When Is Myrtle Beach Country Music Festival?
Discover when the Myrtle Beach Country Music Festival takes place, plus tips on hotels, travel, and enjoying the local scene.
Introduction to the Myrtle Beach Country Music Festival
If you love country music and beach vibes, the Myrtle Beach Country Music Festival is a must-visit event. Every year, fans gather to enjoy live music, great food, and the beautiful Atlantic coast. Planning your trip around the festival means you can enjoy both the shows and the local attractions.
In this guide, I’ll help you find out exactly when the festival happens, where to stay, and how to make the most of your visit. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, you’ll get useful tips to plan your perfect Myrtle Beach country music getaway.
When Does the Myrtle Beach Country Music Festival Take Place?
The Myrtle Beach Country Music Festival is held annually, usually in the spring. The event typically runs over a weekend, offering multiple days of live performances by top country artists. For 2026, the festival is scheduled for the weekend of April 24th to April 26th.
This timing is perfect because the weather in Myrtle Beach is warm but not too hot, making it ideal for outdoor concerts and beach activities. The festival usually starts in the afternoon and goes into the evening, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the music and the beach.
Dates: April 24–26, 2026
Location: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and surrounding venues
Typical schedule: Afternoon to late evening shows
Where Is the Festival Held in Myrtle Beach?
The Myrtle Beach Country Music Festival takes place mainly along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk area. This popular oceanfront spot offers a great setting with ocean views and easy access to restaurants and shops. Some concerts are held in nearby venues and parks, making it easy to explore the area between shows.
The festival area is walkable and close to many hotels, so you won’t have to worry about long drives or parking. The Boardwalk also features attractions like the SkyWheel and local eateries, perfect for breaks between performances.
Main venue: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
Nearby venues: Local parks and event spaces
Close to landmarks: SkyWheel, Broadway at the Beach
Best Hotels to Stay Near the Festival
Choosing the right hotel can make your festival experience much better. Staying close to the Boardwalk means you can walk to shows and enjoy the beach anytime. Here are some top hotel options near the festival:
Marina Inn at Grande Dunes: A luxury resort with ocean views, pools, and easy access to the beach.
Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort: Family-friendly with beachfront rooms and multiple pools.
Holiday Inn & Suites Myrtle Beach – Broadway at the Beach: Convenient location near shopping and dining.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Myrtle Beach Oceanfront: Modern rooms with ocean views, close to the Boardwalk.
Booking early is important, as hotels fill up fast during the festival weekend. Look for deals that include free cancellation in case your plans change.
How to Get to Myrtle Beach for the Festival
Myrtle Beach is easy to reach by car, plane, or bus. Here’s how you can get there:
By car: Myrtle Beach is accessible via US Highway 17 and Interstate 95. Parking near the Boardwalk is available but can fill up quickly during the festival.
By plane: Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is the closest airport, just 5 miles from downtown. Many airlines offer direct flights from major cities.
By bus: Greyhound and other bus services connect Myrtle Beach with nearby cities.
Consider ride-sharing or shuttle services during the festival to avoid parking hassles. Many hotels offer shuttle options to the festival venues.
What to Expect at the Myrtle Beach Country Music Festival
The festival features a lineup of popular country music stars and rising artists. You can expect:
Multiple stages with live performances throughout the day
Food trucks and local vendors offering Southern cuisine and snacks
Merchandise booths with artist gear and festival souvenirs
Family-friendly activities and areas for kids
The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with fans from all over coming to enjoy the music and the beach. It’s a great chance to discover new artists and enjoy your favorites in a beautiful setting.
Tips for Enjoying the Festival
To get the most from your festival experience, keep these tips in mind:
Buy tickets early: Popular shows sell out fast, so secure your spot in advance.
Arrive early: Get a good spot near the stage and avoid long lines.
Stay hydrated: April weather can be warm, so drink plenty of water.
Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking and standing a lot.
Plan your meals: Try local seafood and Southern dishes from food vendors.
Explore the area: Visit nearby attractions like Broadway at the Beach or the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel.
Other Attractions to Visit While in Myrtle Beach
Besides the festival, Myrtle Beach offers plenty of things to see and do. Here are some top spots to check out:
Broadway at the Beach: A large entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, and rides.
Myrtle Beach SkyWheel: A giant Ferris wheel with ocean views.
Ripley’s Aquarium: Family-friendly and fun for all ages.
State Parks: Myrtle Beach State Park offers walking trails and beach access.
Golf Courses: Myrtle Beach is famous for its golf, with many courses nearby.
These attractions make it easy to enjoy your trip even when you’re not at the festival.
Planning Your Trip: Booking and Budget Tips
Planning ahead will help you save money and avoid stress. Here are some tips:
Book hotels early: Festival weekends fill up fast, so reserve your room as soon as possible.
Look for package deals: Some hotels offer festival ticket bundles or discounts.
Use public transport or shuttles: Save on parking and avoid traffic.
Set a budget: Include tickets, food, lodging, and extras like souvenirs.
Check the festival website: For updates on lineups, schedules, and ticket sales.
Conclusion
The Myrtle Beach Country Music Festival is a fantastic event for music lovers and beach fans alike. It takes place every spring, with the 2026 festival scheduled for April 24th to 26th. The oceanfront Boardwalk area provides a lively and scenic setting for the concerts.
By planning your trip early, choosing the right hotel, and knowing what to expect, you can enjoy a smooth and fun festival experience. Don’t forget to explore Myrtle Beach’s other attractions to make your visit even more memorable. Whether you’re coming for the music, the beach, or both, Myrtle Beach offers a great getaway.
FAQs
When exactly is the Myrtle Beach Country Music Festival in 2026?
The festival is scheduled for April 24th to April 26th, 2026. It runs over a weekend with multiple live country music performances each day.
Where is the festival held in Myrtle Beach?
The main events take place along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, with some shows in nearby parks and venues close to the oceanfront.
What are the best hotels near the festival?
Top hotels include Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort, Holiday Inn & Suites Broadway at the Beach, and SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oceanfront.
How can I get to Myrtle Beach for the festival?
You can drive via US Highway 17 or I-95, fly into Myrtle Beach International Airport, or take bus services like Greyhound. Shuttle options are often available during the festival.
Are there family-friendly activities at the festival?
Yes, the festival offers family-friendly areas and activities, making it a great event for visitors of all ages.
