Discover more than sea, sun and sky while in Myrtle Beach during the holiday season. Boasting over 60 miles of coastline, the destination plays host to several holiday events and productions, while many of its attractions adorn themselves with holiday-themed features.
“Myrtle Beach’s comfortable temperatures and sun are a great way to enjoy the holiday season,” said Sandy Haines, group tour sales manager at Visit Myrtle Beach. “Groups still get to enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays, but without the cold.”
Experience Ripley’s Aquarium Festival of Trees — featuring more than 50 decorated trees and South Carolina’s largest collection of Christmas trees. Of course, the aquarium’s many other experiences are a huge draw — with many hands-on and interactive animal encounters available for groups; swim with stingrays or take the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure, with only three inches of glass separating groups from the creatures below. Group rates apply for parties of at least 10.
Melding nature, art and history, Brookgreen Gardens hosts Nights of 1,000 Candles during the holiday season. Groups will experience the garden with over 2,700 hand-lit candles and a selection of festive sparkling lights. Named “Best Christmas Lights in South Carolina” by Travel + Leisure Magazine, the event also includes carolers and holiday music that can be enjoyed with cozy drinks like cocoa, cider and wine.
Both a great place to sample wine and find the perfect holiday gift, Duplin Winery is one of the oldest and largest wineries in the South. Seasonal wines and wine accessories are exclusively available during the holiday season and groups will enjoy the dazzling décor that enhances the location at Christmastime.
Make sure to make time for the many festive events taking place in Myrtle Beach during the holidays. The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood Gingerbread Lane Competition brings a whole different spectacle to the restaurant, with competitors bringing in gingerbread houseboats, lighthouses and other unique sweet structures. Stay and enjoy Calabash — lightly battered, deep-fried seafood.
Often called “The Christmas Show of the South,” the Carolina Opry Christmas Special is opening its 36th season on Nov. 1. For the 2021 season, groups will see famous baritone Moses Braxton, All That! clogging group and Nashville recording artist Brad Long — among others — all accompanied by the Calvin Gilmore orchestra and the show’s award-wining cast. Groups will also marvel at the many holiday decorations on display while enjoying the show. The Carolina Christmas Opry Special runs through Jan. 5, 2022, and the 2023 season is soon to be announced.
Alabama Theatre’s award-wining production, The South’s Grandest Christmas Show, features singers and dancers dressed in sparkling costumes performing an assortment of Christmas classics. Each year boasts a special guest, with this season welcoming Comedic Juggler Slim Chance.
To book a group holiday adventure, contact Sandy Haines at 843-916-7248 or sandy.haines@visitmyrtlebeach.com. To learn more, visit visitmyrtlebeach.com.
