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The Grand Strand, SC

Events in The Grand StrandIn addition to its many cultural and historic landmarks, this destination hosts a number of exceptional festivals and events that may coincide with your visit.

Beach music and shag dancing are South Carolina institutions. In early November, the Carolina Beach Music Awards Weekend honors selected performers, songwriters, musicians and others involved in promoting the industry that blossomed in North Myrtle Beach in the 1960s.

In early March, shaggers from across the country show off some serious shuffling at the National Shag Dance Championships in North Myrtle Beach. If you're wondering what shagging is all about, pop into Ocean Drive beach clubs in April during the Society of Stranders Spring Safari or in mid-September for the Society of Stranders Fall Migration and watch members of the society dance the night away, maybe even get a shag dancing lesson or two.

For 9 days in mid-March, Grand Strand communities roll out the red carpet for an annual influx of Canadian visitors. Sports tournaments, band concerts and car shows are among the “welcome-back” offerings open to everyone during the Canadian-American Days Festival .

When the fishing boats pull out of Little River at daybreak in mid-May, it's a good bet the catch of the day will include seafood for the Blue Crab Festival . Held since 1981, this annual event also dishes up live entertainment, an arts and crafts show and a children's activity area.

Festivals highlighting visual and performing arts always draw a crowd. Here are a few anticipated by locals: The Waccamaw Arts & Crafts Guild presents six Art in the Park shows each year from mid-April to early November in Myrtle Beach's Chapin Park and The Market Common. The Rivertown Music & Craft Beer Festival in early May takes place in downtown Conway , just steps from the scenic Waccamaw River, itself a thing of beauty.

Considering the accolades it has garnered from industry experts, Myrtle Beach might well be the capital of all things golf. During the week before Labor Day, the World Amateur Handicap Championship dominates some 60 local courses where more than 3,000 non-professionals compete to win a highly coveted title.

London comes to Myrtle Beach in mid-November. With Victorian streetscapes for a backdrop, replica lampposts lining the aisles and vendors dressed in late 19th-century costumes, the Dickens Christmas Show and Festivals creates an irresistible holiday shopping experience.

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The Grand Strand, SC

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