Venture out to Main Street during S.O.S. Spring Safari or S.O.S. Fall Migration, and you will certainly find a happy crowd dancing the night away.  The dance though, is not two-step or swing, but instead it is the state dance of South Carolina, the Shag.  Born from the roots of the jitterbug and lindy-hop, the shag originated along the southeastern coast.  

Danced to oldies, the style of music is commonly referred to as beach music.  It gained this name because in the civil rights era, the music of colored singing groups was banned on the radio.  The only place it could be heard was at the beach clubs along the southeast coast, and thus the name beach music was born.  

While the dance gained traction and thrived in the 80’s, it has persisted with an eclectic mix of old school talent and fresh blood flooding the dance scene.  The energy and skill level are unmatched; indeed, they spin, hop, and drop to lightning-fast records and silky smooth soul tunes with grace and ease.   The National Shag Dance Championship is held annually in North Myrtle Beach in March, while numerous smaller contest and weekend events dot the calendar year-round.   

So, on your next Myrtle Beach vacation, see if one of these popular events happening, and head to Main Street and immerse yourself in the swing dance of the south, the shag.

If you want to try your hand at this popular dance, we have your group covered. Fat Harold’s Beach Club, located on Main Street in North Myrtle Beach, hosts free shag lessons every Tuesday night at 6:00. When the class is over, grab a bite to eat or check out the cute boutiques and arcade on this popular street.