Top Events on Hilton Head Island

Each year, foodies flock to the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival — a week-long celebration where food, drink, and the spirit of the South come alive. Honored as one of the Taste of The South Magazine’s 2024 Taste 50 Winners, the festival includes dinners, tastings, master classes, renowned chefs, cooking demonstrations, and live entertainment, as well as family-friendly activities, wildlife camps, and Lowcountry excursions.
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One of the most prestigious piano competitions in the world, the Hilton Head International Piano Competition attracts exceptional pianists aged 18 – 30 to compete for cash prizes, a solo set at Carnegie Hall, professional recording opportunities, and more. Attendees can enjoy spellbinding performances by these young virtuosos at a series of concerts, with performances judged by an internationally acclaimed jury.
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Join us March 16 for the 40th Annual Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade! One of the Island’s most beloved and popular annual events—and South Carolina’s oldest parade—it draws upwards of 25,000 spectators (in a town of approximately 40,000 permanent residents). Line up on Pope Avenue to take in all the floats, pipe-and-drum bands, marching bands, and many entertaining entries.
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If you’re a fan of delectable food, Wingfest is the place to be. This event showcases the best chicken wings on the Island, with local restaurants competing for the coveted title of “Best Wings.” Pair your wings with live music, cold drinks, kids activities, eating competitions, and a fun atmosphere, and you’ve got a mouth-watering match made in Lowcountry heaven!
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Celebrating nearly 40 years of success, the Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival offers a variety of tastings, educational seminars, and classic events like the Sip and Stroll, where you can explore the shops at Sea Pines Center with a glass of wine in hand. The festival’s signature events include showcasing a collection of award-winning wines at the Grand Tasting and the outdoor Public Tasting, which is held in a scenic park setting.
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As one of the most anticipated events in professional golf, the RBC Heritage draws top players and passionate fans to Hilton Head Island’s Harbour Town Golf Links. This iconic PGA TOUR event combines world-class golf with Southern hospitality, offering an unforgettable experience for attendees. The tournament’s festive atmosphere makes it a highlight of the Island’s calendar of events. 
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Looking to enjoy the outdoors while connecting with locals and contributing to a great cause? Join Pedal Hilton Head Island for a group ride around the Island. In support of the Boys & Girls Club, the event offers cyclists of all levels a chance to explore our beautiful Island — rated a Gold Level Bicycle Friendly Community — through a two-wheeled lens. Routes feature some of the best vistas on the Island.
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If you love art, you’ll love the Hilton Head Island Art Festival, an outdoor event showcasing the works of talented artists from around the country. Held at Shelter Cove Harbour, the festival features a diverse range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, and jewelry. Meet the artists, purchase unique pieces, and enjoy live music, great shopping, and delicious food.
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Summer on Hilton Head Island wouldn’t be complete without Shelter Cove HarbourFest. This weekly celebration held throughout the season features live music and entertainment, arts and crafts, lots of family-friendly activities, and fireworks every Tuesday night. Together, it makes for a fun, lively event, and much-anticipated experience at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina.
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This one-day, family-friendly event gives you a taste of Gullah Geechee, with a mix of international and local musical talent, unique crafts, and indigenous cuisine—not easily accessible outside of the Lowcountry. Musical performances range from folk and funk to jazz and blues, plus there will also be numerous vendors showcasing art, food, clothing, and much more.
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This annual series explores African American history, culture, and the enduring legacy of resilience. It features a selection of thought-provoking films followed by engaging discussions with distinguished speakers. Reflect on history, celebrate culture, and engage in meaningful conversations that connect the past with the present.
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Every fall, Hilton Head Island becomes the backdrop for the Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival, a celebration of automotive excellence and community spirit held at the stunning Port Royal Golf Club. With incredible cars, spectacular displays, and an elegant atmosphere, the festival is a luxurious and unforgettable experience for car enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone curious about the future of automotive innovation.
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An Island tradition for over 30 years, the Hilton Head Island Oyster Festival is back! One of the Island's biggest events, this family-friendly festival features live music, great atmosphere, and delicious food including all-you-can-eat steamed local oysters, shrimp, Lowcountry boil, pulled pork, seafood chowder, and much more. 
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The Crescendo Celebration shines a spotlight on the incredible arts, culture, and history organizations, as well as the individual artists, performers, and authors who bring Hilton Head Island to life. Past Crescendo Celebrations have featured over 100 unique arts and cultural programs, including concerts, theatrical and dance performances, historical tours, hands-on art experiences, and educational events.
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