Author: Ashley

Experience Myrtle Beach’s Winter Magic: Events, Activities, and More!

Posted on December 11, 2024 by - Attractions, Events, Holiday, Vacation

Nights of a Thousand Candles Returns to Brookgreen Gardens

As the winter chill settles over the coast, Myrtle Beach transforms into a magical winter wonderland, offering some of the most enchanting holiday events in the South. Whether you’re a local looking for something to do or a visitor ready to experience the holidays by the sea, there are three must-see events that should top your list: Night of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens, the Winter Wonderland at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, and the Christmas Parade at Broadway at the Beach. Each of these events offers a unique way to celebrate the season and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Night of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens

One of Myrtle Beach’s most beloved holiday traditions is the Night of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens. This annual event is a breathtaking spectacle that combines the beauty of nature with the glow of thousands of candles and lights. The historic gardens, renowned for their stunning sculptures, come alive during this event with over 5,500 candles illuminating the night.

As you stroll through the gardens, you’ll be mesmerized by the soft flicker of candlelight set against the backdrop of towering live oaks and tranquil ponds. The enchanting atmosphere is heightened by the twinkling lights, festive music, and delightful seasonal aromas. The event is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to experience the peaceful magic of the season in one of the most picturesque settings in the area.

For a truly unique experience, you can also enjoy live music performances, including holiday carolers and local musicians, adding to the festive spirit. Hot chocolate and other seasonal treats are available to keep you warm as you take in the beauty of this holiday tradition.

Click here for tickets!

Tip: Tickets for Night of a Thousand Candles are in high demand, so it’s a good idea to purchase them in advance to secure your spot for this popular event.

Winter Wonderland at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

If you’re looking for a classic beach-town holiday experience, head to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk for their Winter Wonderland event. This charming celebration features a sparkling array of lights, a festive atmosphere, and plenty of fun for the whole family. The highlight of Winter Wonderland is the giant ice skating rink, set up right on the Boardwalk, where you can glide across the ice while taking in the stunning oceanfront views.

The Boardwalk comes alive with the sights and sounds of the season, with holiday lights illuminating the area and cheerful Christmas music playing throughout the day and night.

Winter Wonderland also features a variety of local vendors selling seasonal treats, hot drinks, and unique gifts—perfect for finding a special memento to take home. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll along the Boardwalk or enjoying the ice rink, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer to experience at this vibrant event.

Tip: If you’re planning on ice skating, check the schedule for available sessions, as the rink can get busy during peak times.

Winter Wonderland Information

Christmas Parade at Broadway at the Beach

One of the most anticipated holiday events in Myrtle Beach is the Christmas Parade at Broadway at the Beach. This annual parade is a festive, family-friendly tradition that draws large crowds every year. With its colorful floats, marching bands, and joyful participants, the Christmas Parade is a spectacle that will delight visitors of all ages.

The parade winds through Broadway at the Beach, a popular entertainment complex that features shops, restaurants, and attractions. As you watch the parade, you’ll see a variety of themed floats, costumed characters, and even live performances. Santa Claus himself makes an appearance at the end of the parade, spreading holiday cheer and posing for photos with excited children and families.

After the parade, take time to explore the festive lights and decorations around Broadway at the Beach. The area is beautifully lit up for the season, creating a magical atmosphere for shopping, dining, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the holidays.

Tip: Arrive early to get a good spot for the parade, as it can get crowded, especially on weekends.

A Very Broadway Christmas Parade

Make Myrtle Beach Your Holiday Destination

Myrtle Beach in December is a destination like no other. Whether you’re enjoying the twinkling lights and serene beauty of Brookgreen Gardens, ice skating along the Boardwalk, or catching the excitement of the Christmas Parade, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These three events—Night of a Thousand Candles, Winter Wonderland, and the Christmas Parade—are just a glimpse of the festive fun you can experience this holiday season.

With mild winter temperatures, beautiful coastal scenery, and a full calendar of holiday events, Myrtle Beach is the perfect place to celebrate the season. So, bundle up, grab your family or friends, and make this December one to remember in Myrtle Beach!

Nights of a Thousand Candles Returns to Brookgreen Gardens

Posted on November 19, 2020 by - Holiday, Vacation

Nights of a Thousand Candles Returns to Brookgreen Gardens

Spring, summer, fall or winter, it’s always a great time for a vacation to Pawleys Island! And with the holidays around the corner, one of the most beloved holiday celebrations makes its return to Brookgreen Gardens. Nights of a Thousand Candles has delighted tens of thousands of visitors for years, and this season is sure to carry on that tradition.

If you think Brookgreen Gardens is magnificent during the day, Nights of a Thousand Candles puts a sparkling new spin on the beautiful botanical and sculpture displays around the grounds. As you enter the gardens, you will be bathed in the warm glow of thousands of hand-lit candles, suspended above and around guests and floating atop reflecting ponds. Travel+Leisure magazine has praised Nights of a Thousand Candles as the “Best Christmas Lights in South Carolina,” and it will quickly become evident why so many people make this special celebration a holiday tradition. As you stroll along the walkways of the gardens, the sounds of carolers and bell ringers will fill the air with Christmas cheer, and if a chill is in the air feel free to warm up with a piping hot cup of cocoa or cider.

Nights of a Thousand Candles also offers several dining options within the event grounds. Inside the Leonard Pavilion, Inlet Affairs will be serving up fresh, classic Lowcountry favorites. Austin’s Garden Galley and Let’s Ride BBQ will also be on-site, and guests can select from small bites at the Old Kitchen in the heart of the sculpture garden. Drinks including beer, wine and Brookgreen’s homemade hot cocoa are available at several beverage stations around the gardens.

This year Brookgreen Gardens has added 12 nights to the schedule, with the event running from November 27th through January 3rd. On most weeks Nights of a Thousand Candles takes place from 4:00PM to 9:00PM on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. During select weeks, the festival will run five nights, from Wednesday through Sunday nights. Tickets to Nights of a Thousand Candles must be pre-purchased, so don’t miss on your chance to be part of one of the east coast’s grandest holiday celebrations!

Nights of a Thousand Candles is certainly a fantastic reason to make a weekend vacation to Pawleys Island, so be sure to check out the amazing properties available at Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort and book a stay in just a few clicks! From modern two and three bedroom golf course villas at True Blue Resort and Pawleys Plantation Resort to oceanfront condos at Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort, we have the perfect accommodations for your holiday vacation to Pawleys Island.

Eat Fresh, Eat Local: Grand Strand Farmers Markets

Posted on September 2, 2020 by - Shopping, Uncategorized

Fruits and vegetables at a farmer's market

Eat Fresh, Eat Local: Grand Strand Farmers Markets

One of the best parts of a Pawleys Island vacation is the immense amount of fantastic restaurants around the area to delight your taste buds. Every appetite can be satisfied along the Grand Strand, no matter if you’re craving tacos, sushi, pizza, steak, burgers or fresh local seafood. But sometimes, instead of venturing out, it’s nice to spend a night in and enjoy a family dinner consisting of fresh, local ingredients. Fortunately, there are numerous farmers markets that are available in Pawleys Island and the surrounding Grand Strand area. Here are a few of the area’s best farmers markets to try out on your next vacation to Pawleys Island.

Fruits and vegetables at a farmer's market

Lee’s Farmers Market

Found at 4883 Highway 17 Bypass North in Murrells Inlet, Lee’s Farmers Market has long been one of the favorite destinations along the Grand Strand for a huge selection of fresh fruit, vegetables and local seafood. In addition, Lee’s Farmers Market showcases an amazing deli with a large assortment of European cheeses, smoked deli meats and USDA steaks and chops. The founders of Lee’s Farmers Market hail from New Jersey, and bring some of that classic Jersey and New York flavor with fresh baked bread brought in from New Jersey and deli meat delivered straight from the Carnegie Deli in New York City! So, whether you’re looking for a piled-high corned beef on rye or fresh caught seafood, Lee’s Farmers Market will have exactly what you’re looking for!

Farmers Market at Market Common

The Market Common has garnered a reputation for being one of the top dining and shopping venues along the Grand Strand. On top of that, Market Common is a regular host to tons of great craft fairs, including their own farmers market which takes place each Wednesday and Saturday from May 24th through September 28th. Each Wednesday and Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM, local produce vendors will be set up along Deville Street to offer farm fresh fruits and vegetables perfect for snacking on during your Myrtle Beach vacation. The Farmers Market at Market Common also hosts vendors offering baked goods and handmade crafts for unique souvenirs to bring home.

Surfside Beach Farmers Market

Situated a short drive north from Pawleys Island, the Surfside Beach Farmers Market offers Grand Strand visitors a tremendous assortment of local fruits and veggies each Tuesday through October 27th from 10 AM to 3 PM. Located on the corner of Surfside Drive and Willow Drive North, this gathering regularly features 20+ vendors with fares including produce, organic coffee, fresh baked pies, artisan soaps, handmade jewelry and much more. With such a varied offering of food and craft items, you’re sure to find whatever it is you’re looking for and more with a visit to the Surfside Beach Farmers Market.

Now that you have the lowdown on some of the best farmers markets around the Grand Strand, you’ll know where to get the freshest ingredients during your vacation to Pawleys Island. And if for some reason you haven’t made plans to visit Pawleys Island soon, there’s no better time to book than now! The Litchfield Company offers Pawleys Island travelers with premier accommodations at fabulous lowcountry resorts like Pawleys Plantation Resort, True Blue Resort and Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort. Visit our specials page to learn how quick, easy and affordable booking your Pawleys Island getaway can be!