Here’s your SC guide for MLK events in Hilton Head, Bluffton and Charleston
In honor of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day federal holiday, Jan. 20, most banks, mail centers and administrative offices will be closed throughout Beaufort County.
Most administrative and government offices will reopen with normal business hours on Tuesday, January 21. Emergency services will remain operational during the holiday.
The Beaufort County Convenience Center at 26 Summit Road on Hilton Head Island will be closed on Monday. Regular operating hours will resume at 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 21.
Most grocery stores, chain restaurants and retail stores remain open.
In recognition of this federal holiday, many events and parades will take place to remember the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
Here is a breakdown of the events throughout the Lowcountry over the coming days.
Hilton Head
MLK Community Service Project: Saturday, January 18
Participate in the cleanup of the historical Gullah cemeteries throughout the community. Locations are still being determined, but this event is set to start at 9 a.m. Check back here for event updates.
Poster Making for the MLK Parade: Sunday, January 19
Get your markers and creativity ready with this poster-making event. Located at 39 Persimmon Street, Suite 201, you can craft and get posters ready for the MLK Parade. 6-8 p.m.
Hilton Head MLK Day Parade: Monday, January 20
Starting at 10 a.m., the MLK Parade is starting at Hilton Head High School and will honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Bluffton
Old Time Gospel Camp Meeting: Saturday, January 18
Held at Campbell Chapel A.M.E Church of Bluffton, 25 Boundary Street, this service begins at 3 p.m. and features a variety of musicians, choirs and faith leaders. This event is free and open to the public.
Memorial Program and Youth Day: Monday, January 20
Held at the May River Theatre located at Bluffton Town Hall, 20 Bridge Street, this program will feature performances from local youth groups, commentary from local leaders and a visual presentation.
Bluffton MLK Day March: Monday, January 20
Beginning at 2 p.m., the Bluffton MLK Day March will start at Bluffton Town Hall, 20 Bridge Street. Before the march, the Bluffton MLK Observance Committee’s program in Dr. King’s honor will be shown in the Town Hall from 12-2 p.m. This event ends with a free community meal at the Oyster Factory Park. Attendees are encouraged to bring supplies for “Backpack Buddies”.
Dine & Dance Sneaker Ball: Saturday, January 25
Join the Hilton Head MLK Committee for Justice with the Dine and Dance Sneaker Ball. This event includes dinner, music, a raffle and a silent auction. Just don’t forget to wear your best sneakers to dance the night away. This event is from 5-10 p.m. at the Port Royal Beach House, 45 South Port Royal Drive. Tickets are $85 and can be purchased here.
Beaufort
MLK Day Parade: Monday, January 20
The Beaufort MLK Parade is happening at 10 a.m. Starting at Beaufort National Cemetery, this parade will also honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
Charleston
The Charleston Museum: Monday, January 20
If you’re looking for something a bit more educational, The Charleston Museum and its historic houses are open on Martin Luther King Jr. Day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can visit the Heyward-Washington House or the Joseph Manigault House. Tickets can be found on their website. Prices vary based on age and events.