“Party Girl” by Amos Hummell
The Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival is back for the 17th year, having grown larger and more exciting than ever.
What started as a one-day event in 2005 has become a week of festivities in historic Bluffton showcasing the arts and locally harvested seafood. Festival events are scheduled Oct. 16-24.
Along with the traditional Blessing of the Fleet and Boat Parade on the May River on Oct. 17, the local art scene will again be highlighted as we kick off this week of festivities. Other Sunday activities include a Showcase of Local Art, at the galleries and an outdoor art exhibit in Martin Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the heart of Old Town Bluffton, as well as the first Oyster Roast of the season at Bluffton Oyster Park at 5 p.m.
On Oct. 18, Dinner & Learn at the Bluffton Seafood House features speakers highlighting our natural resources and the necessary conservation practices to ensure their continuance is scheduled. That evening, Author Night with Roger Pinkney and Capt. Woody Collins will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Rotary Community Center in Oscar Frazier Park.
Other favorite returning events include daily boat tours, a children’s Chalk the Walk Competition, Bluffton State of Mind Supper Soiree, Bluffton Self Help’s Sips and Seafood Party at Hewitt Oaks, the Saturday morning Old Town Oyster 10K and 5K run, CCA’s Children’s Fishing Tournament and children’s art activities in the park.
New this year is Symphony In The Park, featuring the sweet sounds of Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra and Erica Gabriel in a fun performance of universally loved film and popular music. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy free admission for this event.
The highlight of the week again will be the outdoor Street Fest set for Oct. 23-24, featuring the juried Artist Showcase and Market on Calhoun Street with more than 100 artists from 10 states.
While the artists will be displaying their works, local restaurants and caterers will be serving up delicious seafood dishes and Lowcountry Cuisine with musicians performing throughout the day.
Join your neighbors and friends for a true celebration of fine art and the bounty of the sea.
For more details and the full schedule of events visit blufftonartsandseafoodfestival.org or call 843-757-2583.
