by Emily Smith
The time of year for holiday celebrations has arrived, with few areas of the Grand Strand lighting up quite like North Myrtle Beach does. This strip of the coast is known for a number of holiday events that begin this month and last through the New Year. No matter what or how you celebrate, there are a myriad of activities to enjoy.
The Alabama Theater in Barefoot Landing kicks off the season with The South’s Grandest Christmas Show. It begins November 1 and plays daily through New Year’s Day. This production is sure to put everyone in a party mood, sporting, as it does, exuberant dances, singing, and dazzling special effects. Visit www.alabama-theatre.com for more information and ticket times and prices.
On November 19 at 7pm, walkers, joggers, and perambulators of all kinds can catch a first glimpse of The Great Christmas Light Show when they sign up for Dashing Through the Glow, a two mile non-competitive walk/run through the holiday lights. Get in the spirit and wear your best holiday themed outfit. Prizes will be given for best dressed individual and best dressed family. The course is held at the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex, and ends at Santa’s Village, where you can enjoy hot chocolate, rides, and visits with the big man himself.
The Light Show officially opens for touring nightly, November 22-December 30 (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day), weather permitting. Visitors can drive through this spectacular enchanted holiday land, which features over 2 million lights along a 1.5 mile drive. More than 500 magical light displays, some up to 55 feet tall, have been custom-made for this event; and this year the town has prepared thirty new animated scenes for all to experience. For more information about Dashing Through the Glow and the Great Christmas Light Show, visit them on the web.
Finally, on the last Saturday of the month, the Intracoastal Waterway will light up from the Little River Inlet down to the Dock Holidays Marina. Each year since 1984, the Intracoastal Christmas Regatta provides a decked-out yacht parade to delight watchers on the shores. The parade runs from 5-7pm, when the last of the decorated boats sails away. Hosted by Yachts for Tots, this event also supplies multiple collection points for unwrapped gifts to be donated to local charities. Visit www.christmasregatta.com for spectator locations and donation spots.
