Around here, it’s all about the beach! But sometimes the beach can wait when something uniquely Pawleys is going on right here on the Waccamaw Neck!
Litchfield Real Estate & Vacation Rentals is your guide to all things happening on or near the Neck from Murrells Inlet to Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island to our beloved historic Georgetown.
Our monthly calendar of events will help you plan and get the most out of your coastal Carolina beach getaway. Take a look!
FEBRUARY – MARCH – APRIL
Annual Birding Festival
When it comes to a birding experience, there’s nothing quite like the Waccamaw Neck! Stretching from Murrells Inlet through Litchfield and Pawleys Island into Georgetown, the Hammock Coast boasts miles of pristine beaches, marshes, and rivers teeming with birds and waterfowl, as well as tens of thousands of acres of protected forests.
Three registration categories include an a la carte participation option, a “golden ticket” option (all-inclusive plus), and the all-inclusive option providing access to tours, lectures, events and two evening dinners, one with the keynote speaker. Registration begins each October and continues until capacity. TIP: tickets sell out quickly! Combine your participation in this festival with a stay at a nearby beach rental and make it an unforgettable trip.
Annual three-day festival is held in early February and is sponsored by the SC Hammock Coast & Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce.
https://hammockcoastsc.com/hammock-coast-birding-festival/
Location: Welcome packet pick-up is at the Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce, 28 Wall Street, Pawleys Island SC 29585
Lee Minton Signature Series
The annual Lee Minton Signature Series is put on by the Pawleys Island Festival of Music and Art, featuring three evening music performances on the first three Wednesdays in February. This Winter Series takes place at The Village House venue located near Litchfield Beach where many vacation rental homes are conveniently and affordably available for weekend or monthly stays in winter for the perfect “island time” experience during the off season.
Featured musicians reach a wide range of talent and sound. General Admission is $50/event (10% off when purchasing all three Lee Minton events). Doors Open at 6:00 pm. No reserved seating. Cash bar provided by The Village House (no food service).
https://pawleysmusic.com/festival-events/winter-series
Location: The Village House at Litchfield, 13089 Ocean Highway, Pawleys Island SC 29585
Annual Romance in the Gardens
Rent a cozy beach home over February 14th on Litchfield Beach or Pawleys Island and celebrate “Romance in the Gardens” in historic Brookgreen Gardens. Renew your wedding vows beneath majestic live oaks on Valentine’s Day and celebrate with an elegant gourmet dinner for two! Married couples can recommit their love and devotion surrounded by timeless beauty in the Live Oak Allee, creating a new experience to cherish for a lifetime.
This annual event is shared by couples of all ages. The ceremony is followed by an elegant dining experience at Harvest Restaurant serving a specially curated menu. Friends and family may attend the ceremony with garden admission; however, the dinner is only for couples participating in the ceremony.
$180/couple members. $190/couple non-members. Space is limited.
https://www.brookgreen.org/events/romance-gardens
Location: Live Oak Allee at Brookgreen Gardens, 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet SC 29576
Annual Taste of the MarshWalk Event
Free to the public – the view, the music, and the fun are always free on the MarshWalk!
Sample the chef’s favorite dishes from each of our eight award-winning MarshWalk restaurants while enjoying a lively weekend along the inlet. Local artisans and crafters, live music, and kids’ activities will line the MarshWalk both days, creating a fun-filled experience for the entire family.
Small dish tastings will feature the area’s freshest local seafood, along with delicious non-seafood options for land lovers, priced at $5–$8 per sample. Tickets are not needed for this event.
This two-day weekend event is typically held mid to late February. Come hungry and enjoy a true taste of Murrells Inlet right here along South Carolina’s stunning Hammock Coast.
https://marshwalk.com/calendar
Location: 3979 Highway 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Annual Garden Symposium at Brookgreen Gardens
Combine a little time on the beach in Litchfield or Pawleys Island with this two-day (Friday/Saturday) garden symposium held in March each year.
Explore Brookgreen while learning from the experts, taking guided garden tours, and enjoying hands-on experiences. Each year the symposium features a keynote speaker and delves into the intersection of art and nature through a series of engaging presentations. The event always concludes with a dynamic expert panel discussion. This is a one-of-a-kind event celebrating the artistry, history, and innovation behind the world’s most extraordinary gardens.
General registration is $100 members or $125 non-members. Optional pre-symposium tours are available for an additional fee (to be announced).
https://www.brookgreen.org/events/garden-symposium
Location: Ron Daise Auditorium, Brookgreen Gardens, 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet SC 29576
Annual Ed Tutwiler at The Reserve Golf Club
Sponsored by the Society of Seniors, this 4-day (Sun-Wed) annual golf event in mid-March takes place at the prestigious Reserve Golf Club in Pawleys Island, offering a great opportunity to enjoy a “beach and greens” getaway!
FORMAT: 54-Holes, Two-Man Team Stroke Play competition, two partners competing together as a side. First Day – Four-Ball Stroke Play, Second Day – Two-Man Scramble, Final Day – Pinehurst (Modified Alternate Shot). Prize Payouts for each format and overall. Society of Seniors members may bring a non-member as a partner.
Members of a team may be of different age divisions; each player plays the appropriate set of tees according to their age. Four sets of tees (55-64, 65-69, 70-74 and 75+). Open to all members of the Society of Seniors and their guests. Player of the Year points for members of the Society of Seniors.
$800/player includes entry, lunch following first two rounds, and awards ceremony. Entries open in December and close early March. Limited to 112 players.
https://www.societyofseniors.com/calendar/40th-ed-tutwiler-tournament
Location: The Reserve Golf Club, 18 Reserve Rd, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
Annual Huntington Beach State Park Kite Festival
Eco-friendly outdoor enjoyment! This annual weekend Kite Festival, held in mid to late March at Huntington Beach State Park, provides a spectacular kite flying experience along a pristine miles-long beach offering plenty of room for everyone. Photographers will also love this colorful coastal opportunity. Secure a private beach rental getaway at nearby Litchfield Beach or Pawleys Island and turn it into a fun family trip away from home – don’t’ forget your kites!
Free with park pass or park admission.
https://southcarolinaparks.com/holiday-and-seasonal-events
Location: Huntington Beach State Park, 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Annual Bridge2Bridge Run
This race includes a 5K, 12K, and 13.1 Run and takes place mid to late March each year. The Bridge2Bridge Run benefits the non-profit Friendship Place, which works to provide people with the opportunity to overcome crises and work toward self-sufficiency. For more than 20 years, they have fed the hungry, provided job readiness training, and worked to creatively and cost-effectively meet the unmet needs of the Georgetown County Community.
Registration begins January 1 with tiered pricing the closer to run day. Register early for lowest rates beginning at $30 for 5K, $60 for 12K and $85 for half marathon. The 1-mile Kids Fun Run is free!
No refunds and no dogs are allowed for any distance. All mandatory cutoff point times must be met for the half marathon. Cutoff point times of day will not be adjusted if the race is required to be delayed. Walkers are recommended for the 5K or 12K. If you choose to walk and fall behind pace, you will be picked up by the sag wagon. Strollers are allowed in the 5K race but must start in the back. Runners who participate in the 12K and Half Marathon must be at the Half Marathon mile 12 marker off Highway 17 by 10 am.
https://www.bridge2bridgerun.com
Location: Clock tower on Front Street at Screven Street, Georgetown SC, 29440
Annual Tour of Historic Homes & Plantations
For coming on 80 years, the Prince George Winyah Church Women have hosted the Tour of Historic Plantations and Homes each spring in late March – Friday and Saturday. Visitors have a unique opportunity to tour select historic plantations, town houses, and gardens located in and around Georgetown, South Carolina. Tickets are required, and purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended. All money raised by the Tour is allocated to community outreach and the preservation of historic church buildings. The success of the Tour has also made a difference in the lives of the poor, the friendless, and the needy in our community, the ultimate aim of this beloved endeavor.
https://www.princegeorgeplantationtours.com
Location: Prince George Winyah Parish Church, 300 Broad St, Georgetown, SC 29440
VibeTime4 – A Flying Disc & Music Festival
Stables Park, a public athletic park in Pawleys Island, has lots to offer including a disc course. It’s also near the beach and a fun diversion for vacationers and locals alike.
This annual VibeTime Flying Disc & Music Festival is a fun, funky way to check it out! Generally held on a Saturday in early April, festival goers can play the disc course and stay awhile for live music, art, vendors, food trucks, dog show, and so much more. Stay tuned for lineup details, demo opportunities, and schedule. The festival also kicks off the sanctioned Elements Era Disc Golf Singles Tournament that also takes place at the Stables Park Disc Course.
Location: Stables Park, 2400 Petigru Dr, 29585, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
Brookgreen Gardens Earth Day Festival
Join Brookgreen Gardens at their Party for the Planet and celebrate Mother Nature and Planet Earth this Earth Day! This exciting day is filled with activities and learning for all ages. Adults will have the opportunity to explore the importance of native plants, conservation practices, and easy ways to ‘Go Green,’ such as responsible recycling. Children will enjoy a nature walk through the gardens, completing nature and conservation-themed STEAM challenges. There will also be opportunities to meet animal ambassadors, create art with nature, and play games that foster a love and appreciation for nature, while inspiring conservation education and action.
Free with garden admission.
https://www.brookgreen.org/events/earth-day-festival
Location: Leonard Pavillion, Brookgreen Gardens, 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet SC 29576
Brookgreen Gardens Spring Break Camp
Staycation at the beach! Spend a family-friendly spring break in early April right here at Litchfield/Pawleys Island. With miles of pristine beaches, estuaries, and salt marsh creeks to explore plus the exciting 4-day (Mon-Thu) Spring Break camp planned at Brookgreen Gardens, you have the perfect getaway at your doorstep.
$185/member; $210/non-members. Pre-registration is required and opens in early February.
https://www.brookgreen.org/events/spring-break-camp-0
Location: Wall Lowcountry Center – Learning Lab 1, Brookgreen Gardens, 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet SC 29576
Gator Gauntlet 5K at Huntington Beach State Park
Are you faster than a gator? Come find out at The Gator Gauntlet 5K on a Saturday in late April. Dress up like a gator or wear a crazy costume and join the fun – a special prize will be given for the most outrageous costume! This race is open to everyone from beginner runners, joggers and experienced athletes to dog walkers – all are welcome. Pets are welcome too but must be on a 6-foot or shorter leash at all times and non-aggressive. This race will be timed. All registered participants will receive a souvenir and is eligible for door and top place finisher prizes.
All proceeds go toward trail improvement projects at Huntington Beach State Park. Come out and have some fun, explore the park, and support a special place on the beach!
Registration is required for the Gator Gauntlet 5K: $45/participant and includes park admission. Register online.
Location: Huntington Beach State Park Office, 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576