If you are looking for a culinary adventure that celebrates the rich heritage and flavors of the South, you won’t want to miss the 2024 Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival. This annual event, which runs from February 19 to February 25, features renowned chefs, local seafood, wine tastings, live music, and more – all set in the stunning backdrop of Hilton Head Island.
This year’s festival kicks off with a Lowcountry Seafood Experience, where you will enjoy a boat cruise with Captain Christopher Shoemaker, one of Lowcountry’s most experienced watermen. He will take you on a two-hour adventure and you will learn how to catch shrimp, oysters, and crabs, and discover the secrets of making a living from the sea. After the fun and educational session, you will savor the delicious seafood you caught at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks. A free soft drink or draft beer is included at the restaurant. If you miss the kickoff, this experience will run at various times throughout the entire event.
On February 21st, you can experience the rich and diverse flavors of New Mexican culture in a pop-up dinner that will take you on a journey through each course. You will be amazed by the culinary skills of Chef Fernando Olea, the winner of the Southwest’s Best Chef of 2022 James Beard Award. For one night only, Chef Fernando Olea will join forces with Chef Tim Nelson of Holy Tequila. Chef Fernando Olea has been enchanting Santa Fe diners since 1991 with his remarkable interpretation of modern and traditional Mexican dishes. He combines native ingredients from Old Mexico with global influences to create a harmony of refined tastes. Enjoy the charm of Mexican cuisine through his exquisite creations, including the deliciously mysterious mole, a regional dish loved in the heart of the country. Get ready for a memorable gastronomic adventure! But there’s more. The collaboration also reaches the coast of Hilton Head Island, where the acclaimed Chef Tim Nelson’s skill mixes New American flavors with the genuine spirit of Mexican cuisine. Expect to have your palate surprised and satisfied as they showcase their talents in a four-course spectacle. Each mouthwatering dish will be perfectly matched with superb cocktails featuring the Official Tequila. Don’t miss this rare and trendy event. Indulge yourself in the best flavors and the most amazing dining experience of the year!
On Thursday, experience the magic of Alexanders‘ Home-Grown Supper, a unique culinary event that celebrates the best of Hilton Head Island and the Lowcountry. You will be amazed by the stunning creations of acclaimed chefs Jon Buck and Charles Pejeau, who will share their stories and inspirations behind their dishes. You will also enjoy the superb wines from Elyse Winery, handpicked by Josh Peeples to match each course. Savor a five-course menu featuring the freshest seafood, produce, and flavors from the local farms and waters. This is a rare opportunity to taste the essence of Southern cuisine and culture in one unforgettable night. Don’t miss out on this amazing culinary experience!
Friday you can enjoy the delicious Pig Pickin’ & Oyster Roast, where you will enjoy a feast of mouthwatering barbecue and fresh oysters. You will also receive a 2024 Festival Wine Glass to commemorate this special occasion. This ticket covers everything you need for a memorable night, including food and drinks. By purchasing this ticket, you are also supporting a good cause: the David M. Carmines Memorial Fund, which helps local charities in our community.
The highlight of the 2024 Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival is on Saturday, where you can sample dishes from over 30 local restaurants, showcasing the best of Hilton Head Island’s seafood. Come and enjoy a fun-filled day of live music, delicious food, and family-friendly activities at the David M. Carmines Memorial Foundation Festival. You will also get to witness the Iron Chef Competition, where local chefs will showcase their culinary skills and creativity. The best part is your admission fee goes to a good cause. The David M. Carmines Memorial Foundation is a local 501c3 organization that supports various charities in our community. Don’t miss this opportunity to have a great time and make a difference. Get your tickets today!
The festival wraps up with a Brunch and Bubbles event on Sunday, where you can savor a lavish brunch buffet, accompanied by champagne and live jazz. You can also bid farewell to the chefs and thank them for their amazing creations.
The Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival Benefits Local Non-Profit Organizations
The Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival is more than just a food festival – it is a celebration of the South’s culinary heritage and a way to support the local community. The festival benefits several non-profit organizations, such as the Coastal Discovery Museum, the Island Recreation Scholarship Fund, and the Waddell Mariculture Center.
If you are interested in attending the 2024 Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival, you can purchase your tickets online at their website. You can also find more information about the festival’s schedule, venues, and sponsors there. Don’t miss this chance to experience the taste of the South on Hilton Head Island!
If you are visiting from out of town, be sure to check out our guide to dining in Old Town Bluffton. Old Town Bluffton is the charming historic district just off the island on your way back to I95.
