When most people think of Christmas, they think of festive lights, ice skating, hot cocoa, and presents under the tree. But what if you could have all of that plus the beach?
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.
Other than staying cozy in your vacation rental home with your family, friends, or loved one, there’s plenty to see and do full of holiday cheer in North Myrtle Beach.
Check out these events and activities to make the most merry during your Christmas visit. Hiring a golf cart is the best way to see everything that our city has to offer, but many of the attractions are conveniently within easy walking distance.
These are the top things to do this holiday season in North Myrtle Beach.
See the North Myrtle Beach Annual Christmas Parade
One of the most popular Christmas events in North Myrtle Beach is the annual Christmas Parade. The 2024 parade will be on Saturday, December 7th at 5.30 pm. 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.
Be Inspired by the Displays at 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.
Share the Joy at the Murrells Inlet Christmas Tree Lighting
Indulge in holiday cheer in Murrells Inlet with the annual Murrells Inlet Christmas Tree Lighting. In 2024, this will be held on Saturday 7th December from 4 pm until 6 pm.
Located at Morse Park Landing next to Hot Fish Club, the tree lighting festivities will include visitors from Santa and Mrs Claus as well as Christmas crafts, hot chocolate, and cookies. Morse Park is great for accessibility and is a great way to get excited for the season way before Christmas day.
Tip: If you aren’t in town for this tree-lighting ceremony, The Market Common also holds a similar magical event on November 23rd.
Say Ahoy There to the Christmas Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show
For a ship-shape festive adventure, book tickets for the exciting Pirates Voyage Christmas show. Expect music, jugglers, acrobats, and plenty of swashbuckling drama while you feast on a festive dinner.
Behold the 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 over 50 vendors selling everything 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. After the light show and train ride, pay a visit to Santa’s Village for hot chocolate and s’mores.
On Saturdays, you can also tour the Holiday Market. This is another great event for the whole family.
Set Sail for the 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. There’s no fee to watch the regatta but donations are welcome.
Light Up Your Life at Broadway at the Beach
If you are looking to be wowed, your visit to Myrtle Beach during the holidays needs to include the spectacular Holiday Lights at Broadway at the Beach. This annual event features over four million lights, making it one of the largest holiday light displays in the Southeast. It’s the perfect way to end your day of holiday fun!
Broadway at the Beach is a 360-acre shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located just a short drive from the beach. It opened in 1995 and features three main sections: Celebrity Square, The Avenue, and Broadway Commons.
The complex is built around a lake and features attractions such as an aquarium, a zip line, and a Ferris wheel. Broadway at the Beach is fun for the whole family with its many shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the popular Hard Rock Cafe and Ripley’s Aquarium.
Their annual Christmas Celebration features live entertainment, carolers, and a visit from Santa Claus. It’s the perfect place to do some holiday shopping, as Broadway at the Beach is home to over 100 stores, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean from the boardwalk.
See a Christmas Show
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 local holiday tradition that has been running for over 30 years. 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.
For a more traditional holiday experience, check out the classic ballet, The Nutcracker, at the Myrtle Beach Pavilion. This classic story of a young girl who is transported to a magical world of toys and fairies has delighted audiences for decades.
Branch out at the Festival of Trees at Ripley’s Aquarium
While you are at Broadway at the Beach, you can also experience a more traditional holiday experience by heading to The Festival of Trees holiday event at the nearby Ripley’s Aquarium.
This annual event features over 100 decorated Christmas trees, live entertainment, and holiday-themed activities for the kids. It’s the perfect place to get your holiday fix!
It is fun because you can see all of the decorated trees and also do other holiday activities like visiting Santa’s Village, making crafts, and more. There is also a giant inflatable slide and a Snow Zone where you can play in the snow.
This event is unique because it is an aquarium, so you can also see all of the fish and other animals while you are there. Food and drink options include hot chocolate, coffee, cookies, and other holiday treats.
Wander the Winter Wonderland at the Beach
Head down to Myrtle Beach Boardwalk from the end of November to the beginning of January to see the spectacular Winter Wonderland lights display. Don’t miss the tree lighting to mark the start of the festive period. And, if you like to stay active on vacation you can sign up for the Twinkling Two-miler Run — Christmas-themed costumes are encouraged!
Get in the Spirit at the Night of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens
In the dark of winter, there is always light. This is especially the case at Brookgreen Gardens. 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 delicious food. 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 all over the US and even 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.
The event is definitely a must-see for any visitors to the Myrtle Beach area looking for a beautiful experience during the holiday season.
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 lights 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.