The Best 2026 Events to Experience Along the Grand Strand

Throughout 2026, the Grand Strand is poised to deliver another spectacular year of events and experiences. From energetic festivals and live concerts to family-friendly activities and rich cultural celebrations, there’s something for everyone along this stunning stretch of South Carolina’s coast. Whether you’re a local or planning your next getaway, these can’t-miss events are sure to make your time in Myrtle Beach unforgettable.

January

Night of a Thousand Candles
Date: January 1-4, 2026 / 4-9 PM
Location: Brookgreen Gardens

Brookgreen Gardens transforms into a magical wonderland, illuminated by the soft glow of over 2,700 hand-lit candles and millions of sparkling lights. From 4 to 9 p.m., guests can stroll the garden paths with a warm cup of cider in hand, enjoy festive holiday music, and celebrate the season with loved ones.

Grand Strand Boat Show and Sportsman Expo
Date: January 9-11, 2026
Location: Myrtle Beach Convention Center

The Grand Strand Boat Show and Sportsman Expo is a premier annual event showcasing the latest in boating, fishing, and outdoor sports gear. Attendees can explore a wide range of exhibits, enjoy interactive demonstrations, and connect with industry experts.

February

Oysters & Art Festival
Date: February 7, 2026 / 12-4 PM
Location: Grand Strand Brewing 

The Annual Coastal Carolina Food and Art Festival returns! Enjoy fresh oysters, delicious bites, and craft beer from Grand Strand Brewing, plus live music and local art. The event takes place behind Grand Strand Brewing in downtown Myrtle Beach, rain or shine. Proceeds benefit the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum.

Myrtle Beach Gun Show
Date: February 7-8, 2026 / 9 AM – 4 PM
Location: Myrtle Beach Convention Center

The Myrtle Beach Gun Show at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center offers a wide range of firearms, accessories, and collectibles for enthusiasts. It’s a great opportunity to browse, buy, and learn from industry experts all in one place.

Marshi Gras on the MarshWalk
Date: February 17, 2026
Location: Murrells Inlet Marshwalk 

The Murrells Inlet MarshWalk brings Louisiana to South Carolina with Marshi Gras on the MarshWalk! The MarshWalk will hold a costume parade led by Marshi Gras’ very own King and Queen. If spectators do not have an awesome costume to wear, no fear! Each of the eight restaurants and bars at the MarshWalk will be giving away accessories and party favors, including masks, beads, and much more!

Grand Strand Bridal Expo
Date: February 28, 2026
Location: Myrtle Beach Convention Center

Experience the magic at the third annual Grand Strand Bridal Expo, where your dream wedding begins. Enjoy a day of elegance and inspiration, highlighted by a stunning Bridal Fashion Show that promises to captivate and delight as you explore the latest in bridal trends and services.

Vintage Market Days
Date: February 20-22, 2026
Location: Myrtle Beach Sports Center

Vintage Market Days is a high-end market that blends indoor and outdoor experiences, offering a curated selection of vintage-inspired goods. The event showcases original artwork, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade crafts, home décor, outdoor furniture, specialty foods, and seasonal plants. 

11th Annual Taste of the MarshWalk
Date: TBD
Location: Murrells Inlet Marshwalk

It’s the perfect time of the year for the great flavors at The Annual Taste of the MarshWalk. Sample the Chef’s favorite dishes from each of the eight Award-Winning Restaurants. Local Artisans, Crafters, Live Music, and Kids’ Activities will line the MarshWalk both days for a fun-filled weekend in the Inlet. Small Dish Tastings will include the area’s Freshest Local Seafood, as well as Non-Seafood Items for land lovers.

March

65th Annual Can-Am Days
Date: March 13-22, 2026

Myrtle Beach is thrilled to welcome Canadians back for Can-Am Days! It’s the perfect time to reconnect with family, soak in 100 km of coastal beauty, explore 14 unique communities, and hit the golf course. Don’t miss out on this celebration of fun, culture, and relaxation!

St Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival
Date: March 14, 2026 / 9 AM – 4 PM
Location: North Myrtle Beach

One of the biggest celebrations is St Patrick’s Day in North Myrtle Beach, SC. Every year, the city of NMB hosts 30,000+ attendees for a day of fun on Main Street in Ocean Drive. The parade, which typically features over 100 entries, starts at 9:00 a.m. The festival runs from 11 AM to 4 PM with over 100 street vendors offering food, drinks, and specialty items. There are three stages set up to provide live entertainment throughout the afternoon.

Annual Run to the Sun Car and Truck Show
Date: March 19-21, 2026
Location: 2501 North Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC

Mark your calendars for the Annual Run to the Sun Car and Truck Show. Taking place at the former Myrtle Square Mall site at 2501 North Kings Highway, this pay-to-attend event runs daily and features approximately 3,500 cars on display, showcasing a stunning array of classic and custom vehicles.

Barefoot Landing’s Spring Live Music Series
Date: TBD
Location: Dockside Village Stage, Barefoot Landing, North Myrtle Beach

Barefoot Landing’s Spring Live Music Series takes place on the Dockside Village Stage in North Myrtle Beach. Attendees can enjoy performances by local and regional bands across a range of musical genres on Fridays and Saturdays. Free lawn chairs are provided while supplies last, or guests are welcome to bring their own.

April

Myrtle Beach Food Truck Festival
Date: TBD
Location:  Old Myrtle Beach Mall Site – 2501 N. Kings Hwy.

Indulge in a culinary adventure like no other at the annual Myrtle Beach Food Truck Festival presented by Wicked Weed Brewing. From gourmet delights to street food favorites, this festival promises a feast for all senses. Enjoy a weekend filled with mouthwatering moments and unforgettable flavors.

SC Strongest Man & Woman Competition
Date: TBD
Location: Myrtle Beach Convention Center

Get ready for the ultimate test of strength – the annual SC Strongest Man & Woman Competition is coming! Watch competitors battle it out in epic events like dumbbell reps, sandbag carries, and last man/woman standing showdowns. This adrenaline-packed day will push athletes to their limits, keeping the crowd on the edge of their seats.

Monday After the Masters
Date:  TBD
Location: The Dye Club at Barefoot Resort, North Myrtle Beach, SC

Prepare for an unforgettable weekend of golf, music, and camaraderie. From the Tournament Registration to the Hootie & the Blowfish & Friends Concert, it’s a non-stop celebration for a good cause.

Singing in the Sun
Date: April 20-25, 2026
Location: Myrtle Beach Convention Center

Singing in the Sun, one of the world’s largest Christian music festivals, will be held at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. Attendees can look forward to an inspiring lineup of performances by top Christian artists and motivational talks from renowned speakers, creating a vibrant and spiritually enriching experience.

May

The Myrtle Beach Classic
Date: May 7-10, 2026
Location: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The Myrtle Beach Classic, a prestigious PGA TOUR event sponsored by Visit Myrtle Beach, makes its highly anticipated return to the Grand Strand. Having debuted in 2024 as the first PGA TOUR event in Myrtle Beach’s history and the first major professional golf tournament on the Grand Strand in 24 years, this event reinforces Myrtle Beach’s reputation as the “Golf Capital of the World.” By combining its renowned status as America’s top traveling golf destination with the elite presence of the world’s best golfers, the Myrtle Beach Classic continues to elevate the region’s golfing legacy.

Myrtle Beach Bike Week Spring Rally
Date: May 8 – 17, 2026
Location: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The Myrtle Beach Bike Week Spring Rally promises to be an exhilarating event throughout the Myrtle Beach area. This iconic rally features a vibrant consumer show, exciting local fairs, and a motorcycle show that draws enthusiasts from across the country for ten days of bike culture, entertainment, and community.

Brookgreen Gardens Memorial Day 5K
Date: May 25, 2026 / 6 PM
Location: Brookgreen Gardens

Join the Annual Brookgreen Gardens 5K in Murrells Inlet! Participants will receive a custom race bib, a participant shirt, and a specially designed medal, along with complimentary entry to explore the gardens. This scenic 5K is ideal for runners of all levels seeking a fun and festive evening. Celebrate fitness, community, and the beauty of Brookgreen Gardens in one unforgettable event.

World Famous Blue Crab Festival
Date: TBD
Location: Historic Little River Waterfront, Little River, SC

The Annual World Famous Blue Crab Festival will take place at Historic Little River Waterfront in Little River. As one of the largest festivals in the Southeast, this beloved event offers fresh, local seafood, scenic waterfront views, and live beach music. Visitors can also shop for unique gifts from local crafters. Consistently voted the Best Annual Event/Festival on the Grand Strand by the readers of Sun News for over eight years, the World Famous Blue Crab Festival is a cherished tradition you won’t want to miss.

June

Carolina Country Music Fest - Myrtle Beach

Carolina Country Music Fest (CCMF)
Date: June 4-7, 2026
Location: 812 North Ocean Boulevard

Put on your cowboy boots and get ready to experience the Carolina Country Music Fest! This highly anticipated event brings together top country music stars for an unforgettable weekend of performances, set against the backdrop of Myrtle Beach’s stunning coastline. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music, fan interactions, and exciting activities as CCMF marks a decade of celebrating country music.

Conway Riverfest
Date: June 27, 2026
Location: Riverfront Park, Conway, SC

Since 1980, Conway Riverfest has been a cherished tradition, celebrating with a day full of fun and festivities. Taking place at Riverfront Park, the event features live music, delicious food, local vendors, and a fireworks display. Suitable for all ages, attendees can enjoy a variety of activities, including a Business Expo, Artisans Market, golf cart parade, and children’s activities, making it a perfect day out for the whole family.

Carolina Country Music Fest - Myrtle Beach

July

Fourth of July Events:

Salute from the Shore

Salute from the Shore is a cherished 4th of July tradition in South Carolina. This special event features a military flyover that stretches the entire length of South Carolina’s coastline, offering a unique way for individuals, families, and friends to honor our armed forces while celebrating Independence Day on the beach.

 

Surfside Beach Fourth of July Celebration

Celebrate Independence Day at the Surfside Beach Fourth of July Celebration. Taking place at the Surfside Pier, this festive event includes live music, entertainment, and more, making it a great spot for visitors and locals to enjoy a fun-filled evening by the ocean.

 

Murrells Inlet Boat Parade

The Murrells Inlet Boat Parade is a favorite 4th of July event for many. Starting at 9 AM, boats decorated in red, white, and blue will sail from Garden City Point through the inlet, ending at Morse Park Landing. This festive parade is a fantastic way to kick off your Independence Day celebrations.

 

MarshWalk Fourth of July Fireworks

Celebrate July 4th at the MarshWalk with an evening of delicious food, holiday drink specials, and live entertainment. The festivities culminate in a dazzling fireworks display, lighting up the sky and providing a perfect end to your Independence Day festivities.

 

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk 4th of July Fireworks

Enjoy a spectacular fireworks display at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. At the Second Avenue Pier, this show is a brilliant way to end the day with a bang and enjoy the festive spirit of Independence Day.

 

Fireworks at Barefoot Landing

Celebrate the Fourth of July at Barefoot Landing with an evening full of fun and excitement! Arrive early to explore unique shops, enjoy tasty bites from local restaurants, and catch live entertainment throughout the complex. Then, cap off the night with a spectacular fireworks display over the lake. It’s the perfect way to spend Independence Day with family and friends!

August

Craftsmen’s Summer Classic
Date: August 1-2, 2026
Location: Myrtle Beach Convention Center

The Craftsmen’s Summer Classic returns, bringing the Grand Strand’s favorite art and craft festival to life once again! Explore aisles filled with pottery, jewelry, clothing, woodwork, glass, fine art, photography, home décor, tasty treats, seasonal specialties, and much more. Whether your style is classic or contemporary, practical or whimsical, there’s something for every taste and budget. Celebrate creativity and discover unique treasures in a fun, vibrant atmosphere for the whole family.

Summer Light: Art by Night
Date: TBD
Location: Brookgreen Gardens

Experience Brookgreen Gardens in a whole new light during Summer Light: Art by Night. On select evenings, the sculpture garden comes alive with glowing art installations, live music, and a magical atmosphere. Don’t miss this unique blend of art, nature, and summer night magic.

Atlantic Beach Gullah Geechee Festival
Date: TBD
Location: Atlantic Beach, 30th Avenue S.

Celebrate the rich heritage of the Gullah Geechee people at this vibrant, family-friendly festival by the sea. Enjoy a weekend filled with cultural expression, live music, traditional food, local art, and community connection, all in the historic beachfront town of Atlantic Beach. This free event honors the legacy and contributions of the Gullah Geechee culture through fellowship, creativity, and economic empowerment.

September

Mustang Week
Date: September TBD, 2026
Location: Old Myrtle Beach Mall

Rev up for Mustang Week, an iconic annual celebration bringing Mustang enthusiasts together from across the globe. This weeklong event features high-powered car shows, meetups, cruises, and more, all dedicated to honoring the legacy and culture of the legendary Ford Mustang. Whether you’re a longtime owner or a new fan, Mustang Week offers an unforgettable experience for car lovers of all ages.

Carolina Cup Surf Fest
Date: TBD
Location: 1601 N. Ocean Blvd, Surfside Beach, SC

Catch the wave at Carolina Cup Surf Fest, where over 300 surfers from around the globe will compete for lots of cash and prizes. Held in front of the Holiday Inn Oceanfront in Surfside Beach, this thrilling four-day event brings top-tier surfing action to the South Carolina coast.

Myrtle Beach Bike Week Fall Rally
Date: TBD
Location: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The Myrtle Beach Bike Week Fall Rally promises to be an exhilarating event in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This iconic rally features a vibrant consumer show, exciting local fairs, and a motorcycle show that draws enthusiasts from across the country for ten days of bike culture, entertainment, and community.

Crooktoberfest
Date: TBD
Location: Crooked Hammock Brewing 4924 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach

A full month long of Crooked Fun with an all-day/everyday Bavarian-Cookout specials, fresh Fall beers, live music, and kooky competitions for fun prizes!

October

Halloween BOOnanza
Date: TBD
Location: North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex

Get ready for a spook-tacular evening of family fun at Halloween BOOnanza! Hosted by the City of North Myrtle Beach Parks and Recreation Department and Coastal Carolina University’s Leadership class, this festive event transforms the soccer fields into a Halloween wonderland. Enjoy magic shows, marshmallow roasting, games, inflatables, trick-or-treating, and more.

Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam
Date: TBD
Location: 2501 N. Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 

Join thousands of Jeepers from across the country at the Annual Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam! This 3-day festival will be even bigger and better this year with an epic Off-Road Obstacle Course, Show-N-Grime Car Show, Sunrise Beach Crawl, Nightly Parties, Food Trucks, Beer, Raffles & more! Register your Jeep or enjoy the event as a spectator. Kids under 12 are free!

Myrtle Beach RV Show
Date: October 23, 2026
Location: Myrtle Beach Convention Center

The Myrtle Beach RV Show showcases the latest makes and models from the nation’s top recreational vehicle manufacturers. Visitors can explore a wide variety of RVs, from sleek new models to luxurious motorhomes, all in one convenient location. With special factory rebates, flexible financing options, and on-the-spot loan approvals, this event is a must for serious RV enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current rig or simply dream about your next adventure, the Myrtle Beach RV Show offers something for every RV lover.

Halloween on The Marshwalk
Date: October 31, 2026
Location: Murrells Inlet Marshwalk

Ghosts, goblins, and ghouls of all ages will fill the Marsh at this year’s annual “Halloween on the MarshWalk.” The Marshwalk’s longest-running and most successful event, Halloween on the MarshWalk, brings fun and prizes to the whole family! All eight MarshWalk restaurants will offer great food and drink specials.

November

Taste of the Town
Date: TBD
Location: Myrtle Beach Convention Center

This annual event is a fan favorite, offering the chance to sample some of the best local cuisine. The area’s finest restaurants serve tapas-style cuisine, and all proceeds benefit St. Andrew Catholic School in Myrtle Beach. Food tickets are $1 each, and menu items cost between 1-5 tickets.

Chili Cook Off
Date: TBD
Location: The Wicked Tuna 4123 Highway 17 Business, Murrells Inlet

Sample some of the Strand’s best chili recipes and cast your vote for the “Best Chili On The Beach,” support local craft vendors, and rock out to live music all day long!  

The Dickens Christmas Show & Festivals
Date: TBD
Location: Myrtle Beach Convention Center

The Dickens Christmas Show & Festivals is a unique, national award-winning event comprising a multitude of shopping and entertainment options for individuals and groups alike. The cornerstone of the event is a Victorian Holiday Marketplace held in the 100,800 sq. ft. exhibit hall of the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.

The Great Christmas Light Show
Date: TBD
Location: North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex

The Great Christmas Light Show is a park-wide lighted celebration that is sure to capture the true spirit of the season! The drive-through light show will feature over 2 million lights festively displayed along a 2-mile drive throughout the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex.

December

MarshWalk Wonderland of Lights
Date: All December 2026
Location: Murrells Inlet Marshwalk

The MarshWalk Wonderland of Lights returns to Murrells Inlet, offering a dazzling walk-through holiday light experience. Visitors can stroll the beautifully illuminated MarshWalk, enjoying the festive atmosphere with family, friends, or that special someone. With the salt air breeze and sparkling displays, it’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.

Myrtle Beach Bowl Game
Date: TBD
Location: Brooks Stadium, Coastal Carolina University, Conway, SC

College football returns to the Grand Strand for another edition of the Myrtle Beach Bowl Game! Taking place at Coastal Carolina University’s Brooks Stadium, this exciting postseason matchup will be broadcast live on ESPN.

New Year’s Eve on the MarshWalk
Date: December 31, 2026
Location: Murrells Inlet Marshwalk 

Ring in the new year at the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, the ultimate spot for celebration! Each of the eight participating MarshWalk restaurants will feature festive drinks and dinner specials, ensuring there’s something delicious for every taste. Guests can enjoy lively entertainment and live music. The MarshWalk offers a vibrant atmosphere, waterfront views, and a festive spirit that makes welcoming the new year truly unforgettable.

Elevate Your Beach Getaway at Monterey Bay Suites

Wake up to breathtaking ocean views and the soothing sounds of the surf at Monterey Bay Suites. Whether you’re planning a fun-filled family vacation, a romantic retreat, or a getaway with friends, Monterey Bay offers everything you need just minutes from Myrtle Beach’s top attractions, restaurants, and entertainment. With spacious suites, a variety of on-site amenities, and direct beach access, Monterey Bay Suites is the perfect home base for relaxation, adventure, and making lasting memories along the beautiful Grand Strand.

Aerial of Monterey Bay Suites