Each year, thousands of “snowbirds” — travelers from the north, many coming from Canada — flock to the Carolina coast during the winter. Most are motivated by a desire to escape the frigid weather back home, and a large number of them converge upon the Grand Strand to soak in the area’s comfortable coastal temperatures and wide range of activities and attractions.
Since 1961, the Myrtle Beach area has shown its appreciation for these friendly wintertime residents and visitors with the annual Canadian-American Days Festival, this year celebrating its 58th year and set for March 9-17, 2019. Sponsored by the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, the 58th Annual Can-Am Days will feature a series of events celebrating the bond that the United States and Canada have long shared. The weeklong festival offers a little something for everyone, such as tours, sporting events, concerts and more. And to help visiting snowbirds make the most of their loonies (Canadian dollars), a number of local businesses — including shops, restaurants, entertainment venues and other attractions — offer discounted rates to Canadian visitors.
Here’s a quick rundown of just a few of the fun activities on tap for the 58th Annual Can-Am Days Festival:
2019 YMCA Myrtle Beach Can-Am Cup: This annual soccer tournament for boys and girls ages 7-14 typically attracts more than 200 teams and 2,000 players — along with crowds of fans and family members — to the Grand Strand. With games held at the Market Common and Doug Shaw Complex soccer fields, the event features both Canadian and American teams facing off in some spirited international competition. While the March 2-3 tourney is held a week before Can-Am Days officially begins, some Canadian visitors see it as an opportunity to get in a little bonus vacation time. Learn more about the tournament here.
Festive Brass of Myrtle Beach Concert: Celebrating its 21st season this year, the 20-plus-member British-style brass band Festive Brass of Myrtle Beach is made up of professional musicians, dedicated amateurs, and gifted high school and college students. The group presents its annual Can-Am Days Spring Concert each year during the festival. While this year’s date and location have yet to be set, those interested in attending can keep an eye out for updates on the Festive Brass website and Facebook page.
Discounts: As a show of appreciation for the Grand Strand’s Canadian visitors, many area businesses and attractions — often including museums, theaters, restaurants and more — offer discounts to those who present a Canadian ID. This year’s special offerings include deals at WonderWorks, the Ripley’s Myrtle Beach attractions, the NASCAR Racing Experience, Radical Ropes Adventure Park and more. Check out http://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com to learn more.
The Grand Strand really rolls out the red carpet for its Canadian visitors — and the good times and hospitality can be shared by vacationers of all nationalities. Book your mid-March visit to Ocean Reef Resort today, and get ready to experience some international fun — along with the same comfortable accommodations and wide-ranging amenities we offer year-round — during the 58th Annual Can-Am Days Festival.
