Nothing can duplicate the experience of the Grand Old Opry in Nashville. But don’t snicker at Myrtle’s Carolina Opry (8901-A Business Hwy. 17, 800/843-6779, www.thecarolinaopry.com, showtimes and ticket prices vary). Since 1986 this well-respected stage show, begun by legendary promoter Calvin Gilmore, has packed ’em in at the Grand Strand.

The main focus is the regular Opry show, done in the classic, free-wheeling variety format known to generations of old-school country fans from the original Opry itself. The Carolina Opry augments its regular music, comedy, and dance show with a seasonal Christmas special—which is highly popular and sells out even faster than the regular shows, often six or more months in advance—and generally one other bit of specialty programming, such as the recent “Good Vibrations” pop hits revue.

The 2200-seat Carolina Opry theater itself, while no match for Nashville’s classic Ryman Theatre venue, is pretty classy for a venue only built in 1992. In all, the Carolina Opry is a professional, highly entertaining, and totally family-friendly experience, even for those not overly enamored of country music.