HEAVY TRAFFIC, TIGHT SECURITY AND PACKED PARKING EXPECTED FOR TRUMP RALLY

August 20, 2026

MYRTLE BEACH, SC —  Myrtle Beach residents and visitors should expect temporary road closures and massive traffic delays Friday, August 21, ahead of President Donald Trump’s visit to the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.

Although the event is not organized by the City of Myrtle Beach, the city‑owned convention center is serving as the venue. Doors are scheduled to open at 3:00 p.m., and increased vehicle and pedestrian traffic is expected in the surrounding area beginning earlier in the day.

Security will be exceptionally strict under U.S. Secret Service protocols, and attendees are urged to arrive early and avoid bringing any bags. Only pocket‑sized personal items are allowed, including a smartphone or mobile device with a digital ticket or QR code ready, keys, a wallet. Necessary medical items are permitted but will require separate, detailed screening at the gate.

For the presidential campaign rally on August 21, tickets do not guarantee faster entry or a saved spot inside the venue. Admission is strictly first‑come, first‑served. With a high turnout expected, doors open at 3:00 p.m. for the 7:00 p.m. event, and lines are anticipated to form hours in advance. Officials say the best way to enter quickly is to arrive early, be prepared for screening, and avoid carrying any bags.

Parking is also expected to be a challenge. The convention center’s surface lot is first‑come, first‑served and is likely to fill up immediately after or even before doors open at 3:00 p.m. Attendees should plan for limited on‑site parking and consider arriving well ahead of time or using alternate transportation options.

City officials also urged anyone planning to wait outside the convention center to prepare for hot weather. Heat‑related illness is a concern for those standing in line for extended periods, and attendees are encouraged to take precautions to stay cool and seek assistance immediately if they begin experiencing symptoms.

Some roads near the convention center may be posted “local traffic only” beginning in the late morning, with temporary closures expected in the late afternoon and evening. Closures are anticipated in areas between Myrtle Beach International Airport and the convention center. Drivers should allow extra travel time, use alternate routes when possible and follow directions from law enforcement officers. Motorists are asked to drive slowly in affected areas and avoid stopping along roadways or blocking intersections. Closure durations will vary, and roads will reopen as soon as it is safe to do so.

Because of security requirements, exact road closures and details about the president’s travel route will not be announced in advance. Closures may change at the direction of the U.S. Secret Service. City officials said they are providing the best information available to help residents, area schools, businesses and visitors plan ahead.

The City of Myrtle Beach is coordinating with federal and local partners to accommodate the presidential visit while working to minimize impacts across the community.