continues to inspire the festival to this day.

Founded in 2006, ChristmasVille began as a vision to transform Old Town Rock Hill into a whimsical holiday village, drawing visitors downtown to support local businesses and experience the spirit of the season. With the support of the City of Rock Hill’s Economic & Urban Development Department and Rock Hill Parks, Recreation & Tourism, the festival quickly became a cherished annual tradition.

By 2018, ChristmasVille had grown so much that it took on a life of its own, transitioning into a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. This was made possible by the unwavering dedication of the City of Rock Hill, Culture and Heritage Museums, sponsorships from local businesses, and hundreds of volunteers who believe in keeping the magic alive year after year.

Today, ChristmasVille carries forward Grant’s enchanting spirit, filling Old Town with dazzling decorations, festive activities, and cherished holiday traditions. Visitors of all ages can enjoy everything from holiday shopping in the Vendor Village and carriage rides to the gingerbread house contest and magical encounters with Santa Claus. There’s something for everyone, making ChristmasVille more than just an event—it’s a heartwarming experience that brings the community together and creates memories to last a lifetime.

Come experience the wonder. Come experience the tradition. Come experience ChristmasVille.

People’s Choice Award & Festival Theme:
A Look Through the Years

The People’s Choice Award, established in 2009, offers the community the opportunity to select the Vernon Grant People’s Choice Illustration. During the festival, attendees can explore a gallery showcasing selected pieces of Grant’s whimsical artwork and vote for their favorite piece. The winning illustration plays an important role in helping the incoming Festival Chair determine the festival theme for the next year, allowing ChristmasVille to continue celebrating Vernon Grant’s enduring legacy in a meaningful and creative way.

Community Awards & Recognitions

Thumbs Up Award

The Thumbs Up Award, established in 2012, recognizes exceptional behind-the-scenes support by an individual with at least ten years of involvement in ChristmasVille. This honor celebrates the long-term dedication and invaluable contributions that help make the festival a continued success.

Thumbs Up Award Recipients:

2012: Candy Clapp
2013: Mary Lynn Norton
2014: John Rinehart
2015: Jane Hayes and Allan Miller
2016: Debra Heintz
2017: Piedmont Medical Center
2018: Toy Rhea
2019: The Vernon Grant Family
2020: NA
2021: NA
2022: Gary & Peggy Williams Family
2023: Andrea Cooper
2024: Patti Panetti

Gnome of the Year Award

The Gnome of the Year award honors individuals who embody the spirit of ChristmasVille through their enthusiasm, dedication, and festive spirit. Selected by the Festival Chair, this award celebrates those whose involvement and positive influence help make the festival a magical experience for all.

Gnome of the Year Recipients:

2006: Mary Lynn Norton
2007: Jane Hayes & Terry Windell
2008: Kim Brock & Sherry Long
2009: Santa Dave Jordan
2010: Frank Keel
2011: Lisa Blevins & Kelly Bivins
2012: Ron Russell & Jill Mikels
2013: Cindy & Chip Grant
2014: Patti Panetti
2015: Janice & Wayne Miller
2016: Brittney Ellis
2017: NA
2018: Bethany Neely & Donna Smarr
2019: Angie Perry
2020: NA
2021: Maddie Ewing
2022: Dan Cox
2023: Hope Prevette
2024: Terry Hagen

Winner of Southeast Festival and Events Association Kaleidoscope Awards.

Southeast-Festivals-and-Events-Association

Event Photography

By attending ChristmasVille, you understand and agree that your photograph or image may be taken in any public place. You further grant permission and consent to ChristmasVille Rock Hill to use any such photograph, video, or image for any reasonable purpose, including promotion of the festival.