Expectations are great on the Grand Strand for Christmas lights.
Besides the spirited lift that festive lights give us, it’s a relaxing activity to take in with the family. What a great combination that warmer beach weather and holiday festivities can make. It’s a combination of two of our favorite things.
Where to see the lights in Myrtle Beach
Enjoy dinner on the Grand Strand. After twilight, visit some of the area’s most incredible displays.
Celebration Of Lights
Most holiday travelers are in agreement: Conway is a cute place to visit this time of year.
When and where: Weekends, Dec. 4-Dec. 24, 5:30-10:30 p.m., Downtown Conway
What makes it cool: The town’s quaint main street and beautiful Riverwalk lend to the ambiance. Take the mile drive to see lights and holiday scenes. Roast marshmallows, make s’mores, enjoy hot chocolate, and more.
RECOMMENDED: Fridays and Saturdays, 6-8 p.m., visit Santa. Enjoy a fish dinner at Shelly’s Seafood (1515 3rd Avenue) nearby before you make the drive.
The Great Christmas Light Show
This display is the source of limitless holiday spirit.
When and where: Nov. 21-Dec. 30, except Nov. 24-25 and Dec. 25. North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex.
What makes it cool: This monstrous display now has new lights and displays for a new experience. Drive through to see 2 million lights in a 2-mile stretch. Some displays are as tall as 55 feet, custom-made for this show.
RECOMMENDED: Check out Santa’s village, weekends only, Nov. 25-Dec. 11. Park and walk to a free petting zoo, photo ops, visits with Santa, and more.
Nights Of A Thousand Candles
Your pursuit of a one-of-a-kind holiday experience ends here.
When and where: Nov. 26-Jan. 1, Thursdays through Sundays, 4-9 p.m., Brookgreen Gardens.
What makes it cool: The prevalence of hand-lit candles, some 2,800 of them. Add to that a myriad of sparkling lights and you have a breathtaking display. Stop for hot cider or hot chocolate. Adult beverages are available to buy, too.
RECOMMENDED: Come for dining onsite and live entertainment. That makes for a wonderful date night or family experience.
Ripley’s Aquarium Festival Of Trees
This event is sure to move the needle on your holiday outlook!
When and where: Friday, Nov. 4, 2-4 p.m., Ripley’s Aquarium
What makes it cool: The flavors of area breweries and wineries. Check out selections from Crooked Hammock Brewery, Duplin Winery, Tidal Creek Brewhouse, and more. Try free samples and buy full pours of your favorites.
RECOMMENDED: After the festival, head to Mama Mia Pizzeria for dinner. Folks are nice there, and the pizza and ice cream are pretty awesome, too.
Winter Wonderland At The Beach
You’ll have an attitude of gratitude after visiting this holiday display.
When and where: Nov. 26-Dec. 23, 6-9 p.m., Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
What makes it cool: You thought the boardwalk was spectacular during the summer. It is, but this is holiday extra, beyond lights on the oceanfront. There’ll be a new Family Fun Zone with activities and entertainment, too.
RECOMMENDED: Get your kids’ photos with Santa and his sleigh. They’ll be here Saturday nights at the Ninth Avenue Beach Access, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Circle Back to the Strand Resort After Your Festivities
For an incredible holiday stay, the top choice is The Strand Resort. Enjoy that home-away-from-home experience, right on the beach, with so many wonderful amenities.
Eat on the Grand Strand like Tyler Florence of the TV show Extra Mile did. Learn more about monthly rentals, and book your stay at The Strand today.
