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Celebrating Christmas in North Myrtle Beach (2025)

Christmas at the beach brings a whole new kind of magic to the holiday season. In North Myrtle Beach, palm trees twinkle with lights, ocean breezes carry the scent of salt and pine, and the community comes alive with festive cheer.

From dazzling light displays and seaside parades to live holiday shows and cozy coastal dining, this seaside town blends classic Christmas charm with laid-back coastal style. Whether you’re escaping the cold or starting a new family tradition, North Myrtle Beach is the perfect place to celebrate the season by the sea.

Other than staying cozy in your vacation rental home with your family, friends, or loved ones, there’s plenty to see and do, full of holiday magic in North Myrtle Beach. This is your guide to the most magical season on the Grand Strand!

 

Why Christmas in Myrtle Beach

Photo Credit: Andrew Kudey

If you’re looking for a sunny Christmas this year, North Myrtle Beach is the place to be! With average highs in the low 60s and plenty of fun holiday events, you’ll be sure to have a festive time all the way through the new year.

Beyond the beach, you’ll find unique experiences you won’t get anywhere else: holiday shopping at Barefoot Landing, ice skating and light displays at Broadway at the Beach, and oceanfront resorts that deck their halls in grand style. Add in mild temperatures, uncrowded attractions, and world-class dining, and it’s easy to see why Myrtle Beach has become a favorite insider pick for a relaxing, joy-filled Christmas getaway.

 

Holiday Season Events in North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach transforms into a festive wonderland each holiday season, offering a variety of Christmas events that bring joy and cheer to visitors of all ages. From dazzling light displays to lively parades, there’s something magical for everyone to enjoy during the holidays in this charming coastal town.

Christmas Parade

Photo Credit: Dolores M. Harvey

  • Date and Time: 5:30 pm; December 6, 2025
  • Location: Starts at the intersection of 2nd Ave North and Ocean Blvd.
  • Website: nmb.us/620/Christmas-Parade

One of the most popular Christmas events in North Myrtle Beach is the annual Christmas Parade. It is a great way to take in the area’s sights and sounds early in the season.

The parade route runs near Ocean Boulevard from 2nd Avenue North to South Main Street to Ye Olde Kings Highway. After the parade, stick around for the tree-lighting ceremony at Plyler Park. This annual oceanfront event features live entertainment, refreshments, and, of course, the lighting of a massive Christmas tree.

Great Christmas Light Show

One of the most popular Christmas attractions in North Myrtle Beach is the annual Great Christmas Light Show at the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex. This event features more than two million lights on display, making it one of the South’s brightest Christmas shows.

There will be vendors selling a wide range of items, from holiday decorations to handmade gifts. You’ll also be able to enjoy live music and food trucks, so be sure to come hungry!

Visitors can drive through the display or take a stroll through some of the lighted areas. There are also several holiday-themed events held throughout the festival, such as the Santa Express Train Ride. After the light show and train ride, pay a visit to Santa’s Village to enjoy hot chocolate and s’mores.

On Saturdays, you can also tour the Holiday Market. This is another great event for the whole family, especially if you're traveling with children.

Intracoastal Christmas Regatta

Head down on the Saturday after Thanksgiving to experience an incredible maritime parade. The event starts at the Little River Inlet and heads down the Intracoastal Waterway before finishing at Dock Holidays Marina.

Locals and visitors gather along the shoreline, at waterfront restaurants, and on bridges to watch the sparkling procession drift by. The event also supports local charities, making it a celebration that gives back to the community. There’s no fee to watch the regatta, but donations are welcome.

With the reflections of twinkling lights dancing across the water, the Intracoastal Christmas Regatta captures the true spirit of a coastal Christmas—joyful, unique, and unmistakably Myrtle Beach.

Night of a Thousand Candles

In the dark of winter, there is always light. This is especially the case at Brookgreen Gardens, located in the nearby town of Murrells Inlet. The Night of a Thousand Candles is an annual event held each holiday season. During the event, the gardens are illuminated with over 4,500 hand-lit candles and lanterns.

The event also features live music, holiday entertainment, and a variety of delicious food options. The event began in 1995 as a way to raise funds for the restoration of the Brookgreen Gardens.

The event has since become a lasting and popular holiday tradition in the Myrtle Beach area. Each year, the event attracts thousands of visitors from across the US and around the world. The Night of a Thousand Candles is a unique event that offers visitors a chance to see the gardens in a whole new light.

 

Other Things to Do in North Myrtle Beach During the Holidays

Photo Credit: Ryan Santmyer

Beyond the festive events, North Myrtle Beach offers plenty of other opportunities to explore the area. Visitors can enjoy a variety of different activities depending on their personal preferences and interests.

1. Watch Special Christmas Shows

Myrtle Beach has a number of unique and traditional holiday shows during the Christmas season. There is something for every budget and taste.

The Carolina Opry Christmas Special is a beloved local holiday tradition that has been running for over three decades. This year’s show, The Wonder of Christmas, features stunning live performances, a visit from Santa, and more. The Alabama Theatre’s The South’s Grandest Christmas Show is another show that delivers plenty of entertainment. It features a live nativity, Santa Claus, and all your favorite holiday songs.

2. Visit and Shop Barefoot Landing

If you’re looking for some festive lights, head over to Barefoot Landing. This popular shopping and dining destination is decked out in holiday style, with over a million lights on display! You can also take a ride on the festive Barefoot Carousel or meet Santa in his workshop.

Something you shouldn’t miss at Barefoot Landing is the Christmas Mouse. This two-story Christmas store is a Winter Wonderland for shoppers looking for unique ornaments. They have every decoration you can think of and some truly interesting finds.

3. Take a Fishing Tour

Experience the thrill of a fishing tour in North Myrtle Beach this holiday season, where the calm waters and festive atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for a memorable adventure. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, the abundant marine life and expert guides ensure an exciting and rewarding outing. Celebrate the holidays with a unique twist by casting your line and enjoying the serene beauty of the coast during this magical time of year.

4. Indulge in a Spa Day

Taking a spa day in North Myrtle Beach during the holidays is a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate yourself amidst the festive hustle and bustle.

Local spas like Cinzia offer special holiday packages featuring soothing massages, revitalizing facials, and calming aromatherapy treatments. After a day of pampering, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to fully enjoy the magical Christmas events and twinkling lights around town.

 

Tips for Visiting North Myrtle Beach During Christmas

To make the most of your holiday getaway in North Myrtle Beach, a little planning goes a long way. Follow these tips to enjoy a smooth, festive, and stress-free trip:

  • Arrive early to popular events like The Great Christmas Light Show to avoid crowds and secure convenient parking.
  • Dress in layers, as daytime weather is mild but evenings can get chilly near the water.
  • Bring cash for admission fees, parking, and food vendors—some may not accept credit cards.
  • Check event schedules and dates ahead of time; many attractions operate on limited days or special holiday hours.
  • Book accommodations early, since Christmas is one of the busiest times of year along the Grand Strand.
  • Pack a camera to capture the dazzling light displays, parades, and family moments.
  • Plan downtime between events to explore local shops, waterfront restaurants, and seasonal attractions—so you can soak in the full holiday atmosphere.

With a little preparation, you’ll experience the perfect balance of relaxation and festive excitement during your North Myrtle Beach Christmas visit.

 

Have a Merry Christmas in South Carolina!

If you are looking for things to do in Myrtle Beach in December to get into the holiday spirit, you’re in luck. There’s plenty to do in this seaside town during the Christmas season! From festive holiday shows and parades to holiday light displays, you’re sure to find something to love in North Myrtle Beach.

Don’t forget to book your Grand Strand vacation rental in advance to ensure you secure your favorite spot for your festive getaway.

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