News Summary
North Myrtle Beach is gearing up for its 35th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival on March 15. The event promises a lively parade featuring over 100 entries, followed by a festival with more than 120 vendors offering food and crafts. With an expected turnout of over 30,000 attendees, the celebration will include live entertainment and community spirit. Visitors should plan for street closures and consider shuttle services for convenience. Get ready for a day filled with fun, food, and festive activities!
North Myrtle Beach Gears Up for a Grand 35th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival!
Get ready to wear your green and grab your shamrocks because North Myrtle Beach is about to kick off its 35th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival! This is not just another day on the calendar; it’s a day filled with fun, festivities, and a fantastic sense of community. There’s no better way to celebrate than with a big parade and a lively festival that draws in over 30,000 attendees each year.
Parade Details
The whole celebration kicks off on March 15 at 9 a.m. The parade itself runs from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m., filling the streets with all things Irish. With over 100 parade entries lined up, it’s the largest parade of its kind in the area. Expect to see colorful floats, lively bands, dance troupes, and plenty of joyous participants making their way through the heart of North Myrtle Beach. But keep in mind that some roads will be closed to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment!
Festival Fun
Once the parade wraps up, the party continues from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the festival. More than 120 vendors will set up shop, offering delectable food and unique handmade crafts. Whether you’re craving traditional Irish fare or looking for that special handmade item to take home, you’ll find it here. Adding to the excitement, there will be three stages throughout the festival area featuring live entertainment that will keep the good times rolling all day long!
Street Closures and Parking
To ensure a smooth flow of the event, several streets will be closed. The southbound lane of Ocean Boulevard will close from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. for parade preparations. From 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., all lanes of Ocean Boulevard from 2nd Avenue North to 1st Avenue South will also be shut down. Meanwhile, Main Street will close from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the festival, so be sure to plan accordingly if you’re traveling through the area.
Concerned about where to park? Fear not! Free parking is available at several locations, including:
- The corner of 2nd Avenue North and Ocean Boulevard
- The corner of 1st Avenue South and Ocean Boulevard
- McLean Park
Additionally, a convenient shuttle service will run from Ocean Drive Elementary School to the event, which can help you avoid the traffic and enjoy the festivities hassle-free!
Expect Heavy Traffic
As with any major event, it’s wise to brace for some traffic delays. The busiest areas will likely be around Main Street and along U.S. 17 during the festival, so it may be a good idea to arrive early or consider using alternative routes.
This year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival is set to be a grand celebration brimming with energy, delicious food, and great entertainment. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, mark your calendars and get ready for a day filled with smiles, laughter, and a sprinkle of Irish magic!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
North Myrtle Beach Unveils Plans for St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
Additional Resources
- Myrtle Beach Online: Traffic News
- WFMY News 2: Wildfires Impacting Horry County
- Post and Courier: Myrtle Beach Events
- WMBF News: St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival
- AOL: Coastal South Carolina Bar Opening
