Celebrate with a Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Columbia with Holly Jolly Hunt

Imagine wandering the streets of Columbia, South Carolina, with your friends, family, or coworkers, searching for quirky holiday-themed items — both traditional and unexpected. For just $20 per group (up to 10 people), you can get a taste of local holiday spirit with the Holly Jolly Hunt, an engaging, app-based scavenger adventure that lasts about an hour. Guided by your smartphone, you’ll be tackling challenges, snapping photos, and competing against other teams on a festive leaderboard.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s completely customizable: you can explore wherever you want in the city, making it ideal for casual walkers or those with limited mobility. Second, it offers interactive fun with a competitive twist — as you perform holiday challenges, your team scores points and climbs the leaderboard. We love how it blends outdoor sightseeing with lighthearted competition, perfect for a holiday outing that’s both memorable and flexible.

One consideration worth noting: you’ll need your own smartphone for the activity, and it’s not included in the price. Also, transportation is not provided, so you should be prepared to meet at the starting point and move around on your own. This experience suits groups that enjoy a bit of friendly rivalry, exploring their surroundings, and sharing laughs.

If you’re seeking a unique way to celebrate the holidays with loved ones or colleagues, Holly Jolly Hunt offers a light, playful way to enjoy Columbia’s festive vibe without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable and fun: Only $20 per group, making it accessible for families or small groups.
• Flexible location: Play anywhere in Columbia, with no fixed itinerary.
• Interactive challenges: Includes holiday items to find and fun tasks to perform.
• Real-time scoring: Compete against other teams via a leaderboard.
• Guidance included: Access to a remote guide via chat enhances the experience.
• Duration: About 1 hour, quick enough to fit into a busy holiday schedule.

Detailed Review of the Holly Jolly Hunt Experience

How the Tour Works and What to Expect

The Holly Jolly Hunt is a mobile app-based scavenger hunt designed to get you exploring the city at your own pace. Starting at 1100 Gervais Street, your group will receive instructions to kick off this holiday adventure. The activity is available from late November to the end of December, aligning well with the holiday season, and runs Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Once you’re ready, you’ll launch the app, which guides you on a series of holiday-themed challenges. These include searching for specific items like traditional decorations, quirky ornaments, light displays, or maybe even something more unusual — like a Santa in a funny costume or a holiday-themed mural. The app also prompts you to perform various fun challenges designed to spark laughter, such as singing a holiday tune or performing a quick dance.

Exploring Columbia with the Hunt

One of the biggest draws of this experience is its freedom to choose your own route. You don’t need to stick to a predetermined path — you can explore neighborhoods, parks, or downtown areas, making it perfect for your group’s interest and mobility level. For instance, if your team enjoys window shopping or sightseeing, you might combine the hunt with a stroll through Columbia’s vibrant streets.

The scoring system adds a friendly competitive element, as you take photos and complete challenges to earn points. Seeing your team climb the leaderboard provides motivation and fun rivalry. According to reviews, this feature is quite popular, with one quote noting, “We loved the way the points kept us engaged and made it feel like a game.”

What Makes It Special

Two aspects we really appreciate:

• Authentic local flavor: Since you can explore anywhere, you might stumble upon some lesser-known holiday displays or local traditions, giving your experience a genuine touch.
• Family-friendly and inclusive: Most travelers can participate, and service animals are welcome. Plus, it’s a private experience, so your group’s fun remains private.

Price and Value

At $20 per group, this activity offers excellent value. It includes all scavenger hunt activities and access to the guide via chat, though you’ll need your own smartphone to participate. For the price, you get an hour of active, interactive fun that can be tailored to your group’s pace and interests.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to coordinate your own plan to get to the start point and move around. Also, since the experience relies on your phone, it’s important that your device is charged and compatible. Some might find it less engaging if they prefer guided tours with a dedicated guide, but others will enjoy the independence and spontaneity.

Who Will Love This?

This scavenger hunt is perfect for families with kids, groups of friends, or co-workers looking for a festive team-building activity. If you’re visiting Columbia during the holiday season and enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and friendly competition, this may be just the ticket.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider Holly Jolly Hunt?

For travelers seeking an affordable, flexible, and lively way to experience Columbia’s holiday atmosphere, Holly Jolly Hunt hits the sweet spot. It’s especially well-suited for those who value participation and interaction over structured tours. Whether you’re on a family outing, a small group of friends, or a holiday office celebration, it offers a playful, authentic way to soak up local cheer. Plus, with the ability to explore at your own pace, it’s a great choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with a dash of friendly competition.

While it’s not a guided walking tour with a live narrator, the app’s interactive elements and optional remote guide make it engaging and easy to follow. Just remember to bring a charged phone and your holiday spirit!

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and kids will enjoy the fun challenges and photo hunts, especially if they like outdoor adventures.

Do I need to download anything?
Yes, you’ll need the Holly Jolly Hunt app on your smartphone to participate in the scavenger hunt activities and challenges.

What if I don’t have a smartphone?
Unfortunately, a smartphone is required, as all activities and scoring are app-based.

Are there any age restrictions?
Since it’s a family-friendly activity, there are no specific age restrictions; children and adults can enjoy it together.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation included?
No, you are responsible for your own transportation; the activity starts at a designated meeting point and ends there as well.

What’s the best time of day to do the hunt?
You can play during opening hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but many find late morning or early afternoon ideal for lighting and weather conditions.

This holiday scavenger hunt offers a lively, interactive way to enjoy Columbia’s festive atmosphere. It’s practical, affordable, and adaptable — perfect for making holiday memories that last a lifetime.