Experience the Magic: North Myrtle Beach's Great Christmas Light Show
I've attended numerous drive-through holiday light displays over the years, but North Myrtle Beach's The Great Christmas Light Show remains one of my absolute favorites. This dazzling event features over 2 million festive lights along a 1.5-mile drive through the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex. It's typically open nightly from late November through December 30 (excluding Christmas Day), making it a cherished annual tradition.
Spectacular for all ages, this show particularly captivates young children with more than 500 custom-made light displays—some towering up to 55 feet. Visitors enjoy 20 animated figures and holiday scenes where lights dance and come alive, creating an immersive winter wonderland.
After the drive, park and explore Santa's Village for hot chocolate, s'mores, a ride on the Santa Express Train, tubing down a 40-foot inflatable slide, and a visit with Santa Claus. From late November onward (except Christmas Day), Santa's Village offers these extras when gates open.
Our family has attended yearly since my firstborn was one, and the event expands each season. On weekends, plan extra time for entry traffic—the city manages it efficiently, but peak times can be busy. We always pack plenty of snacks for the kids, turning any wait into fun.
Gates open at 5:30 p.m. nightly and close at 9:30 p.m. Admission is per vehicle: $15 for 1-15 passengers, $30 for 16-30, and $60 for 31+. Buses should call (843) 280-5570 to schedule.
For the full Santa's Village experience—including ice skating and a petting zoo—bring extra cash, as most activities have a small fee. Photos with Santa are free, so have your camera ready! Visit www.NMBChristmas.com for details.
