Holiday Magic in Greenville: Special Exhibit Celebrates 70 Years of “White Christmas”

Holiday Magic in Greenville: Experience the Magic of “White Christmas”

Greenville is getting into the holiday spirit with a delightful twist that transports visitors back 70 years into the snowy world of Columbia Inn. Just when you thought holiday cheer couldn’t get any better, the Upcountry History Museum has announced a special exhibit dedicated to the iconic film White Christmas, which premiered in 1954 and continues to warm hearts each holiday season.

A Blast from the Past

Starting in December and running until February 2, the museum will showcase a nationwide traveling exhibit that breathes new life into this cult classic. “Few films generate more nostalgia than White Christmas with its legendary actors, music, and timeless ‘feel-good’ storyline,” said CEO Dana Thorpe. The exhibit promises to take visitors on a visual and sentimental journey through one of the most beloved holiday films ever made.

What to Expect

As you stroll through the exhibit, you’re in for a treat! You can look forward to original movie posters, costumes, props, and even reels from the film. This spectacular collection is in collaboration with the Rosemary Clooney House in Kentucky, known for housing the world’s largest collection of White Christmas memorabilia. You’ll get to see the iconic blue dresses worn by Vera-Ellen and Rosemary Clooney, alongside military uniforms worn by the leading men—Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, and Dean Jagger. Plus, Clooney’s eye-catching elbow-length gloves are bound to elicit a few “oohs” and “aahs”!

Stepping into a Movie Set

Meg Hunt, the museum’s media relations director, shared the goal of making visitors feel like they’ve “stepped into a movie set.” You’ll find several artifacts from the fictional Columbia Inn that will make you feel like you’re right in the film! Marvel at the original Columbia Inn sign, dining room table and chairs, and even have a peek at a physical copy of the actual script!

Bringing Back the Classics

This isn’t the first time the Upcountry History Museum has showcased this exhibit; it made quite an impression the first time around in March 2020. Pandemic or not, the museum just had to bring it back this year! They have a rich history of hosting movie-themed exhibits, previously featuring Star Wars, and already have plans in motion for an The Avengers: Endgame exhibit in 2025. The museum is committed to giving visitors—whether they’re from Greenville, South Carolina, or anywhere else in the Southeast—a chance to see rare items they might not find anywhere else.

Perfect Holiday Outing

With temperatures hovering around a cozy 45°F during the day and dropping to a chilly 24°F at night, it’s the perfect time to bundle up and take the family out for an exciting adventure. The generally clear skies make it a great opportunity for a day of exploration. After visiting the Upcountry History Museum, what could be more festive than catching up over some hot cocoa while reminiscing about the magic of White Christmas?

Join the Journey

So what are you waiting for? The holiday season is here, and the nostalgia of White Christmas is calling your name. Grab your loved ones, head down to the Upcountry History Museum, and immerse yourself in the wintry charm that defined a classic era of cinema. It’s a chance to create new memories while cherishing the old—truly the essence of what the holiday season is all about!