A Year of Celebrations: Events and Festivals on Hilton Head Island and Bluffton

A Year of Celebrations: Events and Festivals on Hilton Head Island and Bluffton

Hilton Head Island and Bluffton are vibrant communities with a rich cultural calendar, offering events and festivals throughout the year that celebrate everything from local art and seafood to heritage and holidays. Whether you're a resident or visitor, there's always something to look forward to. Here's a month-by-month guide to the must-attend events on Hilton Head Island and in Bluffton.

January

• Hilton Head Island Snow Day: Though Hilton Head is known for its warm climate, the island celebrates winter with a "snow day" in early January at Shelter Cove Community Park. Families can enjoy snow-covered play areas, carnival games, and winter-themed activities.
• Hilton Head Island Restaurant Week: Typically held in late January, this week-long event allows food lovers to experience special menus at some of the island’s top restaurants. It’s a great way to explore Hilton Head's diverse culinary scene.

February

• Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival: This week-long celebration in mid-February is a highlight for foodies. The festival features fresh seafood, cooking demonstrations, and tastings by local chefs. There’s also live music, arts and crafts, and fun activities for the whole family.
• Bluffton Oyster Roast & Art Auction: Held at the Bluffton Oyster Factory Park, this event combines two of Bluffton’s favorite things: art and oysters. Enjoy all-you-can-eat local oysters while bidding on art pieces from local artists.

March

• Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival: Taking place in mid-March, this festival is a wine lover's dream, with wine tastings, gourmet dinners, and a grand tasting event. The festival also includes live entertainment and a silent auction.
• St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Hilton Head’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the largest in the Southeast, is a festive celebration with colorful floats, marching bands, and plenty of Irish spirit. It’s a family-friendly event that draws crowds from all over.

April

• Hilton Head Island Art Festival: Held at Shelter Cove Harbour in late April, this outdoor festival features the work of local and regional artists. It’s a great opportunity to discover unique pieces and enjoy the beautiful spring weather.
• RBC Heritage Golf Tournament: This PGA Tour event, held at the Harbour Town Golf Links, is one of Hilton Head’s most famous events. It draws golf enthusiasts from around the world and is known for its relaxed, Southern charm.

May

• Bluffton Mayfest: Also known as the Bluffton Village Festival, this event takes place in historic Old Town Bluffton. It features local arts and crafts, food vendors, and live music. The event has been a Bluffton tradition for over 40 years.
• Hilton Head Island Boat Show: Usually held in late May, the Hilton Head Island Boat Show at Windmill Harbour Marina showcases a wide range of boats, from luxury yachts to smaller vessels, and offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s nautical lifestyle.

June

• Hilton Head Island Music Festival: This early summer festival at the Shelter Cove Community Park brings together local and regional musicians for a day of live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great way to kick off the summer.
• Bluffton Sunset Party: Held throughout the summer months, this series of sunset parties at Oyster Factory Park offers live music, food vendors, and stunning views of the May River. It’s a laid-back way to enjoy the summer evenings.

July

• HarbourFest at Shelter Cove: Running from mid-June through August, HarbourFest is a summer-long celebration with live music, fireworks every Tuesday night, arts and crafts, and family-friendly entertainment. It’s one of Hilton Head’s most popular summer traditions.
• Fourth of July Fireworks: Hilton Head and Bluffton both host spectacular Fourth of July celebrations, with fireworks displays at Harbour Town, Shelter Cove, and various locations along the beach. The festivities often include live music and family activities.

August

• Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival: While this prestigious car show typically takes place in November, August is when the planning and anticipation begin. This festival showcases classic cars, motorcycles, and aircraft, drawing car enthusiasts from across the country.

September

• Hilton Head Island Shrimp Festival: Held at the Harbour Town Yacht Basin, this festival celebrates the island’s shrimping heritage with a shrimp-tasting competition, live music, and family activities. It’s a delicious way to enjoy the start of fall.

October

• Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival: This week-long festival in mid-October celebrates Bluffton’s rich arts scene and local seafood. Events include a juried art show, seafood samplings, a 5K run, and more. It’s a true community celebration that highlights the best of Bluffton.
• Hilton Head Island Italian Heritage Festival: This festival at the Coastal Discovery Museum is a celebration of Italian culture, with food vendors, live music, and traditional Italian games and activities. It’s a lively event that’s fun for the whole family.

November

• Hilton Head Oyster Festival: This two-day event at Shelter Cove Community Park celebrates all things oyster, with steamed, fried, and raw oysters on offer. There’s also live music, kids’ activities, and a Bloody Mary contest to round out the weekend.
• Bluffton International & Craft Beer Festival: Taking place in early November, this festival at the Oyster Factory Park features craft beer tastings, live music, and food trucks. It’s a great way to sample beers from around the world in a relaxed setting.

December

• Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade: This festive event in mid-December invites the community to create their own lanterns and join a parade along the beach. It’s a magical evening that celebrates the island’s artistic spirit.
• Bluffton Christmas Parade: Early December brings Bluffton’s annual Christmas Parade, a beloved tradition with festive floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself. It’s a joyful way to kick off the holiday season.

Year-Round Events

• Hilton Head Farmers Market: Every Tuesday at the Coastal Discovery Museum, the Hilton Head Farmers Market offers fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and live music. It’s a great way to support local farmers and enjoy the island’s bounty.
• Bluffton Farmers Market: Held every Thursday in Old Town Bluffton, this market is a community favorite, with vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to handmade crafts. It’s a lively gathering that showcases the best of Bluffton.

From food festivals to art shows and everything in between, Hilton Head Island and Bluffton offer a rich tapestry of events that reflect the unique culture and community of the Lowcountry. Whether you're a foodie, a golfer, or simply someone who enjoys a good celebration, there’s always something happening here that you won’t want to miss.