Spook-tacular Season in Conway: Halloween Celebrations Draw Thousands!
Conway, S.C. – The charming downtown area of Conway has transformed into a bewitching wonderland this October, captivating both locals and visitors. With remarkably elaborate Halloween decorations adorning the streets, it’s no surprise that the city welcomed over 235,000 guests throughout the month, marking a thrilling increase of 21% from last year and a jaw-dropping 50.2% since 2022.
A Crowded Night on Main Street
On a bustling Wednesday evening, October 30, the streets were alive with excitement as visitors strolled along Main Street, indulging in window shopping and delicious eats. City Councilmember William Goldfinch couldn’t help but admire the scene, cheering on the city staff for their efforts in transforming Conway into the ultimate Halloween destination.
“It’s a fantastic quality of life event,” Goldfinch exclaimed. And he’s got a point! The festive atmosphere has not only captured the hearts of many but also revitalized the local economy!
Eateries and Retailers Bustling with Business
Local restaurants have been buzzing with energy as visitors flock to try the seasonal offerings. Many eateries reported a 10% to 12% increase in business compared to last year, with wait times stretching to over an hour during peak hours on weekends!
The friendly staff at Chanti’s Pizza, located on the picturesque riverfront, affirmed the bustling scene, sharing, “It’s been really, really busy!” Even the new self-serve brew pub, Palmetto Taps, has been thriving, with owner Brian Von acknowledging the surge in foot traffic. “They really go all out in this town for Halloween,” he said, impressed by the community spirit.
Retail Shops Experience a Seasonal Boost
The lively Halloween spirit has also worked wonders for local retailers. Brandon McShane, manager at the Teal Nation store, stated, “We’ve seen a good influx of business. There are a lot of people coming to Conway to see the decorations.” To cater to the crowds, some shops have adjusted their hours, happily reporting greater revenues during evening hours compared to their typical daytime schedule.
A Surge in Tourist Traffic
The Visitor Center has been experiencing a boom as well, with a 40% increase in foot traffic this October compared to last year. Hillary Howard from Conway Downtown Alive shared her excitement for the new visitors pouring in, saying, “The tourists visiting are fabulous, but creating a destination for families is what makes a city a community.”
Halloween Becomes Conway’s Crowning Jewel
City Manager Adam Emrick proudly declared that Halloween celebrations have now surpassed Christmas events in popularity, stating, “Halloween has been an overwhelming success.” Utilizing a unique tracking software, he unveiled that this year alone, 17,000 people packed downtown on October 19!
The city continues to invest in creating enchanting decorations, showcasing a new pirate ship at the marina and more than 2,400 plastic pumpkins hanging from trees—talk about spooky charm! Visitors from neighboring regions are flocking to experience the thrill of the historic district transformed into a haunted spectacle.
Looking Ahead
As October lingers on, it’s evident that Conway has successfully carved out a niche as a prime Halloween destination, boasting a lively community spirit and economic resurgence. With Halloween becoming such a fantastic experience, residents and visitors alike are eagerly anticipating what new delightful attractions will appear next year.
So, if you’re looking for a grand adventure this fall, mark your calendars and head to Conway—you won’t be disappointed!
