Things to Do in Myrtle Beach in December [Updated 2023]

As December approaches and the holiday season gets underway, it’s natural to find yourself slipping into daydreams of a white Christmas. You probably imagine camping out on cool white sands to take in the gently crashing tide. Maybe you think of gleaming white sidewalks gloriously empty of other people in the off-season. Perhaps you picture strong white sunlight staving off the wintry blues with mild temperatures. No? Is that not what comes to mind when you hear the words, “white Christmas”?

In Myrtle Beach, Christmas looks a little different from what you’re used to seeing in Hallmark movies and hearing in the classic holiday songs. Yet, that doesn’t stop Santa from donning a pair of red and green swim trunks to hit the beach, so neither should it stop you! With so many Myrtle Beach Christmas events to check out, you can make the most of the season’s offerings without tolerating the arctic temperatures of your hometown. Myrtle Beach adds its unique beachy flair to the holiday cheer at these Christmas-themed festivals, lighting displays, and theatrical shows.

Myrtle Beach Weather in December

Discover the charm of mild weather and sunny shores at Myrtle Beach in December, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F. Pack wisely for your winter beach trip. Include light jackets and versatile clothing for the cooler weather. Long sleeves and pants will keep you comfortable day or night. If you plan on going to the beach, be sure to bring lightweight materials that can dry quickly. Embrace the unique experience of a beach getaway in the off-season. If you forget any essentials, Myrtle Beach’s shopping scene has you covered.

Myrtle Beach Christmas Lights & Events

From long walks on the beach at sunset to shopping for holiday gifts and letting loose among the area’s bars and attractions, there is so much to do in Myrtle Beach — no matter the season! However, when visiting for the holidays, you can’t miss out on these extraordinary Myrtle Beach Christmas events.

Festival of Trees at Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach

November 10th – December 31st, 2023

Ripley’s Aquarium decks its halls with ornaments, lights, and holiday cheer once again for its annual Festival of Trees. A total of 55 Christmas trees are lit up and adorned with festive decorations representing each state and territory of the U.S. For instance, the Louisiana tree is covered in Mardi Gras beads and colorful masks. The Nevada tree sports various Las Vegas-style feathered headdresses. The South Carolina tree is, of course, the most spectacular of all, featuring seashells, magnolias, and special décor from Clemson University, Coastal Carolina University, and USC. The event is included in the cost of admission to Ripley’s Aquarium. So, make sure to enjoy their marine exhibits amid the Christmas cheer, too!

A Very Broadway Christmas Parade

December 2nd, 2023 | 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

“A Very Broadway Christmas Parade” promises a holiday experience featuring festive floats, cheerful music, and the show’s highlight—Santa Claus himself. Gather your family for a celebration full of Christmas decorations and twinkling lights. The parade, which starts at 11:00 a.m. near Dave & Busters, follows the interior road along Broadway at the Beach. Local shops, restaurants, and businesses contribute to the positive atmosphere. Custom-crafted floats adorn the entire parade route. Afterward, the celebrations continue in Center Court. Enjoy exciting activities such as a visit from Santa, a holiday dance party, a petting zoo, and face painting until 3:00 p.m. Join the community in this free celebration that captures the true essence of the holiday season.

Winter Wonderland at the Beach

November 24th – January 1st, 2023 | 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Discover a dazzling Winter Wonderland at Myrtle Beach for a one-of-a-kind celebration this holiday season. This cheerful extravaganza transforms the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk into a stunning spectacle of lights, seasonal decorations, and activities. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, which spans one mile of downtown, is adorned with over 100,000 lights, creating a fascinating and free-to-enjoy winter wonderland.

The season starts with nightly light displays beginning November 24th. After this, the Family Fun Festival begins December 1st, highlighted with a tree lighting ceremony in Plyler Park. Experience unique attractions like the Polar Express movie event (offering hot chocolate and popcorn), the artistic Winter Wonderland Art Walk, and the innovative holiday drone show. Family-friendly activities include complimentary s’mores by the oceanfront and photo opportunities with Santa. Participate in the Twinkling Two-Miler Fun Run for even more activity. Live music is also scheduled, featuring carolers and top live acts​.

North Myrtle Beach Christmas Lights & Events

The North Myrtle Beach Christmas lights and events boast some of the best displays in the coastal region. Make a point to spend some quality time with your family this holiday season at these three magical events in North Myrtle Beach.

The Great Christmas Light Show

November 20th – December 30th, 2023

The North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex lights up in 2 miles of colorful wonderland. Over two million lights make up 500 holiday-themed displays and animated characters. The Great Christmas Light Show isn’t just about the lights either. At the end of the driving tour, make sure to stop by Santa’s Village for a visit with Santa, hot refreshments, and a ride on the Santa Express Train Ride to see the lights again up close. Plus, the kids in your group will love befriending Santa’s reindeer at the petting zoo.

North Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade

December 2nd, 2023 | 5:30 pm

Catch the magnificent showcase of Christmas floats, lighting displays, and musical talent at the North Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade. Make sure to gather along the new route. It starts at 2nd Ave North, moves south to Main Street, then right onto Main Street, and finally turns right onto Ye Olde Kings Hwy. Keep an eye out for floats and groups representing your favorite local organizations — and, of course, for the big red man himself!

Christmas Events in Surrounding Areas

Discover the magic of the holiday season beyond the city limits. Featuring festive light displays and heartwarming holiday markets, join us in exploring the joyous celebrations and traditions neighboring Myrtle Beach during this time of year.

Night of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens

November 30th – December 31st, 2023 | 4:00 – 9:00 pm

Brookgreen Gardens is one of the best places to go in Myrtle Beach for one-of-a-kind holiday experiences. During the Night of a Thousand Candles, the main sculpture garden and arboretum light up in the warm glow of over 2,700 candles. The native plant life and American sculpture art take on an especially magical quality in the soft candlelight and cheerful holiday music from live carolers. Take a relaxing stroll with hot cocoa, cider or wine in hand with the Sparkle & Fun package that also includes a set of dazzling holographic glasses! 

Treasured Holiday Memories at Brookgreen Gardens

November 24th – January 1st, 2024

Brookgreen Gardens also lends a unique sense of historic nostalgia to your holiday adventures. This year, the Rosen Galleries’ holiday exhibit takes a nostalgic journey with traditional themes, showcasing trains and cherished memories of past seasons. A highlight is the newly added vintage American Flyer layout from the early 1960s in the Mize Gallery. Also featured are the “Amusement Park and Pavilion” display, reminiscent of the historic Myrtle Beach Pavilion, and 1950s vintage trains from a private collection. Outside, a G-scale train display adorns the Jewell Plaza lawn. Keep your eyes peeled during the Night of a Thousand Candles to see all the trains running!

Murrells Inlet Christmas Parade

December 3rd, 2023 | 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.

The Murrells Inlet Christmas Parade is a delightful procession adorned with decorative floats, lively marching bands, and the enthusiastic participation of local community groups. This beloved annual parade takes place from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and is a holiday season highlight. Starting at Wilcox Avenue and gracefully making its way south down Hwy 17 Business to Wachesaw Road, the parade unfolds in a spectacle of colors and sounds. The best part? It’s free for all to enjoy!

Surfside Beach Christmas Parade

December 9th, 2023 | 2:00 p.m.

Join in the holiday merriment at the Surfside Beach Christmas Parade. This lively parade is a celebration of creativity. The parade starts at Melody Lane and travels down Ocean Boulevard and Surfside Drive, ending at Poplar Drive. Arrive early on December 9th at 2:00 p.m. to secure your prime viewing spot. Then, revel in the joyous atmosphere of this heartwarming event! Admission is free, making it a festive celebration for everyone in Surfside Beach, SC.

Myrtle Beach Christmas Shows

Don’t just get your dose of holiday cheer from lights, parades, and events. There is an impressive amount of theatrical and musical talent to behold at the local holiday performances. These Myrtle Beach Christmas shows are guaranteed to sweep you off your feet into the spirit of the season!

Alabama Theater

Throughout November and December, the Alabama Theater presents “The South’s Grandest Christmas Show,” the number one award-winning Myrtle Beach Christmas show. This holiday musical evokes the authentic spirit of Christmas through classic and contemporary tunes, show-stopping talent dressed in glittering holiday costumes, and top-of-the-line production quality. Plus, the antics of comedic juggler Slim Chance will have you crying with laughter.

The Carolina Opry

The Carolina Opry brings back its own Christmas special, “The Christmas Show of the South,” for the 38th season. While the show is dedicated to its traditional roots, it also comes back fresher than ever this year. New artists will perform alongside long-time favorites. Expect to see nationally recognized talent like Moses Braxton, Delvin Choice from The Voice, and the clogging group All That! featured on America’s Got Talent, among many others. The Carolina Opry combines 35 nationally renowned musical artists, the Calvin Gilmore orchestra, professional dancers, an impressive set of winter wonderland decorations, and 25,000 lights into one heart-warming Christmas spectacle. Get your tickets before this wondrous performance ends for the season on December 31st.

GTS Theater

The GTS Theater takes a soulful approach to its Myrtle Beach Christmas show. “Motor City Musical” is a 2-hour Christmas show that tells the story of a man who followed his dreams. You’ll recognize top hits from Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, the Temptations, and the Jackson 5. It’s a dazzling tribute to the rich musical history of Motown, the genre that broke down social barriers and lent its eclectic jazz and R&B roots to the music of the ’60s and ’70s.

Broadway Theater

The Broadway Theater is where the stage comes alive with heartwarming plays and musicals this holiday season. The highlight of the Broadway Theater is, without a doubt, the “Hot Jersey Nights Christmas Special.” This extraordinary tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons features some of the best male vocalists in America. The cast takes the stage to deliver a spellbinding mix of the group’s hottest hits and beloved Christmas classics. From “Walk Like a Man” to “Oh What a Night,” the show promises an unforgettable occasion.

Pirates Voyage Christmas Show

Pirates Voyage transforms into a Christmas wonderland for their extraordinary dinner and show. Captain Scrooge takes you on a time-traveling adventure to discover the true meaning of Christmas. Watch as giant toys spring to life, performing breathtaking acrobatic feats high above the lagoon. Join the laughter as a comical castaway and her sea lion companion engage in entertaining hijinks that add a touch of laughter to the holiday tale.

As you enjoy the performances, indulge in a delectable holiday meal. The four courses include Voyager Creamy Vegetable Soup, bread, half a roasted chicken, Captain’s BBQ Pork, corn, herb-basted potato, apple pie, and unlimited soda, tea, or coffee.

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Every year, you look forward to the satisfying sensation of warmth spreading from your mug of hot cocoa into your frozen fingertips on a frosty winter night. You can’t wait to breathe deeply of spiced gingerbread baking in the oven or to explore the city streets decked out in colorful lights like a magical wonderland. These familiar sights and nostalgic sensations stand out in strangely beautiful contrast to the white sandy beaches and lapping Atlantic Ocean tide. However, after discovering the rich diversity of things to do in Myrtle Beach in December and North Myrtle Beach for Christmas, the South Carolina coastline may just become the only way you’ll ever dream of a white Christmas ever again!

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