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Myrtle Beach, with its expansive 60 miles of coastline and a temperate climate that invites visitors year-round, thrives in any season. Tourists can unwind on the beautiful sands of the Grand Strand, partake in friendly rounds of mini golf at one of the area’s many courses, or admire the breathtaking scenery from the SkyWheel, which towers at 187 feet. However, to truly appreciate the vibrancy of Myrtle Beach’s cultural and social scene, exploring the packed events calendar is a must.
This year promises an array of lively festivals celebrating food, sports, music, arts, and culture. The allure of Myrtle Beach might just entice you to attend your first event, leading you to plan a return visit later in the year.
Delight in Culinary Events
Once home to the legendary pirate Blackbeard, Murrells Inlet is now recognized as the “seafood capital of South Carolina,” featuring an abundance of restaurants serving freshly caught seafood. Visitors flock to the inlet for fishing, water sports, birdwatching, and eco tours, as well as leisurely strolls along the MarshWalk—a picturesque half-mile boardwalk beside a saltwater estuary. The 11th annual Taste of the MarshWalk takes place on February 22–23, featuring live entertainment, children’s activities, and, naturally, an impressive selection of seafood prepared by local restaurants.
The World Famous Blue Crab Festival, scheduled for May 17–18, showcases around 250 vendors in Little River. Originally a modest community gathering to promote local maritime businesses, this festival has evolved into one of the Southeast’s largest, featuring live music and entertainment while maintaining its grassroots charm. In the fall, seafood enthusiasts can look forward to the Little River ShrimpFest on October 11–12, known for its array of shrimp dishes and beloved crab cake sandwiches.
For those who prefer non-seafood options, the Myrtle Beach Food Truck Festival (April 11-13) features over 90 food vendors and 20 craft vendors, showcasing culinary favorites from past events, including Island Noodles and Wicked Weed Brewing, with free parking available for attendees.
In September, visitors can enjoy the Beach ‘n Chili Fest at the Burroughs & Chapin Pavilion Place, which features the World Championship Chili Cook-Off. Participants can register ahead of time for the competition or buy chili on-site while enjoying music and a classic car show.
The Loris Bog-Off Festival, which takes place on October 18, celebrates the beloved chicken bog, a traditional pilaf dish featuring chicken and sausage. Attendees can find home cooks competing and local chefs selling this hearty dish.
Get Active
The Myrtle Beach Marathon draws thousands of runners every March, taking advantage of the pleasant late winter temperatures. Participants can choose from a variety of races—marathon, half marathon, or 5K—and enjoy a festive post-race celebration on the beach, complete with live entertainment and refreshments.
The Run to the Sun Car Show (March 13-15) will attract car enthusiasts from all over, featuring thousands of vintage automobiles and celebrity appearances from well-known personalities in the automotive world.
Golf lovers can indulge in Myrtle Beach’s premise with its 90 championship courses. The Myrtle Beach Classic returns to the Dunes Golf & Beach Club from May 8-11, featuring PGA Tour-level competition and fans are encouraged to purchase tickets now.
Celebrate Local Traditions
Brookgreen Gardens is a stunning 9,000-acre National Historic Landmark located in Murrells Inlet, drawing visitors year-round, particularly in spring when the entire landscape comes alive with colorful blooms. During this vibrant season, the Brookgreen Gardens Art Festival occurs on April 26-27, featuring numerous artists from the region and beyond showcasing diverse art forms, from paintings to sculptures, pottery, and textiles.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival on March 15 will mark its 35th anniversary, drawing over 30,000 attendees to witness a grand parade featuring floats, bands, dancers, and an array of vendors providing festival fare and entertainment.
Myrtle Beach provides a unique take on the Fourth of July celebration that includes aerial displays by military aircraft, a flag-decked golf cart parade, and the charming Murrells Inlet Boat Parade.
As summer gives way to fall, the Aynor Harvest Hoedown Festival kicks off in September, celebrating 45 years in 2025 with country music, arts and crafts vendors, and family-friendly activities, serving as another opportunity to try the famous chicken bog.
As the holiday season approaches, Myrtle Beach hosts a variety of festive events, brightening the boardwalk with the Winter Wonderland at the Beach (November 28, 2025 – January 3, 2026), showcasing dazzling light displays that embody both classic and beach-inspired themes.
Experience the Local Music Scene
Myrtle Beach is a hotspot for live music, featuring major events like the Carolina Country Music Fest, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this June. Even if you can’t attend a specific concert, venues like The Carolina Opry Theater, House of Blues Myrtle Beach, and Legends in Concert consistently offer a variety of performances. With additional live music opportunities at local bars and outdoor festivals, there’s no shortage of sounds to suit varied tastes.
The Sun Fun Festival, now in its 70th season, marks the unofficial start of summer each May with live performances, family-friendly activities, and thrilling aerial displays. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own coolers and chairs for the Ocean Drive Beach Music Festival on May 3, which features popular regional bands. Another highlight, the Conway Riverfest on June 28, invites attendees to enjoy local bands while relaxing with friends and family.
The delightful October weather allows for ongoing celebrations, such as the 8th annual Myrtle Beach Jazz Festival (October 17–19), featuring live performances from local jazz musicians. For an international flavor, the Muzika! The 24th Annual Varna International Music Academy will present a series of performances across various Myrtle Beach venues before its artists travel to Bulgaria, Italy, and Spain.
For those ready to embrace the vibrant culture, culinary delights, and lively events in Myrtle Beach, start planning your trip today!
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www.travelzoo.com