November 21, 2011
Nights of a Thousand Candles in Murrells Inlet
Last week we took a look at some of the seasonal happenings in two of Festiva’s vacation destinations, Branson, M.O. and St. Augustine, F.L. The journey continues today in Murrells Intlet, S.C., home to Festiva’s Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation East and the beautiful Brookgreen Gardens. The first public sculpture garden in America, Brookgreen Gardens is home to Nights of a Thousand Candles, a top 20 event in the Southeast according to the Southeastern Tourism Society.
Now celebrating its 13th year, Nights of a Thousand Candles is one of South
Carolina’s premier holiday festivals and will be held on the weekends of Dec. 2-3, 9-10 and 16-17 from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. During the festival the 30 acres that are open to the public are adorned with more than 5,500 hand-lit candles and countless lights, creating a magical wonder land that will leave visitors awe struck as they meander about the 10 unique garden areas. Candles aboard colorful floating bulbs drift softly in the fountains and ponds surrounding the sculptures as white lights gently cling to the limbs of mossy oaks, all illuminating the gardens with the magic of the holiday season.
Each night there is also an extensive array of musical performances that can be heard throughout the gardens as local choral ensembles, handbell choirs and jazz groups play classical and current holiday favorites. Bagpipes can also be heard as a bagpiper strolls the illuminated paths carelessly wandering about the grounds as visitors enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Be sure to check out the full schedule of musical performers here.
In addition to live music and an extensive display of candles there are two indoor exhibits that can be enjoyed during the festival. Starting one weekend earlier on Nov. 25-27, Signs of the Season in Flora and Fauna is an 
exhibit created by the horticulture staff to help inspire home decor. Bromelaid trees, wreaths, poinsettias and an assortment of natural materials are all masterfully used to create holiday decorations that leave enduring memories for all. Opening the same weekend, Signs of the Season in Art and History will include seasonal paintings and sculpture accented by an array of Christmas trees decorated with Victorian and pre-World War II-era ornamentation. Period costumes made by local fabric sculptor Mary Roehr will accompany the displays as you travel through the history of Christmas in this indoor exhibit.
Founded in 1931 by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington to help preserve native flora and fauna while displaying art within a natural setting, Brookgreen Gardens has more than 1,200 pieces of figurative sculpture by 350 artists and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as well as being designated a National Historic Landmark.
July 27, 2011
Free Fun in Myrtle Beach
After exploring some of the free activities in Charleston and Atlantic Beach we’re going to stay along the coast and take a look at Myrtle Beach. Of course there are plenty of dinner shows, putt-putt courses and amusement rides to stay occupied with, however if you want to save a dollar there are also a variety of other events in the area that won’t cost a penny.
Ocean Boulevard’s Hot Summer Nights: To help promote the new boardwalk the town of Myrtle Beach is hosting Hot Summer Nights, a nightly event series that is being held until Sept. 3 that features fireworks, music and much more. Some of the highlights include Kids’ Carnival night every Monday, live concerts every Tuesday and Saturday and one of the best fireworks displays each Wednesday night so be sure to head to Plyler Park on the Boardwalk to enjoy an entertaining stroll by the sea.
Music in the Streets: Blues, jazz, rock, swing and even show tunes are just some of
the genres you will hear from the stage at the Market Common in Myrtle Beach. An upscale urban shopping center with restaurants, the Market Common is also the host of Music in the Streets, a free summer concert series with 13 performances during the season. Every Friday through Aug. 26 from 6-9 p.m. local bands will grace the stage and provide and evening of entertainment under the stars.
Movies Under the Stars: Once again the Market Common delivers a free evening of family entertainment during the summer months. Every Wednesday night in August at 9 p.m. the Market Common invites guests out to enjoy classic movies like Raiders of the Lost Ark, Grease and Ghostbusters. Be sure to come hungry for the show as the Piggly Wiggly grocery store across the street sells already made picnic baskets or enjoy a soda and popcorn for just $1.
SummerFest: Every Wednesday night until Aug. 31 Boardway at the Beach invites
you out to enjoy the weekly strolling Boardwalk Parade at 7 p.m. Starting by the Alabama Theatre, the parade includes a marching band, live animals, clowns, magicians, stilt walkers and a variety of other circus oriented entertainers. If you can’t make it out for the parade be sure to stop by on Monday nights around 10:15 p.m. to catch the fireworks display that will run through Sept. 2.
May 16, 2011
Myrtle Beach Memorial Day Weekend
MayFest, a month long celebration in Myrtle Beach, S.C., will conclude Memorial Day weekend with a family-friendly finale that includes an unforgettable parade, appearances by various Disney and Nickelodeon celebrities, and the 60th Annual Sun Fun Festival Kickoff.
On Saturday May 28 at 9:30 a.m. the festivities begin with the Myrtle Beach Memorial Day Parade. The parade starts at 27th Avenue North and
heads south on North Kings Highway before ending at 9th Avenue North. A variety of decorative floats, giant helium-filled balloon characters, military and high school bands will stroll through the excited crowd all in honor of our country’s fallen military heroes. A selection of celebrities and local dignitaries will precede this year’s grand marshal, U.S. Senator John McCain, before the parade ends at 9th Avenue North, the site of the 60th Annual Sun Fun Festival Kickoff.
Taking place between 8th and 9th Avenue North right after the Memorial Day Parade, the 60th Annual Sun Fun Festival Kickoff will continue until 9:30 p.m. and includes live 
music, a meet’n greet session with a selection of stars, and plenty of food, arts and crafts. Fans of Nickelodeon and the Disney Channel will be elated at the chance to meet and obtain autographs from many TV stars such as Noah and Ethan Muck from “iCarly, Jake T. Austin from “Wizards of Waverly Place, Grady Mitchel from “Sonny with a Chance” and many more. American Idol Season 7 runner-up and national recording artist David Archuleta will close the day-long celebration with a free live performance at 8 p.m.
For more information on the Memorial Day activities in Myrtle Beach and the Sun Fun Festival Kickoff visit www.visitmymyrtlebeach.com. With a selection of resorts in the Myrtle Beach area that include the Peppertree Ocean Club, Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation East, the Sandpebble Beach Club, Sea Mystique and the Sands, Festiva Hospitality Group offers the perfect accommodations for all occasions.
May 2, 2011
Ebb & Flow Art Co-op and Coffee Shop
Residing in an inviting white house with a tin roof along U.S. Highway 17 in Murrels Inlet, S.C., is the Ebb & Flow Art Co-op. Considered a favorite hangout by locals, the Co-op serves up the area’s best coffee and art in a casual atmosphere that is not to be missed by anyone visiting the area.
Founded by four local artists, Lee Arthur, Gaston Locklear, Keel Culberson
Swinnie and Ted Watts, the co-op is a far cry from the large corporate coffee shops that can be found at the corner of every city block. Each room is filled with local artwork from all mediums including pottery, blown glass, canvases and much more. Resident artists are often found mingling amongst patrons answering questions, engaging in casual conversation or haggling with prospective customers as all prices are negotiable.
Of course the art is more enjoyable while sipping on a latte, cappuccino or espresso, all made from 100 percent organic coffee beans roasted regionally by Cashua Coffee Company. Fittingly, all of the drinks are creatively named after famous artists throughout history such as Picasso, Monet, Gaugain and Renior. Committed to running a green business, the coffee shop only uses products that are 100 percent biodegradable and compostable, leaving guests with peace of mind.
Throughout the year Ebb & Flow also hosts an array of events including the upcoming Art Show being held
on Sunday, May 15, from 1-8 p.m. The Art Show will include 35 artists displaying new works along with live music, wine and hors d’oeuvres. In October the gallery will be featured as part of the Pawleys Island Festival of Music & Art while each Thursday night from 7-9 p.m. local bands grace the stage.
For more information on the artists, coffee and happenings at the Ebb & Flow Art Co-op visit www.ebbandflowartco-op.com. For accommodations in the area be sure to check out Festiva Hospitality Group’s Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation East, only one mile from Ebb & Flow.
January 28, 2011
Valentine’s Day in Myrtle Beach
Escape the doldrums of the winter blues and deliver an arrow of love to warm up the heart with a surprise weekend getaway to Myrtle Beach this Valentine’s Day. Nothing will remind that special someone how you feel better than a romantic weekend beach excursion filled with relaxation, excitement and whatever the heart desires
With Valentine’s Day falling in the slower season beaches will be mostly vacant,
providing the perfect opportunity to start the day with a private sunrise walk along the shoreline. After an early morning walk re-energize with a feast of chocolate in the nearby town of Conway as they host the Conway Chocolate Walk in downtown. On Saturday February 12 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. sweethearts and those with a sweet tooth are invited to meander hand-in-hand amongst local chocolatiers as they create masterpieces to stimulate the senses and induce love. Be sure to plan ahead though as the $8 tickets are limited and will sell out quickly as chocolate-lovers from all over the area flock to the event.
If you’re looking for a more intriguing way to enjoy chocolate you can spend the afternoon forgetting about the worries of the world with a chocolate honey wrap at the Body and Soul Spa. 
Voted #1 Valentine’s Spa Special, the Valentine’s Special features a private mineral bath for two prior to an hour long massage on a heated table that is sure to leave both you and your loved one melting away.
Continue melting with Hearts-a-Fire Glass Blowing class at the Conway Glass Center. Create two original glass hearts with your loved one as you learn the Venetian style of glass blowing in this unique hands-on experience that will test each couple’s team work. Classes will be offered on February 12 and 13 throughout the day with the finished piece of art being mailed on February 14 just in time to greet you at home after a long weekend of love.
For those seeking a hilariously good time the Carolina Improv Company will be serving up two orders of lung-busting laughter. On February 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. the area’s only improv comedy club will perform Love, Improv Style at Uptown. The interactive Valentine-themed show is guaranteed to keep you laughing as marriage, dating and other love related topics are taken head on with a twist.
Of course no romantic weekend would be complete without dinner for two, and with local restaurants like 
the Aspen Grille offering Valentine’s Day specials all weekend there is ample opportunity to enjoy the best of the Lowcountry. Located in old Myrtle Beach, the Aspen Grille is offering a 4-course pre fixe menu for two at $80 which includes delectable edibles such as Oysters Rockefeller, Crab Stuffed Flounder and Key Lime Pie with Strawberry Mint Compote. With a special menu and limited space available reservations are highly suggested so be sure to call ahead.
With a variety of events and specials in the area, Myrtle Beach is calling out for a Valentine’s Day visit so treat yourself and a loved one to a well deserved escape. For accommodations in the Myrtle Beach area be sure to check out Festiva Hospitality Group’s Wild Wing Resort, Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation East or Peppertree Ocean Club, all conveniently located along the Grand Strand. As always with Valentine’s Day less than 30 days away Adventure Club members can enjoy the Late Break reservation rate and save points by booking now.
December 22, 2010
A Low Country New Year’s tradition
If you are spending this New Year’s holiday at one of Festiva’s resorts in the Myrtle Beach area, or if you would simply like to partake in a delicious Low Country tradition wherever you are celebrating, get the family together and make Hoppin’ John for your first meal of 2011.
While the history behind the Hoppin’ John dish is varied, most Low Country residents agree that this Gullah dish will bring you good luck for the entire year if it’s the first thing you eat on New Year’s Day. The dish is fairly basic, with rice, black-eyed peas and ham hock or bacon. Some believe that pairing Hoppin’ John with a side of collard greens could bring you financial luck in the new year.
There are many recipes available for both Hoppin’ John and collard greens, but we’d like to share recipes from a couple of familiar faces from the Food Network. Feel free to leave a comment with your variation on the recipe or other New Year’s traditions your family has!
Emeril Lagasse’s Hoppin’ John recipe on Food Network:
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large ham hock
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup green pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1 pound black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and rinsed
- 1 quart chicken stock
- Bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dry thyme leaves
- Salt, black pepper, and cayenne
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped green onion
- 3 cups steamed white rice
Directions
Heat oil in a large soup pot, add the ham hock and sear on all sides for 4 minutes. Add the onion, celery, green pepper, and garlic, cook for 4 minutes. Add the black-eyed peas, stock, bay leaves, thyme, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 40 minutes, or until the peas are creamy and tender, stir occasionally. If the liquid evaporates, add more water or stock. Adjust seasonings, and garnish with green onions. Serve over rice.
*For a vegetarian-friendly option, omit the ham hock and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
Paula Deen’s Collard Greens recipe on Food Network:
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound smoked meat (ham hocks, smoked turkey wings, or smoked neck bones)
- 1 tablespoon House seasoning, recipe follows
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
- 1 tablespoon hot red pepper sauce
- 1 large bunch collard greens
- 1 tablespoon butter
Directions
In a large pot, bring 3 quarts of water to a boil and add smoked meat, house seasoning, seasoned salt and hot sauce. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 1 hour.
Wash the collard greens thoroughly. Remove the stems that run down the center by holding the leaf in your left hand and stripping the leaf down with your right hand. The tender young leaves in the heart of the collards don’t need to be stripped. Stack 6 to 8 leaves on top of one another, roll up, and slice into 1/2 to 1-ince thick slices. Place greens in pot with meat and add butter. Cook for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally. When done taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve with favorite dish as a side.
*For a vegetarian version, omit meat.
House Seasoning:
- 1 cup salt
- 1/4 cup black pepper
- 1/4 cup garlic powder
Mix ingredients together and store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
December 14, 2010
Seasonal Shows in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, S.C., is widely known as one of America’s top destinations for a family vacation. The 60 mile strip of U.S. Highway 17 known as the Grand Strand runs parallel to amazing beaches and is dotted with an endless selection of golf courses, putt-putt courses, shops and of course a plethora of live entertainment to chose from. While the summer months find the area swarming with visitors the winter months offer visitors a slower pace of life, yet still provide ample opportunity to enjoy a large selection of seasonal live entertainment.
Celebrating its 25th Anniversary the Carolina Opry Christmas Special is the longest running holiday special in Myrtle Beach and has been highly acclaimed by such publications as the New York Times, CNN and USA Today. The variety show will run daily through Jan. 1, 2011 and features a multi-million dollar laser show, renowned pianist Rocky Fretz, the Grinch and a large selection of dancers and vocal artists. The family friendly show is guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit and leave you yearning for more.
Another staple on the Grand Strand, the Palace Theatre, presents a brand new holiday production
for the season, Christmas on Ice. Championship ice skaters glide across the stage and take guests on an unforgettable journey through a winter wonderland while stars from Broadway and London’s West End regale the crowd with a selection of holiday favorites like Silent Night, Let it Snow and Jingle Bells. The new production, sharing the same creators as the international smash hit Spirit of the Dance, is sure to become a new family tradition.
If you’re trying to kill two birds with one stone be sure to check out Dolly Parton’s “A Dixie Family Christmas” at the Dixie Stampede and enjoy a four course holiday feast while being treated to a spectacular live show. A variety of animals, stuntmen and performers are adorned in holiday attire as the spirit of Christmas is brought to life during the two hour production which also features a state-of-the-art light and pyrotechnic show.
Voted “Most Outstanding Holiday Show” by The Myrtle Beach Herald, Alabama Theatre’s “The South’s Grandest Christmas Show” has something for everyone. Children will enjoy giant toy soldiers, gingerbread men and of course the appearance of Santa Claus. Adults will be mesmerized by the level of vocal talent as holiday favorites both new and old are performed throughout the show while comedian Ricky Mokel will have the entire family laughing until it hurts
With a large selection of holiday shows featuring some of the best talent in the industry Myrtle Beach is the perfect wintertime getaway for the whole family. For accommodations in the Myrtle Beach area be sure to check out Festiva Hospitality Group’s Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation East or the Peppertree Ocean Club, both conveniently located along the Grand Strand.
November 12, 2010
Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens
Celebrating its twelfth year, Brookgreen Gardens’ Nights of a Thousand Candles is one of South Carolina’s premier holiday festivals not to be missed. Thousands of candles and lights illuminate the garden paths and sculptures while carolers and bells echo in the distance. Come see why the Southeastern Tourism Society calls Brookgreen Gardens’ Nights of a Thousand Candles one of the Top 20 Events in the Southeast.
Brookgreen Gardens, the first public sculpture garden in American, was founded in 1931 by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington to help preserve the native flora and fauna while 
displaying art within that natural setting. Today, the gardens have over 1,200 pieces of figurative sculpture by 350 artists and an accredited zoo while being listed on the Register of National Historic Places as well as being designated a National Historic Landmark. In 1999 Brookgreen Gardens started Nights of a Thousand Candles and each of the past 11 years has hosted the festival over the first 3 weekends of December.
During the festival the 30 acres that are open to the public are adorned with over 5,000 hand-lit candles and countless lights, creating a magical wonderland that 
will leave visitors awe struck as the meander about the 10 unique garden areas. Candles aboard colorful floating bulbs drift softly in the fountains and ponds surrounding the sculptures as white lights gently cling to the limbs of mossy oaks, all illuminating the gardens with the magic of the holiday season. There are also two indoor exhibits than can be enjoyed during the festival. Signs of the Season in Flora and Fauna features evergreen trees, wreathes and plaques decorated with natural materials. Holiday sculpture, painting and decor dating from the late 19th century to the present will be on displayed during the Signs of the Season in Art and History exhibit.
Each night an extensive array of musical performances can be heard throughout the gardens as local choral ensembles, handbell choirs and jazz groups play classical and current holiday favorites. Bagpipes can also be heard as a bagpiper strolls the illuminated paths carelessly wandering about the grounds as visitors enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Brookgreen Gardens’ Nights of a Thousand Candles will be held Dec. 3-4, 10-12 and 16-18 from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. just minutes south of Murrells Inlet. Gather friends, family and loved ones and come enjoy the beauty that is Nights of a Thousand Candles. For accommodations check out Festiva Hospitality Group’s Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation East located in Murrells Inlet.
October 14, 2010
Myrtle Beach Halloween Weekend 2010
Make this year’s Myrtle Beach Halloween weekend spooktacular with 3 days of frightening family fun. With October 31 landing on a Sunday this year many Halloween festivals and special events are being held throughout the weekend giving visitors to the Myrtle Beach, S.C., area plenty of options to choose from so dress up the family and head out for a howling good time.
On Friday October 29 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. the Children’s Museum of South Carolina will host the Wee Ones Boo Bash for children ages 6 and under. The museum’s variety of interactive exhibits keep the little ones engaged while teaching them about the functioning world around them. All visitors wearing a costume receive half off the $8 admission price and with a Mad Science Lab, treats and multiple games the not-so-scary Wee Ones Boo Bash is the perfect way to spend this Halloween with the children.
On Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. Barefoot Landing will hold a Kids Costume Contest followed at 2 p.m. by the Pet Costume Contest. Dress up the family’s furry friend and go trick-or-treating with the children or take a stroll through the hundreds of carved 
pumpkins that make up Jack-O-Lantern Alley. Be sure to return to Barefoot Landing the following night from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. for the official Halloween trick-or-treat festivities.
Another option for Saturday is the Howl-O-Scream festival at McLean Park in North Myrtle Beach. Running from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m., Howl-O-Scream features a Scare Zone for the older crowd and a Scare Free Zone that caters the younger crowd making the event ideal for the family. With plenty of fun activities such as pumpkin painting, hay rides and marshmallow roasting available the free event is sure to be a hit.
Broadway at the Beach, one of Myrtle Beach’s main attractions, will be holding a special 2 
hour trick-or-treat party from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 30, for the younger crowd. The family-friendly event features a pumpkin pyramid, hay maze and enough candy to make Willie Wonka content. The evening’s festivities end for the children with a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Broadway.
A few minutes south of Myrtle Beach the town of Murrells Inlet will be holding Halloween on the Marshwalk. At 4 p.m. on Sunday the stores along the Marshwalk will be handing out candy to trick-or-treaters with prizes for the scariest, funniest and most creative costumes to be awarded out at 5 p.m. by the pirate statue behind Drunken Jack’s.
Make the 2010 Halloween a memorable one for the entire family with a visit to Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand. For accommodations be sure to check out one of Festiva Hospitality Group’s resorts in the area like the Peppertree Ocean Club in North Myrtle Beach or Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation in Murrells Inlet.
September 8, 2010
Myrtle Beach: Mini Golf Capital of the World
Known as one of the top golfing destinations in the world with over 100 courses, South Carolina’s Grand Strand also has a lesser known distinction related to golf, The Mini Golf Capital of the World. Myrtle Beach, a family vacation destination, features over 50 distinctly themed miniature golf courses including what is widely known as the best course in the world, Hawaiian Rumble. With such a large selection of styles and themes to choose from a few rounds of putt-putt with the family is the perfect way to spend the day in Myrtle Beach.
Hawaiian Rumble: Treat the family to an Island experience at this world famous course. Designed after the layout of the Hawaiian Islands, Hawaiian Rumble is dotted with palm trees, waterfalls and volcanoes. Every 20 minutes players will feel the ground tremble beneath their feet as the 40 foot volcano in the center of the course spews flames into the sky. As you putt your way through the tropical islands be wary as Hawaiian Rumble is regarded as the best course in the world and is even home to the Pro Mini Golf Masters National Championship. Having been listed in such publications as the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and on The Travel Channel it is clear this course is not to be missed.
Cancun Lagoon: Designed after the ancient Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza, Cancun Lagoon is located inside a large replica of the Temple of Kukulcan. Located inside the temple are two courses, Chak’s Revenge and Pakal’s Adventure, each named
after Mayan Gods. With extensive artwork of ancient Gods, multiple waterfalls and mysterious chambers inside the temple there is plenty for the family to explore. Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of Cancun Lagoon is the opportunity to escape the summer heat as the indoor facility is fully air conditioned. Be sure to escape the heat and explore the ancient Mayan ruins of the Yucatan with a challenging round at Cancun Lagoon.
Mutiny Bay: Sea lovers should be sure to sail on over to Mutiny Bay and explore Barbados and Port Royal. The 2 courses are based off of 17th century Caribbean towns infested with marauding pirates and scoundrels. Discover hidden treasure as you putt your way under waterfalls, around smoking skulls and past hungry alligators. Be sure to stay alert as every 30 minutes pirates aboard Jolly Roger Ship fight their way onto the shores of Port Royal in a family friendly show that is sure to entertain.
Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Golf: The search for the lost city of Atlantis is over. Mt. Atlanticus is a portion of the city of Atlantis that floated to the surface and landed in Myrtle Beach. The 36-hole course has quickly become a local favorite and features the answers to all of our planet’s great mysteries, like where is Bigfoot, are UFOs real and where did the Loch Ness Monster retire? If your skills are sharp enough you can even win a free lifetime pass with a hole-in-one on the nearly impossible, but legendary, nineteenth hole.
Whether you’re looking to uncover the secrets of Atlantis, a pirate adventure, or an island escape to the tropics of Hawaii, the mini golf courses of Myrtle Beach have something for the entire family. If you will be in the Myrtle Beach area be sure to check out Festiva Hospitality Group’s Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation, a family friendly resort only minutes from downtown.
