Excitement Builds for Hilton Head Island’s Annual Oyster Festival!

Get ready, folks! Hilton Head Island is gearing up for one of the most exciting events of the year: the Oyster Festival! Mark your calendars for November 8th and 9th, 2024, because this is not just any festival—it’s a true celebration of food, music, and community spirit that locals and visitors alike look forward to every fall.

A Time-Honored Tradition

This cherished event, which has been delighting attendees for over 30 years, offers a fantastic opportunity to gather with friends and family while indulging in some of the area’s best oysters and shrimp. Hosted by Island Rec, the festival promises a lively atmosphere filled with live music, artisan pop-up shops, and fun activities for kids.

But here’s the heartwarming part: the Oyster Festival isn’t just about having a good time; it also serves a vital purpose in supporting the community. Proceeds from the event benefit the Island Rec’s Children’s Scholarship Fund, ensuring that no child is denied access to childcare and recreational activities due to financial challenges. Last year alone, over $300,000 was awarded to help families in need, with one in three children benefiting from these scholarships.

Festival Details You Need to Know

Here’s what you can expect from the festival:

Friday, November 8 | 5-8 p.m.

Feast on all-you-can-eat steamed local oysters, Lowcountry boil, pulled pork, seafood chowder, and chili. (Drinks are sold separately.)
Enjoy live music from Rock Candy to get everyone in the festival spirit.
Where? At the Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane.
Admission: $55 for adults, $45 for kids 12 and under (prices go up after October 23). Be sure to grab your tickets soon since they’re selling fast!
Food catered by Roy’s Place Catering, with drinks provided by Southern Eagle and Coca-Cola.

Saturday, November 9 | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Prepare for a day filled with live music, local artisan shops, and activities for the whole family.
Catch performances by various bands, including:

CornBred from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
The Chiggers from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
CornBred again from 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
The Nice Guys from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Location: Lowcountry Celebration Park, Pope Avenue (near Coligny Circle).
Admission is just $10 for adults, while kids under 11, veterans, active military, police, and firefighters get in free (just show ID!). Food and beverages sold separately.
Get ready for some delicious treats with food prices for oysters and shrimp baskets yet to be determined.
Don’t forget—digital vouchers are needed for food, drinks, and activities, which you can grab at the entrance with cash.

Don’t Forget the Discount Packages!

For those planning to attend with friends or family, discount packages are available for groups of 2 and 4, and you can buy additional tickets on Saturday. Just remember, these packages are only available until October 23!

Celebrate at the Afterparty!

As the festival winds down, the fun doesn’t have to stop! Head over to the Courtyard Marriott Hotel’s Hightide Rooftop Bar, located conveniently across the street from Lowcountry Celebration Park, for happy hour prices and a chance to keep the celebration going.

Rain or Shine, We’ll Be There!

This is a rain-or-shine event, so don’t worry about the weather! Just come ready to enjoy, and please note that all sales are final.

So, whether you’re an oyster lover or just looking for a fun weekend activity, the Oyster Festival is the place to be. Join us for a magnificent weekend celebrating community, culture, and the joy of good food!