August is packed with reasons for residents and visitors to get out and explore the Grand Strand. From free concerts, fireworks and family-friendly festivals to baseball, illuminated gardens and unique attractions, these events help drive visitation, support local businesses and showcase the vibrant experiences that make tourism an economic engine for our community.
Free Events:
Daily through Aug. 31 - SummerFest! at Barefoot Landing
Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach hosts SummerFest! throughout August. Enjoy nightly entertainment that features, live music, character appearances, costumed stilt walkers, steel drummers, weekly fireworks and more! Free fireworks every Monday at 10 p.m. during the summer through Monday, Aug. 31.
Daily through Sept. 1 - Summer Nights at Broadway at the Beach
Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach hosts Summer Nights with free daily entertainment through August. Enjoy Mr. Nigel, Over the Moon Variety Performances, Characters & More! There will be a Fireworks Extravaganza every Tuesday at 10 pm (weather permitting).
Monday through Saturday, Aug. 29 - Hot Summer Nights at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
Thanks to the Myrtle Beach Downtown Alliance, this vibrant summer entertainment series at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Plyler Park promises live music, exciting, themed nights, and plenty of good times for visitors and locals alike. From Monday through Saturday, the party kicks off at 5 PM and keeps the energy going until 8 PM. On Sundays, the fun starts a little earlier, 1 to 4 PM, perfect timing to wind down or kick off a vacation. Entertainment is free and packed with exciting events to make memorable experiences! Live concerts are held 6-8 PM every Wednesday and Friday! After enjoying the Wednesday night concerts, stay for a dazzling fireworks display over the Atlantic Ocean at 9 PM through Aug. 26.
Every Thursday through Sept. 24 - Music on Main Concert Series
Thursday nights come alive in downtown North Myrtle Beach during the popular Music on Main Concert Series. Bring a lawn chair, grab dinner from a nearby restaurant, and enjoy free live music on Main Street as beach music, classic rock, country, and party bands take the stage. It's a favorite tradition for both locals and visitors and a great way to spend a summer evening.
August 21, 2026 - Sounds of Summer Concert Series
Pack a blanket and head to the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Amphitheater for another season of free outdoor concerts. The Sounds of Summer Concert Series features tribute bands and crowd favorites performing under the evening sky. This month's act is The Stranger: A Tribute to Billy Joel from 7-9 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 21. With plenty of open space and a relaxed atmosphere, it's an easy way to enjoy live music with family and friends.
Ticketed Events:
Aug. 1-2 and 11-23 (except Aug. 17) - Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Homegames
Take yourself out to the ballgame with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, the Chicago Cubs' Single-A affiliate. Catch a Pelicans game in the newly-renovated Pelicans Ballpark with fun between-inning entertainment and themed nights throughout the week: Tacos & Tallboys Tuesday, Wet Nose Wednesday (where dogs are welcome!), Thirsty Thursday, Family Friday with postgame fireworks, Ultra Sippin' Saturday, and Sunday Funday.
Daily through August 22: Summer Light at Brookgreen Gardens
Experience Brookgreen Gardens in a whole new light during its popular Summer Light: Art By Night exhibition. As the sun sets, thousands of artistic lights transform the gardens into an illuminated evening stroll unlike anywhere else along the Grand Strand. Wander beneath glowing oak trees, admire light installations woven throughout the sculpture gardens, enjoy live entertainment, and grab dinner or a snack before exploring. It's one of the most relaxing ways to spend a summer evening in Murrells Inlet.
Every Sunday through Aug. 30 - Boathouse Backyard Concert Series
One of the Grand Strand's favorite summer traditions continues every Sunday Funday at The Boathouse on the Intracoastal Waterway. These free waterfront concerts feature regional and national touring artists in an unbeatable outdoor setting. Arrive early, order dinner or drinks, and settle in for an evening of live music as the sun sets over the water. This month's lineup includes Jerryfest Grateful Dead Tribute Show (8/2), Bumpin' Uglies (8/9), The Vegabonds (8/16) and Dave Matthews Tribute (8/30). They will also host acclaimed Reggae artist Matisyahu on Thursday, August 13
August 8, 2026: Myrtle Duck Festival
Get ready for a day of family fun at the Myrtle Duck Festival on August 8 (rescheduled from July 25 due to weather) at The Market Common's Grand Pond. This community celebration features a giant rubber duck race, a helicopter duck drop, live music, food trucks, interactive exhibits, local vendors, and activities for all ages. Guests can also explore the Community Impact Village, check out the Big Duckin' Truck Show & Tailgate, and enjoy live art installations throughout the day. The festival is free, however, you may make a donation to adopt a duck to support local organizations making a difference across the Grand Strand.
August 22–23, 2026: Ultimate Reptile Show
Calling all animal lovers! The Ultimate Reptile Show returns with hundreds of fascinating reptiles, amphibians, arachnids, and exotic animals all under one roof. Meet breeders and experts, shop for reptile supplies, and get an up-close look at everything from geckos and bearded dragons to snakes, frogs, turtles, tarantulas, and more. Whether you're an experienced reptile enthusiast or simply curious, it's a fun and educational stop for all ages.
