We can’t think of a better way to spend the Fall and Winter Holidays than with a trip to the Lowcountry. Beaufort, South Carolina specifically is teeming with Southern charm and festivities through the months of October, November, and December. This month’s blog highlights all of the fun and magical events happening in our area throughout the season. With something special happening almost every week, it’s a great time to book your South Carolina getaway! 

 

October

October 16-24, 2021: Bluffton Arts and Seafood Festival

Take a drive twenty minutes south to the city of Bluffton to the charming and eclectic historic and cultural district of Bluffton SC, well known for its quirky art community and natural river beauty. The festival is a week-long event offering a myriad of activities, showcasing the locally harvested seafood, delicious Low Country 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 and again will be for 2021 on Saturday, October 23 and Sunday, October 24. For more information click here and start planning your trip!

 

October 22-24, 2021 : Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens

The Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens, hosted by the Historic Beaufort Foundation, offers the unique opportunity to visit inside the private houses, gardens, and country estates of Historic Beaufort. Experience the charm and character of our 18th century community and explore the architecture and setting of the National Historic Landmark District. On Friday, October 22 from 2pm to 6pm the Historic Beaufort Foundation hosts a ticketed walking tour of the area’s treasured historic homes and buildings, ranging from an 18th century manor to charming Victorian cottages. On Saturday, October 23 visitors can enjoy a picnic on a country estate along the Combahee River, and the Sunday morning tour includes a Southern brunch in a tabby house nestled among immaculate gardens. Every year visitors rave about each of these tours! 

 

October 21-24, 2021: Ghosts and Myths of Hilton Head Island

If you like to experience spooky history in the month of October, you will want to check out this tour! Experience the chills of the paranormal stories of Hilton Head Island as the Heritage Library docents bring to life Lydia Davant, Andrew Baynard, Cap’n Jack Stoney, Mary Kirk, Paulson Schwarzer, and Williams Eddings Baynard. Witness the Hilton Head Island of the 18th and 19th centuries through their eyes on a journey beyond the cemetery gates. Hear firsthand the ghost stories about the Harbour Town Lighthouse, the Baynard Funeral Procession, and the Blue Lady of Hilton Head Island.

October 24, 2021: Listen on the Lawn: Beaufort Mass Choir

Bring your lawn chair, supper, and your beverage of choice and enjoy an evening of great music, fun, and maybe even some dancing in the grass! Join the Beaufort Mass Choir for their encore performance filled with uplifting and exhilarating Gospel and Gullah music. “It’s a musical experience that will uplift and give you the urge to sing, sway and clap your hands all at the same time!” The Beaufort Mass Choir members represent more than 12 local churches and are under the direction of Scott Allen Gibbs.

Click here for tickets and information. 

 

October 30, 2021:  Downtown Beaufort Halloween Party

Located along the waterfront in downtown Beaufort, this family-friendly event includes crafts, a costume parade, DJ Dance party, inflatable games, trick or treating and entertainment. This is a free event running from 10am-2pm with food and drinks for purchase

 

October 22, 2021: Lowcountry Art Celebration: 

A downtown event featuring demonstrations from local artists that will appeal to collectors and children alike. 4:30-9pm A vibrant arts community representing 43 galleries and artists including Atelier Off Bay, Basecamp Gallery, Beaufort Art Association, Beaufort River Glass, Charles Street Gallery, Coastal Art Supply, I Pinkney Simmons Gallery, Legacy Art gallery, Melissa Lyons, Rhett Gallery, and Thibault Gallery. Door prizes include a one night stay at the Cuthbert House Inn and dinner at Saltus River Grill. Second prize is dinner for two at Breakwater. This event is hosted by the historic Beaufort Foundation. Call for more information at 843-379-3331

 

November

November 4-7, 2021 Pat Conroy Literary Festival

Are you an avid reader or budding author? The city of Beaufort is proud to host this annual literary festival, which pays homage to longtime resident and legend Pat Conroy. It spans three days and includes writing workshops, readings, panel discussions, and other events. Click here for more details about this year’s event.

November 5, 2021  First Friday

A monthly tradition in Downtown Beaufort, First Fridays are a must-attend. This month’s theme is “A November of Gratitude.” Take a stroll downtown from the Cuthbert House Inn when the main streets are closed to traffic and open for giveaways, live music and street entertainment. For more information click here. 

November 20-21, 2021 Beaufort Homes for the Holidays 

This year’s tour will feature a walking tour of 6 incredible homes on the Point and St. Peter’s Historic Church downtown – all professionally decorated by local interior designers and talented artists. It’s time to do the Holidays up in style again! This is a rare opportunity to tour homes dating from the 1800’s to the modern era, showcasing a variety of styles and architecture, many with recent renovations. You will be inspired with great new ideas for you own festive décor

Click here for tickets and more information.

 

November 25, 2021 Turkey Trot 5K

Join LowCountry Habitat for Humanity for a FUN 5K Race on Thanksgiving morning in Downtown Beaufort.  Starting at 8am on Thursday November 25, 2021, on Bay & Newcastle Streets.  Run through historic downtown Beaufort and across the famous Woods bridge following a certified 5K course. 

Click here to sign up 

 

December

December 3-5, 2021 Holiday Weekend

If you had to pick one weekend to get in the holiday spirit in Beaufort, this would be it! Downtown Beaufort absolutely lights up with festivities the first weekend in December. Join us on Friday for a “Night on the Town” and enjoy First Friday events with merchant specials, food booths, wandering Christmas carolers and live music. The Annual Lighted Boat Parade takes place on Saturday night.  On Sunday, come experience the Christmas Parade. You’ll see floats, marching bands, golf carts, and personal cars and trucks in all celebrating the holiday season. Keep your eye out for Santa himself with the Beaufort Fire Department. The weekend is also made complete with a Christmas lights competition and a merchant window decorating contest. You don’t want to miss it!

 

December 3, 2021 Gullah Kinfolk 2021 

This event is a cultural treasure and a local favorite! Save the date for this year’s performance of Gullah Kinfolk Christmas Wish held at the USCB Center for the Arts on Friday, December 3rd at 7pm! Click here for tickets and information. This full-stage Yuletide musical has become a cherished holiday tradition at the University of South Carolina-Beaufort Center for the Arts. From the foot-stomping to the singing to the dancing, this production is sure to bring you holiday cheer. The story takes place in December of 1860—the last Christmas before the Civil War. The characters bring the history of the Sea Islands and historic Beaufort to life. 

 

December 11, 2021 Season of Joy – A Cultural Holiday Celebration 

Prepare your heart and spirit for the season of joy. Beaufort Theatre Company presents a joy-filled holiday celebration of various faiths, cultures, and traditions.

December 18, 2021: Wreaths Across America-Beaufort

Wreaths Across America Beaufort is a nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman, Morrill Worcester, in 1992. It is an entirely volunteer run organization with support from individuals around the Lowcountry, families of service members buried in Beaufort National Cemetery, the local business community and service organizations. On Saturday, December 18 thousands of wreaths will be laid at the Beaufort National Cemetery starting at Noon.

Parris Island Marine Band Holiday Concert

If you’re a music lover, this melodic event is perfect for you. Each year the Parris Island Marine Band performs a holiday concert where they sing a variety of seasonal favorites. This show is a free event! 

Experience a Magical Holiday Getaway With Us at Cuthbert House Inn

Whether you are traveling to Beaufort in the fall or early winter, you can expect some serious fun from our historic coastal town. There truly is something for every interest, hobby, and age group to enjoy! The Cuthbert House Inn is the perfect place to stay during your time in Beaufort. This historic waterfront mansion is just minutes from downtown Beaufort’s Waterfront Park.  Innkeepers Ed & Connie would love to point you in the direction of all of their favorite activities and share more local tips with you.

For romantic winter getaways, we highly suggest booking the Eastlake Suite. This spacious three-room abode is garnered in shades of green and red and boasts a wide variety of features including a traditional parlor, 18th-century molding, a large king bed, and a fireplace. Plus, you’ll be treated to a hot complimentary breakfast each morning of your stay. Check our availability and book your favorite room with us today. We look forward to seeing you this holiday season!

Be Merry at the Cuthbert House Inn