Fall Events Worth Marking on Your Calendar in Hilton Head

Fall is when Hilton Head takes on even more of a local flavor. The summer crowds thin out, the humidity finally lets up, and the island settles into its most neighborly season. We’ve rounded up the local events we’re looking forward to most this fall, from food festivals to history tours to the start of the holiday season.

Whether you’ve lived here for decades or just a few years, these events are a great excuse to get out and connect with your community. Better yet, skip the parking hassle, hop on your bike, and pedal over. If yours has been sitting in the garage since spring, now’s a great time for a tune-up!

Zion Cemetery & Baynard Mausoleum Costumed Cemetery Tour

Locals know our history runs deep, and this tour brings it to life. Costumed guides share the stories of the people who shaped the island. Presented by the Heritage Library, this tour and other classes and events, including ghosts and myths tours, run throughout October, November and beyond.

History of Honey Horn

You’ve probably biked or driven past it more times than you can count, but how well do you know the story of Honey Horn? Through Nov. 19, the Coastal Discovery Museum presents the history of one of the island’s most storied properties, following the generations who lived and worked there. The property is now a hunting preserve.

Lobster Bake at Harbourside

This is one we head to every October! Each Sunday until Nov. 1, The Sea Pines Resort Harbourside serves up a true Lowcountry tradition: whole lobster, local mussels and clams, corn on the cob, and all the fixings. It’s a favorite for good reason.

Crescendo Celebration

Now in its 10th year, this celebration from the Office of Cultural Affairs Hilton Head Island showcases the arts, culture and history organizations, artists, performers, and authors who live and work right here on the island. It’s a chance to support your neighbors and discover the creative talent in your own backyard. Experiences take place at locations across the island now through Nov. 23, so check the event listings to find what interests you.

Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival

Thousands of attendees are expected Oct. 29-Nov. 1 for one of the country’s top automotive lifestyle events. The festivities include the Lowcountry Driving Tour, the Car Club Showcase, and a competition featuring nearly 200 vehicles. With crowds like that, consider leaving the car at home and biking in to skip the traffic.

Hilton Head Oyster Festival

This two-day celebration of Lowcountry cuisine has been an island tradition for more than 30 years. Expect local oyster clusters, shrimp, live music, other food options, and plenty of fun for the whole family. Mark your calendar for Nov. 6 and 7.

Town’s Official Holiday Kick-Off Festival

The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina welcomes Santa and Mrs. Claus, holiday entertainment, local fare, artisans, and “Annie” cast members for a family-friendly way to ring in the season. Join your neighbors on Nov. 14 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade

Also on Nov. 14, head to Lowcountry Celebration Park from 5 to 8 p.m. for a beloved annual tradition. Hundreds of handcrafted lanterns, from pieces by an acclaimed lantern artist to creations made by residents, light up the night. Live music and community spirit round out the evening. Bike lights on to enjoy the ride home!

Festival of Trees

From Nov. 20 through Dec. 5, Hilton Head Preparatory School hosts its annual Festival of Trees at the Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa. Stroll through a winter wonderland of decorated trees, wreaths, centerpieces and more, a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit close to home.