For those whose anticipation gets the best of them, an annual holiday event in Myrtle Beach brings Christmas spirit a month in advance. The Dickens Christmas Show & Festivals Week (inspired by the Dickens tale A Christmas Carol) is going on its 30th year running, and plans to keep up the holiday tradition.

In a marketplace setting, modeled with a 19th century twist, shoppers can browse fine arts, crafts, imported gifts, toys, foods and clothing from 350 period-clad vendors. And over the four-day event, a number of festivals will be on display from Holiday Centerpieces, Trees, Wreaths, Santas Through the Ages and Countries from Around the World.  Santa will be in his English styled castle for pictures with the kids. And for the adults: A Christmas Tea with Mr. Dickens, an elegant affair featuring Victorian teas, authentic English fare, and traditional holiday tunes performed by Suzanne and Jim, a historic musical duo.

This unique and national award-winning celebration/shopping experience is enough to put everybody in the Christmas spirit, perhaps even Mr. Scrooge himself. 

Dickens Christmas Show
November 10-13, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; noon-6 p.m. Sunday
The Myrtle Beach Convention Center, 2101 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach
(800) 261-5991; www.dickenschristmasshow.com
Tickets: Adults $8.50, Children $4, Multi-Day $13