Fall at the Beach – Don’t Miss Out on
Upcoming Events
By Stacy Bennett

Even though temperatures are still high, fall is
approaching us here on the Grand Strand.
Those of us who live at the beach year round know
how the pace of life changes as the summer draws
to an end. Tourists go back to their homes in
landlocked cities and inland towns, and the beach
gets a little quieter.

Because I have spent my whole life living on the
southeastern coast of North Carolina, I always
expect the hustle and bustle to die down, and
although it may seem gloomy watching beach
shops and restaurants close earlier, I think it is a
restful time that gives locals and the occasional fall tourist a chance to see another
beautiful side of the Grand Strand.

If you are debating on visiting the beach in the fall, consider the pros:
• The weather is cooler for outdoor activities, such as fishing, biking, and
shopping at the outlet malls (also, don’t forget about all the stores at
Barefoot Landing and Broadway at the Beach).
• There are fewer tourists, therefore less traffic.
• Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas have plenty of indoor activities and
entertainment that will be less crowded and potentially less expensive.
• Beaches are emptier, allowing for more space plus peace and quiet.
• Hotels and vacation rentals may be cheaper due to lower demand.
Have I sold you on visiting the beach this fall? If not, I want to share just a few popular
upcoming events.

SeptemberFest! at Barefoot Landing will be on September 21 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on
The Lawn in Dockside Village. The most exciting feature of this event just might be
Duplin Winery’s Grape Stomp. You can participate in this fun tradition of wine-makers,
all while enjoying live music, food, and vendors.

September 22 is Myrtle Beach’s Fall Festival. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., attendees can
enjoy a variety of vendors and concessions, while benefiting the Myrtle Beach Track
Club Athletes competing in the USATF Junior Olympics. Local businesses will be
displaying their products and services, pets will be up for adoption, and face-painting,
balloons, and door prizes will be available.

Myrtle Beach Oktoberfest will take place October 11 and 12. This event offers live
music from German bands and a variety of modern musicians, over 60 vendors,
German food and other food trucks, a pumpkin patch and painting, a beer garden, plus
costume and eating contests. There will also be a kids’ zone with hay rides, scarecrow
building, inflatables, and a petting zoo. Without a doubt, this event offers something for
the whole family.

Looking for an alternative to trick-or-treating? On October 31 at 8 p.m., there will be a
Halloween Fireworks Extravaganza at Broadway at the Beach. Enjoy a breathtaking
display of fireworks over Lake Broadway, sponsored by Helicopter Adventures.
Now that you know the pros of visiting the beach during the fall and have an agenda of
fun events to attend, you should definitely consider visiting this September or October.
Come enjoy a different side of the beach that you cannot find during the blazing hot,
crowded summers. Enjoy cooler weather, stomp some grapes from Duplin Winery,
listen to German music, or find your own fall beach traditions. It may get a little quieter,
but the beach always offers opportunities for fun, no matter what season.