Brookgreen Gardens has been a magical Grand Strand destination and local treasure for years. It’s a delight to visit any time of year, but each December the gardens come alive with lights and the most beloved of Carolina Christmas traditions, Nights of a Thousand Candles.
Every Thursday through Sunday night, December 5 – 21, beginning at 3 p.m., visitors can stroll through the 9,127-acre sculpture gardens illuminated by 4,500 hand-lit candles as well as countless twinkling lights. Walk under the ancient live oaks dripping in Spanish moss and dazzling white lights, sip hot cocoa, cider, or wine while enjoying carolers singing holiday favorites, admire the sculptures surrounded by fountains illuminated by floating candles, walk through the maze of gardens featuring colored and themed light displays, and warm up with clam chowder and she-crab soup at the food tent. Nights of a Thousand Candles are great for a romantic date night, family outing, or night out with good friends and are sure to put you in the holiday spirit.
Nights of a Thousand Candles consistently ranks among the top holiday attractions in the Myrtle Beach area. In 2018, the event was honored by South Carolina Parks, Recreation, and Tourism with the Charles A. Bundy Award for Excellence in Tourism. Nights of a Thousand Candles was also named Best Christmas Lights in South Carolina by Travel + Leisure Magazine. Tickets sell out quickly and must be purchased ahead of time.
Brookgreen Gardens is located just 15 miles south of Downtown Myrtle Beach. Before heading to the event, stop by the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina”, Murrells Inlet, for dinner on the Marsh Walk, or drive a little further south for dinner and shopping in historic Pawleys Island. Of course, the food and beverage tent offers dishes to warm you up during this marvelous holiday experience. Onsite dining in the garden’s restaurant is available as well; however, reservations are strongly recommended.
If you are visiting the Myrtle Beach area in December, Nights of a Thousand Candles is a do not miss holiday event. Make memories to last a lifetime, or start a new holiday tradition! For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Brookgreen Gardens online, and prepare to be dazzled with holiday cheer!