April in the Lowcountry feels like spring finally settling in for good. Azaleas and jasmine are in full bloom, the marsh turns a deeper green, and warm breezes replace the last hints of winter. Golf courses and waterways come alive as locals and visitors spend their days outside, whether casting a line, walking under moss-draped oaks, or enjoying long afternoons on the porch. It’s one of the most beautiful times of year along the South Carolina coast. 🌿🌸⛳
First Friday ~ Downtown Beaufort
Date: Friday, April 3, 2026
Time: 5pm – 8pm
Event Description: It’s a great way to explore galleries, shopping, and eateries throughout the evening. Enjoy the entertainment and live demonstrations and meet the merchants. The event is held on the first Friday of each month from 5-8 p.m. It is FREE and open to the public. There’s a creative and timely new theme each First Friday, so every month offers a fresh look at Downtown. Whether it’s an antique classic car show, The Beaufort Shag Club or activities for the kids, and something for everyone to enjoy. The eclectic mix of Downtown businesses, shops, and art galleries will be open late so shoppers can browse for unique gifts, one-of-a-kind items, locally curated art and more. Enjoy a meal, beverage, or sweet treat at one of the fabulous restaurants or specialty shops. The main streets of Bay, West and Scott close for visitors to take their time and explore.
Port Royal Farmers Market
Date: Every Saturday (Rain or Shine)
Time: 9am – Noon
Event Description: The market is open every Saturday from 9am to 12pm, rain or shine. You will find fresh, local, seasonal produce, shrimp, oysters, poultry, beef, pork, eggs, bread, and cheese. Plants, ferns, camellias, azaleas, citrus trees, and beautiful, fresh-cut flower bouquets. Check out the fabulous prepared food vendors serving; BBQ, dumplings, she-crab soup, crab cakes, paella, coffee, baked goods, bagels, and breakfast sandwiches. -No Pets Allowed-
Lowcountry Food Truck Festival
Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026
Time: 11am – 7pm
Event Description: Mark your calendars now! April 4, 2026 from 11am to 7pm on Paris Avenue in Port Royal. Live Music from noon-6pm!! Please send all vendor inquiries to beaufortfoodtruckfestival@gmail.com.
Easter Sunrise Service ~ Hunting Island State Park
Date: Sunday, April 5,2026
Time: Around 6:30am, with sunrise at 6:44am
Event Description: This event is often hosted by local churches (such as St. Helena Baptist in past years) and is usually held on the beach near the lighthouse. Attendees often bring their own chairs or blankets. The park opens at 6:00 AM.
58th Annual RBC Heritage
Date: April 13 – 19, 2026
Event Description: The 58th annual RBC Heritage is scheduled for April 13–19, 2026, at the Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. As a premier PGA Tour Signature Event following the Masters, it features a limited, elite field of about 70-75 players competing for a $20 million purse. For tickets and all the information, visit www.rbcheritage.com
First Annual Flying Frog 5K / 10K and Frog Fest
Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026
Time: Starts @ 8am
Event Description: Help Us Celebrate South Carolina Aviation Week & Honor America’s Heroes! Take flight with us at Beaufort Executive Airport as we kick off South Carolina Aviation Week with the Flying Frog 5K / 10K ~ a patriotic runway race supporting Operation Patriots FOB, an organization dedicated to veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, and their families. Run, leap, and soar down a fast, flat runway course—and this year, the celebration continues long after you cross the finish line! Right after the race, stick around for Frog Fest—a high-energy celebration with live music, community fun, and an all-American good time featuring: Chris Jones, Debbie and the Boys of Summer, Distant Sounds, The Weekly Special, Walker Dean, Exit 8, Time & Pressure Band, The Hardee Station Band and Acoustic Bridge. For sign up and details, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/Events/SC/LadysIsland/TheFlyingFrog5K
2026 Soft Shell Crab Festival
Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026
Time: Starts @ 11am
Event Description: This year’s Soft Shell Crab Festival will be held on Saturday, April 18th along Paris Avenue. A beloved Lowcountry spring tradition, the festival celebrates the soft shell crab season with fresh local seafood, live music, arts & crafts vendors, children’s activities, and much more.
Springfest 2026 in Port Royal
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Time: 11am – 4pm
Event Description: Springfest 2026! Saturday, April 25th 11am - 4pm. Come shop, eat, and have fun with us in historic Port Royal @ 707 & 709 Paris Avenue. 40 local artists, authors & artisans, food trucks and more!!!
Boone Hall Plantation ~ Lowcountry Strawberry Festival
Date: April 24 – 26 & May 1 – 3
Event Description: Festival Admission….for the price of a movie ticket, you can have fun all day! Gate admission includes access to the event grounds, complimentary shows, grounds entertainment, petting zoo, photo opportunities, arts, crafts & food vendors, and fun on the farm.
Festival Admission Tickets DO NOT Include admission to any amusement rides. Admission Pricing – $15 each, Ages 2 and Under Admitted Free with Paid Adult Admission. Ride Wristbands Pricing – SAVE $5 per wristband by purchasing online - $30 each, on site $35. All the classic festivals features: petting zoo, pig races, giant slide, obstacle course, playground fun, pony rides (additional fee) and FESTIVAL FOOD. Miss Berry Princess Contest on Sunday, April 16 @ 2pm. For more information, visit https://boonehallplantation.com/special_event/lowcountry-strawberry-festival/