- Season: Early November through December 2026
- Where: The Alabama Theatre (North Myrtle Beach), The Carolina Opry (Myrtle Beach), Legends in Concert, and GTS Theatre
- Showtimes: Mostly 7:00 PM, with 1:00 or 1:30 PM matinees on select days
- Tip: Book early. Popular holiday dates sell out
Few things say ‘holiday season’ like a night at the theatre, and the Grand Strand does Christmas on a big stage along the beach. From a full-scale holiday variety show to a rock and roll Christmas and a Motown tribute, here’s where to catch the season live in Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach.
The South’s Grandest Christmas Show (Alabama Theatre)
A holiday variety show at the Alabama Theatre at Barefoot Landing, 4750 Highway 17 South in North Myrtle Beach. The show opens Monday, November 2, at 7:00 PM and runs into late December, with evening performances and matinees at 1:30 PM on select days. Arrive early to explore the shops and restaurants at Barefoot Landing before the curtain. Check the theater’s event calendar for dates and tickets.
The Carolina Opry Christmas Special
Known as “The Christmas Show of the South,” this Myrtle Beach tradition is celebrating its 40th season at The Carolina Opry, 8901 N. Kings Highway. The show runs about two and a half hours and mixes music, comedy, and dance. The theatre is decorated for the season, with trees, wreaths, and lights throughout, and house photographers take family photos in front of the big tree. Evening shows start at 7:00 PM, with 1:00 PM matinees on select days. Seats sell a year in advance, and the Opry strongly recommends reserving early. Tickets are available at thecarolinaopry.com or by calling 800-843-6779.
A Rockin” Memphis Christmas (Legends in Concert)
If your holiday playlist has more rock and roll than carols, Legends in Concert’s holiday show is a fun pick. It’s listed beginning Tuesday, November 3, at the Legends in Concert theater in Myrtle Beach.
Motown Christmas Tribute (GTS Theatre)
Soulful holiday classics in a cabaret-style setting. The Original Motown Christmas Tribute, Motor City Musical, begins in early November at GTS Theatre in Myrtle Beach.
Which Show Is Right for You?
- Traditional holiday night out: The Carolina Opry Christmas Special or The South’s Grandest Christmas Show.
- Rock and roll fans: A Rockin” Memphis Christmas.
- Soul and Motown lovers: The Motown Christmas Tribute.
- Multi-generational groups: A matinee. It’s an easier schedule for grandparents and kids.
Tips for Seeing a Holiday Show
- Book early. Weekends and dates close to Christmas fill up first.
- Confirm dates and showtimes. Schedules vary by night, so check each theater’s official calendar before you buy.
- Arrive early. Photo spots, decorations, and parking are part of the fun.
- Eat before you go. Plan dinner with our Restaurant Row guide.
- Dress comfortably. Theaters can run cool, so bring a layer.
Pair It With the Lights
Make it a full holiday weekend by adding The Great Christmas Light Show at the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex, which runs November 23 to December 30. Looking for more to do in the colder months? See our guide to visiting Myrtle Beach by season.
Make It a Holiday Getaway
A holiday show weekend is easy to plan around a rental. You get room for the whole family, a kitchen for slow holiday mornings, and a cozy place to come home to after the final bow. See how far ahead to plan in our booking timing guide.
Ready to plan your holiday show weekend? Browse Myrtle Stays vacation rentals and find a home base for the season. Traveling with a group? Our 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom rentals have room for everyone.
