Bluffton has a crowded, fun-filled calendar of events, bringing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the cooler weather and spend time with friends and neighbors.
The town expanded its event offerings after the pandemic to create more opportunities for the community to reconnect. Today, these gatherings remain an important part of Bluffton’s quality of life and the sense of community that makes our town special.
The town’s events and venues department brings these experiences to life throughout the year. Its team develops creative programs for residents of all ages and abilities.
The town’s calendar includes concerts in Buckwalter Place Park, summer waterslide events, movie nights, Ballet in the Park, end-of-school pop-up events, the Bunny Bonanza, historic preservation lectures, and the Kazoo Show. The town also hosts a glow dance for residents with special needs and commemorative programs such as the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony.
Some of Bluffton’s longest and largest traditions are also town events, including our Independence Day 5K, pre-party, drone show, and fireworks. The annual Christmas tree lighting and Bluffton Christmas Parade are always held during the first weekend in December.
Whether an event brings thousands of people or a smaller group of neighbors, the goal is the same: to help you love where you live.
Here is what we have planned for the remainder of 2026:
Safety Spooktacular, Friday, October 23, 5-7 p.m., Oscar Frazier Park: Bring the family out for an evening of Halloween fun with first responders, a helicopter display, a dunk booth (with Bluffton police officers) and other activities. There will not be a costume contest for people this year, but our four-legged residents will have their chance to compete in the dog costume contest.
Concert in the Park, Friday, November 13, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Buckwalter Place Park Amphitheater: Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy live music by Groove Town Assault. This will be the third and final Concert in the Park of 2026.
Christmas Tree Lighting, Friday, December 4, 5:30 p.m.: Join us as we officially kick off the holiday season in Bluffton at Martin Family Park.
Bluffton Christmas Parade, Saturday, December 5, 10 a.m.: One of Bluffton’s largest and most beloved traditions returns with creative floats, community groups, local businesses, and plenty of holiday spirit. Can’t come? Join us live on Beaufort County TV for the broadcast.
Holiday Ice Rink, December 11-20, New Riverside Barn Park: For the first time, the town will bring a free outdoor ice-skating experience to New Riverside. The rink will be open on selected afternoons and evenings throughout the 10-day celebration:
Friday, December 11, 4-10 p.m., with DJ “T-Bone” Taylor
Saturday, December 12, 4-10 p.m., with DJ “T-Bone” Taylor
Sunday, December 13, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., with a holiday craft fair
Monday, December 14, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Tuesday, December 15, 4-10 p.m.
Wednesday, December 16, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Thursday, December 17, 4-10 p.m.
Friday, December 18, 4-10 p.m., with DJ “T-Bone” Taylor
Saturday, December 19, 4-10 p.m., with a performance from The Nutcracker and a DJ
Sunday, December 20, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Santa at New Riverside Barn: Friday, December 11, 4-7 p.m.: Santa will visit the barn to meet families and pose for photographs. Bring your own camera to capture the moment.
Holiday Craft Fair: Sunday, December 13, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., New Riverside Event Lawn: Shop with local artists, craftspeople, and hobbyists surrounding the ice rink. Stay tuned to the town’s social media platforms for more details.
Santa at the Welcome Center: Thursday, December 17, 4-7 p.m.: Stop by the Welcome Center to visit Santa and take your own photographs.
Afternoon Tea with the Sugar Plum Fairy: Saturday, December 19, New Riverside: The Okatie Youth Ballet will present excerpts from The Nutcracker, followed by tea with the Sugar Plum Fairy inside New Riverside Barn. Stay tuned to the town’s social media for more details.
I hope you will mark your calendar, bring your family and invite a neighbor to join you. These events belong to the community, and we hope you enjoy them.