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.

LINK TO CALENDAR OF EVENTS


FEBRUARY
Beaufort International Film Festival is held each year in February and recognizes aspiring filmmakers of almost every genre to include independent film, music, animation, short and long features, documentaries, and screenwriting.  This full weekend of events includes screenings of films, a VIP party and closing Awards Ceremony. 

MARCH
Spring Tour of Homes held each year in late March is a seasonal highlight featuring beautiful private homes open for visitors.  Art Walks during the weekend are presented by the Guild of Beaufort Galleries in conjunction with this event.  Check our calendar for specific dates. 

APRIL
Soft Shell Crab Festival 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.

MAY
A Taste Of Beaufort is a two day festival held the first weekend of May each year.  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.

The Original Gullah Festival is celebrated in Beaufort during Memorial Day weekend each year. It brings large crowds to enjoy cultural entertainment.  The celebration of the African American heritage with folkways and foods brings visiting church and family groups from many states.

JULY
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.  More information can be found on our calendar of events. 

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 55th year in 2010. 

OCTOBER
Shrimp Festival is the first weekend in October each year and 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.

Fall Tour of Homes is held in late October each year and features many of the historic homes in Beaufort’s National Historic District.  Art Walks during the weekend are presented by the Guild of Beaufort Galleries in conjunction with this event.  Check our calendar for dates and ticket information.