When: February 23 – March 1

Where: Shelter Cove Harbour + various locations, Hilton Head Island.

A foodie favorite, the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival is a week-long celebration of coastal cuisine and Lowcountry lifestyle. Each day brings something delicious – from intimate wine dinners and oyster roasts to** **chef demonstrations and a grand tasting tent. It’s an authentic showcase of fresh seafood (think oysters, shrimp, and more) prepared by local and celebrity chefs. In addition to plenty of flame-seared, savory bites, you can enjoy wine, craft beer, and live music by the water. Many events are ticketed, and proceeds often support local charities – so you can feel good while you feast.

When: January 28 – February 22

Where: Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island.

For a night of laughs, catch The Play That Goes Wrong, a Broadway and London hit comedy running through February at Hilton Head’s premier theater. This award-winning play is often described as a mashup of Monty Python and Sherlock Holmes, as an amateur theater troupe’s murder mystery hilariously devolves into chaos. Expect slapstick mishaps – collapsing sets, missed cues, and uproarious antics – that have audiences roaring with laughter. With evening and matinee showtimes (and affordable tickets for students), it’s a perfect outing for families (recommended ages 13 and up) or anyone who loves live theater and non-stop comedy.

When: February 6, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Where: Oyster Factory Park, 63 Wharf St., Bluffton.

Bring your appetite to this delicious Taste of Bluffton event, a one-night oyster roast and Lowcountry boil celebration on the May River. This culinary festival highlights the best of Bluffton’s local flavors, with all-you-can-eat May River oysters, fresh shrimp, pulled pork sliders, and all the fixings. Live music under the oak trees and a riverside sunset create a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Tickets include your food (and one drink), so come hungry and ready to indulge in genuine Lowcountry cuisine and hospitality. It’s a foodie affair that captures Bluffton’s charming coastal vibe.

When: February 28, 3:00 PM

Where: Bluffton Oyster Factory Park.

This annual community event celebrates Bluffton’s rich history and eccentric “state of mind.” The Bluffton History Shindig invites locals and visitors to gather in the heart of Old Town for an afternoon of storytelling, live music, and local history talks in a festival atmosphere. You’ll hear captivating tales from long-time Bluffton residents and historians, learn about the town’s Gullah roots and quirky past, and enjoy food and refreshments as the sun sets over the May River. It’s a family-friendly event (often free to attend) that lets you experience Bluffton’s tight-knit community spirit and love of history – a true Lowcountry living experience that both educates and entertains.

When: Every Thursday in February, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Where: Martin Family Park, 68 Boundary St., Bluffton.

Don’t forget Bluffton’s weekly tradition that carries on even in winter. Each Thursday afternoon, the Farmers Market of Bluffton brings together local farmers, chefs, and artisans in the heart of downtown. Stroll under the live oaks as you browse stalls offering farm-fresh produce (seasonal veggies like carrots, leafy greens, broccoli, sweet potatoes and more), locally made jams and sauces, baked goods, and Lowcountry crafts. With live music often playing and many neighbors out socializing, the market has a friendly, small-town feel. It’s free to attend – just bring some spending money if you plan to fill your basket. Visiting the farmers market is a great way to mingle with locals and support area growers, and it’s an authentic slice of Bluffton life.

When: February 17–22

Where: USC Beaufort Center for the Arts, 801 Carteret St., Beaufort.

Film lovers won’t want to miss the Lowcountry’s own international film festival, now celebrating its 20th year. Over six days, the Beaufort International Film Festival (BIFF) will screen a curated selection of independent films – from short features and documentaries to animations – drawing filmmakers and audiences from around the world. In addition to film screenings, there are Q&A sessions, workshops and panels, and nightly parties around Beaufort’s historic downtown. The festival’s relaxed Southern charm (set in one of Southern Living’s “Best Small Towns”) makes it a delight. BIFF has gained a reputation for its hospitality and has even been named one of the fastest-growing film festivals. Many events are ticketed or require a festival pass, so check the schedule early. It’s an inspiring showcase of storytelling and a chance to spot up-and-coming filmmakers – all set against Beaufort’s waterfront backdrop.

When: February 13–14

Where: Paris Avenue, Port Royal (just outside Beaufort). – Follow the smoky aroma to this two-day barbecue festival in Port Royal, a beloved annual event that combines Southern barbecue, craft beer, and live music for a great cause. Bands, Brews & BBQ is an official South Carolina Barbecue Association competition and fundraiser that turns Port Royal into a foodie paradise for a weekend. Friday night kicks off with the Wing Throw Down, where attendees sample creative chicken wing recipes from competing cookers while grooving to live bands. Then on Saturday, the main event features an all-you-can-taste barbecue extravaganza – dozens of cook teams serve up their best pulled pork and ribs, vying for awards as you enjoy unlimited samples. Throughout the day there’s live music, a beer garden with local brews, and kids’ activities, making it fun for all ages. Admission is free; tasting tickets are typically $1 per sample so you can try a bit of everything. All proceeds benefit the FRIENDS of Caroline Hospice, so you’re supporting a worthy local charity while indulging in fantastic BBQ and music. Bring a chair, your appetite, and get ready for a finger-licking good time!

When: February 5–8

Where: Savannah Historic District (various venues; Telfair, Wright, and Chippewa Squares for Saturday events).

One of the Southeast’s premier literary events, the Savannah Book Festival is a four-day celebration of the written word. Bibliophiles from across the country converge on Savannah’s charming squares to hear from nationally acclaimed authors across fiction, non-fiction, and beyond. Festival Saturday is free and open to the public, featuring dozens of author talks and book signings in venues around the Historic District. (Past headliners have included best-selling novelists and Pulitzer Prize winners.) In addition, there are three ticketed keynote addresses – an opening address Thursday, a keynote on Friday, and a closing address Sunday – usually held at the Lucas Theatre or Trustees Theater. With over 40 authors and more than 9,000 attendees each year, the Savannah Book Festival offers something for every reader. It’s a fantastic opportunity to engage with authors, discover new books, and enjoy Savannah’s elegant downtown environment that’s steeped in history and charm.

When: February 1–28 (events throughout the month)

Where: Various locations in Savannah (Savannah Cultural Arts Center, parks, and museums).

February in Savannah also means the Savannah Black Heritage Festival, a month-long series of events celebrating African American history, art, and culture. This festival has been a fixture for over three decades and is a significant cultural celebration in the Southeast. The schedule typically includes live musical performances (gospel, jazz, R&B), art exhibitions, theatrical productions, dance showcases, historic tours, and family fun days – most of which are free to the public. Signature events often include an opening Unity Concert, an Urban Arts Festival, and an Educational Day for kids, among others. With its blend of music, food, and educational experiences, the festival highlights the rich contributions of the Black community in Savannah and the Lowcountry. Whether you attend a single event or many, you’ll come away inspired and enlightened. Check the official festival website for a full calendar of events, as dates and venues vary.

When: February 7–8

Where: Alee Shrine Temple, 100 Eisenberg Dr., Savannah.

Get an early start on St. Patrick’s spirit at the Savannah Irish Festival, a family-friendly celebration of Irish heritage and music. Held indoors at the Alee Temple, this two-day festival brings a bit of the Emerald Isle to Savannah. You’ll find multiple stages of traditional Irish music and dancing – from fiddlers and Celtic bands to Irish step-dancers tapping out rhythms in their ghillies. There’s an Irish Marketplace selling crafts, goods and Irish imports, plus food vendors offering bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and of course Guinness and Irish whiskey. A dedicated children’s area features crafts and activities to keep the little ones entertained. The festival runs Saturday and Sunday, and typically one day (or certain hours) has free admission for kids or a discounted family rate. The Savannah Irish Festival has been a local tradition for years and really heats up the city’s Irish pride ahead of March. It’s a joyful opportunity for all ages to experience authentic Irish culture. (And don’t worry – Savannah’s famous St. Patrick’s Day Parade is still a month away, so you won’t miss that!) According to organizers, the 2026 festival will indeed take place on Feb 7 and 8 at the Alee Temple, so save the date and wear something green.

When: February 14, starting 3:00 PM

Where: Victory North, 2603 Whitaker St., Savannah.

Looking for a unique way to spend Valentine’s Day? The Savannah Bluegrass Festival returns for its second year to offer an afternoon and evening of toe-tapping acoustic music. Hosted at Victory North (a popular concert venue), this one-day festival unites legendary bluegrass performers and rising local bands for a fantastic showcase of fiddles, banjos, and soulful harmonies. In 2026, the lineup is headlined by renowned flatpick guitarist Larry Keel alongside local favorite band Swamptooth and others, promising hours of high-energy bluegrass picking. Doors typically open around 2 PM with music kicking off at 3 PM and going into the evening. Craft beer and food are available for purchase, making it a laid-back concert experience. Tickets are required (with options for general admission or VIP seating), and given the popularity of last year’s inaugural event, it’s wise to grab them in advance. If you enjoy Americana and roots music, the Savannah Bluegrass Festival is a must-do – a foot-stomping good time that adds yet another flavor to Savannah’s diverse February event scene.

From cultural festivals and art shows to foodie feasts and footraces, February’s events highlight just how special Lowcountry living can be. It’s a lifestyle where community and celebration go hand-in-hand – whether you’re browsing an oyster roast in Bluffton, listening to jazz under the oaks in Savannah, or learning Gullah history on Hilton Head. These events are just a glimpse into the vibrant life that Hilton Head, Bluffton, Beaufort, and Savannah offer year-round. It’s no wonder so many people are drawn to make the Lowcountry home. Charter One Realty has been a part of this community for over 40 years, proudly leading the real estate market and helping residents new and old find their own piece of the Lowcountry. With deep local roots and decades of expertise, we’re here to guide you to the perfect home and neighborhood – so you can fully enjoy the rich culture and dynamic events that make our coastal region such a wonderful place to live. Here’s to February adventures and, as always, we’ll see you out there in the Lowcountry!