Brookgreen Gardens, located outside of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a favorite attraction for both visitors and locals. The former private home and its surrounding property are transformed for the holiday season into their most popular event, the Nights of a Thousand Candles.
Held throughout December, thousands of candles are hand lit every night around the gardens, as well as lit up with strands. This includes over 500 floating candles, 1,000 pillar candles, and 2,200 luminaries. It’s a magical way to experience the sculpture gardens.
What to See at Nights of a Thousand Candles
In addition to the miles of lights wound throughout the property, there are also special exhibits and performances. A model train exhibit welcomes guests as soon as they enter the gates and other tents feature live music performances from local artists.
All genres are represented, but you’ll certainly hear your favorite Christmas carols while you’re there. No matter what you do, though, be sure you’re in the Arboretum for the lighting of the tree, held at 5:45 each evening.
You won’t go hungry at the event as food and drink are sold at the dining tent and within the gardens at the Old Kitchen. Choose from Lowcountry favorites like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and oysters on the half shell.
Keep in mind that you may be parking far from the main entrance, especially on weekends, so remember which parking lot you’re in. And be prepared to sit in traffic when you arrive and leave.
Tips for Visiting Nights of a Thousand Candles
Brookgreen Gardens is located at 1931 Brookgreen Garden Drive, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina 29576. Tickets for Nights of a Thousand Candles start at $18. Entry starts at 3 pm.
My visit to Brookgreen Gardens was sponsored by Visit Myrtle Beach.
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