Beaufort, SC – Fall is in the air, and with cooler weather arriving in the Lowcountry, outdoor festivals are back in full swing. From shrimp celebrations to vintage fairs and music festivals, there’s something for everyone. Here are five must-attend fall events happening in Beaufort, SC and surrounding areas.
1. OktoPRfest – Port Royal, September 27th (11 AM – 5 PM)
Dubbed “OktoPRfest – Party Port Royal Style,” this festive event brings German-inspired cuisine to the Lowcountry. Local chefs, restaurants, and food trucks will serve dishes to enjoy alongside craft, imported, and domestic beers.
Entertainment includes:
Live music featuring Charles Maring and Greg Keys & Company
A Classic Car Show hosted by the Beaufort Classic Car & Truck Club
Family-friendly Kids Zone activities
Artisan and craft vendors showcasing local Lowcountry talent
2. 31st Annual Beaufort Shrimp Festival – October 3rd & 4th
Held at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, the Beaufort Shrimp Festival celebrates the region’s beloved shrimp industry. Enjoy two full days of live music, Lowcountry cuisine featuring wild-caught shrimp, and competitions among local restaurants.
Friday, October 3rd: 5 PM – Preview events and live music
Saturday, October 4th: 11 AM – 5 PM – Competitions and family activities
3. Habersham Harvest Festival – October 10th – 12th
A favorite Lowcountry street festival, the Habersham Harvest Festival blends vintage fair charm with family fun. Set against Market Street’s southern architecture, visitors can enjoy:
Artisan vendors and local food purveyors
Live music on the main stage
Kids’ activities including a 47-ft Ferris wheel, vintage carnival rides, face painting, hayrides, and a petting zoo
Event Hours:
Friday, October 10th: 4 PM – 9 PM
Saturday, October 11th & Sunday, October 12th: 10 AM – 6 PM
4. Lowcountry Fish & Grits Music Festival – October 4th (Hilton Head Island)
This festival celebrates the Gullah Geechee culture with food, live music, and local vendors. Enjoy an authentic Lowcountry experience while supporting regional artists and culinary talent.
5. Yemassee Shrimp Festival – September 18th – 20th
Yemassee gets in on the shrimp celebration too! The annual festival offers:
Dozens of food and retail vendors
Live entertainment
A 5K run
Classic carnival games and rides
It’s a perfect event for families and food lovers alike.
Fall in the Lowcountry is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities, local culture, and fresh seasonal cuisine. Whether you’re a music fan, a foodie, or simply looking for family-friendly fun, Beaufort and the surrounding areas have a festival for everyone.
