Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens

Brookgreen Gardens: A Tapestry of Art and Nature

Nestled just south of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, lies a remarkable fusion of art, nature, and history: Brookgreen Gardens. Founded in 1931 by Archer Milton Huntington and his sculptor wife Anna Hyatt Huntington, Brookgreen was not just a retreat but a visionary project. It became America's first public sculpture garden, an outdoor museum showcasing American figurative sculpture, the flora of the Southeast, and its native animals.

Spread over 9,100 acres, Brookgreen stands on land once comprising four rice plantations. Its history is echoed in remnants like the Alston cemetery and the rice mill at Laurel Hill, blending the past's echoes with the present's artistic vibrance. Learn more here!

Nights of a Thousand Candles: A Holiday Spectacle

As winter arrives, Brookgreen Gardens transforms into an enchanting realm with the Nights of a Thousand Candles. This beloved holiday event lights up the gardens with over 2,700 hand-lit candles and millions of sparkling lights, creating a wonderland from 4 to 9 p.m. on select dates. Purchase your tickets here!

A Festival of Lights and Sounds

Visitors can stroll through the illuminated paths, enjoy live musical performances, and witness unique entertainment acts. The schedule includes a variety of artists, ensuring each night offers a different experience. Notable acts include:

• Bill Oberst, Jr. performing "A Christmas Carol"
• Musical bands like The Paul Grimshaw Band and Vocal Edition
• Traditional Gullah Christmas performances by Ron & Natalie Daise
• Strolling musicians like bagpipers Peggy Gaudreau and Julie Cockran

Culinary Delights Amidst the Lights

The event is also a feast for the taste buds, featuring an array of food trucks such as:

• Let's Ride BBQ and Fish Shak for hearty Southern fare
• EZ Cheezy and Surf Dawg's offering casual eats
• Stu'z Q and Black Cat for varied culinary tastes

For a more upscale dining experience, the Harvest Restaurant and Inlet Affairs at Brookgreen offer exclusive meals, turning the evening into a gourmet adventure.

Sparkle & Fun Package

Enhance your visit with the Sparkle & Fun Package, including a glass of wine (or cider) and holographic glasses, adding an extra layer of magic to the light displays. 

Event Details

• Dates and Times: Select dates from November 25 to December 31, 2023, from 4 - 9pm.
• Ticket Pricing:
• Members: Adults $30, Children $14
• Non-Members: Adults $35, Children $17

Tickets are essential for entry and include access to all gardens, exhibits, and entertainment.

Stay with Us

After a mesmerizing evening, relax at our nearby Airbnb, offering a comfortable and convenient stay. View our listing and make your visit to Murrells Inlet unforgettable.

Brookgreen Gardens' Nights of a Thousand Candles is not just an event; it's a celebration of art, nature, and the holiday spirit, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a world of festive illumination and cultural richness.

Please note: All photographs and content are the property of Discover Murrells Inlet and cannot be used without express written permission.