5 of the best early spring festivals & events in Beaufort County to check out this year
Spring is finally in the air for the Lowcountry and along with a layer of pollen, spring blooms and more sunshine, the area is packed with can’t-miss events.
From indulgent wine tastings to high-flying air shows or cracking into fresh seafood, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this time of year.
Mark your calendars, bring your appetite and get ready for a season full of new flavors and festivities.
Here is a roundup of upcoming events throughout the Lowcountry:
Hilton Head Island Food & Wine Festival
Don’t miss the 40th annual Hilton Head Food & Wine Festival this March. This week-long festival offers events, tasty bites and fun for locals and visitors.
Proceeds for the event give back to the community through the John F. & Valerie Currie Educational Scholarship Fund for college students at the University of South Carolina Beaufort and the Technical College of the Lowcountry.
Here is a breakdown of all the events to expect from this year’s festival, happening March 20-29:
UNCORKED at the Sonesta Hilton Head: Thursday, March 20, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Craft Beers by the Beach at The Westin Resort & Spa: Sunday, March 23, 2 to 5 p.m.
Sip and Stroll at the Shops at Sea Pines Center: Wednesday, March 26, 4 to 7 p.m.
Stay Gold at Roller’s Wine & Spirits: Thursday, March 27, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Grand Tasting at Country Club of Hilton Head: Friday, March 28, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Public Tasting at Lowcountry Celebration Park: Saturday, March 29, 12 to 3 p.m.
These events require tickets or registration and all attendees must be over 21. This event also does not allow children or pets.
For more details and tickets, visit the Hilton Head Wine & Food Festival webpage.
Lowcountry Food Truck Festival
Enjoy live music, entertainment, beer, wine, vendors and of course, food trucks at the Lowcountry Food Truck Festival this April.
This event is set to bring over 20 different food trucks to the Port Royal area along with fun activities and community togetherness.
Date: April 5
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Paris Avenue, Port Royal
Tickets: Free to the public; food truck prices vary.
For more information about the festival, you can visit the event page.
Bluffton Bunny Bonanza
If you’re looking for a family-friendly event for the Easter holiday, then Bluffton’s Bunny Bonanza might be for you. With food, drinks, a movie and a visit from the Easter Bunny, this event is great for little kids and families.
- Date: April 12
- Time: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
- Location: New Riverside Barn Playground, 44 Red Barn Drive
- Tickets: This event is free to the public.
For more information, you can visit the event page.
Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Air Show
Put your eyes to the sky with this two-day air show featuring the Blue Angels. This show is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps. With over 10 featured planes, skydivers and more, this event is perfect for the whole family.
Date: April 12 & 13
Time: Gates open at 9 a.m.
Location: MCAS Beaufort on Geiger Boulevard
Tickets: Tickets are required for entry; free general admission tickets are available.
For the entire lineup of events, click here to view the MCAS webpage.
Port Royal Soft Shell Crab Festival
It wouldn’t be a Lowcountry festival without seafood, so for all the crab lovers, get ready for the 20th annual Soft Shell Crab Festival this April.
Hosted by the Old Village Association in Port Royal, this local festival brings more than delicious seafood, but vendors, music, games and more.
Date: April 19
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: Paris Avenue, Port Royal
Tickets: This event is free to the public.
For more information about this event, you can visit the event page.
