City: Myrtle Beach, SC

Category: Annual Events & Festivals

Telephone: (843) 385-3180

Description: Most of the area’s nightclubs and restaurants host themed parties for this much lauded party weekend, and the North Myrtle Beach Parade and town square party has become the biggest thing to hit the North Strand since that shimmy-in-your-shoes state dance known as the shag. The first event was held in 1988, and it’s grown each year since.A Saturday parade kicks off this mid-Mar event (look up St. Patrick’s Day on your calendar and plan accordingly). The parade begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Surfwood Shopping Center (look for Lowe’s) and continues down Main Street. There are dozens of bands, floats, and beauty queens, as well as Irish musicians, cloggers, and more. Plenty of food and entertainment, kids’ activities, and a fine display of arts and crafts make this the ideal family outing. After the parade an all-day “Irish Publick Square” commences. Best of all, admission is free of charge!