A concurrent RESOLUTION

 

To dedicate the City of Conway in Horry County as the Holiday Capital of South Carolina.

 

Whereas, the City of Conway, located in Horry County, is one of South Carolina's oldest and most significant communities with a nationally recognized historic downtown that offers an authentic and immersive setting for public celebrations. It's tree-lined streets, preserved architecture, and walkable core provide an ideal backdrop for year round destination-quality holiday programming; and

 

Whereas, over the past several years, Conway has earned statewide recognition for its exceptional holiday celebrations, seasonal décor, and festive programming that have become central to the city's cultural and economic life. These initiatives include large-scale public art installations, immersive downtown environments, themed markets, parades, concerts, and family friendly celebrations tied to major holidays and seasons. While Conway's Halloween festivities have become its most visible and widely recognized example, it is part of a broader and deliberate strategy to activate the downtown year round through high-quality experiences; and

 

Whereas, Conway's dedication to preserving historic spaces while transforming them into vibrant holiday destinations creates a welcoming and memorable experience for all who visit generating regional and national media attention and attracting visitors beyond the local region. Local businesses, hospitality providers, and civic organizations credit these efforts with increased visitation, extended stays, and enhanced community pride; and

 

Whereas, Conway's holiday programming and seasonal attractions have generated significant economic benefits, welcoming some 2.8 million visitors in 2025. In October alone, more than 472,000 visitors came to experience Halloween-related events such as "Boo-Jangles," with another 270,000 visitors in December for its "Bo-Jingles" celebration. These numbers directly correlate to a citywide increase in hospitality fee collections and higher restaurant sales, tangible gains that directly support essential public services and infrastructure improvements that enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. In addition, social media influencers regularly travel to Conway during each holiday season, using the city as a backdrop to build their platforms while extending Conway's reach to regional and national audiences at no cost to taxpayers; and

 

Whereas, the city's holiday programing has produced outcomes rarely seen in communities of similar sizing. Commercial vacancies have been effectively eliminated throughout the downtown and are now minimal across the entire city, a direct result of consistent foot traffic, strong branding, and private sector confidence. Businesses now plan annual operations and staffing around the city's holiday seasons rather than relying solely on the traditional summer peak; and

 

Whereas, Conway's holiday programming offers experiences for all ages, cultures, and backgrounds, from family-oriented celebrations to immersive artistic installations. The city actively partners with schools, churches, civic organizations, local businesses, and the Latino community to ensure broad participation and shared ownership of events; and

 

Whereas, designation of Conway as the Holiday Capital of South Carolina would serve as a statewide marketing asset, promoting the Palmetto State's tourism, hospitality, and arts sectors. It also would encourage other municipalities to pursue complementary seasonal programming, strengthening cultural tourism and economic vitality across the state. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

 

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, dedicate the City of Conway in Horry County as the Holiday Capital of South Carolina.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Conway Mayor Barbara Jo Blain and City Administrator Adam Emrick.

----XX---