As summer eases into fall, the Lowcountry comes alive with the kind of events that remind us why this corner of South Carolina feels like home. From waterfront festivals under the oaks to community celebrations honoring Gullah heritage, September is packed with reasons to get outside and connect with neighbors old and new. Whether you're a longtime resident or just settling into the area, here's your roundup of what's happening across Hilton Head, Bluffton, and Beaufort this month.
Hilton Head Island
Harbour Town Fall Fest
Sunday, September 13 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Harbour Town Waterfront
This annual waterfront festival surrounds the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse with a classic car display, local artisan vendors, live music, and activities for all ages. It's a low-key, family-friendly way to spend a fall Sunday by the water.
Hilton Head Island Jam Songwriter Festival
Thursday, September 17 – Sunday, September 20 | Multiple Venues Island-Wide
Now in its fourth year, this free four-day music festival brings more than 30 hit Nashville and pop songwriters to intimate venues across the island, including Lowcountry Celebration Park. It's a rare chance to hear the stories and acoustic sets behind songs you already know.
Fall Music & Taste at Shelter Cove
Thursday, September 10 | Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
A relaxed evening of live music and local flavor at one of the island's favorite waterfront gathering spots, a nice lead-in to the busier festival weekends later in the month.
Hilton Head Island Shrimp Festival
Saturday, September 19 | 1:00 – 4:00 PM | Harbour Town, Sea Pines Resort
This family favorite culinary celebration brings together top local chefs serving all-you-can-eat wild-caught Lowcountry shrimp alongside craft breweries, live music, and kid-friendly activities. Now in its eighth year, it's become a true Sea Pines tradition.
Bluffton
Reggae Pon De River
Saturday, September 5 | 2:00 PM | Bluffton Oyster Factory Park
A laid-back riverfront festival featuring live reggae music, Caribbean and Southern food vendors, and local craft booths along the May River.
Roots & Rivers Festival
Saturday, September 12 | 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Bluffton Oyster Factory Park
This celebration of culture and entrepreneurship spotlights local Black-owned businesses and artisans, with live music, a kids' zone, food trucks, and a beer garden along the riverfront.
BlufftemberFest
Saturday, September 26 | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Bluffton Oyster Factory Park
Closing out the Bluffton Sunset Party series, this Oktoberfest-style celebration features a beer garden, food truck court, an arts and crafts village, and live music from The Chiggers.
Beaufort & Port Royal
Land's End Woodland River Festival
Friday, September 4 & Saturday, September 5 | St. Helena Island
A long-running Labor Day weekend tradition honoring Gullah culture, family history, and community roots along the riverbank, one of the most meaningful cultural events on the Lowcountry calendar.
Taste of the World Festival
Saturday, September 26 | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Live Oaks Park, Port Royal
This outdoor food truck and cultural gathering brings together global cuisines, local restaurant booths, and live regional music for a full day of flavor.
Plan Your Fall in the Lowcountry
However you spend it, September is a reminder of what makes life in Hilton Head, Bluffton, and Beaufort so special: tight-knit communities, waterfront gathering spots, and a packed calendar of things to look forward to all season long. Thinking about making the Lowcountry home before next fall's festivities roll around? Reach out to our team to start exploring what's available.
