Grand Strand Gift & Resort Merchandise Show 2026
Event Date
December 6–9, 2026
Location
Myrtle Beach, SC
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe Grand Strand Gift & Resort Merchandise Show is billed as the largest coastal souvenir trade show in the nation, bringing together the full spectrum of the coastal souvenir and resort industry under one roof. Held at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center in Myrtle Beach, SC, the show is timed for the retail off-season, making it an ideal moment for buyers to plan and purchase for upcoming seasons.
The event is a must-attend for coastal souvenir and resort retailers. Its show floor features products in nearly every category, including coastal and nautical décor, customizable souvenirs, resort apparel and swimwear, headwear and footwear, jewelry and accessories, Made in America goods, home accessories, gourmet products, general giftware, shell items, and toys and games.
Buyers come to preview established lines, discover top sellers, and see breaking new product introductions from proven gift and resort manufacturers and sales representatives. With free parking, a convenient location, and a well-organized layout, the show offers an efficient way to source merchandise while strengthening relationships with existing vendors — a valuable stop for anyone in the retail souvenir business, whether a seasoned buyer or a new business owner.
Show Highlights
The show floor spans nearly every product category for the coastal and resort retail market, including coastal & nautical décor, customizable souvenirs, resort apparel & swimwear, headwear & footwear, jewelry & accessories, Made in America items, home accessories, gourmet products, general giftware, shell items, and toys & games.
Special events and features planned for the December show include:
- Goody Bag Giveaways to the first 100 stores to arrive on Sunday, December 6
- Daily $100 Cash Prize Giveaways
- A Show Party
- Additional on-site activities and specials
The show has earned industry recognition, having been named to Trade Show Executive's (TSE) Gold 100 list and honored as one of the top trade shows in 2019 by the Trade Show News Network (TSNN).
Registration
Registration is free for qualified buyers. Prospective attendees can join the show's newsletter to be notified when registration opens. Registration and further details are available through the official website's "Attend in 2026" page.
Show hours are:
- Sunday, December 6: 9 am – 5 pm
- Monday, December 7: 9 am – 5 pm
- Tuesday, December 8: 9 am – 5 pm
- Wednesday, December 9: 9 am – 2 pm
History
The Grand Strand Gift & Resort Merchandise Show has served the coastal souvenir and resort business for more than 35 years, establishing itself as the go-to event for the souvenir industry. Over its history it has grown into what it describes as the largest coastal souvenir trade show in the nation. The show has been recognized as one of Trade Show Executive's (TSE) Gold 100 events and was named among the top trade shows of 2019 by the Trade Show News Network. It is produced by Clarion Events as part of its Gift & Souvenir portfolio.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the 2026 Grand Strand Gift & Resort Merchandise Show?
The show takes place Sunday, December 6 through Wednesday, December 9, 2026, at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, 2101 North Oak Street, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577. Hours are 9 am to 5 pm Sunday through Tuesday and 9 am to 2 pm on Wednesday.
Who should attend the show?
The show is a must-attend event for coastal souvenir and resort retailers, especially businesses located in beach towns. It draws buyers looking to preview, plan, and purchase gift and resort merchandise for upcoming retail seasons.
How do I register, and is there a cost?
Registration is free for qualified buyers. You can join the show's newsletter through the official website to be notified when registration opens.
What products and special features can I expect at the show?
The show floor features nearly every category of coastal and resort merchandise, from nautical décor and customizable souvenirs to apparel, jewelry, giftware, and toys. Special features include goody bag giveaways for the first 100 stores on Sunday, daily $100 cash prize giveaways, and a show party.
Where should I stay and how do I get there?
The 402-room Sheraton Myrtle Beach is on the convention center campus and directly connected via an indoor walkway; discounted rates for nearby hotels are available through the official housing partner, Connections Housing. Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is about 3 miles away, roughly a 10-minute drive.
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