It's A Wonderful Life for the holidays in Surfside Beach
When the lights go up and the ocean breeze turns crisp, Surfside Beach proves why it’s called “The Family Beach.” Each December, the town comes alive with festive cheer, community spirit and tons of fun events for the whole family.
From the annual Christmas Parade and tree lighting to golf cart parades, holiday movies, and trolley rides through twinkling lights, this seaside town knows how to spread joy all season long.
Whether you’re a local making new traditions or a visitor looking for a holiday getaway with sand instead of snow, Surfside Beach offers the perfect mix of family fun, small-town warmth, and holiday magic by the sea.
Thursday, Dec. 4 | 5-8 p.m.
Memorial Park (Surfside Drive & N. Willow Drive)
Jingle all the way to Surfside Beach for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Memorial Park! Enjoy live music from The Tams, festive performances, and family fun leading up to the tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. Kids can meet Santa, decorate cookies, and enjoy holiday treats while parents shop local vendors and grab a bite to eat. It’s a free, family-friendly event that brings holiday magic to The Family Beach!
Saturday, Dec. 13 | 2 p.m.
Ocean Boulevard, Surfside Beach
Embark on a magical journey through the spellbinding wonderland of a classic Christmas parade. The annual family-friendly Surfside Beach Christmas Parade will take place on Ocean Boulevard in Surfside Beach. The parade route will begin on Melody Lane, travel north on Ocean Boulevard, turn west onto Surfside Drive, and end at Poplar Drive. Spectators are encouraged to bring a chair and enjoy the parade participants giving out candy. Santa himself will steal the show, reminding us that the holidays are finally here! This event is free!
Date TBD
Martin Field, 600 Dogwood Drive, Surfside Beach
Bring a chair and the family to Martin Field and snuggle up with a festive flick under the stars. The annual Christmas Movie under the Stars will take place in Martin Field located at 624 Dogwood Drive, Surfside Beach, SC at 5 p.m. Free showing of a holiday classic along with free cocoa and popcorn. Hotdogs and beverages will be available for purchase. This event is free!
Saturday, Dec. 20 | 9-11 a.m.
Golden Egg Pancake House
The annual Breakfast with Santa will take place at the Golden Egg Pancake House located at 415 Highway 17 N, Surfside Beach, SC 29575 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Reservations required. Contact Golden Egg Pancake House at (843) 238-4923 to reserve your spot!
Saturday, Dec. 20 | 1 p.m.
16th Avenue South to Surfside Drive
Get ready to decorate your golf carts in the holiday spirit for the highly anticipated annual Yuletide Christmas Golf Cart Parade at 1:00 p.m.! The parade route will start at 16th Ave S, turning onto Surfside Drive, and ending at Poplar Drive. Spectators are encouraged to bring a chair and enjoy the parade participants giving out candy. Register before 5 p.m. on Thursday, December 19, to be considered for sweet prizes at this family-friendly event. It's free!
Friday, Dec. 19 | 5-8 p.m.
Departs from Memorial Park
Surfside Beach is lighting up its town in Memorial Park! Gather your friends and family for the Trolley of Christmas Lights nights. This free, family-friendly event will take place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 19. Meet in Memorial Park, grab a free cup of cocoa, and listen to the music while you wait to hop aboard the trolley. While aboard, enjoy singing Christmas carols and looking at all the Christmas lights in town. This event is free!
