Seeing is believing at Nights of a Thousand Candles! Every holiday season, Brookgreen Gardens, located in Murrells Inlet,  transforms into a one-of-a-kind winter wonderland. The annual tradition is one of the top holiday events near North Myrtle Beach and one of the best in the state. This year, Travel + Leisure named it the best Christmas lights display in South Carolina. 

With millions of lights and hand-lit candles, you'll see why as soon as you enter the whimsical oasis.

Lights, Music & Cider, Oh My!

Experience the season surrounded by over 2,700 candles and millions of lights illuminating the 9,127-acre botanical gardens. 

Paper lanterns light up the garden path, which leads to live oak trees draped with long white lights and lit-up displays and sculptures. Live holiday music drifts through the gardens as you stroll through the pathways with cider in hand.

There may be a slight chill in the air, but luckily fall and winter here are mild. Wear your favorite sweater and cuddle with loved ones as you stroll through the gardens. You can always grab a second cup of cider if necessary! Check out the weather ahead of time.

Top off your evening with a delicious meal! Gather around the table with your family and friends at the garden’s Austin’s Harvest Restaurant. You must make a reservation ahead of time.

When is Nights of a Thousand Candles?

The Nights of a Thousand Candles tradition lights up the gardens from November 26 through January 1. Festivities occur Thursdays through Sundays between 4 and 9 p.m. The exception is  Wednesday, December 28. 

Ticket Prices & Preview Event

For members, admission is $30 for adults and $14 for kids. Non-members pay $35 for adults and $17 for children.

If you’d like to attend the preview benefit on November 25, a day before the event officially kicks off, tickets cost $150 per person. Admission includes beverages, including wine and beer, and heavy hors d’oeuvres.

Buy your tickets online and in advance before they sell out. 

Make it a NMB Weekend

Keep the holiday festivities going in North Myrtle Beach! Watch a live show at the Alabama Theatre or experience more lights at The Great Christmas Lights Show. No matter what you are looking for, there are plenty of holiday events and seasonal activities to partake in. While you’re in town, stay at of NMB’s top beachfront accommodations  and dine at some of the best restaurants in the Grand Strand. 

There are thousands of holiday memories just waiting to be made here. Come see the lights and spend a magical weekend in North Myrtle Beach.