Myrtle Beach is debuting a holiday sleight‑of‑hand with its first‑ever sleight races on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 5 to 8 p.m. along Ocean Boulevard. The event is part of the two‑day Merry Myrtle Festival and is limited to just 32 teams.
How the races work
Each four‑person team builds a sleight, outfits a costume, and pushes a teammate inside the sleight through a holiday‑themed obstacle course. The “spirit” division welcomes office groups, church friends, and families with teenagers who want a festive experience without a timed competition, while the “competitive” division offers bragging rights for more serious racers.
Free viewing for spectators
The city’s announcement notes there is no spectator fee, making it the only one of the three featured holiday outings where most of the crowd watches for free while participants perform.
Brookgreen Gardens’ Nights of a Thousand Candles
For a quieter, reflective alternative, Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet hosts its 26th “Nights of a Thousand Candles” from Dec. 10‑13. Visitors stroll past more than 2,700 hand‑lit candles and millions of lights strung through live oaks and the nation’s largest collection of American figurative sculpture. Admission is $40 for adults and $20 for children ages 4‑12 (members receive reduced rates). Tickets must be purchased in advance and often sell out.
Conway’s Celebration of Lights
Conway offers the region’s most affordable holiday tradition: a drive‑through light tour through historic downtown. Last year the cost was $2 per vehicle, with the route running Dec. 4‑21, Thursdays through Sundays, 6‑9 p.m. The city has not yet posted 2026 dates but expects a similar schedule, likely including Dec. 12.
Choosing the right holiday outing
If you have three friends, a costume, and a competitive streak, the sleight races provide an active, community‑focused experience—just be sure to register early, as spots are limited. Brookgreen Gardens offers a romantic or family‑oriented evening with live music, food trucks, and a warm cider bar. Conway’s drive‑through is ideal for young children, grandparents, or anyone who prefers to stay warm inside the car.
The new sleight races do not replace existing traditions; they add a participatory element to the Grand Strand’s holiday season, giving locals a chance to be part of the spectacle rather than just watching it. If the 32 spots fill quickly, organizers expect to bring the races back for future festivals.
Original reporting: MyrtleBeachSC News — read the source article.
