Category: Vacation

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!

Stay and Play with the Ripken Experience Myrtle Beach

Posted on December 14, 2020 by - Vacation

Stay and Play with the Ripken Experience Myrtle Beach

The Myrtle Beach Ripken Experience annually hosts the largest travel baseball and softball tournaments throughout the Grand Strand area. Named for professional baseball player Cal Ripken, Jr., the camps and tournaments seek to provide younger players with Big League experiences at an affordable rate. The Ripken Experience Myrtle Beach puts you right in the middle of all of the game-day action and allows you to explore the beautiful oceanside city of Myrtle Beach whenever your player is off the field.

When you reserve a stay at one of our Ripken Hotels, your accommodations in Myrtle Beach are sure to impress. With a range of hotel and condominium options, we have something to fit every preference or style. And with exciting amenities at all of our locations, you and your group will have plenty to do when you’re away from the diamond.

Another great perk of reserving your stay with Cal Ripken Hotels is that you will be situated within close proximity to not only the ball field but the thrilling attractions of Myrtle Beach as well. Spend some time exploring all of the shopping and dining opportunities at Broadway at the Beach, Coastal Grande Mall, and the Market Common, or go on an outdoor adventure at Radical Ropes or Shark Wake Water Park. And of course, no trip to Myrtle Beach would be complete without spending some time walking on the sandy shores along the Atlantic Ocean.

Allow our professionals at Ripken Hotels to make your stay in Myrtle Beach one that is stress-free, convenient, and affordable, while you and your group stay and play during the Cal Ripken Experience. Save your energy for the baseball diamond and relax and enjoy the fun of vacation during your off-time. A fabulous Myrtle Beach vacation is within reach with Ripken Hotels.

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.