Events
Festivals are among the things done best in the Beaufort region where a celebration is almost always underway. Locals and visitors regularly take to the streets, parks and waterways to enjoy life with the special varieties of cuisine, entertainment, arts and activities which define the friendly communities and their customs.
Black History Month is observed each February with lectures, films and special events arranged at
Penn
Center and other venues within the region. Martin Luther King, Jr. deliberated there while writing his notable “I Have A Dream” speech, and the York W. Bailey Museum is a popular site for frequent cultural observances as well as for daily visits.
Beaufort County African American Heritage Timeline
Spring Garden Walk displays the magnificent explosion of color that pays tribute to Southern tradition and Lowcountry climate. The
Spring Tour of Homes is a seasonal highlight featuring beautiful private homes open for visitors.
Art Walks are presented by the Guild of Beaufort Artists in conjunction with the Fall and Spring Tours of Homes.
Soft Shell Crab Fest is an annual event in April in the Town of
Port Royal where old fashioned fun is the style in the streets of the
Old
Village with shopping and dining choices.
Get ready for summer with
A Taste of Beaufort
in early May. Food, wine, art and music create a day-long event in the historic downtown. Free admission and tickets for individual purchases add to the easy celebration enjoyed by the whole city by the bay.
Gullah Festival is celebrated in Beaufort during Memorial Day weekend each year. It brings large crowds to enjoy cultural entertainment.
Independence Day is celebrated on July 4 in the Town of Port Royal with a dual fireworks display presented by Parris Island and the Town of Port Royal.
Water
Festival brings 10 days of celebration to Beaufort in July with a variety of concerts, water skiing, talent contests, air shows, boat races and parades. Tournaments include golf, tennis, boating and bed races. Water lovers also enjoy decorated boats and the traditional Blessing of the Fleet. The popular festival celebrated its 53rd year in 2008.
Shrimp Festival the first weekend in October includes a run and walk plus a huge exciting celebration of the shrimping industry. Enjoy local recipes and tastings. Shop in the craft market by the bay and browse the unique shops and galleries in the downtown historic district. Free entertainment, contests and plenty of shrimp make this annual event unforgettable.
