Area Info 
Attractions 
I’ve been perpetually partying like it’s 1999 for the last 15 years, except my idea of a party is a half gallon of ice cream and a Netflix account. However, 2015 may be there year that we go out for a little fun. I like the idea of reflecting on the year in the rear view mirror, and then with a kiss and toast, walking headfirst into the year ahead, filled with hopes and ambitions (like the diet and exercise regime that may last until February).
One of the great things about celebrating New Year’s Eve in Myrtle Beach is the variety of places you can watch the ball drop. From family-friendly early evening celebrations to all-night party spots, the Grand Strand boasts a variety of celebrations to ring out the old and ring in the new. Here’s what looks good:
If you like to rock ‘n’ roll all night: Hard Rock Café, located at Broadway at the Beach, hosts a high-energy New Year’s Eve bash with live music by Black Glass (a coworker raves about this band all the time)! All guests enjoy party favors, confetti cannons, huge balloon drop and simulcast from Times Square. General admission tickets are $25 per person, plus tax in advance or $30 per person, plus tax the day of (doors open at 9:45 p.m. for general admission ticket holders). VIP tickets are $75 per person, plus tax and include a 3-course dinner and reserved table (doors open at 8:30 p.m. for VIP ticket holders. This event is for ages 21 and up with valid ID. For more information call (843) 946-0007.
If you like historic gardens and candlelight: Begin your New Year’s Eve celebration at Brookgreen Gardens (located just south Myrtle Beach on Hwy. 17 in Murrells Inlet) when the sculpture garden will open from 6 – 9 p.m. with strolling musicians, hand-lit candles, and holiday lights. Space is limited for this special evening in the gardens. Advanced tickets are required. Light refreshments will be available for purchase. For ticket info, see their website.
If you want the kids to have a NYE to remember: Ripley’s Aquarium is hosting a New Year’s Eve Sleepover. The kids-only party will have karaoke, crafts, pizza, movies, music, dancing, a ball drop and non-alcoholic toast at midnight along with the live simulcast from Times Square. The best part is that your kids can sleep with the sharks while the adults have their own fun! The party is open to ages 6 to 14. Reservations are required and the cost is $49.99 plus tax/child. See their website for reservations.
If you are looking for fireworks: Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach is a great destination with shopping, dining and entertainment for the family. Make a dinner reservation and have some quiet time with the family and then send 2014 out with a bang and bring 2015 with a splash of color and beauty. New Year’s Eve fireworks display will be at 7:00 p.m. over the lake.
If you really do want to party like it’s 1999: The House of Blues at Barefoot Landing has a number of different NYE parties, but why not relive one of the most extravagant decades with Rubix Kube, “the galaxy’s most original ’80s truibute band.” The dance party is all-ages and kicks off at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $27 and can be purchased in advance here.
Looking for something else? MyrtleBeach.com has a large event calendar detailing even more NYE parties, dinner specials and activities happening along the Grand Strand.
Please remember to celebrate responsibly. Have a designated driver or use any of the many ride services available.
