Myrtle Beach Sparkles with Holiday Cheer at the Festival of Trees!
Hey Myrtle Beach! If you’re looking for a jolly way to get into the festive spirit this holiday season, then you’re in for a treat. Ripley’s Aquarium welcomes you to its enchanting Festival of Trees, where holiday magic is all around, and it’s definitely an event you won’t want to miss!
65 Beautifully Decorated Trees Await!
This year, the festival is going big with a total of 65 stunning trees lining the halls of the aquarium. One particularly special addition is the tree from Coastal Carolina University, which adds a local twist to the holiday display. And that’s not all! Each of the 55 U.S. states and territories is represented with its very own uniquely adorned tree, giving visitors a delightful journey through the country—no travel required!
Join the Scavenger Hunt!
While you meander through this garden of sparkling trees, don’t forget to check out the scavenger hunt! It’s a fun-filled way to engage the whole family as you explore the aquarium. Everyone, from little ones to adults, will enjoy hunting for clues and discovering what festive surprises await behind each corner.
A True Holiday Tradition
For many families in Myrtle Beach, the festival is now a cherished annual holiday tradition. The aquarium transforms into a winter wonderland, and there’s something truly special about gathering together to revel in the holiday joy. The air is filled with laughter and excitement, as people of all ages find their own little pieces of holiday magic.
Mark Your Calendars for the Tree Lighting!
Don’t forget to circle November 30 on your calendar for the Free Annual Tree Lighting Spectacular. Festivities kick off at 5:30 p.m., so get ready for an evening filled with games, dancing, and, of course, warm cups of hot chocolate. The highlight of the evening will be the grand lighting of the outdoor USA Plaza tree at 7 p.m., a moment that sparkles just as bright as the holiday lights around it!
Santa Claus is Coming to Town!
And guess what? It wouldn’t be the holiday season without a surprise visit from Santa! That’s right! Santa will be making a stop at the aquarium to spread even more holiday cheer and snap some photos with eager little ones. So, if you’ve got a wish list, it’s time to bring it along!
When To Visit
The Festival of Trees runs through January 5, which means you’ve got plenty of time to experience this beautiful holiday showcase. If you love the holidays, this is the perfect opportunity to soak in festive vibes while enjoying a leisurely stroll through the aquarium.
Make Magical Memories!
So, there you have it! A wonderful way to embrace the holiday season in Myrtle Beach is just around the corner. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the Festival of Trees at Ripley’s Aquarium promises to be a magical experience full of joy, laughter, and lots of holiday spirit. Bring your family, grab those hot chocolates, and get ready for a night that you’ll cherish forever!

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.


