Summer in Hilton Head and Bluffton is all about fireworks, fun, and festive vibes. From weekly shows to big Independence Day blowouts, you’ll find plenty of ways to celebrate under the stars. Whether you’re gathering at a park, lounging by the marina or grabbing a bite at a waterfront restaurant, there’s no better place to enjoy those warm summer nights.
Hilton Head Island
Shelter Cove HarbourFest
- When: Every Tuesday night through August 19 (plus a special show on Friday, July 4)
- Where: Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
- Why go: A festive evening with live music, family-friendly entertainment, arts & crafts, and fireworks once the sky darkens. Expect Shannon Tanner’s shows, Cappy the Clown antics, and carnival vibes in one gorgeous waterfront setting.
Fourth of July at Shelter Cove
- When: Friday, July 4, from 9-11 p.m. with live music and kids’ activities; fireworks at dusk
- Highlights: Patriotic family concert from Shannon Tanner at 6:30 p.m. & 8 p.m., Cappy the Clown from 6–9 p.m., plus bounce houses and kid zones. Free shuttle service and no coolers allowed. Come early and enjoy the local eats!
Harbour Town Fireworks (Sea Pines Resort)
- When: July 4 at ~9:00 p.m.
- Where: Harbour Town, by the famous lighthouse and Calibogue Sound.
- Extras: Join Gregg Russell for patriotic tunes under the Liberty Oak from 8–9 p.m. Parking and shuttle info via Sea Pines Resort website.
Firecracker 5K & Salute from the Shore
- When: 8 a.m. July 4
- Where: Jarvis Creek Park for the race, followed by a post-race celebration
- Then: Around 1 p.m., catch the “Salute from the Shore” military flyover, featuring F‑16s & C‑17s making their way down Hilton Head’s beaches.
Bluffton
Bluffton Independence Day Events
- July 2: Bluffton 5K at Oyster Factory Park, 7 p.m.
- July 3: Pre-Party at Martin & DuBois Parks (5–9:30 p.m.) followed by fireworks at Oyster Factory & Wright Family Parks after dusk.
July 3 Fireworks Barge Show
Where to watch: Fireworks launched from a barge on the May River around 9 p.m.
- Oyster Factory Park
- Martin Family Park
- Wright Family Park
- You can also watch from boats on the river
Summer Beyond July 4th
- Shelter Cove HarbourFest continues weekly into August with fireworks every Tuesday evening.
- Bluffton hosts seasonal treat: July 3 pre-party fireworks, and the annual May River Shrimp Festival 7:30 p.m. July 24 kicking off with the Sunset 5K Hawaiian Shirt Run at 7:30 p.m July 25 at Oyster Factory Park, farmers markets and more throughout the month (collinsgrouprealty.com).
Insider Tips
- Arrive early and park smart
- Shelter Cove and Harbour Town offer shuttle services—use them to avoid congestion.
- Bluffton parks fill fast; arrive early to secure a riverfront spot or boat launch.
Where to Eat Nearby
At Shelter Cove: Poseidon, ELA’s on the Water, Top Dawg Tavern & Pizzeria, San Miguel’s; or catch fireworks from waterfront restaurants like Old Oyster Factory, Fishcamp, or Up the Creek Pub.
At Harbour Town: Great dining at Crazy Crab, Quarterdeck, CQ’s, Fraser’s Tavern, Links American Grill.
In Bluffton: Oyster Factory Park area features food trucks and local vendors during the 5K and pre-party; town restaurants are just steps away.
Family-Friendly Fun
Many events include live music (Shannon Tanner, Gregg Russell, Deas‑Guyz), bounce houses, face painting, and kid zones — ideal for families.
So, Where Should YOU Go?
| Scenario | Best Spot |
| Want fireworks every week? | Tuesdays at Shelter Cove HarbourFest |
| Only free on July 4th | HarbourFest or Harbour Town—both offer music + fireworks |
| Prefer quieter, smaller crowd? | Bluffton Pre-Party/Fireworks July 3 |
| Fam with young kids? | Shelter Cove events early evening |
| Want patriotic run + fireworks? | Bluffton 5K + Barge show |
| Into flyovers & tradition? | Hilton Head’s Firecracker 5K & flyover at 1 p.m. |
