(BPT) - Looking for exciting new ways to celebrate the holidays this year? Why not think outside the gift box and head to The Beach. In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, you and your family can start a memorable new tradition that will take your holidays from ho-hum to ho-ho-ho!
For the young and young at heart, Myrtle Beach offers holiday events and venues to dazzle and delight - plus 60 miles of gorgeous, sun-drenched coastline to enjoy. Consider embarking on a magical trip to give your family memories to last a lifetime, which could become a favorite new tradition.
Let the treetops glisten
Nothing sparks holiday cheer like twinkling holiday lights - and the more, the better. To satisfy your craving for wonder and awe, check out these amazing light displays to enthrall your entire family.
Winter Wonderland at The Beach: This event's second year is better than ever, with spectacular light displays along the gorgeous mile-long Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. A brand-new Family Fun Zone offers holiday activities for all ages, tons of entertainment near the SkyWheel, oceanfront photos with Santa and special events all season long. November 17-December 23.
Nights of a Thousand Candles: Brookgreen Gardens comes to life with the soft glow of over 2,700 hand-lit candles and countless sparkling lights. Stroll the garden pathways with a cup of cider, cocoa or wine while listening to holiday music and carolers singing. November 26-January 1.
Ripley's Festival of Trees: The halls of Ripley's Aquarium are decked so even the marine life can enjoy the holiday spirit! With over 55 trees decorated for each state and territory in the U.S., the entire aquarium is transformed into a winter wonderland. Monday-Saturday in December.
Great Christmas Light Show: This annual celebration captures the spirit of the season with a drive-through light show featuring over 2 million lights. Plan your visit for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights to visit "Santa's Village" with holiday activities for all ages. November 21-December 30.
All the world's a stage
The thrill of live theater is unparalleled - and the excitement and energy of a live performance is even more magical when combined with iconic holiday themes and music. Myrtle Beach offers live shows to take the humbug out of any Scrooge, and you may just be tempted to see them all.
The Carolina Opry Christmas Special: "The Christmas Show of the South" open its 37th season of enchanting holiday shows with a Christmas special blending stunning new performances with time-honored tradition, acclaimed artists and long-standing Opry favorites. November 1-January 1.
Christmas at Pirates Voyage: In this unique show, a Mystical Christmas Spirit takes Captain Scrooge on a journey seeking the meaning of Christmas. Cheer as giant Christmas toys come to life and perform acrobatics above a lagoon, laugh at the comical castaway and gaze in awe at a live Nativity and an angel with a special message for landlubbers and pirates alike. November 3-December 31.
Hot Jersey Nights: This holiday experience blends holiday classics with tunes from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons that will get your toe tapping. Take a walk down memory lane as vocalists join in a Christmas Wonderland onstage to sing hit songs. November 1-December 30.
The South's Grandest Christmas Show: The Alabama Theatre's award-winning holiday production offers incredible talent, scenery and special effects for a spectacular new holiday musical experience sure to put you in the spirit of the season. November 1-December 31.
Motown Christmas Tribute: Enjoy an evening of soulful entertainment as you embark on a musical journey through Motown. Tap your feet and sing along with performers featuring hits from musical titans of the '60s and '70s. November 1-December 26.
Shop like a boss
No matter how long your holiday list, you're bound to find just the right gifts for friends and family at Myrtle Beach.
Broadway at The Beach: This 350-acre outdoor shopping center and entertainment complex is great for the whole family, featuring a magnificent 46-foot-tall Christmas tree. While shopping you can also enjoy live music, street dancers, a tree lighting ceremony and more.
Tanger Outlet Centers: Find your favorite designer brands at prices you'll love in two convenient Tanger Outlet locations in Myrtle Beach - the perfect place to find all the items on your list.
Market Common: Myrtle Beach's 'uptown downtown' upscale and trendy Market Common offers unique boutiques, local craft shops and popular national chain stores, along with flower-lined streets and twinkling lights to put you in the holiday mood. Take a shopping break with quality dining and entertainment, including a movie theater and bowling alley. On Tuesdays from November-December you can even enjoy a free horse-drawn carriage ride from 4-7 p.m.
Hammock Shops Village: This shopper's paradise in Pawleys Island hosts quaint southern stores and boutiques, including the Original Pawleys Island Hammock Shop selling famous handmade Pawleys Island hammocks.
Anyone in search of a warm welcome this holiday season will find more than just a day at The Beach at Myrtle Beach, including vibrant entertainment and family attractions, world-class golf and fresh coastal Carolina cuisine. Excited? Head to VisitMyrtleBeach.com or check out this year's holiday vacation guide to get started.
