Annual Fourth of July celebrations in Myrtle Beach, SC, are highlighted by a concert at the Shaw Memorial Stadium. The main event is a performance by the Long Bay Symphony Orchestra conducted by Maestro Charles Jones Evans. The symphony is acclaimed for its Rock 'n Roll and Gospel programs for which Evans writes the orchestral arrangements. Local artists open the concert with performances of contemporary and pop music, in addition to traditional patriotic songs. Spectacular fireworks at 10:00 p.m. cap the evening's festivities.
There's bleacher seating, or visitors can bring their own lawn chairs and blankets and sit on the infield. Vendors will provide food and drinks, and refreshments can be brought into the stadium in coolers; glass containers are prohibited. Admission is free. At least ten major hotels are within walking distance of the stadium. Boaters will find marina access just blocks from the venue. Beach restaurants and cafes offer a variety of casual and gourmet dining experiences, from burgers and beer to a full-course seafood dinner.
Festivities earlier in the day include the annual Murrells Inlet Fourth of July Boat Parade, whose theme this year is "Freedom is Great in 2008.' More than one-hundred twenty-five boats participate, and the number grows each each. Competitions are held in boat and dock decorating. Anyone with a boat may join the parade and there is no entry fee. The parade starts at 10 a.m., but spectators line the dock early for good viewing spots. Evening fireworks over the water begin at 10 p.m. Murrells Inlet is located thirteen-miles south of Myrtle Beach.
