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What’s Christmas in Myrtle Beach like?
It’s a magical mix of coastal charm and holiday cheer, where palm trees glow with lights, festive shows take center stage, and the ocean breeze adds a refreshing twist to classic traditions.
Each December, Myrtle Beach comes alive with family-friendly parades, world-class Christmas performances, twinkling light displays, and seasonal shopping across the Grand Strand. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a romantic winter escape, or gathering for a group holiday retreat, Christmas in Myrtle Beach 2025 offers something for everyone.
Located just minutes from the area’s top holiday attractions, Marina Inn at Grande Dunes is the ideal home base for your Christmas getaway. With luxurious accommodations, a heated indoor pool, on-site dining, and festive packages, it’s the perfect spot to relax and celebrate the season in style.
In this guide, we’ve curated the top 35 holiday events in Myrtle Beach, from can’t-miss light shows and Santa sightings to New Year’s Eve celebrations, to help you make the most of your coastal Christmas vacation.
Location: 1931 Brookgreen Garden Dr., Murrells Inlet, SCDates: Select nights, November 28 – December 31, 2025Hours: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PMAdmission: Ticket purchase required (advance reservations recommended)Website: https://www.brookgreen.org
One of the most beloved holiday traditions on the Grand Strand, Nights of a Thousand Candles transforms Brookgreen Gardens into a glowing wonderland of more than 2,800 hand-lit candles and millions of twinkling lights. Guests can stroll through illuminated garden paths, enjoy live holiday music, sip cider, and soak up the warm glow of the season, perfect for couples and families alike.
Location: North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex, 150 Citizens Circle, North Myrtle Beach, SCDates: November 22 – December 30, 2025 (Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas Day)Hours: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PMAdmission: Vehicle entry fee applies (varies by size)Website: https://parks.nmb.us
A must-see for families, The Great Christmas Light Show features a two-mile drive-through light experience with over two million lights and more than 500 custom displays. After the drive, stop at Santa’s Village for s’mores, hot chocolate, train rides, and photos with Santa. It’s one of the most family-friendly holiday traditions along the Grand Strand.
Location: Between 2nd Ave. North and 10th Ave. North, Myrtle Beach, SCDates: Late November – December 31, 2025Admission: Free entry; skating rink and select activities may require ticket purchaseWebsite: https://www.winterwonderlandatthebeach.com
This oceanfront holiday experience lights up the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk with festive displays, music, and an outdoor ice-skating rink overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can enjoy shopping, hot chocolate stands, and live entertainment, making it an ideal evening stroll destination for guests of all ages.
Location: 200 Laurel St., Conway, SCDates: Late November – December 24, 2025 (select nights)Admission: Free (donations appreciated)Website: https://conwayalive.com/
A charming small-town event located just west of Myrtle Beach, the Conway Celebration of Lights offers a walk-through holiday display along the Waccamaw River. Stroll among thousands of twinkling lights, take a hayride, or enjoy holiday treats from local vendors, a cozy community event perfect for families.
Location: 1110 Celebrity Circle, Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach, SCDates: November 1 – December 31, 2025Admission: Included with aquarium ticketWebsite: https://www.ripleyaquariums.com/myrtlebeach
Inside Ripley’s Aquarium, guests can explore a collection of more than 50 uniquely decorated Christmas trees, each representing a U.S. state or territory. Combined with marine exhibits, it’s a festive and educational experience that kids love and adults find delightfully creative.
Location: The MarshWalk, 4025 Hwy 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SCDates: December 2025 (select nights; check site for details)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://marshwalk.com
The MarshWalk’s waterfront dining district glows with holiday cheer during its Wonderland of Lights celebration. Guests can stroll along the illuminated boardwalk, enjoy seasonal cocktails at local restaurants, and listen to live mu
Location: The Carolina Opry Theater, 8901 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SCDates: November 1, 2025 – January 4, 2026Admission: Ticket purchase requiredWebsite: https://www.thecarolinaopry.com
Known as “The Christmas Show of the South,” this award-winning production blends holiday classics with Broadway-style sets, a live orchestra, dancers, and special effects. It’s a high-energy, family-friendly performance that consistently ranks as one of Myrtle Beach’s top Christmas attractions.
Location: Pirates Voyage, 8907 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SCDates: November 1, 2025 – Early January 2026Admission: Dinner and show ticket requiredWebsite: https://piratesvoyage.com
A swashbuckling spin on “A Christmas Carol,” this dinner show features pirates, acrobatics, live animals, and holiday magic, all while guests enjoy a four-course feast. It’s a can’t-miss experience for families looking to mix adventure with tradition.
Location: Alabama Theatre, 4750 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SCDates: November 1 – December 31, 2025Admission: Ticket purchase requiredWebsite: https://www.alabama-theatre.com
This heartwarming holiday show combines traditional Christmas music, comedic skits, and elaborate costumes in a feel-good production suitable for all ages. With appearances from Santa and plenty of seasonal cheer, it’s one of the area’s most beloved holiday shows.
Location: Pawleys Island & surrounding venues (check site for locations)Dates: Select dates in December 2025Admission: Varies by performanceWebsite: https://pawleysmusic.com
For those looking to enjoy a more intimate holiday music experience, this annual festival features classical, jazz, and seasonal performances in a relaxed coastal setting. It’s a great option for couples and music lovers seeking something off the beaten path.
Location: Main Street, North Myrtle Beach, SCDate: December 7, 2025 (subject to confirmation)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://parks.nmb.us
Celebrate the season in classic coastal style with a festive parade through North Myrtle Beach’s Main Street. Enjoy community floats, local performers, marching bands, and an appearance by Santa Claus.
Location: Hwy 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SCDate: December 8, 2025 (TBD)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.murrellsinletsc.com
This charming parade rolls through the waterfront community of Murrells Inlet with decorated floats, classic cars, and plenty of local flair. It’s a relaxed, small-town event that’s beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Location: Ocean Blvd., Surfside Beach, SCDate: Early December 2025 (TBD)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.surfsidebeach.org
This family-friendly parade features colorful floats, costumed characters, fire trucks, and candy tosses, ideal for young children and families looking for a classic holiday event.
Location: Intracoastal Waterway – from Little River to Dock Holidays MarinaDate: November 30, 2025Admission: Free to view; donations encouragedWebsite: https://www.christmasregatta.com
A beloved waterfront tradition, this evening parade features boats lit up with dazzling Christmas lights cruising down the Intracoastal Waterway. View from the shore or enjoy the show from a waterfront restaurant.
Location: 1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SCDates: Weekends and select weekdays in December 2025Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.broadwayatthebeach.com
Visit Santa in one of Myrtle Beach’s most festive shopping and entertainment districts. Snap a photo, enjoy the holiday decor, and make it part of your Christmas shopping trip.
Location: 4898 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SCDates: Weekends in December 2025Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.bflanding.com
Barefoot Landing invites families to meet Santa in a cozy, waterfront setting. Enjoy holiday decorations, live entertainment, and shopping while you wait to meet the jolly man himself.
Location: 10835 Kings Rd., Myrtle Beach, SCDates: Select dates in November and December 2025Admission: Free with optional photo packagesWebsite: https://www.tangeroutlet.com/myrtlebeach17
Combine your holiday shopping with a visit to Santa. Tanger Outlets hosts a festive photo station where families can meet Santa and take home a memorable holiday photo.
Location: 1110 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SCDates: Select mornings in December 2025Admission: Additional ticket requiredWebsite: https://www.ripleyaquariums.com/myrtlebeach
Enjoy a magical morning at Ripley’s Aquarium with breakfast, crafts, and a visit from Santa, all surrounded by colorful marine life. Ideal for young children and families looking for a unique seasonal experience.
Location: 4017 Deville St., Myrtle Beach, SCDates: Weekends in December 2025Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.marketcommonmb.com
Step into Santa’s Workshop for hands-on holiday fun. Kids can enjoy crafts, cookies, games, and meet Santa in a festive and walkable neighborhood setting. It’s a local favorite for family-friendly holiday activities.
Enjoy sun-kissed beaches, thrilling attractions, and endless adventure.
Location: 4898 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SCDate: Mid-November 2025 (exact date TBD)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.bflanding.com
This annual kickoff to the holiday season includes the official tree lighting, live music, holiday characters, and fireworks. The waterfront atmosphere at Barefoot Landing makes it a beautiful place to start the season.
Location: 1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SCDate: Mid-November 2025 (exact date TBD)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.broadwayatthebeach.com
Broadway at the Beach welcomes the holidays with a festive evening of tree lighting, carolers, live entertainment, and fireworks. It’s a high-energy event perfect for families and couples.
Location: 4017 Deville St., Myrtle Beach, SCDate: Late November 2025 (TBD)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.marketcommonmb.com
Enjoy a classic Christmas tree lighting in one of Myrtle Beach’s most charming neighborhoods. The event also includes a holiday market, food vendors, and live music, ideal for a festive night out.
Location: McLean Park, 93 Oak Dr., North Myrtle Beach, SCDate: Early December 2025 (TBD)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://parks.nmb.us
This family-oriented celebration features the official tree lighting, holiday performances, and children’s activities in a cozy park setting. A great way to connect with local holiday traditions.
Location: Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach, SCDate: Early December 2025 (TBD)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.broadwayatthebeach.com
This festive event combines a holiday parade with live performances, photo ops with Santa, and seasonal surprises throughout the Broadway complex. It’s one of the most colorful celebrations of the season.
Location: 115 Hwy 17 Business N, Surfside Beach, SCDate: Late November or Early December 2025 (TBD)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.surfsidebeach.org
Kick off the season with Surfside Beach’s tree lighting followed by an outdoor holiday movie screening. Bring chairs and blankets and enjoy an evening of community holiday fun under the stars.
Location: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, 2nd Ave N to 10th Ave NDates: Weekends from late November through December 2025Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com
The Boardwalk comes alive with holiday lights, vendors, carolers, kids’ rides, and festive photo ops. Perfect for an evening stroll along the ocean, this event blends classic holiday charm with beachside vibes.
Location: 4017 Deville St., Myrtle Beach, SCDates: Select weekends in December 2025Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.marketcommonmb.com
The Market Common hosts an outdoor holiday bazaar with local artisans, handmade gifts, food trucks, and festive music. It’s a great spot to find one-of-a-kind gifts while enjoying the charm of a walkable, decorated village setting.
Location: 1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SCDates: Throughout November and December 2025Admission: Free (shopping and event prices may vary)Website: https://www.broadwayatthebeach.com
With over 70 specialty shops and plenty of holiday-themed events, Broadway at the Beach is a must-visit during the holiday season. Enjoy decorated storefronts, entertainment, and seasonal treats while checking off your shopping list.
Location: 4898 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SCDates: Throughout November and December 2025Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.bflanding.com
Barefoot Landing offers waterfront shopping with a festive twist, including tree lightings, Santa visits, and pop-up performances. From boutique finds to well-known brands, it’s a top destination for holiday browsing.
Location: 10835 Kings Rd., Myrtle Beach, SCDates: November–December 2025 (holiday hours vary)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.tangeroutlet.com/myrtlebeach17
Get your Christmas shopping done with big-name brands at outlet prices. Tanger Outlets also offers Santa photo opportunities and holiday décor throughout the complex, creating a festive shopping experience for the whole family.
Location: 4017 Deville St., Myrtle Beach, SCDate: December 31, 2025Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.marketcommonmb.com
Ring in the New Year with one of Myrtle Beach’s largest celebrations. Southern Times Square features live music, food vendors, a beer and wine garden, a live simulcast of the Times Square ball drop, and a midnight fireworks show. This family-friendly event has limited capacity and fills up quickly, so early arrival is recommended.
Location: 1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SCDate: December 31, 2025Time: 8:00 PM fireworks (subject to change)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.broadwayatthebeach.com
Enjoy an early evening fireworks display over Lake Broadway. Perfect for families with kids or anyone wanting to celebrate before midnight. Many restaurants and bars in the area also offer New Year’s Eve dinner and drink specials.
Location: 4898 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SCDate: December 31, 2025Time: 7:00 PM fireworks (subject to change)Admission: FreeWebsite: https://www.bflanding.com
Barefoot Landing hosts a festive New Year’s Eve celebration with an early evening fireworks show over the lake. Arrive early to enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, then cap off the night with a spectacular view of the fireworks.
Location: Various locations (check individual listings)Date: Select dates in December 2025Admission: Registration requiredMore Info: https://runsignup.com
Stay active during the holidays with themed 5K races and fun runs throughout the Myrtle Beach area. Popular events include the Santa Run and Jingle Bell Jog, often featuring costumes, finisher medals, and family-friendly routes. These races are perfect for visitors looking to balance festive indulgence with a little fitness.
Location: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, between 2nd Ave N and 10th Ave NDates: Late November – December 31, 2025Admission: Ticket purchase required for rink accessWebsite: https://www.winterwonderlandatthebeach.com
Skate by the sea on Myrtle Beach’s seasonal outdoor rink located at the Winter Wonderland event on the Boardwalk. With views of the Atlantic Ocean, this festive activity offers a rare beachside winter experience and is great for kids, couples, and groups alike.
After a full day of holiday adventures, come back to the warmth and luxury of Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, where festive touches and comfort await.
Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat or a family holiday getaway, Marina Inn offers the perfect blend of location, luxury, and holiday cheer.
Yes! Myrtle Beach offers mild weather, festive lights, Christmas shows, parades, and family-friendly fun all season long.
Top shows include The Carolina Opry Christmas Special, Pirates Voyage, and Alabama Theatre’s Grandest Christmas Show.
Expect cool, mild temperatures ranging from the upper 40s to low 60s, perfect for outdoor lights and cozy evenings.
Check out Brookgreen Gardens, The Great Christmas Light Show, and Winter Wonderland at the Beach.
Yes, most attractions, shops, and restaurants remain open throughout December with special holiday hours.
The holidays are popular, especially weekends, but far less crowded than summer.
A seasonal event on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk with lights, ice skating, and holiday activities.
Don’t wait to plan your perfect holiday escape. Marina Inn at Grande Dunes places you in the heart of Myrtle Beach’s best Christmas events, while offering the comfort, luxury, and service you expect during the holidays.
Check availability and book your stay now or contact us to learn more.
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