NMB Live! is the newest festival to take over Main Street, filling the heart of the city with live music, food, family activities, and coastal community spirit. The festival takes place on September 26 on Main Street in North Myrtle Beach, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The City of North Myrtle Beach hosts the event, and admission is free, making it an easy addition to a weekend getaway or a fun day out for families and friends.
Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to Main Street for a regular vacation, here's everything to know before you go.
What Is NMB Live!?
A New Chapter for North Myrtle Beach Events
As the city continues to grow and evolve, so do its celebrations, and NMB Live! marks the beginning of a new tradition.
The festival focuses on live music in North Myrtle Beach, local entertainment, food, and the laid‑back coastal atmosphere that makes Main Street such a favorite gathering place. It's designed for families, locals, and visitors who want a day filled with good music, good food, and a chance to enjoy the community.
Event Location & Hours
NMB Live! takes place along Main Street in North Myrtle Beach, stretching from storefronts to festival tents and performance areas.
In 2026, the festival is scheduled for Saturday, September 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., giving visitors plenty of time to explore, listen to music, grab lunch, and enjoy the activities.
Admission is free, and the festival is appropriate for all ages.
Live Music & Entertainment
Music & Entertainment Lineup
Live music is the heartbeat of NMB Live!. The festival features performances across multiple stages by Yacht Rock Radio featuring American Idol alum Carsen Webb, Whiskey Run, Tokyo Joe, Spare Change, and Trae Pierce & The T-Stones.
You can also catch exciting performances by local dance teams, Polynesian fire performers and dancers, live speed art demonstrations, and talented plein air artists creating their artwork. And while you're moving between stages, don't miss the street performers roaming down Main Street, interactive experiences along the way, and surprise acts that pop up throughout the festival.
Even More to Enjoy
While live performances draw the crowds, the festival offers lots more entertainment. Families can enjoy a dedicated Kids Zone with games, rides, and tons of family-friendly fun. Enter epic contests like the Dad Dance-Off, Air Guitar Challenge, and other competitions to keep the whole gang engaged.
200+ artisans, creators, vendors, and community groups will set up booths, giving visitors a chance to browse handmade goods, taste delicious food, learn about local organizations, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Will Food and Drinks Be Available?
Festival Food Vendors
Food is always part of the Main Street experience and NMB Live! continues that tradition.
Visitors can expect a mix of food trucks, festival vendors, and local restaurants offering easy grab‑and‑go options as well as sit-down experiences. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet, savory, or a festival favorite, there are sure to be a variety of choices.
Main Street's restaurants are always nearby if you want to sit down and enjoy a meal. Check out the daily special at Hoskins, a family-run favorite since 1948. Taste the best slice in North Myrtle Beach at NY Pizza Kitchen. Then finish it off with an over-the-top dessert at Crazy Mason.
Beer, Cocktails & Refreshments
Main Street bars and restaurants offer beer, cocktails, and non‑alcoholic refreshments. Grab a pint at Flynn's Irish Tavern or Main Street Tap and Grill. Sip cocktails at International Cafe. Raise a glass at Wine Therapy. Or grab classic festival beverages from vendors like sweet tea, sodas, water, and lemonade. There's nothing better than sipping something refreshing while listening to live music.
Tips for Attending NMB Live!
What to Bring
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Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the entire festival area.
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Sunscreen and water are always a good idea, even in the fall.
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Bring a chair to sit and relax while you enjoy live music.
What to Know Before You Go
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Arriving earlier in the day can help you find parking and settle in before the crowds grow.
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Festival attendance varies, but Main Street events typically draw a steady flow of visitors.
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Many vendors now use cashless payment, though it never hurts to bring a small amount of cash just in case.
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Weather can shift quickly along the coast, so keep an eye on the forecast and plan accordingly.
Parking & Transportation
Where Should I Park for NMB Live!?
Parking for the festival is free at the corner of 2nd Avenue North and Ocean Blvd., the corner of 1st Avenue South and Ocean Blvd., and McLean Park (93 Oak Drive). There will also be free shuttle service from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Ocean Drive Elementary School (901 11th Avenue North, NMB).
For more details, you can explore the city's parking guide and check the NMB Live! event page for updated parking locations.
Alternative Ways to Get There
Ride‑share services are a convenient option, especially if you're staying nearby. Bicycles and golf carts are welcome in North Myrtle Beach, and Main Street is easy to reach from several neighborhoods. If you're staying close to the festival, walking is the simplest way to get there without worrying about parking.
Turn NMB Live! Into a Weekend Getaway
Where to Stay
North Myrtle Beach offers plenty of places to stay if you want to turn the festival into a full weekend. Options like oceanfront resorts, hotels near the action, and vacation rentals give visitors a range of options.
Things to Do Before or After the Event
If you're making a weekend out of it, there's no shortage of things to do nearby. Spend the morning or evening at Cherry Grove Beach, known for its amazing sunrises, calm shoreline, and easygoing atmosphere. Explore Main Street shops, restaurants, and local hangouts, or spend a day at the beach. After that, head to Barefoot Landing for waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and entertainment.
Nature lovers will appreciate all the outdoor activities in North Myrtle Beach, and there is plenty of nightlife if you're looking for even more live music, dancing, and cocktails. Family activities are also plentiful if you've got the kids or grandkids in tow.
Be sure to check out the city's full events calendar to see what else is happening during your stay.
Why You'll Love NMB Live!
NMB Live! brings together everything people enjoy about North Myrtle Beach — live music, local flavor, family‑friendly fun, and the easygoing coastal vibes that make Main Street such a welcoming place. It's a celebration of community, creativity, and the rhythms that define life along the Grand Strand.
Whether you're visiting for the day or planning a full weekend, NMB Live! offers a great way to experience the heart of North Myrtle Beach. Learn more about the NMB Live! festival, and start planning your visit today!