May 2023 Events
Arts & Entertainment
May 8
Garden Labyrinth Exhibit: Coastal Discovery Museum will hold a short ribbon cutting for the newest exhibit, “Garden Labyrinth.” The Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island provided a gift to commemorate their 60th anniversary for the new garden labyrinth. Open to the public. 2 p.m. coastaldiscovery.org
Through May 13
THE ART LEAGUE OF HILTON HEAD IS FEATURING ARTIST J.K. CRUM: J.K. Crum is a contemporary, expressionist painter of figurative and gently surreal landscapes. Crum will be the featured artist at The Art League of Hilton Head Island through May 13. His work includes bold designs, narrative themes, diverse subjects and bright color palettes. His distinctive subject matter can evoke different moods, feeling and ideas. Crum’s modern expressionism incorporates his imagination capturing life experiences, love and the human spirit. Crum has been a full-time artist with a successful career in illustration, graphic arts, mural painting and book design since graduating from the Ringling School of Art & Design in Sarasota, Fla., in 1973. He continues to create expressionist figurative painting and gentle, surrealistic landscape painting that keep viewers coming back to explore. Crum continues the journey of joyful storytelling and creativity in the Lowcountry. 14 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-5060 or artleaguehhi.org. johncrumart.com
Through May 28
SONDHEIM’S “COMPANY”: “Company” is a ground-breaking, modern musical that is intelligent, mature and takes a wildly, funny look at relationships. This musical directed by Russell Garrett recently returned to Broadway, winning five Tony Awards including Best Revival of a Musical. Tickets are $52- $62. Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. Purchase tickets online at artshhi.com.
May 27
SAVANNAH FAIRYTALE BALL: Bring your little ones to this special event to meet all your favorite princesses. Enjoy Elsa’s story time, princess dance lessons, games, photo opportunities, a princess parade and more. Space available at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. Savannah Convention Center, One International Dr, Savannah, Ga. Purchase tickets on eventbrite.com. prettyprincesspartiesmn@gmail.com.
May 18- 21
DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID JR: Journey under the sea with Ariel and her aquatic friends in this production based on a Hans Christian Andersen beloved story. The beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home and live in the world above water. USCB Center for the Art, 801 Carteret St, Beaufort. Purchase tickets at centerfortheartstickets.universitytickets.com.
MAY 28
“AMERICA SINGS!” MEMORIAL DAY CONCERT LED BY HILTON HEAD CHORAL SOCIETY DIRECTORY DUSTIN C. OUSLEY: The Hilton Head Choral Society’s annual “America Sings!” will be joined by the Lowcountry Winds Ensemble directed by Dr. Marshall Forrester. The Hilton Head Choral Society is currently the longest-running performing arts organization in the area. A typical performance may include over 150 singers and musicians performing to audiences of more than 900 people. Concerts are held at either the First Presbyterian Church or the Holy Family Catholic Church. This concert will celebrate being an American. General Lloyd W. “Fig” Newton, Retired United States Air Force four-star general, will be the special guest speaker. He is originally from Ridgeland and was the first African-American pilot in the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. There will be a special tribute to the men and women of our Armed Forces from the past to the present. 7 p.m. Tickets are $10- $25. First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island. 843-341-3818 or tickets@hiltonheadchoralociety.org. Tickets are available to purchase online at hiltonheadchoralsociety.org.
Festivals & Events
May 3
HURRICANE PARTY: Put your dancing shoes on and enjoy energetic music by CornBreD, who will be playing classic and modern rock and country. Also enjoy delicious Lowcountry cuisine and frozen cocktails overlooking the water. 6 p.m. Black Marlin Bayside Grill & Hurricane Bar, 86 Helmsman Way, Palmetto Bay Marina, Hilton Head Island. 843-785-4950
May 6
CARING HEARTS OF SC CAR, TRUCK, JEEP & BIKE SHOW: Proceeds benefit Caring Hearts of SC, helping families with a critical illness or injury. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Event is free. Donations are welcome. Camping World, 401 Sycamore Dr., Ridgeland. caringheartsofsc.com.
May 6
PICKLEBALL FOR CHARITY EVENT HOSTED BY THE ROC DENTAL GROUP: This event will benefit the Neighborhood Outreach Connection. All levels are welcome. 3-6 p.m. Registration is $90 per person/ $75 for Wexford members and includes one drink ticket to the cash bar, lots of pickleball games, appetizers, small bites, a swag bag, giveaways and more. 111 Wexford Club Dr, Hilton Head Island. 843-682-4601 or rocdentalgroup.com.
May 7
FAIRY & GNOME FESTIVAL: Bring the family and stroll through Oatland’s magical trails. This enchanted event will include a scavenger hunt, fashion show, gem mining, fairyland and gnome home building and food. Tickets can be purchased on site. 10 a.m. Oatland Island Wildlife Center, 711 Sandtown Rd, Savannah, GA. 912-395-1212 or oatlandisland.org.
May 11
FOUR CORNERS ANNIVERSARY: Celebrate Four Corners Fine Arts and Framing’s 25th anniversary. Refreshments served. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. 1263-B May River Rd., Old Town Bluffton. 843-757-8185. Fourcornersgallery.com
May 11
BJVIM FUNDRAISER: Bluffton Jasper Volunteers in Medicine will host its major fundraiser, a Lowcountry dinner party, Bourbon & Bubbly. 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Dinner at Hewitt Oaks, 205 Stillwell Road. The evening will begin with a cocktail hour under the cascading oaks – including jazz music, a bourbon tasting bar, hors d’oeuvres and a very special offering of silent auction items to bid on. Following the cocktail and social hour, there will be a Lowcountry-inspired four course dinner, including champagne and wine selections, and a fabulous dessert finale.
Tickets for Bourbon & Bubbly are $150 each; a table for eight can be reserved for $1,200. Proceeds from the event, including the silent auction before dinner and a post dinner live auction, moderated by Charleston auctioneer Tom Crawford, will help to expand the Ridgeland clinic and supply medical care for the underinsured community of Bluffton and Jasper County. For more information on tickets and auction items, visit www.bjvim.org or contact Dennis Toney at dennisbjvim@gmail.com or 843-706-7090, ext. 110.
May 13
BLUFFTON MAYFEST: Join the community at the 43rd anniversary of Mayfest coordinated by The Rotary Club of Bluffton. Includes a wide range of attractions, including delicious food, live music and more than 130 artists and food vendors. Featured artist is Lauren Terrett. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Free admission. Historic Downtown Bluffton. 843-540-7957 or blufftonrotarians@gmail.com. blufftonrotary.org.
May 18
GOLDEN GATSBY SOIREE: Celebrate spring Great Gatsby-style, and get dolled up for a fabulous ladies night out in the courtyard at Hewitt Oaks. Enjoy stepping back into the Roaring Twenties with complimentary mocktails and cocktails, glamorous hors d’oeuvres and gourmet food stations at a beautiful speakeasy lounge. Enjoy an evening of dancing, win prizes from local sponsors and showcase your glamorous ensembles at our styled portrait areas. Enjoy the charming ambiance of Gracie Ballroom while treating yourself to delicious bites, tasty drinks and an exciting evening among friends. There will be indoor seating as well as outdoor fire pits in the courtyard. 205 Stillwell Road, Bluffton. Tickets are $75 per person and include all food and complimentary beverages. 21 and over only. Purchase tickets online at eventbrite.com.
May 20
KERRY PERESTA BOOK SIGNING: Hilton Head author Kerry Peresta to host a signing event to promote “The Torching,” her latest book in the Olivia Callahan suspense series. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Barnes & Noble, 20 Hatton Place, Hilton Head Island.
May 26-28
FLAGS FOR HEROES: Hilton Head Island Sunset Rotary Club, in partnership with the Island’s Military Veterans Coalition, host the “Flags For Heroes” event at the Veteran’s Memorial in Shelter Cove on Hilton Head Island. Individuals can recognize heroes in their lives and help veteran-related charities. For more information or to nominate your hero, contact John Abboud at jmabboud@msn.com or 303-378-9390. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, contact Bob Pawlishyn at bjplapin@aol.com or 843-836-3828.
May 17
WOMEN’S WELLNESS EVENT HOSTED BY THE WOMEN’S COUNCIL OF REALTORS: This large event will be held at the Shipyard Beach Club and will be followed by a Happy Hour. The organization is still accepting new members and has sponsorship opportunities. wcrlowcountry@gmail.com.
May 19
TOWN OF BLUFFTON MOVIE NIGHT “VIVO”: Enjoy music and bounce houses at 5 p.m. followed by the movie at 6 p.m. Concessions will be available for purchase. Don’t forget your blanket and chairs. 843-815-2277. Oscar Frazier Park, 77 Shults Road, Bluffton.
May 20
IRRITATING JULIE AT ELEMENTS RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE: Enjoy smokin’ hot Rock & Roll with a lively stage show and modern European Chef inspired cuisine and craft cocktails in an upscale environment with live music. 9 p.m. 2 N. Forest Beach Dr, Hilton Head Island.
May 26
BURNT CHURCH DISTILLERY CONCERT SERIES- CHILLY WILLY BAND: Join us every fourth Friday of each month outside on Square 67. Free and open to the public. Don’t forget to bring a chair. 120 Bluffton Rd, Bluffton.
Meet ups and Markets
May 4
FREE “PAINT IN” OFFERED BY SEA PINES ARTISTS: The debut of the Sea Pines Artists’ second show of the year with new works by award-winning artists. Held in conjunction with the First Thursday Art Market at The Shops at Sea Pines Center. Demonstrations of painting with watercolors, pastels and collage with acrylic and hand-made paper. An opening night reception with refreshments will be held during the Paint In. Free and open to the public. Sea Pines Community Center, 71 Lighthouse Rd, Suite 120, Hilton Head Island. Donna@DonnaBarnako.com.
May 4
MENTAL HEALTH CLINIC OPEN HOUSE: Hosted by Hilton Head Mental Health Clinic to promote mental health awareness month. Meet staff and learn about the services. 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. 151 Dillon Drive, Hilton Head Island.
May 4
BLUFFTON NIGHT BAZAAR: Shop small on the first Thursday of the month at this Lowcountry Made market featuring local artisans under the twinkling lights. Sip on a craft cocktail and enjoy live music all evening. 5- 8 p.m. Burnt Church Distillery, 120 Bluffton Rd, Bluffton. lcmade.com.
May 4
2ND ANNUAL TACOS & TEQUILA BY THE HILTON HEAD AREA HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION: Enjoy the indoor oyster roast of the summer. 6 p.m. Savannah Surfaces, 64 McDowell Circle, Hardeeville, SC.
May 6
WANDERLUST MARKETS: A market with rotating vendors in one spot including Ring Stinger Pepper Co., Peace by Piece, A Sweeter Seat, Soul on Fire candles, Saltwater Hippie Company and more. Lincoln & South Brewing Company, 138 Island Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-422-3992 or uscroach@gmail.com.
May 6
MOTHER-SON GAME NIGHT: DJ Jeff Taylor will spin tunes, and snacks will be served. Extreme Firehouse will offer board games and yard games. There will also be an ultimate dodgeball game between mothers and sons. 5-8 p.m. $25 per mother and son and $10 for each additional child. Island Recreation Center, 20 Wilborn Rd, Hilton Head Island. Purchase tickets at islandrec.activityreg.com.
May 13
PALM TREES & PISTONS: Local car show every second Saturday of each month. Showcases local, vintage, antique, exotic, muscle and unique cars owned by locals. 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sea Turtle Marketplace, 430 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island.
May 20
CARS AND COFFEE: Cars and Coffee HHI is a meet up for car enthusiasts. All are welcome to attend this event held the third Saturday of each month. Free to attend. 8 a.m.- 11 a.m. USCB Campus, 1 University Blvd, Bluffton. carsandcoffeehhi@gmail.com or carsandcoffeehhi.com.
Weekly
Sundays
DEAS GUYZ AT THE JAZZ CORNER: Two shows nightly. 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. Reservations highly recommended. The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-8620 or thejazzcorner.com.
Mondays
SHUCK IT TRIVIA AT BROTHER SHUCKERS BAR & GRILL: Best trivia on the Island. 6:30 p.m., 7 Greenwood Dr, #3, Hilton Head Island. 843-785-7000 or brothershuckershhi.com.
Tuesdays
THE FARMERS & MAKERS MARKET: A local, charming festival featuring artisans, craft makers and fresh local foods including seafood, produce, breads and baked goods. 10 a.m. -2 p.m. The Shops at Sea Pines Center, 71 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-363-5699 or theshopsatseapinescenter.com.
Wednesdays
ROOT AND BLOOM MARKET: A weekly market supporting small business and featuring natural foods, organic produce, pastured meats, select artisans and natural wellness products. 3 p.m. -7 p.m. Martin Family Park, 68 Boundary Street, Bluffton. discoverrootandbloommarket.com.
Wednesdays
CLASSIC OPEN MIC NIGHT HOSTED BY WILL COOK: Featured artists every week. Beginning at 8 p.m. until late. Elements Restaurant and Lounge, 2 N Forest Beach Dr, Hilton Head Island. 843-802-4942 or elementshhi.com.
Wednesdays through Saturdays:
COMEDY MAGIC CABARET: Upscale comedy theater featuring “funny-not-filthy” performances. Full-service bar and food. 843 William Hilton Pkwy. 843-681-7757. ComedyMagicCabaret.com
Thursdays
FARMERS MARKET OF BLUFFTON: Meet local farmers, chefs and artisans every Thursday on Boundary Street and purchase fresh strawberries, produce, beets, potatoes and more. 12 p.m. -5 p.m., Martin Family Park, 68 Boundary Street, Bluffton. 843-415-2337 or farmersmarketbluffton.org.
Thursdays
MUSIC & TASTE ON THE HARBOUR: Featured Shelter Cove restaurants will set up around the Neptune statue and offer a variety of specially-priced light appetizers, wine, beer and cocktails. Bring a chair and canned donation for the Deep Well Project to this free event. Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, 17 Harbourside Ln, Hilton Head Island. Purchase tickets online at sheltercovehiltonhead.com/music-and-taste.
Fridays
SAVANNAH PORT CRUISE: Meet in Savannah and join this cruise to experience the nation’s largest port in action from the water. The Savannah Port has over 50 piers, wharves and docks. $65/Adult, $45/Child. 10 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. Book in advance on coastaldiscovery.org.
Saturdays
HILTON HEAD COMMUNITY MARKET: A volunteer organized food event also featuring local artisans and makers. 50% of all vendor fees are donated to a different local non-profit organization each month. 9 a.m. -12 p.m. Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island.
Saturdays
LOUISE SPENCER AND RICK RADCLIFF AT KIND OF BLUE: Vocalist Louise Spencer and pianist Rick Radcliff will delight you with an evening of jazz and dancing. 5:45 p.m. -7 P.M. Call for reservations- 843-686-2868 or kindofbluehhisc.com.
Looking Ahead
June 2
TOWN OF BLUFFTON MOVIE NIGHT “PUSS IN BOOTS”: Music and bounce houses begin at 5 p.m., movie starts at 6 p.m., rain or shine. Concessions available. Don’t forget your blanket, chairs, and munchies. Martin Family Park, 68 Boundary Street, Bluffton.
June 3
WANDERLUST MARKETS: A wandering market with rotating vendors. Lincoln & South Brewing Company, 138 Island Drive, Hilton Head. Follow Wanderlust Markets on Facebook. 843-422-3992 or uscroach@gmail.com.
June 9-10
SAVANNAH CLASSIC AUCTION: Premier Auction Group event. Gates open 9 a.m. Auction begins 9:45 a.m. Admission is $20 for adults, $10 seniors and military. Children 12 and under free. Savannah Convention Center. 1 International Dr., Savannah Ga., 31421.
June 17
PADDLE THE MAY: A 3.5 mile short course and an 8-mile long course, plus a 1-mile fun paddle on the May River waterways. Proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Bluffton and the Lowcountry and the Bluffton Youth Theatre. 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. Bluffton Oyster Factory Park, 63 Wharf Street, Bluffton. Purchase tickets online at paddle.guru.com/races/paddlethemay.
June 19-23
HILTON HEAD JAZZ GUITAR INSTITUTE: Clinic to prepare students aged 14-20 with guitar experience for the challenges of jazz guitar. Registration is $25 and tuition is $229. Includes a 3-hour daily jazz guitar clinic with a professional jazz guitarist, a mid-week music trip to Savannah and a finale performance. 3088 Bluffton Parkway, Bluffton. Purchase tickets at hhjazzguitar.eventbrite.com.
June 23
BURNT CHURCH DISTILLERY CONCERT SERIES: CHILLY WILLY BAND: Every fourth Friday of each month outside on Square 67. Free. Open to the public. Bring a chair. 120 Bluffton Rd, Bluffton.
June 24
IRRITATING JULIE AT ELEMENTS RESTAURANT: Rock & Roll, a lively stage show and modern European Chef inspired cuisine. Craft cocktails with live music. 9 p.m. 2 N. Forest Beach Dr., Hilton Head.
