When you think of Myrtle Beach, you probably picture hot summer days, packed beaches, and long boardwalk lines for ice cream. But here’s the insider scoop: fall might just be the best time to visit.

The weather is still warm enough to enjoy the ocean breeze, but the crowds have thinned out. Add in a calendar full of festivals, concerts, and quirky small-town celebrations, and you’ve got the recipe for an unforgettable trip. Locals call it “the secret season,” and once you’ve experienced it, you’ll see why.

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Festivals Worth Traveling For

• Nights at Nance (Sept. 4–Oct. 30): Every Thursday night, Nance Plaza in downtown Myrtle Beach comes alive with local and regional music. Free, fun, and perfect for easing into your weekend.
• SOS Fall Migration (Sept. 12–21): Head to North Myrtle Beach to experience The Shag, South Carolina’s official state dance. You don’t have to know the moves—the beach music alone will make you smile.
• Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival (Sept. 26–28): Set inside the historic Atalaya Castle at Huntington Beach State Park, this arts fest is magical. My tip? Plan extra time to stroll the beach right next door—it’s one of the most peaceful spots on the coast.
• Irish Italian Festival (Sept. 27): Where else can you eat both shepherd’s pie and spaghetti on the same street? Throw in live music and street performers, and this festival on North Myrtle Beach’s Main Street is a party for all ages.
• Little River Shrimp Fest (Oct. 11–12): Fresh shrimp, live bands, and a laid-back waterfront vibe—this is classic coastal Carolina.

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Quirky, Can’t-Miss Events

Want something different than your usual pumpkin patch? Myrtle Beach has you covered.

• City of Halloween, SC (Oct. 1–31): The town of Conway transforms into a Halloween wonderland with spooky decorations and events all month long. Don’t miss the Graveyard Grand Prix Coffin Races (yes, people actually race homemade coffins!).
• Loris Bog-Off Festival (Oct. 18): Ever had chicken bog? It’s a hearty Southern dish made with rice, chicken, and sausage—and it gets its very own festival in Loris. Go hungry and stick around for live music and fun.
• Cruisin’ The Beach Car Show (Oct. 16–19): Muscle cars, classics, and hot rods line Broadway at the Beach. Even if you’re not a car buff, the energy is contagious.

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Family Favorites

Traveling with kids (or grandkids)? These fall events are full of family fun:

• Harvest Home Weekend at Brookgreen Gardens (Oct. 4–5): Beyond the stunning gardens, families can enjoy hayrides, pumpkin decorating, and scarecrow building.
• Surfside Beach Fall Family Festival (Oct. 4): A small-town festival feel with music, food, and plenty of kids’ activities.
• Halloween Happenings (Oct. 25–31): From haunted pirate ships to trick-or-treating at Broadway at the Beach, the Grand Strand goes big for Halloween.

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Insider Tip

Fall is the perfect season to enjoy Myrtle Beach’s outdoor treasures. Huntington Beach State Park and Myrtle Beach State Park both have miles of shoreline and hiking trails that feel extra peaceful this time of year. Pack a picnic, take a walk, and enjoy the coastal scenery without the summer crowds.

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Plan Your Secret-Season Escape

With 60 miles of beaches, 14 unique communities, and a full lineup of fall festivals, Myrtle Beach in autumn is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. So grab your sweater for those breezy nights, bring your appetite for local flavors, and get ready to experience the Grand Strand in its most relaxed, festive season.