The award-winning Annual Historic Bluffton Arts and Seafood Festival is held annually in the charming and eclectic historic district, well known for its quirky arts community, amazing restaurants, and natural river beauty. This year, the fun happens Oct. 15-23.
The festival is a weeklong event offering a myriad of activities, showcasing the locally harvested seafood, delicious Lowcountry cuisine, rich history, culture and art of the area and Southern hospitality found only in Bluffton.
The highlight of the festival has always been the Street Fest, to be held this year Oct. 22-23.
It includes a juried fine art show featuring over 100 artists from 10 states displaying and selling art, delicious food provided by the area’s premier culinary spots, along with great music and entertainment
What started as a one-day event in 2005 has grown into an event-filled week of festivities in historic Bluffton, showcasing the arts and locally harvested seafood.
Along with the traditional Blessing of the Fleet and Boat Parade on the May River Oct. 16, the local art scene will again be highlighted. Our 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., as well as the first Oyster Roast of the season at Bluffton Oyster Park at 5 p.m.
New this year, also on Oct. 16, is the Historic Marker Celebration, a dedication to the Living Legacy honoring the Campbell Chapel Nine, at 2 p.m. at Campbell Chapel AME Church, 25 Boundary St.
On Monday evening, Dinner & Learn will be held at the Bluffton Seafood House with speakers highlighting our natural resources and the necessary conservation practices to ensure their continuance is scheduled. Wednesday again offers Author Night, with a panel of local historians, “Cherishing Bluffton’s Past,” 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, children’s Chalk the Walk Competition, Bluffton State of Mind Supper Soiree, Oyster Farm Tours, 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.
“Symphony Under the Stars” with the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, which debuted last year, returns this year as well. This outdoor pops concert on Thursday will be offered free of charge at 7:30 p.m. at Martin Family Park. Bring a blanket or chair, a picnic dinner and beverages.
For more details and the full schedule of events visit blufftonartsandseafoodfestival.org or call 843-757-2583.
