Myrtle Beach Events Spark Community Spirit & Economic Growth

Myrtle Beach, SC, January 7, 2026

The Myrtle Beach area continues to flourish through vibrant events that highlight local heritage and foster community engagement. Events like the Historic Atlantic Beach Fun Run and Family Fun Day at WonderWorks cater to all ages, promoting health, education, and inclusivity. Running events also showcase local talent while contributing to charity and boosting the economy. With a strong focus on civic pride, these activities challenge residents and visitors alike to connect with the community, ensuring the area’s ongoing vitality and growth.

Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach Events Spark Community Spirit & Economic Vitality

From lively runs celebrating heritage to family-focused festivities, the Myrtle Beach area is a vibrant hub of activity. These community-driven events showcase the powerful synergy of local initiative, private partnerships, and civic engagement, contributing significantly to the region’s prosperity and quality of life.

The Grand Strand’s growth into a premier destination is a testament to the vision and hard work of local pioneers. The Burroughs & Collins Company of Conway, a predecessor to the modern-day Burroughs & Chapin Co., notably purchased the land that would eventually become Myrtle Beach from the Withers family, laying the groundwork for a thriving community. This spirit of entrepreneurship and dedication to local development continues to define the area, with events serving as catalysts for economic benefit and communal bonding. [cite: The History of Myrtle Beach Tourism & Attractions – MyrtleBeach.com]

Celebrating Local Heritage and Inclusivity

The 3rd Annual Historic Atlantic Beach Fun Run Honoring HBCU’s and the Divine 9 is scheduled for Saturday, November 22, 2025, with pre-race activities beginning at 7:00 AM. This event in Atlantic Beach, fondly known as The Black Pearl, highlights a historically significant African American community in Horry County, South Carolina. Atlantic Beach stands as the only remaining African American owned and governed beach municipality in the country, a legacy that began on October 11, 1934, when George Tyson purchased oceanfront land to establish a community. The fun run celebrates this enduring heritage, reflecting personal initiative and community resilience over ninety years.

Family Fun and Educational Exploration

Families can look forward to Family Fun Day at WonderWorks Myrtle Beach, with events scheduled for Sunday, September 14, 2025, and Sunday, December 21, 2025. This attraction offers “edu-tainment” with over 100 hands-on exhibits, including the Light & Sound Zone, Imagination Lab, Bubble Lab, Space Discovery Zone, XD Theater, Laser Tag, and a 40-foot indoor ropes course. North and South Carolina residents can enjoy special pricing, demonstrating a commitment to local engagement and making educational fun accessible to the community.

Races for Health, Charity, and Civic Pride

Running events are a cornerstone of community engagement in the Myrtle Beach area, promoting health, personal achievement, and charitable giving.

Coastal Carolina University’s CoastalLIFE 5K

The 3rd Annual CoastalLIFE 5K Run/Walk is set for Sunday, March 29, 2026, at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina, starting at 8:00 AM. This event includes a 5K run/walk, a 1-mile fun run, and the “Run with Chauncey Kids’ Dash,” along with a virtual 5K option for broader participation. The event supports the CoastalLIFE (Learning Is For Everyone) program, which provides individualized, residential, non-degree support for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities in academic instruction, career education, independent living, and social engagement.

Conway Under the Lights 5K

The City of Conway Under the Lights 5K, presented by Conway Parks & Recreation, invites participants to downtown Conway on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 6:00 PM. This 7th annual event offers a festive atmosphere with a light-guided course and holiday displays. A costume contest encourages creative expression, and a 1-mile fun walk welcomes furry friends through a Christmas Village, highlighting inclusive community activities. Participants in the 5K receive a t-shirt, race packet, and a finisher medal.

New Year’s Day Prediction Run 5K

The 17th GSRC New Years Day Prediction Run 5k is scheduled for January 1, 2025, at the YMCA of Coastal Carolina in Myrtle Beach, SC, starting at 10:00 AM. This unique race challenges participants to predict their finishing time without the aid of watches or GPS devices, emphasizing personal intuition and equal opportunity. Registration can be completed with a $20 cash fee or $20 worth of non-perishable food items, with all proceeds benefiting the Buck Creek Baptist Church Pantry in Longs, SC, showcasing local charity and self-reliance. A “Hair of the Dog” tailgate party follows the race, fostering community camaraderie.

Pier to Pier Beach Run

The Pier to Pier Beach Run will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Myrtle Beach, SC, with a 5K race and an untimed 1-mile fun run. The scenic course runs along the sandy beach from the Springmaid Pier and under the Myrtle Beach State Park Pier. This event is organized by Horry County Parks and Recreation, offering custom finisher medals and T-shirts to participants.

Loggerhead Liftoff Beach Run

On Saturday, May 3, 2025, the Loggerhead Liftoff Beach Run will kick off the sea turtle season on Sunset Beach, NC, offering 5K and 10K distances. This flat, level beach race is ideal for runners and walkers, with proceeds benefiting the Sunset Beach Sea Turtle Patrol to support Loggerhead conservation efforts. Cash prizes are awarded to top finishers, encouraging competitive excellence and environmental stewardship.

Run for Christ Turkey Trot

The Run for Christ Turkey Trot is a 5K and 1-mile fun walk held on November 15, 2025, at Dillon Church of God in Dillon, SC. All proceeds from this event benefit the church. The race includes a kids’ dash, a pancake breakfast, and awards for overall and age group winners, as well as a costume contest, encouraging broad community participation and fellowship.

North Myrtle Beach Turkey Trot

The 7th Annual North Myrtle Beach Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk & Gobbler Kids’ Dash is scheduled for Thursday, November 27, 2025. This popular event at Barefoot Landing often reaches capacity, underscoring the community’s enthusiasm for health-focused gatherings.

Local Talent and Cultural Contributions

Beyond organized runs and large-scale attractions, the Grand Strand is also home to individual artistic achievements. John Wood is releasing his album with a single every month, featuring songs like “Coffee On The Beach” and “Better Things,” showcasing the personal initiative of local artists who enrich the cultural landscape. [cite: Waccamaw Publishers Inc. Events – John Wood: St. Patrick’s Day at …]

The Broader Economic Impact of Community Events

These diverse events are more than just recreational activities; they are vital components of the local economy. In 2023, sports tourism alone in the City of Myrtle Beach generated $174.2 million in direct spending, with $16 million returned to local governments in taxes and fees. The inaugural Myrtle Beach Classic PGA TOUR event in 2024, for example, generated a total economic impact of $15.4 million for the Grand Strand, attracting over 40,000 spectators and engaging 1,300 volunteers. Such events not only boost local businesses and create jobs but also contribute to tax revenues that fund essential infrastructure, education, and public safety, enhancing the quality of life for residents. This demonstrates how limited bureaucracy, coupled with proactive local leadership and private sector involvement, can foster an environment where community growth flourishes.

Conclusion

The dynamic calendar of events across Myrtle Beach and its surrounding communities is a testament to the enduring spirit of civic innovation and personal initiative that defines the region. From fostering a sense of shared history to promoting health and supporting vital local programs, these gatherings underscore the profound benefits of an engaged citizenry and responsive local governance. We encourage all residents and visitors to participate in these enriching experiences, support local organizers, and contribute to the continued vitality and growth of our beloved Grand Strand. Stay informed and get involved in shaping our community’s bright future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 3rd Annual Historic Atlantic Beach Fun Run honoring?

The 3rd Annual Historic Atlantic Beach Fun Run on Saturday, November 22, 2025, honors Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU’s) and the Divine 9.

When is Family Fun Day at WonderWorks Myrtle Beach?

Family Fun Day at WonderWorks Myrtle Beach is scheduled for Sunday, September 14, 2025, and Sunday, December 21, 2025.

What is the purpose of the 3rd Annual CoastalLIFE 5K Run/Walk?

The 3rd Annual CoastalLIFE 5K Run/Walk on Sunday, March 29, 2026, supports the CoastalLIFE (Learning Is For Everyone) program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

When is the City of Conway Under the Lights 5K?

The City of Conway Under the Lights 5K is on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Downtown Conway, SC.

What is unique about the New Years Day Prediction Run 5K?

The 17th GSRC New Years Day Prediction Run 5k on January 1, 2025, is unique because participants predict their finishing time, and no watches, GPS devices, or Garmins are allowed.

Where does the Pier to Pier Beach Run take place?

The Pier to Pier Beach Run on Saturday, April 25, 2026, takes place on the sandy beach from the Springmaid Pier and then under the Myrtle Beach State Park Pier in Myrtle Beach, SC.

What cause does the Loggerhead Liftoff Beach Run support?

The Loggerhead Liftoff Beach Run on Saturday, May 3, 2025, supports the Sunset Beach Sea Turtle Patrol for Loggerhead conservation efforts.

When and where is the Run for Christ Turkey Trot?

The Run for Christ Turkey Trot is a 5K and 1-mile fun walk held on November 15, 2025, at Dillon Church of God at 536 Radford Blvd Dillon, SC.

Is the North Myrtle Beach Turkey Trot still open for registration in 2025?

No, the 7th Annual North Myrtle Beach Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk & Gobbler Kids’ Dash is sold out for 2025.

Key Features of Grand Strand Community Events

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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.