Few places in the U.S. have more charm and seaside sophistication than South Carolina’s Hilton Head Island. Among the most coveted oceanfront destinations on either coast, the area is a favorite for full-time residents and seasonal visitors. From its pristine beaches to world-class golf courses, gourmet dining, and a vibrant arts scene, the island offers an unrivaled blend of relaxation and energy. The island’s rich tapestry is also the perfect backdrop for seasonal events and annual festivals, ensuring there’s always something to look forward to.
Although the island’s showcase event, the RBC Heritage, is held at the height of spring, the soul of Hilton Head Island truly comes alive when summer gives way to autumn and a crisp chill fills the air.
From October to December, the local calendar is full of exciting festivals, fun experiences, and holiday celebrations that embody the island’s lavish yet laid-back lifestyle. Below is a roundup of some of the most anticipated events on Hilton Head Island in the final few months of 2024.
October 2024: Music, Creativity, and Art
Fun With the Fox
The Shops at Sea Pines Center
October 9, 2024
The 3rd Annual Fun With the Fox Gala takes place on October 9 at The Shops at Sea Pines Center, and it promises to be a fantastic night for a great cause. This glamorous event—attendees are encouraged to dress “foxy”—benefits the Michael J. Fox Foundation, with all proceeds supporting Parkinson’s research. Live music is provided by local favorite Deas-Guyz, with dancing, a beer and wine cash bar, and complimentary hors d’oeuvres from Lulu Kitchen as part of the fun, philanthropic night.
October 9, 2024
The 3rd Annual Fun With the Fox Gala takes place on October 9 at The Shops at Sea Pines Center, and it promises to be a fantastic night for a great cause. This glamorous event—attendees are encouraged to dress “foxy”—benefits the Michael J. Fox Foundation, with all proceeds supporting Parkinson’s research. Live music is provided by local favorite Deas-Guyz, with dancing, a beer and wine cash bar, and complimentary hors d’oeuvres from Lulu Kitchen as part of the fun, philanthropic night.
Crescendo Celebration of Arts & Culture
Various Locations
October 10 through November 23, 2024
Art, music, and performance converge in one of Hilton Head Island’s most anticipated celebrations: Crescendo. Spanning over a month, this event showcases the island’s thriving arts scene through gallery exhibitions, theatrical performances, and live music. Be sure to catch the Crescendo Community Celebration on October 15 for a vibrant gathering of local artists, performers, and food vendors. Additional Crescendo-affiliated events include:
October 10 through November 23, 2024
Art, music, and performance converge in one of Hilton Head Island’s most anticipated celebrations: Crescendo. Spanning over a month, this event showcases the island’s thriving arts scene through gallery exhibitions, theatrical performances, and live music. Be sure to catch the Crescendo Community Celebration on October 15 for a vibrant gathering of local artists, performers, and food vendors. Additional Crescendo-affiliated events include:
- This is Not: Aldwyth in Retrospect exhibition
- The Nutcracker, presented by the Hilton Head Dance Theater
- Historical tours and immersive programming across the island
The Crescendo Celebration's locations encompass the entire island, making it one of Hilton Head Island’s most unique events, uniting every community. Notable venues hosting Crescendo events include the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina and Coastal Discovery Museum.
Bob Masteller’s Jazz For All Ages
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island
October 13 and 14, 2024
For jazz enthusiasts, Bob Masteller’s Jazz For All Ages festival is a must-attend event. Hosted over two evenings, with a kickoff noon Jazz Brunch on October 13, the festival honors Hilton Head Island’s deep connection to the jazz community and serves as a fundraiser for the Junior Jazz Foundation, supporting local youth in music education. Attendees will enjoy performances by top-tier jazz musicians, set at the brilliant Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island, making it a sophisticated affair you won’t want to miss.
October 13 and 14, 2024
For jazz enthusiasts, Bob Masteller’s Jazz For All Ages festival is a must-attend event. Hosted over two evenings, with a kickoff noon Jazz Brunch on October 13, the festival honors Hilton Head Island’s deep connection to the jazz community and serves as a fundraiser for the Junior Jazz Foundation, supporting local youth in music education. Attendees will enjoy performances by top-tier jazz musicians, set at the brilliant Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island, making it a sophisticated affair you won’t want to miss.
November 2024: Tradition and Elegance
Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival
Various Locations
October 30 through November 3, 2024
The Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival is an elegant display of automotive design and a major highlight of the island’s fall calendar. Car enthusiasts, collectors, history buffs, and curious onlookers alike will revel in the curated selection of rare and classic cars. From an opening night MASI wine dinner at Nunzio to the Grand Motoring Film Festival on Halloween Night to the Flights & Fancy Aeroport Gala on Friday, November 1, the first three days are an opulent warm-up for the Concours’ weekend’s man events, including Sunday’s main attraction: the Concours d’Elegance at Port Royal Golf Club. From vintage roadsters to supercars and prototypes, Hilton Head Island’s premier automotive festival offers an unparalleled mix of luxury and nostalgia.
October 30 through November 3, 2024
The Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival is an elegant display of automotive design and a major highlight of the island’s fall calendar. Car enthusiasts, collectors, history buffs, and curious onlookers alike will revel in the curated selection of rare and classic cars. From an opening night MASI wine dinner at Nunzio to the Grand Motoring Film Festival on Halloween Night to the Flights & Fancy Aeroport Gala on Friday, November 1, the first three days are an opulent warm-up for the Concours’ weekend’s man events, including Sunday’s main attraction: the Concours d’Elegance at Port Royal Golf Club. From vintage roadsters to supercars and prototypes, Hilton Head Island’s premier automotive festival offers an unparalleled mix of luxury and nostalgia.
Hilton Head Oyster Festival
Shelter Cove Community Park, Lowcountry Celebration Park
November 8 and 9, 2024
The Hilton Head Oyster Festival is a quintessential Lowcountry tradition. The two-day event is among the island’s largest and most popular gatherings, offering live music and entertainment, great food, and a sense of camaraderie. Friday, November 8, features all-you-can-eat steamed oysters, pulled pork, and Lowcountry boil for $55 per ticket at Shelter Cove Community Park. Saturday, November 9, is festival day at Lowcountry Celebration Park with $10 tickets.
November 8 and 9, 2024
The Hilton Head Oyster Festival is a quintessential Lowcountry tradition. The two-day event is among the island’s largest and most popular gatherings, offering live music and entertainment, great food, and a sense of camaraderie. Friday, November 8, features all-you-can-eat steamed oysters, pulled pork, and Lowcountry boil for $55 per ticket at Shelter Cove Community Park. Saturday, November 9, is festival day at Lowcountry Celebration Park with $10 tickets.
Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade
Alder Lane Beach Access to Lowcountry Celebration Park
November 23, 2024
A true celebration of light and creativity, the Lantern Parade marks the closing act of the Crescendo Celebration. Participants of all ages craft lanterns and join a shimmering procession from Alder Lane Beach Access to Lowcountry Celebration Park, creating a stunning visual display illuminating Hilton Head Island’s Atlantic coast. Truly one of the most beloved events on the island, this community-driven spectacle is always worth marking on your calendar.
November 23, 2024
A true celebration of light and creativity, the Lantern Parade marks the closing act of the Crescendo Celebration. Participants of all ages craft lanterns and join a shimmering procession from Alder Lane Beach Access to Lowcountry Celebration Park, creating a stunning visual display illuminating Hilton Head Island’s Atlantic coast. Truly one of the most beloved events on the island, this community-driven spectacle is always worth marking on your calendar.
December 2024: Holiday Magic
Holiday Pops
First Presbyterian Church
December 1 and 2, 2024
Kick off the holiday season with the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops concert series. Performing at the First Presbyterian Church on William Hilton Parkway, this event brings the sounds of the season to life with classic holiday music. For this year's edition, The Hilton Head Dance Theatre will also perform a portion of the Nutcracker, adding a visual treat to the auditory experience. Offering an elegant and joyful way to embrace the festive spirit, the concerts are perfect for anyone looking for a musical night out to ring in the holiday season.
December 1 and 2, 2024
Kick off the holiday season with the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops concert series. Performing at the First Presbyterian Church on William Hilton Parkway, this event brings the sounds of the season to life with classic holiday music. For this year's edition, The Hilton Head Dance Theatre will also perform a portion of the Nutcracker, adding a visual treat to the auditory experience. Offering an elegant and joyful way to embrace the festive spirit, the concerts are perfect for anyone looking for a musical night out to ring in the holiday season.
Deck the Hulls: A Christmas Boat Parade
Skull Creek
December 14, 2024
There’s nothing like seeing Hilton Head Island’s waters come alive with holiday cheer. In its third year, the Deck the Hulls Christmas Boat Parade has fast become a favorite tradition among Lowcountry locals. Setting out from Dolphin Head in Port Royal Sound, boats decked in festive lights and decorations sail down Skull Creek. Whether watching from the shore or participating on the water, this event will surely leave you in the holiday spirit.
December 14, 2024
There’s nothing like seeing Hilton Head Island’s waters come alive with holiday cheer. In its third year, the Deck the Hulls Christmas Boat Parade has fast become a favorite tradition among Lowcountry locals. Setting out from Dolphin Head in Port Royal Sound, boats decked in festive lights and decorations sail down Skull Creek. Whether watching from the shore or participating on the water, this event will surely leave you in the holiday spirit.
Hilton Head Island’s Irresistible Year-Round Appeal
If you’re interested in exploring the unparalleled luxury and adventures of Hilton Head Island, contact Karen Ryan to start your search in one of the country’s most coveted locales. Whether you seek an oceanfront home or an estate with a golf course or harbor view, allow Karen’s experience and expertise to help you navigate this sought-after region.
