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.
Table of Contents
- Light Shows & Holiday Displays
- Holiday Shows & Live Performances
- Parades & Santa Experiences
- Tree Lightings & Community Celebrations
- Holiday Shopping & Seasonal Markets
- New Year’s Eve Events
- Seasonal Activities & Fitness Events
- Why Stay at Marina Inn at Grande Dunes This Christmas
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Book Your Myrtle Beach Holiday Stay at Marina Inn
Light Shows & Holiday Displays
1. Nights of a Thousand Candles – Brookgreen Gardens
Location: 1931 Brookgreen Garden Dr., Murrells Inlet, SC
Dates: Select nights, November 28 – December 31, 2025
Hours: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Admission: 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.
2. The Great Christmas Light Show – North Myrtle Beach
Location: North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex, 150 Citizens Circle, North Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: November 22 – December 30, 2025 (Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas Day)
Hours: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Admission: 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.
3. Winter Wonderland at The Beach – Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
Location: Between 2nd Ave. North and 10th Ave. North, Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: Late November – December 31, 2025
Admission: Free entry; skating rink and select activities may require ticket purchase
Website: 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.
4. Conway Celebration of Lights – Downtown Conway
Location: 200 Laurel St., Conway, SC
Dates: 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.
5. Ripley’s Aquarium Festival of Trees
Location: 1110 Celebrity Circle, Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: November 1 – December 31, 2025
Admission: Included with aquarium ticket
Website: 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.
6. MarshWalk Wonderland of Lights – Murrells Inlet
Location: The MarshWalk, 4025 Hwy 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC
Dates: December 2025 (select nights; check site for details)
Admission: Free
Website: 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
Holiday Shows & Live Performances
7. The Carolina Opry Christmas Special
Location: The Carolina Opry Theater, 8901 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: November 1, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Admission: Ticket purchase required
Website: 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.
8. Pirates Voyage Christmas Dinner Show
Location: Pirates Voyage, 8907 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: November 1, 2025 – Early January 2026
Admission: Dinner and show ticket required
Website: 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.
9. The South’s Grandest Christmas Show – Alabama Theatre
Location: Alabama Theatre, 4750 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: November 1 – December 31, 2025
Admission: Ticket purchase required
Website: 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.
10. Pawleys Island Festival of Music & Art – Holiday Concerts
Location: Pawleys Island & surrounding venues (check site for locations)
Dates: Select dates in December 2025
Admission: Varies by performance
Website: 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.
Parades & Santa Experiences
11. North Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade – Main Street
Location: Main Street, North Myrtle Beach, SC
Date: December 7, 2025 (subject to confirmation)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
12. Murrells Inlet Christmas Parade
Location: Hwy 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC
Date: December 8, 2025 (TBD)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
13. Surfside Beach Christmas Parade
Location: Ocean Blvd., Surfside Beach, SC
Date: Early December 2025 (TBD)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
14. Intracoastal Christmas Regatta (Boat Parade)
Location: Intracoastal Waterway – from Little River to Dock Holidays Marina
Date: November 30, 2025
Admission: Free to view; donations encouraged
Website: 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.
15. Santa Visits – Broadway at the Beach
Location: 1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: Weekends and select weekdays in December 2025
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
16. Santa Visits – Barefoot Landing
Location: 4898 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: Weekends in December 2025
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
17. Santa Photos – Tanger Outlets Myrtle Beach
Location: 10835 Kings Rd., Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: Select dates in November and December 2025
Admission: Free with optional photo packages
Website: 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.
18. Breakfast with Santa – Ripley’s Aquarium
Location: 1110 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: Select mornings in December 2025
Admission: Additional ticket required
Website: 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.
19. Santa’s Workshop – The Market Common
Location: 4017 Deville St., Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: Weekends in December 2025
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
Tree Lightings & Community Celebrations
20. Lighting of the Landing – Barefoot Landing
Location: 4898 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC
Date: Mid-November 2025 (exact date TBD)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
21. Tree Lighting Celebration – Broadway at the Beach
Location: 1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC
Date: Mid-November 2025 (exact date TBD)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
22. The Market Common Tree Lighting & Holiday Bazaar
Location: 4017 Deville St., Myrtle Beach, SC
Date: Late November 2025 (TBD)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
23. North Myrtle Beach Annual Tree Lighting
Location: McLean Park, 93 Oak Dr., North Myrtle Beach, SC
Date: Early December 2025 (TBD)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
24. A Very Broadway Christmas Parade & Celebration
Location: Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach, SC
Date: Early December 2025 (TBD)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
25. Surfside Beach Christmas Tree Lighting & Movie Night
Location: 115 Hwy 17 Business N, Surfside Beach, SC
Date: Late November or Early December 2025 (TBD)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
26. Holidays on the Boardwalk – Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
Location: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, 2nd Ave N to 10th Ave N
Dates: Weekends from late November through December 2025
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
Holiday Shopping & Seasonal Markets
27. Holiday Market at The Market Common
Location: 4017 Deville St., Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: Select weekends in December 2025
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
28. Broadway at the Beach Holiday Events & Shopping
Location: 1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: Throughout November and December 2025
Admission: 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.
29. Barefoot Landing Holiday Events & Shopping
Location: 4898 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: Throughout November and December 2025
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
30. Tanger Outlets Myrtle Beach Holiday Shopping
Location: 10835 Kings Rd., Myrtle Beach, SC
Dates: November–December 2025 (holiday hours vary)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
New Year’s Eve Events
31. Southern Times Square – The Market Common
Location: 4017 Deville St., Myrtle Beach, SC
Date: December 31, 2025
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
32. New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Broadway at the Beach
Location: 1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC
Date: December 31, 2025
Time: 8:00 PM fireworks (subject to change)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
33. New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Barefoot Landing
Location: 4898 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC
Date: December 31, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM fireworks (subject to change)
Admission: Free
Website: 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.
Seasonal Activities & Fitness Events
34. Christmas at the Beach 5K / Fun Runs
Location: Various locations (check individual listings)
Date: Select dates in December 2025
Admission: Registration required
More 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.
35. Ice Skating at Winter Wonderland at The Beach
Location: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, between 2nd Ave N and 10th Ave N
Dates: Late November – December 31, 2025
Admission: Ticket purchase required for rink access
Website: 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.
Why Stay at Marina Inn at Grande Dunes This Christmas
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.
- Elegant rooms and suites, some with cozy fireplaces
- Heated indoor pool and whirlpool, perfect for cool December evenings
- On-site dining at Waterscapes Restaurant
- Central location, minutes from Myrtle Beach’s top holiday events
- Free parking, Wi-Fi, and spacious accommodations for families and couples
- Seasonal packages and special offers
Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat or a family holiday getaway, Marina Inn offers the perfect blend of location, luxury, and holiday cheer.
Frequently Asked Questions
I. Is Myrtle Beach a good place to visit at Christmas?
Yes! Myrtle Beach offers mild weather, festive lights, Christmas shows, parades, and family-friendly fun all season long.
II. What are the best Christmas shows in Myrtle Beach?
Top shows include The Carolina Opry Christmas Special, Pirates Voyage, and Alabama Theatre’s Grandest Christmas Show.
III. What is the weather like in Myrtle Beach in December?
Expect cool, mild temperatures ranging from the upper 40s to low 60s, perfect for outdoor lights and cozy evenings.
IV. Where can I see Christmas lights in Myrtle Beach?
Check out Brookgreen Gardens, The Great Christmas Light Show, and Winter Wonderland at the Beach.
V. Are things open in Myrtle Beach during Christmas?
Yes, most attractions, shops, and restaurants remain open throughout December with special holiday hours.
VI. Is Myrtle Beach crowded during the holidays?
The holidays are popular, especially weekends, but far less crowded than summer.
VII. What is Winter Wonderland at the Beach?
A seasonal event on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk with lights, ice skating, and holiday activities.
Book Your Myrtle Beach Holiday Stay at Marina Inn
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.
