3 can’t-miss festivals happening this July in Bluffton, Hilton Head and Beaufort
This July, the Lowcountry is buzzing with vibrant festivals that celebrate the region’s rich heritage, waterfront traditions and small-town charm.
From Hilton Head’s Gullah Heritage Festival, the iconic waterfront events of the Beaufort Water Festival, to the laid-back local flavor of Bluffton’s May River Shrimp Festival, each event offers a unique blend of culture, food, music and community spirit.
Whether you enjoy exploring history, relaxing on the waterfront or racing in a Hawaiian shirt, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s everything to know about these upcoming events:
Gullah Heritage Festival: Hilton Head
Date: Saturday, July 5
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: The Gullah Museum of Hilton Head, 12 Georgianna Drive, Hilton Head
Tickets: $15 (ages 13+), $5 (ages 6 to 12), Free (ages 5 & under)
Info & Tickets: Gullah Museum Event Page
The Gullah Heritage Festival is a heartfelt celebration of the unique culture and history of the Gullah people. Hosted by the Gullah Museum of Hilton Head, this event brings together music, storytelling, traditional food, crafts and dance to honor this rich heritage.
Since 2003, the museum has served as a cornerstone for preserving and educating the public about Gullah culture. This family-friendly festival invites visitors of all backgrounds to experience the vibrancy, resilience and legacy of Gullah heritage.
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69th Annual Beaufort Water Festival: Beaufort
Dates: Friday, July 11 – Sunday, July 20
Main Location: Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Downtown Beaufort
Tickets: Vary by event; many are free. Click here for information on ticketed events.
Website: Beaufort Water Festival
The Beaufort Water Festival returns for its 69th year with a packed lineup celebrating all things Lowcountry — from water sports and fireworks to live concerts and community competitions.
The festivities kick off on Friday, July 11, with an arts and crafts market and a patriotic opening ceremony featuring the Parris Island Marine Band and fireworks.
Across 10 days, highlights include the Raft Race, Badminton & Bocce tournaments, the Concert in the Park with Chris Janson, and family-friendly events like Children’s Day and the Toad Fishing Tournament. Don’t miss the dramatic Air Show, the nostalgic Motown Monday with a Deaz-Guys concert and the Commodore’s Ball.
With themed nights, markets, local vendors and waterfront charm, the Water Festival offers something every day for residents and tourists alike.
Note: A 40-foot-wide, 1,200-foot-long stretch of the waterfront side of the promenade has been closed off indefinitely due to safety concerns; however, as of Monday, June 30, all events at the Water Festival are continuing as scheduled, but some locations may change.
To stay up to date with event locations and possible changes to the schedule, check the event webpage or Facebook.
May River Shrimp Festival: Bluffton
Dates: Thursday, July 24 & Friday, July 25
Times: 5K Race: Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; Festival: Friday from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Location: Oyster Factory Park
Tickets: Advance: $11 (individual), $38 (group of 4); At the Door: $15 (cash only)
Children 12 & under: Free
Info & Tickets: May River Shrimp Festival; click here to purchase tickets.
Bluffton’s most flavorful tradition returns with the May River Shrimp Festival & Hawaiian Shirt Sunset 5K, a two-day celebration blending seafood, music and active fun.
On Thursday evening, participants don their brightest tropical wear for the 5K run/walk through Old Town Bluffton, complete with leis, t-shirts and post-race refreshments. Click here to sign up for the race.
Then, on Friday night, the festival swings into party mode with food trucks, craft beer and live music. Bring your lawn chairs and leashed pups, but leave your credit cards at home (this is a cash-only event), set for rain or shine.
For a list of events happening all summer long, here is our rundown. For events set for the Fourth of July weekend, click here.
