Myrtle Beach, SC, December 18, 2025
As the holiday season nears, Myrtle Beach prepares for the magical ‘Nights of a Thousand Candles’ at Brookgreen Gardens. This annual event combines stunning candlelight displays, local partnerships, and community spirit, reflecting the region’s vibrant culture. With over 2,700 hand-lit candles, live entertainment, and various dining options, the celebration not only charms visitors but also enhances local economic activity, underscoring the importance of community-driven events in preserving regional heritage.
Myrtle Beach Shines Bright: Nights of a Thousand Candles Illuminates Community Spirit
Discover how Brookgreen Gardens’ annual holiday spectacle, a testament to local initiative and private stewardship, fosters engagement and celebration in the Grand Strand.
Murrells Inlet, SC – As the holiday season approaches, the Grand Strand eagerly anticipates the return of “Nights of a Thousand Candles” at Brookgreen Gardens, an event that beautifully showcases the power of personal initiative and private endeavor in enriching our local community. This annual spectacle, located at 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet, SC, is more than just a display of lights; it is a vibrant testament to civic innovation and the enduring spirit of local organizations. Brookgreen Gardens, a renowned sculpture garden and a pillar of South Carolina’s cultural landscape, has long served as a hub for art, nature, and history, attracting both residents and visitors alike. Its ability to host such a grand, family-friendly event year after year highlights the effectiveness of dedicated local leadership and carefully managed resources, providing a cherished tradition for all without excessive bureaucratic overhead.
The consistent success of “Nights of a Thousand Candles” underscores how private partnerships and community-driven events can thrive, offering unparalleled experiences that contribute significantly to the cultural and economic vitality of the region. Recognized as one of America’s best botanical garden holiday lights and named “Best Christmas Lights in South Carolina” by Travel+Leisure Magazine, the event consistently demonstrates what can be achieved when a dedicated organization, supported by its community, focuses on creating something truly exceptional.
A Grand Strand Tradition Built on Vision
Brookgreen Gardens, a National Historic Landmark, stands as a premier institution where art, nature, and history intertwine. Founded in 1931 by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, it has evolved into a vital cultural center for the community. “Nights of a Thousand Candles” is celebrated as the most popular event held at this world-renowned sculpture garden, drawing large crowds and creating lasting memories. This annual festival is a shining example of holiday merriment, showcasing the sustained vision and effort that a privately managed non-profit organization can bring to a region.
The Magic of Personal Contribution: Illumination and Ambiance
The breathtaking display at “Nights of a Thousand Candles” features the soft glow of more than 2,700 hand-lit candles complemented by millions of sparkling lights. Central to this illumination is an impressive 85-foot-tall centerpiece fir tree, adorned with 100,000 lights. The meticulous effort involved in hand-lighting candles and arranging millions of lights speaks to the dedication of the staff and the countless volunteers who contribute their time and energy to bring this festive vision to life. Visitors can stroll along the garden paths, enveloped by holiday music and the enchanting atmosphere. The event also features live entertainment, including musical acts and a professional bagpiper, adding to the rich sensory experience.
Fostering Community and Local Economic Vibrancy
“Nights of a Thousand Candles” serves as a significant driver for Myrtle Beach SC events and the broader local economy. By attracting large crowds of visitors and locals, it stimulates activity for businesses across the Grand Strand. The event offers various dining options, including Austin’s Harvest (where reservations are recommended), Campbell Catering serving Lowcountry favorites, and a rotating selection of local food trucks and beverage stations. These culinary offerings provide direct support to local vendors and businesses, demonstrating how a major attraction can create opportunities and foster economic growth for smaller enterprises. Beyond direct spending within the gardens, the influx of attendees benefits local accommodations, shops, and other attractions, reinforcing the positive ripple effect of a successful, privately organized event.
Beyond the Lights: A Model of Civic Engagement
Brookgreen Gardens, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, embodies a mission to collect, conserve, and exhibit American figurative sculpture, cultivate display gardens, and showcase the plants, animals, and cultural materials of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Events like “Nights of a Thousand Candles” are sustained by this clear mission and the dedicated involvement of volunteers, who play a vital role in every aspect of the gardens, including special projects and events. This volunteerism highlights the strength of personal initiative and the collective effort that underpins community growth. The institution’s commitment to education and cultural enrichment is further advanced by initiatives such as the new Purdy Center, which aims to enhance visitor experience, horticulture programs, and community partnerships. The recognition of individuals for their civic leadership and exemplary service, such as the 2024 Ike Williams Award for Civic Leadership and the 2023 Huntington Exemplary Service Award, further emphasizes the value placed on individual achievement and contribution within the community.
Planning Your Visit: A Guided Approach
For those planning to experience this celebrated South Carolina gathering, “Nights of a Thousand Candles” is an annual event that typically runs on select nights from late November through early January. For the 2025-2026 season, the event will take place from November 28, 2025, through January 4, 2026, including specific dates such as November 28-30, December 3-7, December 10-14, December 17-21, December 30-31, 2025, and January 1-4, 2026. The gardens are open from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM on event nights.
Tickets are date-specific and must be purchased in advance through the official Brookgreen Gardens website or their ticketing partner, showclix.com, as no drive-up sales are permitted. Prices are $35 for adult members and $15 for child members (ages 4-12), while non-member tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for children (ages 4-12). It is highly recommended to secure tickets early as the event often sells out due to strict capacity limits.
Visitors are advised to dress warmly to enjoy the outdoor experience fully, and carpooling is encouraged due to potentially heavy traffic. While many garden areas are illuminated, certain sections like the Lowcountry Trail, Lowcountry Zoo, Floyd Family Farm, Bleifeld Gallery, and Offner Center are closed during the event. However, the Keepsakes Museum Store, Rosen Galleries, and Brown Sculpture Court remain open for enjoyment.
In conclusion, “Nights of a Thousand Candles” at Brookgreen Gardens stands as a shining example of how local initiative, private stewardship, and dedicated community engagement can cultivate a truly magnificent event. This celebration of light and community spirit not only provides a festive experience but also underscores the broader benefits of supporting our regional cultural institutions. We encourage everyone to experience this extraordinary event, and in doing so, contribute to the continued vibrancy and growth of our cherished South Carolina gatherings and local heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nights of a Thousand Candles
Where does “Nights of a Thousand Candles” take place?
“Nights of a Thousand Candles” takes place at Brookgreen Gardens, located at 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet, SC.
When is “Nights of a Thousand Candles” held for the 2025-2026 season?
For the 2025-2026 season, “Nights of a Thousand Candles” will be held on select nights from November 28, 2025, through January 4, 2026. Specific dates include November 28-30; December 3-7; December 10-14; December 17-21; December 30-31, 2025; and January 1-4, 2026.
What are the operating hours for the event?
The gardens are open from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM on event nights.
How can I purchase tickets for “Nights of a Thousand Candles”?
Tickets must be pre-purchased online through the official Brookgreen Gardens website or their ticketing partner, showclix.com. No drive-up sales are permitted.
How much do tickets cost?
For members, tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for children (ages 4-12). For non-members, tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for children (ages 4-12).
What are some of the main attractions at the event?
The event features over 2,700 hand-lit candles, millions of sparkling lights, and an 85-foot-tall fir tree with 100,000 lights. There is also holiday music, live entertainment, and various dining options.
Are pets allowed at “Nights of a Thousand Candles”?
Pets are not allowed at Brookgreen Gardens during “Nights of a Thousand Candles”, and they also may not be left in vehicles.
Key Features of Nights of a Thousand Candles
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Brookgreen Gardens, Murrells Inlet, SC | Local |
| Dates (2025-2026 Season) | Select nights from November 28, 2025, through January 4, 2026. Specific dates include November 28-30; December 3-7; December 10-14; December 17-21; December 30-31, 2025; and January 1-4, 2026. | Local |
| Operating Hours | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM on event nights | Local |
| Ticket Purchase | Online via Brookgreen Gardens website or showclix.com; pre-purchase required. | Local |
| Ticket Prices (Non-Member) | $40 for adults, $20 for children (ages 4-12) | Local |
| Illumination | Over 2,700 hand-lit candles, millions of sparkling lights, 85-foot fir tree with 100,000 lights. | Local |
| National Recognition | Among America’s best botanical garden holiday lights (USA Today 10Best). | Nationwide |
| State Recognition | Named “Best Christmas Lights in South Carolina” by Travel+Leisure Magazine. | State-level |
| Dining Options | Austin’s Harvest, Campbell Catering, rotating food trucks, beverage stations, The Old Kitchen. | Local |
| Allowed Items | Personal mobility devices. | Local |
| Prohibited Items | Pets (not even in vehicles), outside food and drinks, smoking/vaping. | Local |
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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.
