Hilton Head Island: Highlights from 2024 Events and Festivals

Each winter, Hilton Head Island’s unique food scene takes center stage with The Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival, a week-long celebration that goes beyond just great food. It’s an invitation to experience the island's soul, Southern heritage, and culture. Here, food, drink, and the spirit of the South come alive for both locals and visitors. Now in its almost 20th year, the festival was recently honored as one of Taste of the South Magazine’s 2024 Taste 50 Winners, a prestigious award recognizing the food, people, places, and experiences that make the South such a special place to live and eat.

This year’s event featured renowned chefs showcasing their skills, along with the Southern hospitality of a delicious barbecue served under the stars. Guests sipped on wines and curated cocktails from expert mixologists while indulging in the freshest seafood from the Atlantic coast. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in cooking masterclasses, gaining a deeper appreciation for the coastal environment that surrounds Hilton Head Island.

Don’t miss out on this incredible festival from February 17-23 next year. Tickets are on sale now!

As the weather begins to warm and spring draws near, we welcomed the Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival. Celebrating nearly 40 years of success, this festival has long been a proud community supporter, with proceeds from the Grand Tasting and Public Tasting wine auctions benefiting education scholarships for college students pursuing degrees in hospitality and tourism.

The festival offers a variety of classic events, including the Sip and Stroll, where guests can explore the shops at Sea Pines Center with a glass of wine in hand. Other highlights include Stay Gold, an event at golden hour featuring local live music and Double Gold wines from the international judging competition, and the Grand Tasting, showcasing a collection of award-winning wines and top selections from festival wine partners. The Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival is a celebration that brings together wine lovers and experts alike, all while offering the chance to sip in the serene beauty of the Lowcountry.

Mark your calendars for the 2025 Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival from March 23-29. Tickets are already selling fast!

Each year, locals and visitors eagerly anticipate the return of the RBC Heritage, the iconic PGA TOUR event held at The Sea Pines Resort since 1969. This year, golf fans witnessed an exhilarating finish as defending champion Scottie Scheffler claimed victory in the final round. Scheffler shot an impressive 3-under 68 to finish 19-under after 72 holes, securing his 10th PGA TOUR title. Remarkably, he became the first player since Bernhard Langer in 1985 to win both the Masters and the RBC Heritage in back-to-back weeks.

As tradition dictates, the 56th annual RBC Heritage began with a ceremonial opening and a parade starting at Liberty Oak in Harbour Town Yacht Basin and concluding on the 18th green. Scottie Scheffler joined Heritage Classic Foundation board members, volunteers, and state dignitaries in the festivities, accompanied by the stirring sounds of the Citadel’s Regimental Pipe Band. From the lively pro-am to the thrilling four-day tournament, the RBC Heritage offered no shortage of excitement, all culminating in the presentation of the iconic plaid jacket to crown the champion.

If you’ve never experienced the RBC Heritage in person or have only caught glimpses on TV, now is the time to make plans! Tickets are already on sale, so secure your spot for next year and be part of the tradition.

Every fall, Hilton Head Island becomes the backdrop for a truly unique event: the Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival. This celebration of automotive excellence and community spirit takes place at the stunning Port Royal Golf Club, where this year’s event drew a record-breaking crowd. Attendees marveled at iconic displays like the 1911 Oldsmobile Limited Touring Car, showcased by David and Patricia Peeler of Weddington, North Carolina, and the 1957 Ferrari 250 GT TdF, presented by Frederick Fischer of Wildwood, Missouri. These extraordinary vehicles earned the coveted titles of Concours d’Elegance and Concours de Sport Best of Show winners.

This prestigious event offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience for car enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone curious about the future of automotive innovation. From vintage masterpieces to cutting-edge technology, and even private jets, guests are always left in awe of the spectacular displays and elegant atmosphere.

Mark your calendars now! The Concours d’Elegance returns next year from October 31 to November 2. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event.

It’s no secret that Hilton Head Island has a vibrant Arts & Culture scene. From its rich history that shapes the island’s unique culture to the talented local artists who call it home, this is a time to celebrate all things creative and inspiring.

The Crescendo Celebration, held in honor of October’s National Arts and Humanities Month, 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 productions, museum and gallery exhibits, lectures, poetry readings, dance performances, historical tours, hands-on art experiences, and educational events. These offerings attract more than 10,000 visitors from across the U.S., Canada, and parts of Europe, making it a highlight of the year.

Like every year, the celebration ended with the iconic Lantern Parade, where hundreds of volunteers create stunning illuminated lanterns and march along the beach for an unforgettable light show. This magical event draws large crowds and becomes more impressive and creative each year, making it a truly must-see experience.

The 2025 Crescendo Celebration dates will be announced soon. Stay tuned for more details, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and creativity of Hilton Head Island.

Hilton Head Island hosts many amazing events throughout the year, each offering a unique way to explore the island’s rich food, culture, and more. No matter when you visit, there’s always an exciting event about to happen. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, the 2025 events lineup is one you won’t want to miss. Start planning your next Hilton Head Island getaway today!