Myrtle Beach, February 3, 2026
Myrtle Beach is set to host a variety of festivals and family-friendly activities throughout the upcoming year. Local organizers and volunteers are working hard to create vibrant events that boost both the community and economy. From music and arts to culinary celebrations, there are numerous opportunities for residents and visitors to engage with the lively spirit of the Grand Strand. The event calendar features unique highlights such as the Night of a Thousand Candles and the Carolina Country Music Fest, promising a dynamic year ahead.
Myrtle Beach, SC – The Grand Strand is buzzing with anticipation for a vibrant calendar of festivals and family-friendly events throughout 2026, showcasing a community committed to fostering engaging experiences for residents and visitors alike. This year’s lineup reflects the energy and dedication of local organizers and volunteers, whose personal initiative is crucial in bringing these celebrations to life. Their efforts underscore how a responsive local environment, often characterized by streamlined coordination, can significantly enhance civic innovation and community growth.
From energetic music festivals that draw crowds from across the region to intimate local gatherings celebrating arts and heritage, Myrtle Beach and its surrounding communities are poised for a year filled with opportunities for individual achievement and collective enjoyment. These events not only boost the local economy but also strengthen the bonds within our community, illustrating the tangible benefits of active civic involvement and private partnerships in creating enriching public spaces and activities.
A Season of Spectacular Gatherings
The year kicks off with a festive atmosphere, blending holiday traditions with unique local flair. January in Myrtle Beach welcomes the Night of a Thousand Candles from January 1-4 at Brookgreen Gardens, transforming the grounds into an illuminated wonderland. Concurrently, the Grand Strand Boat Show and Sportsman Expo runs from January 9-11 at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, catering to outdoor enthusiasts. Food lovers can look forward to Restaurant Week South Carolina, an annual culinary celebration from January 8-18 featuring special menus and deals at local establishments. North Myrtle Beach also hosts the North Myrtle Beach Elvis Festival from January 29-31, bringing Elvis tribute artists to the Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre.
Family Fun and Community Engagement
As winter transitions to spring, opportunities for family fun and community engagement abound. February 7 sees the Ripley’s Penguin Dash 5K at Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, offering a fun run and walk for all ages to celebrate South African Penguins. The Myrtle Beach Gun Show takes place from February 7-8 at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, providing a platform for enthusiasts to explore firearms and accessories. Downtown Myrtle Beach celebrates coastal culture with the Oysters & Art Festival on February 14 at Nance Plaza, while Murrells Inlet hosts the Shuckin’ on the Strand Oyster Roast on February 14 at the Hot Fish Club, touted as the Grand Strand’s largest oyster roast. The month also includes the Spring Home Show from February 20-22 and the Grand Strand Bridal Expo on February 28, both at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.
Springtime Celebrations and Cultural Highlights
March heralds a series of vibrant spring events. Pawleys Island will be alive with the SC Crawfish & Music Festival on March 7 at JB’s Celebration Park, featuring live music, fresh crawfish, and local vendors. The North Myrtle Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival on March 14 will fill Main Street with floats, music, food, and Irish-themed festivities, marking its 36th year. The long-standing bond with Canadian visitors is celebrated during Can-Am Days from March 13-22 across the Grand Strand. Classic car enthusiasts will converge for the Run to the Sun Car Show on March 19. April brings the Myrtle Beach Food Truck Festival from April 10-12 at the Old Myrtle Beach Mall Site and the Myrtle Beach International Film Festival from April 21-25, offering a diverse range of cinematic works.
Summertime Spectacles and Signature Events
Summer in Myrtle Beach is synonymous with large-scale gatherings and musical showcases. The Ocean Drive Beach Music Festival kicks off May on May 2 in North Myrtle Beach. Golf aficionados can experience the Myrtle Beach Classic, a prestigious PGA TOUR event from May 7-10. The World Famous Blue Crab Festival, recognized as one of the largest festivals in the Southeast, takes place May 16-17 at the Historic Little River Waterfront in Little River, SC. A major highlight for music lovers is the Carolina Country Music Fest (CCMF) from June 4-7 at Burroughs and Chapin Pavilion Place, featuring headliners like Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan, and Post Malone. The Conway Riverfest on June 27 provides family-friendly activities, live music, and fireworks along the Waccamaw River. The entire month of June also hosts Muzika! The Grand Strand Music Festival with 30 performances across various venues. Independence Day is celebrated with numerous events including the Salute from the Shore (State-level military flyover), fireworks displays along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and at Barefoot Landing, and the Murrells Inlet Boat Parade. The Craftsmen’s Summer Classic, a major arts and crafts festival, is scheduled for July 31 – August 2 at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.
Fall Festivities and Year-End Wonders
As the leaves begin to turn, the Grand Strand continues its vibrant event schedule. The Carolina Cup Surf Fest is planned for September in Surfside Beach, with dates to be announced. October brings the Halloween BOOnanza to the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex, offering a spooky, family-friendly evening of magic shows, games, and trick-or-treating. November’s highlight is the annual Taste of the Town at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, allowing attendees to sample local cuisine. The year concludes with festive lights and cheer, including the MarshWalk Wonderland of Lights throughout December in Murrells Inlet, and the A Southern Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration at The Market Common.
Supporting Our Local Tapestry
The success of these numerous events is a testament to the robust civic engagement and entrepreneurial spirit prevalent in our communities. Local leaders, businesses, and countless volunteers demonstrate personal initiative in organizing, funding, and executing these gatherings, often navigating logistical challenges with efficiency and dedication. Their collective efforts minimize the need for extensive bureaucratic oversight and instead empower community choice, resulting in a diverse and enriching calendar that truly reflects the interests and values of the Grand Strand. By supporting these local events, whether by attending, volunteering, or patronizing local vendors, residents and visitors directly contribute to the continued vitality and shared prosperity of the Myrtle Beach SC events scene and foster sustained community growth through civic engagement. Stay informed about these exciting family fun Myrtle Beach activities and local festivals as details emerge throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2026 Grand Strand Events
What are some upcoming festivals in Myrtle Beach in January 2026?
January in Myrtle Beach welcomes the Night of a Thousand Candles from January 1-4 at Brookgreen Gardens. Concurrently, the Grand Strand Boat Show and Sportsman Expo runs from January 9-11 at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. Food lovers can look forward to Restaurant Week South Carolina, an annual culinary celebration from January 8-18 featuring special menus and deals at local establishments. North Myrtle Beach also hosts the North Myrtle Beach Elvis Festival from January 29-31, bringing Elvis tribute artists to the Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre.
Are there any family-friendly events in Myrtle Beach in February 2026?
February 7 sees the Ripley’s Penguin Dash 5K at Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, offering a fun run and walk for all ages to celebrate South African Penguins. The Spring Home Show from February 20-22 and the Grand Strand Bridal Expo on February 28 are also held at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.
What major music festival is happening in Myrtle Beach in June 2026?
A major highlight for music lovers is the Carolina Country Music Fest (CCMF) from June 4-7 at Burroughs and Chapin Pavilion Place, featuring headliners like Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan, and Post Malone.
What Independence Day celebrations are planned for the Grand Strand?
Independence Day is celebrated with numerous events including the Salute from the Shore (State-level military flyover), fireworks displays along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and at Barefoot Landing, and the Murrells Inlet Boat Parade.
When is the World Famous Blue Crab Festival held?
The World Famous Blue Crab Festival, recognized as one of the largest festivals in the Southeast, takes place May 16-17 at the Historic Little River Waterfront in Little River, SC.
Key Features of 2026 Grand Strand Events
| Event Category | Description | Key Highlights | Location(s) | Time of Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music Festivals | Variety of genres, from country to beach music and Elvis tributes. | Carolina Country Music Fest, Ocean Drive Beach Music Festival, North Myrtle Beach Elvis Festival | Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach | January, May, June |
| Family & Community Events | Activities catering to all ages, promoting local engagement. | Ripley’s Penguin Dash 5K, Halloween BOOnanza, Conway Riverfest | Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Conway | February, June, October |
| Arts & Culture | Showcasing local and international talent in film and crafts. | Myrtle Beach International Film Festival, Craftsmen’s Summer Classic, Oysters & Art Festival | Various Myrtle Beach locations, Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Downtown Myrtle Beach | February, April, July/August |
| Culinary & Food | Opportunities to sample local cuisine and regional specialties. | Restaurant Week South Carolina, World Famous Blue Crab Festival, Myrtle Beach Food Truck Festival, Shuckin’ on the Strand Oyster Roast | Throughout Myrtle Beach, Little River, Historic Little River Waterfront, Old Myrtle Beach Mall Site, Murrells Inlet | January, February, April, May, November |
| Seasonal & Holiday | Events celebrating specific times of the year and holidays. | Night of a Thousand Candles, North Myrtle Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival, Fourth of July Celebrations, MarshWalk Wonderland of Lights, A Southern Times Square | Brookgreen Gardens, North Myrtle Beach, Various Grand Strand locations, Murrells Inlet, The Market Common | January, March, July, December |
| Sports & Hobbies | Events for enthusiasts of cars, boats, and outdoor activities. | Grand Strand Boat Show and Sportsman Expo, Myrtle Beach Gun Show, Run to the Sun Car Show, Myrtle Beach Classic (PGA TOUR), Carolina Cup Surf Fest | Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach | January, February, March, May, September |
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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.
