An evening of candlelight, beautiful gardens, and a little holiday magic near Garden City Beach.
There are certain experiences that make the holiday season along the South Carolina coast feel especially memorable. For us, Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens is one of them.
Just a short drive from Garden City Beach, Brookgreen Gardens transforms into something extraordinary each holiday season. Thousands of hand-lit candles illuminate the pathways, millions of tiny lights sparkle among the trees, and familiar gardens take on an entirely different character after dark.
It is beautiful in photographs, but even more special in person.
An Evening Worth Slowing Down For
Part of what makes Nights of a Thousand Candles so memorable is the atmosphere.
Candlelight reflects across the water. Sculptures emerge softly from the surrounding gardens. Towering trees glow overhead, and holiday music drifts through the evening air.
There is no need to rush from one display to the next. In fact, we think the best way to experience Brookgreen is to wander, take your time, and enjoy the details.
Stop for a warm drink. Listen to the music. Take a few photographs, then put your phone away for a little while.
It is the kind of evening that reminds you how lovely the holiday season can be when you slow down enough to enjoy it.
What to Expect in 2026
Brookgreen Gardens will host Nights of a Thousand Candles on select evenings from November 27, 2026, through January 3, 2027.
The event features more than 2,700 hand-lit candles, millions of sparkling lights, live holiday entertainment, and seasonal food and beverages.
One of the evening’s highlights is the holiday tree lighting in the Arboretum at 6 p.m.
Whether you are visiting as a couple, gathering with family, or making a holiday tradition with friends, the gardens offer a beautiful setting for an evening together.
A Few Tips Before You Go
A little planning makes the experience even more enjoyable.
Purchase tickets in advance. Popular evenings can sell out, particularly around holiday weekends. Tickets are available through Brookgreen Gardens’ official website.
Arrive early. The event begins at 4 p.m., giving you time to explore before the gardens are fully illuminated. Watching the atmosphere change as daylight fades is part of the experience.
Dress for the evening. Coastal South Carolina can be surprisingly cool after sunset, especially when you are spending several hours outdoors. Comfortable walking shoes and a warm layer are worthwhile.
Make time for the tree lighting. The ceremony takes place at 6 p.m. in the Arboretum and is a lovely part of the evening.
Allow yourself time to wander. Some of the most beautiful moments are found along the quieter paths, away from the busiest gathering areas.
Complimentary parking is available in the main lot.
Make a Little Getaway of It
One of our favorite things about the holidays on the coast is the contrast between festive evenings and peaceful mornings by the ocean.
After an evening surrounded by candlelight at Brookgreen Gardens, there is something especially lovely about returning to a quiet oceanfront retreat.
At The Salty Mermaid, our two-bedroom oceanfront corner condo offers room to gather, a private balcony overlooking the Atlantic, a cozy electric fireplace, and direct beach access by way of the oceanfront stairs. It is a wonderful setting for a family holiday getaway or a few days together with friends.
For couples or a smaller coastal escape, Ocean Currents offers a beautifully renovated one-bedroom oceanfront corner retreat, with a private balcony, a spacious living area, and an electric fireplace for relaxing after an evening out.
Both properties offer the comfort of freshly prepared beds, linens and bath towels, and thoughtful essentials to help your stay feel effortless.
And in the morning, the Atlantic is waiting.
A cup of coffee, the sound of the waves, and nowhere you need to be quite yet.
A Holiday Tradition We Love Sharing
The holidays do not have to be hurried to be memorable.
Sometimes the moments that stay with us are the simplest ones: a beautiful evening walk, the glow of candlelight, time spent with people we love, and a peaceful morning by the water.
If you are visiting the South Carolina coast this holiday season, Nights of a Thousand Candles is an experience we wholeheartedly recommend.
And if you decide to make a few days of it, we would love to welcome you to Palmetto & Birch.
Plan Your Visit
Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens
Dates: Select evenings, November 27, 2026, through January 3, 2027
Hours: 4:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Brookgreen Gardens, 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina
Tickets and event information: Brookgreen Gardens official website
Planning a coastal getaway? Explore The Salty Mermaid and Ocean Currents at Palmetto & Birch.
