Autumn-Season Myrtle Beach Festivals

Myrtle Beach is known for its iconic beaches, but the coastal city also hosts a slew of festivals in the autumn season that attract locals and tourists alike. These festivals celebrate the harvest season and embrace local traditions. Here are some highlights of what to expect from Myrtle Beach festivals during this season.

September Festivals

Aynor Harvest Hoe-Down, Sept. 16th, 2023

The Aynor Harvest Hoe-Down has been a fall staple in the Lowcountry for over four decades. It is an annual festival that celebrates the local harvest in the middle of September. This festival is a full day of fun, suitable for the whole family. Events take place in the quaint town of Aynor, approximately 30 miles from Myrtle Beach. 

The festivities start with a lively parade that sets the tone for a day of community spirit. Local and national music acts provide a constant backdrop of entertainment throughout the day. Food vendors serve a broad range of festival fare that ensures no one goes hungry. If you’re looking to shop, there are hundreds of vendors selling crafts and memorabilia. The Aynor Harvest Hoe-Down Beauty Pageant adds to the charm and is held before the Hoe Down, a community dance party. The pageant features participants from babies up to 19 years old, with winners receiving a sash, trophy, and crown.

Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival, Sept. 22th – 24th, 2023

Autumn in Myrtle Beach invokes both the beauty of colorful leaves, as well as a celebration of art and creativity. The Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival brings together over 100 artists showcasing their finest works. Meander through the stalls and discover fine art and handcrafted masterpieces. Treat your taste buds to local food vendors that serve up the area’s best while music fills the air. 

Tickets are available for purchase at the entry gate at only $10 for those 16 years of age and above. It’s important to note that the festival welcomes music and art lovers of all ages, however pets (including dogs) are asked to remain outside the festival’s premises. Experience an autumn day of artistic wonder at the Atalaya Art & Crafts Festival.

Things to Do in Myrtle Beach in October

Oktoberfest, Oct. 7th, 2023

October in Myrtle Beach blends the beauty of the coastal city with the traditions of German culture. Oktoberfest is an event that celebrates the flavors, music, and festivities of Germany in the heart of Myrtle Beach. This year, the event is held on Saturday, October 7th, starting at 12 pm. Embrace the spirit of Oktoberfest with traditional German food and drinks available throughout Barefoot Landing. With a $10 wristband, you’ll enjoy 10% off food and beverages (excluding alcohol) at select restaurants from 12 pm to 8 pm.

Additionally, Oktoberfest provides live music and a variety of fun activities for attendees. Live music plays from 12 pm to 4 pm at the LandShark Bar & Grill patio and from 2 pm to 6 pm on the Pepsi Stage in Dockside Village . Meanwhile, the “Every Dog’s A Weiner Dog” contest begins on the Pepsi Stage at 3 pm.

Wristbands are available for sale online in advance and on the day of the event from 12 pm to 6 pm at the Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach’s tent in Dockside Village. All proceeds from the wristband sales benefit the Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach. 

Little River Shrimpfest, Oct. 14th – 15th, 2023

Mark your calendars for the 18th Annual Little River ShrimpFest on Saturday, October 14th, and Sunday, October 15th, 2023. Held at the Historic Little River Waterfront, this famous festival is a must if you are looking for things to do in Myrtle Beach in October. From 9 am to 5 pm, enjoy stages of live music, stilt walkers, and balloon artists. 

Of course, the festival’s highlight is the waterfront restaurants’ mouthwatering shrimp and fresh, local seafood. In addition to the seafood, enjoy a wide range of festival food favorites served by local vendors. It’s a fun-filled event with great seafood, arts, and crafts. 

Myrtle Beach Jazz Festival, Oct. 20th – 22nd, 2023

Jazz lovers, mark your calendars for the Myrtle Beach Jazz Festival. Now in its 7th year, this free festival celebrates the musical history of Myrtle Beach with performances from local and national jazz artists. Held at Charlie’s Place, enjoy the smooth and soulful sounds of jazz while indulging in some of the best food that Myrtle Beach has to offer. All you need to bring is a lawn chair to sit back, relax, and soak up the vibes. Take advantage of this opportunity to experience an incredible line-up of talent this October in Myrtle Beach.

Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam, Oct. 20th – 22nd, 2023

Jeep enthusiasts gear up for a weekend of excitement at the Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam. This three-day festival occurs just a block from the ocean at the former Myrtle Square Mall. Tackle an epic off-road obstacle course, and visit over 90 vendors! This event is non-stop fun and excitement. The Jeep Jam is open on Friday from 1 pm to 5 pm and Sat through Sun from 11 am to 5 pm. Admission is only $10 per day, and children under 12 get in for free.

Loris Bog-Off Festival, Oct. 21st, 2023

Celebrate a unique culinary tradition at the Loris Bog-Off Festival, held annually on the third Saturday of October. Sponsored by the Loris Chamber of Commerce, this festival celebrates the local dish known as chicken bog (a tasty mix of chicken, rice, sausage, and various spices). This event started in 1980 as a simple chicken bog cooking contest and has since evolved into a significant event that attracts over 35,000 attendees from both the Carolinas. 

If you’re not interested in making your own pot of chicken bog, then savor plates prepared by on-site chefs. In addition, the festival now hosts over 200 vendors, two stages, a dedicated children’s area, and performances from local dance schools and bands. The event concludes with a fireworks extravaganza and a free concert. So, make sure you join in the festivities and experience the taste of this Southern favorite.

November – December

A Grand Strand Holiday, TBD

As November and December arrive, Myrtle Beach transforms into a winter wonderland for A Grand Strand Holiday. Begin by marveling at the synchronized light displays of Brookgreen Gardens‘ Night of a Thousand Candles or the Great Christmas Light Show at the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex. These twinkling lights set the perfect backdrop for holiday magic. For last-minute holiday shopping, head to Broadway at the Beach for the perfect gift. 

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Autumn in Myrtle Beach is filled with excitement and festival activities that unite the community. Myrtle Beach festivals, like the Aynor Harvest Hoe-Down, Atalaya Art & Crafts Festival, and Oktoberfest, celebrate local culture and the season’s joys. Little River Shrimpfest and Loris Bog-Off Festival are two highly recommended things to do in Myrtle Beach in October if you’re up for tasting South Carolina’s culinary best. The Myrtle Beach Jazz Festival offers rhythmic beats for music lovers, while the Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam invites you to celebrate this iconic off-road vehicle. As the year closes, A Grand Strand Holiday illuminates the coast with festive lights, parades, and activities to enjoy throughout November and December.

There are plenty of things to do in Myrtle Beach in autumn. These festivals make October in Myrtle Beach a special time for locals and visitors. So come on down and celebrate!

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