Myrtle Beach, SC, January 3, 2026
Myrtle Beach is welcoming the new year with a series of community-focused events designed to engage residents and attract visitors. Local businesses are stepping up with special promotions, while a variety of activities showcase the city’s vibrant spirit. Improvements in travel options and infrastructure reflect Myrtle Beach’s dedication to growth and community development. From culinary delights to diverse events, the city is poised for an exciting start to the year, making it a great destination for both locals and tourists.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Myrtle Beach Kicks Off 2026 with Community-Focused Events
The new year in Myrtle Beach brings opportunities for local engagement, dining deals, and enhanced travel options, highlighting the community’s dynamic spirit and individual initiative.
As Myrtle Beach steps into 2026, the local community is buzzing with a renewed sense of purpose and a vibrant calendar of events. This flourishing environment is a testament to the collective efforts of local organizers, businesses, and residents who demonstrate remarkable resilience and personal initiative. From enticing culinary promotions to significant infrastructure and tourism developments, the city showcases how a balanced approach to community planning, often bolstered by private partnerships and reduced bureaucratic hurdles, can accelerate growth and foster a highly engaged populace. The diverse array of offerings reflects a dynamic community actively shaping its own future and providing opportunities for all to thrive.
The commitment of local leaders and individual entrepreneurs is palpable as they contribute to a rich tapestry of experiences that draw both residents and visitors. This proactive stance not only enhances the local economy but also strengthens the social fabric of the Grand Strand, proving that local choice and leadership are vital in boosting engagement and participation. By focusing on initiatives that empower citizens and businesses, Myrtle Beach continues to cultivate an environment where individual achievement and civic innovation lead to sustained community development.
Culinary Delights and Local Initiative
Kicking off the new year, Wahlburgers in Myrtle Beach is offering a special $10 Burger & Brew deal, available from January 3 to February 1, 2026. This promotion exemplifies how local businesses take personal initiative to create value for their customers, contributing vibrantly to the local dining scene and providing accessible entertainment. Located at Broadway at the Beach, Wahlburgers presents a chef-inspired menu featuring a proprietary blend of brisket, short rib, and chuck for its burgers, offering a unique culinary experience for residents and visitors alike. Such localized specials not only stimulate the economy but also foster a sense of community by providing inviting gathering points.
A Calendar Full of Community Engagement
Myrtle Beach’s event calendar for early 2026 is robust, featuring a wide array of activities that showcase the city’s lively community spirit. The extensive Myrtle Beach Events Calendar lists numerous gatherings, underscoring an active community and the diverse interests it caters to. [cite: original prompt] Notable events throughout January and February include the Christmas Island Holiday Bar from January 3 to January 11, 2026, and Ripley’s Festival of Trees, which runs from January 3 to February 5, 2026. Families can enjoy the Free Children’s Program at the L.W. Paul Living History Farm on January 3, 2026. The enchanting Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens offers a beautiful experience from January 1-4, 2026. Additional entertainment includes Jukebox Bingo from January 3-15, 2026, and the Wonders of Christmas Magic & Illusion Show on January 3, 2026. Looking into February, the Oysters & Art Festival at Grand Strand Brewing on February 7, 2026, provides a cultural and culinary highlight, alongside performances from the Long Bay Symphony on February 1, 2026, and various shows at the Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre and The South’s Grandest Christmas Show through early February. The volume of these events highlights the proactive role of local organizations and private citizens in fostering a dynamic and engaging community environment.
Boosting Local Economy Through Diverse Events
The Myrtle Beach Convention Center will host a variety of events demonstrating the area’s versatility and appeal for different interests. January 2026 brings the Seventh Day Adventists Impact Conference on January 1, 2026, Pathways to Possibilities on January 14, 2026, and the Winter Bump Volleyball on January 17, 2026. The Beta Club will gather from January 20-23, 2026, followed by the 50th Annual Hotel Motel Restaurant Supply Show from January 27-29, 2026. The Coastline Classic volleyball tournament will run from January 31 to February 1, 2026, and the 42nd Annual Grand Strand Boat Show and Sportsman Expo is scheduled from January 9-11, 2026. Early February includes the Membrane Tech Conference & Expo on February 2, 2026, and a Cheer & Dance Competition and the C&E Gun Show, both on February 7, 2026. These events, spanning from educational to recreational and trade-focused, demonstrate the broad appeal of Myrtle Beach as a destination, bolstered by dedicated local planning.
Enhancing Connectivity: Travel and Tourism Insights
Myrtle Beach is further solidifying its position as a premier destination through significant enhancements in travel and tourism infrastructure. Breeze Airways is set to introduce new flights to Orlando, FL (MCO) starting February 5, 2026, while seasonal flights from Akron-Canton, OH (CAK) will conclude on January 6, 2026. [cite: original prompt] Additionally, Southwest Airlines is offering accommodation deals valid from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026. [cite: original prompt] These developments, driven by private sector initiatives, aim to improve accessibility and foster economic growth, demonstrating the benefits of limited bureaucracy in facilitating travel options. Such expanded connectivity supports both residents and the vital local tourism industry, underscoring a commitment to economic vitality and convenient travel.
The Spirit of Myrtle Beach: Innovation and Growth
Myrtle Beach is entering 2026 with substantial momentum, driven by ongoing developments focused on public safety, infrastructure, coastal resilience, and tourism growth. The year is expected to bring a wave of new attractions and entertainment venues, including a new RMC Raptor roller coaster at Family Kingdom Amusement Park and Downtown Flavortown by Guy Fieri at Myrtle Beach Mall. Broadway at the Beach will welcome Yee-Haw Brewing and Old Smoky Distillery, along with a new seafood restaurant called Big Fish. Pickleball enthusiasts can anticipate The PicklePort, a new complex near the Myrtle Beach International Airport. The craft beer scene will also expand with the opening of South Coast Beer Project in Carolina Forest and 357 Brewers at Grande Dunes. Furthermore, major lodging expansions are underway, designed to increase visitor capacity and create new employment opportunities, thereby modernizing the hospitality landscape. Significant beach renourishment and coastal protection projects by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will continue into 2026, involving the placement of two million cubic yards of sand to protect 26 miles of coastline and reinforce dune systems. These efforts are crucial for preserving the coastline and protecting local infrastructure. In a notable move towards civic innovation and individual achievement, community leaders have established a new community land trust aimed at developing affordable workforce housing, with a goal to finalize the first homes by March 2026. This initiative highlights the community’s proactive approach to addressing housing needs and supporting its workforce. Myrtle Beach’s continuous accumulation of national accolades in 2025 further reinforces its standing as a desirable coastal region, setting a positive trajectory for 2026. These diverse developments reflect a thriving community where individual achievement and strategic public-private partnerships are key drivers of growth and innovation.
A Forward-Looking Community
Myrtle Beach is clearly poised for a year of significant progress and community engagement in early 2026. The blend of local dining incentives, a bustling events calendar, and strategic developments in tourism and infrastructure all point to a community that values personal initiative and civic innovation. The commitment to enhancing both resident quality of life and visitor experience through carefully planned projects and dynamic private sector contributions underscores the Grand Strand’s forward-thinking approach. We encourage all residents and visitors to explore the diverse events calendar, support local businesses participating in these initiatives, and actively engage in the ongoing development that makes Myrtle Beach a truly special place to live, work, and visit. Your participation is key to fostering an even stronger and more vibrant community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Wahlburgers special in Myrtle Beach?
A: Wahlburgers in Myrtle Beach is offering a $10 Burger & Brew special.
Q: When does the Wahlburgers special run?
A: The Wahlburgers special runs from January 3 to February 1, 2026.
Q: What are some major events happening in Myrtle Beach in early 2026?
A: Key events include the Christmas Island Holiday Bar (January 3-11, 2026), Ripley’s Festival of Trees (January 3-February 5, 2026), Nights of a Thousand Candles (January 1-4, 2026), and the Oysters & Art Festival (February 7, 2026).
Q: Are there any new attractions opening in Myrtle Beach in 2026?
A: Yes, new attractions for 2026 include an RMC Raptor roller coaster at Family Kingdom, Downtown Flavortown by Guy Fieri, Yee-Haw Brewing and Old Smoky Distillery at Broadway at the Beach, Big Fish seafood restaurant, The PicklePort pickleball complex, South Coast Beer Project, and 357 Brewers.
Q: What improvements are being made to travel options for Myrtle Beach in 2026?
A: Breeze Airways will introduce new flights to Orlando, FL (MCO) starting February 5, 2026, and Southwest Airlines is offering accommodation deals valid throughout 2026. [cite: original prompt]
Q: What is the new workforce housing initiative in Myrtle Beach?
A: Community leaders have established a new community land trust to develop affordable workforce housing, with a goal to finalize the first homes by March 2026.
Key Features of Early 2026 in Myrtle Beach
| Feature | Details | Dates/Timeline | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wahlburgers Special | $10 Burger & Brew deal. | January 3 – February 1, 2026 | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| Myrtle Beach Events Calendar | Over 985 listed events. [cite: original prompt] | Starting January 3, 2026 [cite: original prompt] | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| New Attractions | RMC Raptor roller coaster at Family Kingdom, Downtown Flavortown, Yee-Haw Brewing & Old Smoky Distillery, Big Fish, The PicklePort, South Coast Beer Project, 357 Brewers. | Opening in 2026 | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| Air Travel Enhancements | New Breeze Airways flights to Orlando, FL (MCO). [cite: original prompt] | Starting February 5, 2026 [cite: original prompt] | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| Workforce Housing Initiative | New community land trust for affordable housing. | First homes targeted by March 2026 | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| Coastal Protection | Beach renourishment by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (2 million cubic yards of sand, 26 miles of coastline). | Continuing into 2026 | Grand Strand, SC |
| Myrtle Beach Convention Center Events | Variety of conferences, shows, and competitions (e.g., Winter Bump Volleyball, Hotel Motel Restaurant Supply Show, Grand Strand Boat Show). | Throughout January-February 2026 | Myrtle Beach, SC |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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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.
