As the holiday season quickly approaches, North Myrtle Beach comes to life with a host of events and activities that are sure to make the season merry and bright.
Christmas Lights & Displays
The Great Christmas Lights Show
Featuring over two million lights and over 500 holiday displays in a 2-mile drive-through course, the Great Christmas Light Show is one of our area's most popular events. This beloved annual tradition is perfect for visitors and locals of all ages, offering a spectacular and immersive way to celebrate the season in North Myrtle Beach. For a more interactive experience, head to Santa's Village, where you can hop on board the Santa Express Train Ride, feast on s’mores, and meet the big man himself. Drive through any night from November 25 to December 30 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Ripley's Aquarium Festival of Trees
The Ripley's Aquarium Festival of Trees exhibit honors both the beauty of the holiday season and the United States through the 55 Christmas trees on display. Ornaments, lights, and decor are strategically arranged to dazzle all aquarium visitors. Of course, the South Carolina tree on display will be decorated in some familiar local favorites!
Night of a Thousand Candles
Brookgreen Garden’s Night of a Thousand Candles is one of the most beloved and brightest holiday events on the Grand Strand. Walk through over 2,700 carefully hand-lit candles and festive lights in their beautifully landscaped gardens. As you stroll the grounds, you'll be serenaded by the sounds of live holiday music and the sweet melodies of carolers. Join on select nights from 4-9 p.m.
Christmas Parades & Cruises
North Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade
The annual North Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade will be taking place at 5:30 p.m. on December 7th on Main Street. Enjoy decorated floats, golf carts, cars, costumes, and bands in beautiful downtown North Myrtle Beach. Judges and a special guest announcer will be judging parade participants and crowning a winner.
Intracoastal Christmas Regatta
The Intracoastal Christmas Regatta in North Myrtle Beach is a beloved coastal tradition that lights up the holiday season in a unique way. Join locals and visitors alike along the Intracoastal’s waters edge to experience this charge-free holiday-themed maritime parade. The flotilla takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving (November 30th) from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event will begin at the Little River Inlet and end at Dock Holidays Marina. For a more immersive experience, join in on the parade as a passenger on the Barefoot Queen Riverboat.
North Pole Express Cruise
Step aboard the Barefoot Queen Riverboat and experience the magic of the North Pole on the South Carolina coast. Activities on this cruise include a visit with Santa Claus, the telling of classic Christmas tales, cherry morsels, and hot chocolate. Don’t forget to wear your Christmas PJs to get cozy on the cruise! Make your reservations early and set sail any night from December 13th through the 21st at 6 p.m.
Songs & Shows of the Season
Alabama Theatre’s South’s Grandest Christmas Show
The Alabama Theatre's South Grandest Christmas Show is a must-see event this holiday season. Packed with a delightful mix of music, humor, and holiday spirit, this show brings a musical touch to your Christmas festivities. Voted the #1 Christmas Show in North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach, this event is the perfect way to get you and your family in the holly jolly spirit.
Carolina Opry’s Christmas Special
For an unforgettable dose of holiday magic in North Myrtle Beach, head to the Carolina Opry for their 39th annual Christmas Special. This cherished tradition boasts a unique blend of world-class entertainment and holiday cheer. With a combination of dazzling light displays, phenomenal music, and dance performances, the Carolina Opry's Christmas Special sets the stage for an extraordinary holiday experience.
Christmas Cantata
The 40th Annual All City Christmas Cantata is a free celebration of the season's true spirit. This event, held at Living Water Baptist Church, brings together a talented ensemble of singers and musicians from our area's church choirs, capturing the essence of Christmas through the power of music. Experience this magical performance on December 7, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Christmas at Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show
Enjoy an epic holiday show featuring dueling pirates on a dynamic nautical set! Step aboard a swashbuckling adventure that's been magically transformed into a winter wonderland. With acrobatic feats, live animals, and a heartwarming tale of camaraderie and holiday magic, this show takes you on a journey through a Christmas story that's unlike any other. This experience comes with a four-course holiday feast that is inspired by medieval meals.
