Hilton Head Celebrates 25 Years of Community Thanksgiving Tradition

Hilton Head’s Heartwarming Thanksgiving Tradition Celebrates 25 Years

On the beautiful island of Hilton Head, Thanksgiving has become more than just a holiday—it’s a heartfelt tradition that brings together the community in the most wonderful way. What started as a simple need for companionship and fellowship has blossomed into an annual feast that thousands now look forward to. This year marks a special milestone as the community dinner celebrates its 25th anniversary.

A Problem Worth Addressing

Back in 1998, life on Hilton Head was a bit different. While many enjoyed their Turkey Day festivities with family and friends, not everyone felt included. A headline from that year stated: “Lonely locals may find few options on Turkey Day.” As Reporter Brad Kovach pointed out, southern Beaufort County’s less fortunate might have access to a hot meal, but a sense of belonging was nowhere to be found.

Betsy Doughtie, who led the Deep Well Project at that time, candidly noted, “If someone is homeless and alone, baskets are not the answer.” The island needed a place where everyone could come together—rich or poor, young or old—and share in the spirit of giving.

Born from a Heartfelt Need

While community dinners existed elsewhere—such as at St. Helena’s Anglican Church in Beaufort—Hilton Head seemed to lack a dedicated event that embraced all its residents. However, two compassionate souls, Allan LaCoe and Brian Carmines, quickly sprung into action after reading about the local struggles in the newspaper. With Doughtie’s guidance, they began molding what would soon become a beloved community tradition.

“Our restaurant is available!” exclaimed Carmines, the owner of Hudson’s Seafood House, as he partnered with St. Andrew By-the-Sea United Methodist Church. Together, they organized the very first Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner, where everyone in the community was cordially invited—at no cost, of course!

A Feast to Remember

The excitement leading to that first dinner in 1999 was palpable. The atmosphere was electrifying as volunteers, including kids from the Boys and Girls Club, decorated tables and even invited Santa Claus to join the festivities! With 200 pounds of turkey, 150 pounds of ham, and a whole lot of potatoes and gravy, the feast was big enough to satisfy any appetite!

On that day, four hundred guests walked through the doors, many expressing one simple sentiment: “I didn’t want to spend Thanksgiving Day alone.” And there they were, sharing hearty meals, laughter, and stories. It was a magical transformation of what could have been a lonely day into one filled with warmth and camaraderie.

Growing With Each Passing Year

Fast forward to this year, and the Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner is now estimated to serve about 1,500 guests! What began as a humble gathering has now established itself as a cornerstone of community spirit. Even though meals remain free, generous donations have helped raised around $12,000 last year—all of which goes to local nonprofit organizations such as the Deep Well Project, Bluffton Self Help, and Second Helpings, which all fight against food insecurity in the area.

Resilience Through Adversity

Over the years, this event has shown that no challenge is too great for a community committed to coming together. Even the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused numerous restrictions and cancellations, couldn’t erase the spirit of gratitude and togetherness on Hilton Head. They only canceled the dinner once—back in 2020. And when Hurricane Matthew hit in 2016, the dinner persevered, reminding everyone that a cared-for community can withstand anything.

Reflections on Connection

As Allan LaCoe prepares to step aside this year, the memories and moments will forever remain close to his heart. One particularly stirring memory was back in 2001, shortly after the 9/11 attacks. An 82-year-old Marine, dressed to the nines in his uniform, entered the event, and the place erupted in applause. It was a beautiful moment that captured the unity and love shared among attendees.

This Thanksgiving, as Hilton Head celebrates this landmark year, let’s remember that no one has to feel alone during such a special time. Together, the community has created something extraordinary, proving that the human heart has an infinite capacity for kindness. Here’s to many more years of shared meals, laughter, and friendship!