Tourism News
Top 10 Things to do in Myrtle Beach in December
Whoever says Myrtle Beach is solely a summer destination has never been here in December. Despite the cooler weather and smaller crowds, December has one of the busiest social calendars of the year.
From shopping and shows to events to Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, there’s plenty to keep you busy this month. Make this December one to remember by checking out these top 10 things to do in December in Myrtle Beach:
Holiday Shows
With beautiful imagery, talented singers, dancers, entertainers, and actors, all of the award-winning Christmas shows in Myrtle Beach will definitely get you in the holiday spirit. Check out these Christmas shows at the Alabama Theatre The Carolina Opry Theater, and more! See our blog post about holiday shows for more info.
Check out the Christmas Trees
If you can relate to Will Ferrell’s Elf and his love of Christmas trees, check out the festive trees around the Myrtle Beach area.
Broadway at the Beach | Check out the 46-foot musical tree in Center Court at Broadway at the Beach! The tree features a musical light show every 30 minutes from 4 to close throughout the holiday season.
Barefoot Landing | Barefoot Landing’s huge festive Christmas tree is located near the children’s playground.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk | A large Christmas tree lights up the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk at Plyler Park right by the Myrtle Beach Skywheel.
The Market Common | The Market Common’s Christmas tree is located in front of the Grand 14 movie theater.
Ripley’s Aquarium | Ripley’s Aquarium features a tree for every state and territory of the U.S. — more than 50 in all — at its annual Festival of Trees. It is free with aquarium entry throughout the holidays.
Surfside Beach | Surfside Beach’s Christmas tree is located in front of the Surfside Beach Town Hall.
North Myrtle Beach | McLean Park is the site of North Myrtle Beach’s annual Christmas Tree.
Holiday Shopping
While you’re here in December, why not take advantage of all of the great local shopping centers for all of your holiday shopping needs? There are tons of places to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list this year. Check out this list of stores in the area and see if you can finish your holiday shopping while you’re in town.
The Great Christmas Light Show
This year, the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex is introducing the Great Christmas Light Show! This family-friendly event begins at the end of November and lasts throughout the month of December. This fun event will feature tons of beautiful Christmas light displays, train rides, Santa’s village, and much more.
Brookgreen Gardens
1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
This Murrells Inlet botanical sculpture garden is beautiful year-round, but especially in December during the Nights of a Thousand Candles” festival. Featuring more than 5,000 handlit candles illuminating the scenic gardens and sculptures, this former rice plantation transforms into a winter wonderland at night.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
Celebrate the holidays Myrtle Beach-style with Holidays on the Boardwalk in downtown Myrtle Beach. On special nights this month see live music, meet Santa, ride a camel or the Polar Express train, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies and go caroling in the downtown district.
Ripley's Aquarium
Each year, Ripley’s Aquarium hosts the Ripley’s Festival of Trees, which is a perfect attraction for the whole family. While enjoying looking at the fish and sea life at the aquarium, visitors may also get in the holiday spirit by viewing beautifully decorated trees. There are trees to represent all of the 50 states, and a number of other cool trees with eye-catching decorations.
Inlet Christmas Weekend
Waterfront, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Have a blast by the water during the Inlet Christmas Weekend in Murrells Inlet! This fun event will take place on December 6-8, 2019 and will include a tree lighting ceremony, kid-friendly activities, Christmas home tours, a Christmas parade, and much more.
Say Hello to Santa
4017 Deville St., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Santa photos are available at multiple locations around Myrtle Beach. For Covid-19 safety, masks may be required. Check with your location with any questions about safety precautions and protocols.
Broadway at the Beach | Santa will make an appearance every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 20 with a special visit on Christmas Eve. House are 5 to 7 p.m. Fridays, 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays plus 1 to 4 p.m. Christmas Eve.
Coastal Grand Mall | Children can meet with Santa in person for contactless visits at Coastal Grand Mall in Myrtle Beach. Times can be reserved online. He is available 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays. On Christmas Eve, he will be available 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.
The Market Common | Pets and children are welcome for photo opportunities with Santa at The Market Common in Myrtle Beach. Santa will be on hand from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursday before Christmas (except Christmas Eve). Masks are required but can be removed for photos.
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk | Santa will be at the Holidays on the Boardwalk event on weekends throughout December.
New Years Eve Celebrations
Sure, December focuses on holidays like Christmas, but what about New Year’s Eve? If you’re planning a New Year’s Eve celebration in Myrtle Beach, be sure to check our blog and events page for more updates about New Year’s Eve events this year.
