Hilton Head Island Welcomes the Annual Oyster Festival with Food, Fun, and Family Activities

Hilton Head Island Gears Up for a Shell-tastic Oyster Festival!

Get ready, Hilton Head Island! This weekend, locals and visitors alike will come together to celebrate one of the Lowcountry’s most beloved treasures – the oyster! The annual Oyster Festival, known for its fun-filled festivities and mouthwatering culinary delights, has been bringing people together for over 30 years. And you won’t want to miss this year’s incredible lineup!

Enjoy the Delicious Oysters on Friday Night

The first night of festivities kicks off with an all-you-can-eat oyster party at Shelter Cove Community Park on Friday night, from 5 to 8 p.m. For just $65, adults can dig in on a feast featuring steamed local oysters, shrimp, lowcountry boil, pulled pork, seafood chowder, and chili, all expertly catered by Roy’s Place Catering. Kids aren’t left out either, as tickets for children 12 and under are priced at only $45. Just picture it: plates piled high with fresh oysters as you mingle with fellow oyster enthusiasts!

Saturday’s Fun-Filled Art and Music Scene

If you thought Friday night was fantastic, just wait until Saturday! From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the celebration moves to Lowcountry Celebration Park for a vibrant day of music and art. Admission is a steal at $10 for adults – and guess what? Kids aged 11 and under get in absolutely free!

Once inside, prepare for a lively atmosphere featuring fantastic live music from local bands like CornBred and The Nice Guys. But that’s not all! There will also be pop-up shops offering unique creations from local artisans such as Clay on the May and Drew’s soaps. It’s the perfect opportunity to snag some one-of-a-kind gifts while enjoying the festival vibes.

A Place for Families and Kids

Parents, fret not! There’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained in the Kid’s Zone. With so many activities, they’ll be worn out by the end of the day! After all that fun, the celebration doesn’t have to end just yet. Make your way to the Rooftop Bar at the Courtyard Marriott across the street for an after-party that promises to keep the good times rolling.

Making a Difference

Aside from the fun and festivities, there’s a heartwarming aspect to the Oyster Festival as well. Proceeds from the event benefit the Carmines Family Recreation Scholarship Fund at the Hilton Head Island Recreation Center, helping families in need access recreation programs. And here’s a cool fact: last year alone, the festival recycled an impressive 5 tons of oyster shells from the event! You can indulge in delicious oysters while doing your part for the environment.

Key Details to Remember

Here’s a quick summary to keep your Oyster Festival plans on track:

• Friday Night Feast: 5 – 8 p.m. at Shelter Cove Community Park for an all-you-can-eat oyster extravaganza ($65 adults, $45 kids).
• Saturday Celebration: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Lowcountry Celebration Park ($10 adults, free for kids 11 and under).
• Live Music: Enjoy bands like CornBred and The Nice Guys.
• Kid’s Zone: Fun-filled activities for the little ones.
• After-Party: Join the festivities at the Courtyard Marriott’s rooftop bar.

So, pack up your friends and family and get ready for a weekend of delicious food, lively music, and warm community spirit. The Oyster Festival is a “shuckin’” great way to experience the best of Hilton Head Island!