Myrtle Beach, January 27, 2026
Myrtle Beach, a vibrant destination along the South Carolina coast, is gearing up for a thrilling year of family-friendly entertainment and live music. Local entrepreneurs and community leaders are collaborating to provide a diverse array of activities and events that cater to families and music lovers alike. From exciting attractions to a packed calendar filled with festivals and performances, Myrtle Beach is creating an engaging environment for visitors and residents, highlighting its commitment to innovation and community growth.
Myrtle Beach: Your 2026 Guide to Family Fun & Live Music
Discover how local initiative and vibrant partnerships are shaping Myrtle Beach’s diverse entertainment landscape for families and music lovers in the coming year.
Myrtle Beach, a beacon of community and enterprise along the South Carolina coast, is set to deliver an exceptional array of family-friendly entertainment and live music events throughout 2026. The city’s thriving event calendar is a testament to the dedication of local organizers, businesses, and volunteers who, through personal initiative and strategic partnerships, continuously enrich the lives of both residents and visitors. This vibrant schedule underscores how a community focused on civic innovation and robust local leadership can foster an environment where diverse interests flourish, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
A Hub for Family Entertainment in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach continues to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for families, offering an extensive selection of activities and attractions designed for all ages. The spirit of local entrepreneurship and a commitment to wholesome entertainment are evident in the variety of options available.
Year-Round Family Attractions
Popular venues like Broadway at the Beach offer a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, and kid-friendly attractions. Visitors can explore establishments such as Ripley’s Aquarium and WonderWorks, which provide engaging and educational experiences for curious minds. New for 2026, the Illusionarium at Broadway at the Beach is set to blend live magic performances with interactive technology, promising a captivating experience for all ages. Other beloved spots like Apache Family Campground host regular movie nights and community activities, fostering a sense of togetherness under the stars. The Sea Crest Resort blog also highlights the abundance of kid-friendly activities, attractions, and restaurants that make Myrtle Beach an ideal family vacation spot.
Dedicated Family Events in 2026
The 2026 calendar is already brimming with specific family-focused events. The Ripley’s Penguin Dash 5K, including a 1-mile walk/run and a free Toddler Waddle, is scheduled for Saturday, February 7, at Ripley’s Aquarium, celebrating South African Penguins. The Myrtle Beach Marathon on Saturday, March 7, offers options for a full marathon, half marathon, 5K, and a Family Fun Run, encouraging participation across all ages and fitness levels. Seasonal celebrations, such as the North Myrtle Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival on Saturday, March 14, feature a family-friendly street festival with vendors, live entertainment, and children’s activities. The Conway Riverfest on June 27 provides activities and games for all ages, along with live entertainment. Looking ahead to the festive season, events like the Dickens Christmas Show & Festival in November and A Southern Times Square on December 31, 2026, offer family-friendly fun to welcome the New Year.
The Rhythm of the Coast: Myrtle Beach’s Live Music Scene
Myrtle Beach’s vibrant music scene thrives on the initiative of private venues and event organizers who consistently bring diverse acts to the Grand Strand. From intimate local performances to large-scale festivals, the area offers a rich tapestry of live musical experiences.
Spotlight on Live Performances
The Alabama Theatre in North Myrtle Beach is gearing up for an exciting 2026 with tribute acts like Mandy Barnett Sings Patsy Cline on January 31, EVIL WOMAN The American ELO on February 14, and 1964 The Tribute on July 18, alongside performances by artists such as NEEDTOBREATHE on February 15 and Forever Motown on July 25. The House of Blues Myrtle Beach also lists a dynamic 2026 schedule, featuring tribute bands like Strutter (A Tribute to Kiss) and Uncaged (Zac Brown Tribute), along with original artists such as Shane Smith & the Saints. Local events like the Shuckin’ on the Strand Oyster Roast on February 14 in Murrells Inlet will feature live entertainment by Paul Grimshaw. The Surfside Beach BBQ Festival on March 6-7 will also include live music as part of its family-friendly offerings.
Major Music Festivals in 2026
Highlighting the commitment to large-scale entertainment is the Carolina Country Music Fest (CCMF), returning June 4-7, 2026, to Burroughs & Chapin Pavilion Place. This family-friendly, four-day festival is set to feature headliners like Post Malone, Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, Riley Green, and Brantley Gilbert, alongside over 40 other artists. Additionally, the Muzika! The Grand Strand Music Festival, running throughout June 2026, will present 30 performances across multiple venues, showcasing world-class productions from opera to musical theater, including a Master Artists Concert Series. These events demonstrate the scale of private investment and organizational skill in delivering top-tier entertainment to the region.
Fostering Community Growth Through Civic Innovation and Partnerships
Myrtle Beach’s trajectory for community growth is significantly shaped by civic innovation, the strategic deployment of local leadership, and robust private partnerships. These elements are vital in creating and sustaining a vibrant environment for residents and visitors alike.
The Arts and Innovation District
A prime example of forward-thinking urban development is the ongoing creation of the Arts and Innovation District in downtown Myrtle Beach. This initiative represents the city’s flagship investment in its Downtown Master Plan, aiming to cultivate a walkable, sustainable, mixed-use urban environment that will serve as a central hub for artistic, cultural, and civic life. The district, encompassing the Downtown Historic District, is envisioned to include new city offices, a library, museums, a performing arts center, and a co-work space for entrepreneurs, alongside a new city square for events. This comprehensive approach, driven by passionate individuals from various sectors, seeks to remove physical and economic hurdles to growth, demonstrating how collaborative planning can capitalize on innovative thinking for the future of the Myrtle Beach community.
Recognizing Local Achievers and Volunteers
The importance of individual achievement and volunteerism is celebrated through various award programs. The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Awards, scheduled for April 16, 2026, will honor local businesses and individuals for their creativity, ingenuity, and achievements. Categories include Small Business of the Year, Business of the Year, Nonprofit of the Year, Community Impact Award, Chamber Volunteer of the Year, Tourism Partner of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Young Professional of the Year, with nominations closing on February 1, 2026. These awards highlight the significant contributions of those who dedicate their time and effort to improving the local economy and unique qualities of the area. Additionally, the Governor’s Volunteer Awards (State-level), with nominations due by January 31, 2026, annually celebrate individuals who make South Carolina a better place to live and work through their dedicated service.
Collaborative Community Programs
Organizations like Partnership Grand Strand are actively engaged in bringing together local businesses, leaders, and community members to enhance the area through various programs and workshops. Similarly, Destination North Myrtle Beach prioritizes economic resilience, leadership development, and community engagement, even hosting a Volunteer Fair to connect nonprofits and civic groups with community members eager to serve. The Keep Myrtle Beach Beautiful initiative, supported by PalmettoPride, exemplifies how community involvement and partnerships with volunteers, businesses, and city officials can drive efforts in beautification, litter reduction, and sustainability, ensuring a vibrant and welcoming community for all. Programs like SALT (Seniors Active in Life & Travel) further contribute to community engagement by offering affordable and enriching experiences for seniors, including local classes, clubs, and excursions. These collective efforts underscore a powerful model of community development, emphasizing personal initiative and effective collaboration over extensive governmental mandates.
Anticipating 2026: What to Expect
The outlook for 2026 in Myrtle Beach is one of sustained growth and dynamic engagement. The events already announced demonstrate a continued commitment to offering a broad spectrum of entertainment and community activities. While specific lineups for some events will be finalized throughout the year, the established tradition of vibrant festivals, captivating shows, and community-driven initiatives ensures that Myrtle Beach remains a lively destination. The ongoing development of the Arts and Innovation District, combined with the tireless efforts of local volunteers and business leaders, promises a future where the community thrives through self-reliance and cooperative spirit.
Myrtle Beach continues to be a shining example of how local choice and leadership can significantly boost engagement and participation, reinforcing the community’s appeal as a place to live, work, and visit.
The year 2026 in Myrtle Beach is poised to offer a rich tapestry of experiences, from family-friendly outings to captivating live music performances. This ongoing success is a clear indicator of a community that values individual achievement and the power of collaborative enterprise. To truly experience the pulse of the Grand Strand, consider supporting local events and engaging with the community programs that make Myrtle Beach such a unique destination. Stay tuned to HEREmyrtlebeach.com for the latest updates on Myrtle Beach SC events, opportunities to participate in the Myrtle Beach community, and information on exciting South Carolina gatherings throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions about Myrtle Beach Events in 2026
What are some family-friendly events scheduled for Myrtle Beach in 2026?
In 2026, Myrtle Beach will host numerous family-friendly events including Restaurant Week South Carolina from January 8-18, the Ripley’s Penguin Dash 5K on February 7, the Myrtle Beach Marathon on March 7 with options for a Family Fun Run, the Surfside Beach BBQ Festival on March 6-7, and the North Myrtle Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival on March 14. Additionally, the Carolina Country Music Fest from June 4-7 is family-friendly.
Where can I find live music in Myrtle Beach during 2026?
Live music can be found at various venues and events in Myrtle Beach throughout 2026. The Alabama Theatre has scheduled performances like Mandy Barnett Sings Patsy Cline on January 31, EVIL WOMAN The American ELO on February 14, and NEEDTOBREATHE on February 15. The Carolina Country Music Fest from June 4-7 will feature headliners such as Post Malone, Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, Riley Green, and Brantley Gilbert. The House of Blues Myrtle Beach also has a 2026 show schedule. Many festivals, including the Surfside Beach BBQ Festival and the North Myrtle Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival, will feature live music.
What is the Arts and Innovation District in Myrtle Beach?
The Arts and Innovation District is a flagship investment by the City of Myrtle Beach in its Downtown Master Plan. It aims to create a walkable, sustainable, mixed-use urban environment in the heart of downtown, serving as a hub for artistic, cultural, and civic life. The district is planned to include new city offices, a library, museums, a performing arts center, a co-work space for entrepreneurs, and a new city square for events.
How does Myrtle Beach recognize community involvement and volunteerism?
Myrtle Beach recognizes community involvement and volunteerism through annual awards. The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Awards on April 16, 2026, will present awards in categories such as Community Impact Award and Chamber Volunteer of the Year. Nominations for these awards close on February 1, 2026. Additionally, the State-level Governor’s Volunteer Awards celebrate dedicated volunteers in South Carolina, with nominations due by January 31, 2026.
Are there community programs focused on beautification and sustainability in Myrtle Beach?
Yes, the Keep Myrtle Beach Beautiful initiative is a community program focused on beautification, litter reduction, and sustainability. Supported by PalmettoPride, it involves partnerships with volunteers, businesses, and city officials to create a cleaner and greener Myrtle Beach.
Key Features of Myrtle Beach’s 2026 Entertainment Landscape
| Feature | Description | Examples/Details for 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Family-Friendly Entertainment | A wide array of attractions and events designed for all ages, emphasizing wholesome fun and engagement. | Ripley’s Penguin Dash 5K (Feb 7), Myrtle Beach Marathon Family Fun Run (Mar 7), North Myrtle Beach St. Patrick’s Day Festival (Mar 14, kids’ activities), Illusionarium at Broadway at the Beach (new), A Southern Times Square (Dec 31). |
| Live Music Venues & Events | Diverse options ranging from local performances to major festivals, showcasing various musical genres and artists. | Carolina Country Music Fest (June 4-7, headliners like Post Malone, Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton), Alabama Theatre (tribute acts and artists throughout 2026), House of Blues Myrtle Beach (diverse show schedule), Muzika! The Grand Strand Music Festival (June 2026). |
| Civic Innovation & Community Development | Strategic city investments and collaborative efforts to enhance urban areas and foster civic life. | Arts and Innovation District (new city offices, library, performing arts center, co-work space, city square), Downtown Master Plan implementation. |
| Recognition of Community Engagement | Awards and programs celebrating individual and collective contributions to the community’s well-being. | Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards (April 16), Governor’s Volunteer Awards (State-level, nominations due Jan 31, 2026), programs by Partnership Grand Strand and Destination North Myrtle Beach. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Community-led efforts focused on environmental stewardship and maintaining the area’s natural beauty. | Keep Myrtle Beach Beautiful initiative (litter reduction, beautification, sustainability) supported by PalmettoPride. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Myrtle Beach’s Vibrant Events: A Catalyst for Community Prosperity
Myrtle Beach: Horry County’s Return to OPCON 3 Powers Local Businesses
Myrtle Beach’s Economic Pulse: Free Food & Fresh Growth
Recent Arrests Highlight Public Safety Issues in Horry County
Outdoor Education & Sports Surge in Myrtle Beach Schools
Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s Impact on Grand Strand Education
Coastal Carolina University Expands Academic Offerings
Myrtle Beach Events Adapt to Winter Weather Challenges
Myrtle Beach Celebrates Community & Culture at The Market Common
Coastal Cowgirl Chic Arrives in Myrtle Beach
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.
