World Famous Blue Crab Festival

Don’t miss out on the  41st Annual World Famous Blue Crab Festival on May 20 and May 21, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy scenic views, live beach music, shop from over 250 local crafters, and satiate your hunger for fresh, local seafood or festival food classics.

What is the Little River Blue Crab Festival

The Little River Blue Crab Festival began in 1981 as a small waterfront gathering under live oak trees, with Grand Strand locals eager to be part of a new event and growing community. Over the years, it has become a highly anticipated annual event that celebrates the coastal culture and culinary heritage of Little River, South Carolina, adjacent to North Myrtle Beach. This two-day festival features live music, arts and crafts, and an abundance of mouth-watering seafood dishes prepared by local vendors. Visitors can enjoy steamed blue crabs, crab cakes, crab dip, and other delectable seafood dishes while taking in the scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. The festival also offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including a children's area with games and crafts. Whether you're a seafood lover or simply looking for a fun-filled weekend, the Little River Blue Crab Festival is the perfect way to experience the charm and hospitality of this quaint coastal town.

If you prefer to dine indoors, you’ll find l seafood-centric restaurants like Crab Catcher’s, Key West Crazy, and Hurricane Juels that line the Intracoastal Waterway.

The event has been awarded Best Annual Event/Festival on the Grand Strand by Sun News newspaper readers for over eight years. This is an event you won't want to miss!

No need to fear parking, as the festival has a parking roadmap and shuttle rides to and from the festival entrance. The general admission ticket is only $7, and children under the age of 12 get in for free. Come and experience a weekend of fun that supports a community in an accessible way that everyone in the family can enjoy. 

Stay Awhile!

Little River is only a short drive away from the sunny shores of North Myrtle Beach. Get the best of both worlds by renting a beach house or condo in North Myrtle and still make it on time for the festival.

North Myrtle Beach has plenty of accommodations to choose from. From luxury resorts to motels and RV’s and campgrounds, we’ve got something to suit everyone's style. 

If you want to stay close to all of the action, Harborgate Marina Club is the place for you. This resort is located right next to the Little River Swing Bridge and offers its guests an abundance of helpful amenities and exciting adventures, including jet ski rentals, dolphin cruises, and deep-sea fishing charters.

While You’re Here…

Although the festival is only two days, there is no need to cut your vacation short. 

While you’re here, soak in the sand, sun, and surf on our pristine beaches. With over nine miles of shoreline, you and your crew can embark on endless water adventures, including jetskiing, banana boating, kayaking, fishing, and more. 

Need a beach break? Head on over to Barefoot Landing for shopping, dining, and entertainment for the whole family. The kids can play the day away at Lulu’s Beach Arcade or encounter real life reptiles at Alligator Adventure. The adults will have no trouble finding their own fun. With Crooked Hammock Brewery, Duplin Winery, Landshark Bar and Grill, and Taco Mundo, all within walking distance from each other, a cold beverage and delicious food is never too far away. When the sun goes down, bring the whole crew together for a spectacular show at the Alabama Theatre. Here you can enjoy a world-class production of dancing and singing to some of your favorite hits in their brand new show, ICONIC. 

Don’t miss out on this must-attend event! Come for the blue crabs, and stay for the blue skies of North Myrtle Beach. 
 

Frequently Asked Questions