What To Do: Labor Day Weekend in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Labor Day weekend is one of my favorite weekends of the year in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Maybe it’s because while most people are celebrating the unofficial end of summer, the summer weather and season is still going strong. One thing about Labor Day weekend is certain… there is no shortage of food, fun or fireworks when you’re celebrating along the Grand Strand. If you’re headed to see us for the long holiday weekend, here are some things you might want to check out:

Fireworks Shows 

While our visitors have the chance to catch incredible fireworks displays all summer long in Myrtle Beach, Labor Day weekend boasts a two extravagant shows. On Saturday, September 2, at 10 p.m., there will be a fireworks display at Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach. And on Sunday, September 3, you can see a fireworks show at Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach at 10 p.m.

Waves of Praise Gospel Fest

Waves of Praise has returned this year to Pavillion Park in downtown Myrtle Beach on Friday, September 1, and Saturday, September 2 for a two-day long event filled with as much gospel music as you can imagine. Hear famous gospel artists for free, such as Damon Little and John P. Kee. Vendors will be on-site for food, beverages, and souvenirs, and there will be fun for the entire family, including a Kid Zone. Bring a beach chair or blanket so you can sit in the park comfortably. Visit their website for the complete lineup and more information. 

End of Summer Event Finales

While our sunny weather and many attractions can be enjoyed well past Labor Day, the long holiday weekend usually marks the end of several summer events that have been happening daily or weekly for the past few months. If you wanted to catch any of the following events, this weekend would be the time to do it!

• Hot Summer Nights at Plyler Park in downtown Myrtle Beach. This is a nightly event that is free to attend and includes live music and entertainment along the iconic Myrtle Beach boardwalk.
• Summerfest at Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach. 7 to 10 p.m. This is a nightly event series that is free to attend and includes a variety of live music and entertainment, from character meet and greets to stiltwalkers. 

Experience the Beer Trail

The new Myrtle Beach Beer Trail will help you explore the 10 local breweries up and down the Grand Strand that are featured on the trail. From small watering holes to full-scale restaurant and brewery combos, the Beer Trail has all the options for you to find your new favorite spot - and local beverage! You can also redeem special offers and earn points for fun merch by downloading your trail pass here. 

Check out a Local Farmers Market

Thanks to our warm climate, our area farmers markets are up and running through the end of October in most locations. Locals and visitors alike love the local produce, meat, eggs, cheese, baked goods and homemade crafts offered by area farms and vendors. On Saturday, September 2, visitors can check out a farmers market in these two locations.

• The Market Common - Deville Street from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Conway - Corner of Laurel Street and 2nd Avenue from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Go Fishing

It seems the fish may also know that Labor Day weekend is a great time to head to Myrtle Beach. Many fish start running as fall approaches, meaning anglers stand a better chance of reeling in something big. All area fishing piers (and there are many!) offer fishing gear, bait and tackle, and even provide the fishing licenses you need. Heading out on a charter boat isn’t a bad way to spend the weekend, either, and several run out of both Little River and Murrells Inlet.

Check out The Hangout

One of the new attractions to Broadway at the Beach, The Hangout is the spot to, well, hangout! With live music, an extensive food and drink menu, and wide open space to play yard games, The Hangout is the perfect Place to celebrate summer at The Beach. The staff at The Hangout also encourages their guests to dance on the tables (engineered for safety) and play in the foam party every hour!

Go see the Sloths

Ripley's Aquarium added a new exhibit this spring with two of the cutest sloths around! Go check out Cleo and Rico and see how they lounge in their habitat, eat and interact with the trainers at the Aquarium. Located near the fun in Broadway at the Beach, the sloth exhibit is a must-see for the long weekend! 

 For anyone looking to book a last minute long weekend trip to Myrtle Beach, several hotels and resorts have events planned for the entire family to enjoy all weekend long! Here are some events that are happening over at the Kingston Resorts in Myrtle Beach for their guests: 

• Hilton Labor Day Cookout | On Sept. 2 from 12:00 - 4:00 pm, Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort will celebrate the holiday weekend with great music, delectable food and cherished moments made. For more information visit www.kingstonresorts.com.

• Embassy Suites Labor Day Cookout | Bring the family out to Currents Seaside Entertainment located at Embassy Suites Myrtle Beach Resort on Sept. 3 from 12:00 - 4:00 pm. Food will be served from 12:00 - 3:00 pm poolside, with a choice between a hot dog and pull pork sandwich for lunch. For more information visit www.kingstonresorts.com.

• Labor Day Poolside Activities | Guests of all ages are welcome to join in on the festive poolside activities taking place on Monday, Sept. 4. The fun includes red, white and blue tie dye tees and Americana face painting, hula hoops, boccie ball, spike ball, corn hole and much more.