What Festivals Are Held in Myrtle Beach Each Year?

Myrtle Beach is a great destination for visitors looking to experience a variety of festivals throughout the year. From Oktoberfest to the Water Lantern Festival, there is something for everyone. The annual Myrtle Beach Oktoberfest is held on the third Saturday of October each year and features live entertainment, crafts, fireworks and more. Formerly known as Atlantic Beach Bikefest, the celebration is usually held on or near Memorial Day weekend.

This event offers great live shows, a petting zoo, pig races and games for children. The Valentine's Day Festival is another great option for those planning a winter getaway. This festival is held on or around Valentine's Day and provides an opportunity to create unforgettable memories of their trip to Myrtle Beach. The Hispanic Heritage Day weekend is home to the annual October Shrimp Festival, which attracts thousands of locals and visitors with the goal of enjoying the good weather, delicious shrimp (including samples from the festival's shrimp cooking contest) and the best live jazz music.

The Water Lantern Festival is one of the most beautiful events that takes place in Myrtle Beach each year. This event brings together motorcyclists from all over the country to meet, make new friends and enjoy the beautiful biking conditions that Myrtle Beach has to offer. ESPN brings college basketball to the HTG Center at Coastal Carolina University in the Myrtle Beach area. The Myrtle Beach Marathon is held every year in February and is known as the fastest and flattest race in South Carolina.

The Blue Crab Festival takes place every May in Little River, located north of Myrtle Beach. This event attracts more than 50,000 visitors and features more than 40 vendors, a wide selection of beers, numerous live entertainment venues, face painting, children's play areas and a pumpkin patch. Main Street in North Myrtle Beach hosts a fun family festival every year on the Saturday before Mother's Day. The Myrtle Beach Nationals National Car, Truck and Bike Show takes place from June 12 to 14 and is an exciting three-day event that the whole family is sure to love.