News Summary
The Carolina Country Music Fest in Myrtle Beach wrapped up with approximately 35,000 attendees enjoying performances by major country artists. Despite weather-related delays, the festival thrived, benefiting local businesses and showcasing the growth of the event since its inception. With innovative cashless transactions and improved logistics, attendees enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere that emphasized community engagement and local culture.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – The Carolina Country Music Fest (CCMF) concluded on Sunday night, wrapping up a vibrant weekend filled with music, food, and large crowds. Despite facing weather-related delays, the festival attracted approximately 35,000 attendees that night and showcased major country music artists.
Attendees were treated to performances by a variety of popular country acts, with Kid Rock serving as the festival’s closing act. The final night also featured a surprise performance by Chase Rice and a notable concert from Jelly Roll, who closed out the night amid security provided by Horry County deputies.
However, the event did not unfold without challenges. Severe storms prompted a precautionary evacuation before the festival gates were scheduled to open at 1 p.m. on Sunday. The gates eventually opened after a delay at 3:10 p.m., allowing festivalgoers to enjoy the high-spirited atmosphere and the day themed as “U.S. of A. Day.” Many attendees took the opportunity to dress in patriotic apparel as they awaited performances.
Local Businesses Thrived
The influx of festival-goers significantly benefited local businesses. Restaurants such as Art Burger Sushi reported a surge in customers, serving hundreds since the festival began on Thursday. Tourists visiting from neighborhoods like Fayetteville, North Carolina, remarked on the bustling scene and the variety of culinary options available throughout the city.
Cashless Transactions and Accessibility
The festival implemented various measures for a seamless experience, including the option for attendees to connect credit cards to wristbands for cashless transactions. Additionally, payment methods like Apple Pay and Samsung Pay were accepted, although Google/Android Pay was not supported. The wristbands were non-transferable but could be replaced at Will Call for those who lost or damaged theirs after verification.
Festival Logistics and Transportation
Organizers facilitated transportation by providing parking and shuttle services from the former Myrtle Square Mall parking lot. This amenity was crucial in easing accessibility for attendees, as they were able to avoid traffic congestion while accessing the festival grounds.
The Growth of CCMF
Since its inception in 2015, the Carolina Country Music Fest has seen a remarkable increase in attendance. The event started with around 20,000 attendees and has now grown to attract over 35,000 visitors each night. This growth reflects both the popularity of country music and the community’s eagerness to engage in local events.
The festival lineup also featured music legends like The Beach Boys, generating excitement amongst attendees, especially with the anticipated appearance of actor John Stamos. Throughout the event, several heroes of the community were recognized and honored, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to celebrating local talent and contributions.
Alternate Viewing Experiences
For those who preferred not to enter the crowded festival grounds, many local dining establishments and accommodations near the event provided opportunities to enjoy live music. Patrons were able to soak in the performances from a distance while relishing the festival atmosphere and local cuisine.
As this year’s edition of the Carolina Country Music Fest draws to a close, it marks another successful chapter in Myrtle Beach’s efforts to host large-scale cultural events. The community looks forward to the festival’s return in the following year, promising to bring more music, entertainment, and camaraderie to the shores of South Carolina.
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Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Day 4 Carolina Country Music Fest Celebrates with Last Hurrah
- Wikipedia: Carolina Country Music Fest
- WPDE: CCMF Day 4 – Storms Postpone Gate Opening
- Google Search: Carolina Country Music Fest
- Myrtle Beach Online: Traffic at Carolina Country Music Fest
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myrtle Beach
- WBTW: Weather Delays Opening of Gates on First Day of Carolina Country Music Fest
- Google News: Carolina Country Music Fest
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
