Local Flavor Meets Family Fun: Hilton Head Oyster Fest 2025
If fall on Hilton Head Island had a signature scent, itâd be salty oysters roasting over open flames and Lowcountry boil bubbling under Spanish moss-draped oaks. Thatâs rightâitâs time again for the Hilton Head Oyster Festival, a beloved Island tradition thatâs been delighting seafood lovers and families for over 30 years.
Mark your calendars for November 7â8, 2025, and get ready to shuck, slurp, and savor one of Hilton Headâs most iconic events. Whether you're a longtime local or visiting for the weekend, this is a must-do experience that captures the true flavor of the Lowcountryâliterally.
đ Festival Locations & Dates
The Oyster Festival is split into two flavorful days at two scenic locations:
- Friday, Nov 7 | Shelter Cove Community Park (5â8 PM)
- Saturday, Nov 8 | Lowcountry Celebration Park (11 AMâ5 PM)
Each day brings a unique vibe, so if you want the full oyster experience, we sayâdo both.
đĽ Friday Night: Steamed Shells and Southern Vibes
Friday night kicks off at Shelter Cove Community Park, overlooking the peaceful waters of Broad Creek. Itâs an all-you-can-eat oyster affair that seafood dreams are made of.
đ˝ď¸ On the Menu (All-You-Can-Eat Included):
- Steamed local oysters (the stars of the show)
- Lowcountry boil
- Pulled pork
- Seafood chowder
- Chili
Drinks are sold separately, so bring your thirst for craft brews and classic Southern sips.
đś Live Music:
Rock Candy will be cranking up the good vibes with rock and soul-infused sounds as you dig into buckets of oysters under the stars.
đď¸ Tickets:
- General Admission: $60 (Kids 12 and under: $45)
- VIP Table: $750 (Seats 10 + VIP essentials + prime location)
Limited availability, so book early if you want to go big.
Note: This is a cashless event, so bring your card or load up on digital vouchers.
đď¸ Saturday: Family Fun Meets Oyster Obsession
Saturday shifts the scene to Lowcountry Celebration Park, just steps from Coligny Beach. This day is more laid-back and family-focused, perfect for people who want to enjoy oysters without committing to the all-you-can-eat frenzy.
đď¸ Admission:
- Presale: $7.50
- At the Door: $10
- Free: Children under 11, and Veterans, Active Military, Police, and Fire with valid ID
Pro tip: Buy presale online and skip the wait.
đ¤ Music Lineup:
Get ready to groove from morning to evening with a lineup of local crowd-pleasers:
- 11 AM â 12 PM: Soul Remedy
- 12 PM â 2 PM: Groove Town Assault
- 2 PM â 3 PM: Soul Remedy (Encore!)
- 3 PM â 5 PM: CornBred
Expect soulful vocals, high-energy funk, and Southern rock to match the bold flavors being served.
đ Food, Fun & More
Saturday's fest is more than just oystersâthough there's plenty of those too. Hereâs what else youâll find:
- Oysters: steamed, roasted, raw, fried, and skewered
- Other Eats: gumbo, hot dogs, chili, popcorn, donuts, and sâmores
- Kid's Activities: games and interactive fun zones (sold separately)
- Shopping: local artisan booths and craft vendors
- Silent Auction: Snag gift cards, artwork, and even golf rounds
Thereâs also a Sports Lounge for football fans, complete with flat screens and cold drinksâso no one has to miss the game.
đť Keep the Party Rolling: Official Afterparty
After youâve had your fill of seafood and sunshine, head just down the street to The Bank (59 Pope Avenue) for the official Oyster Festival Afterparty.
Itâs an easy 8-minute walk from Lowcountry Celebration Park, and the perfect way to close out the day with even more music, drinks, and local flavor.
đ§ď¸ Rain or Shine, Oysters Will Be Served
The Hilton Head Oyster Festival happens no matter the weather, so bring your rain jacket just in case. There are no refunds, but trust usâonce you're biting into a perfectly steamed oyster with live music in the background, you wonât mind a few sprinkles.
đ Final Pearl of Wisdom
Whether you're elbow-deep in a bucket of oysters or swaying to the rhythm of Southern soul, the Hilton Head Oyster Festival 2025 offers a flavorful mix of tradition, community, and coastal charm. Itâs the perfect excuse to gather your crew, loosen your belt, and fall in love with the Lowcountry all over again.