While it’s most famous as Hilton Head’s downtown, with more than 60 shops and restaurants that draw locals and visitors alike, Coligny Plaza is more than just its storefronts. For 70 years, this has been a place where our community has come together. It has been our downtown in the truest sense of the word, a gathering place that strengthens our bonds as neighbors.
It’s a commitment that the Richardson Group, owner of Coligny Plaza, has taken seriously since Norris and Lois Richardson opened their first shop in 1955.
“This is our 70th Anniversary year on Hilton Head Island and represents a generational milestone for us,” said JR Richardson, son of Norris and Lois Richardson. He has guided and grown Coligny over the past 50 years. “With all the decades we have been an intricate part of this community, what I am proudest of is how we’ve been able to support the island as it has supported us.”
A pair of exciting upcoming events underscore that long-running commitment that has made Coligny such a treasure.
Daisy and Brian Bobinchuck
The first will come on January 11, when Coligny welcomes the Lowcountry to celebrate the spirit of a true island child during Charlifest 2025. Honoring the late Charli Bobinchuck, a vibrant young islander who was taken too soon, this festival keeps her spirit alive with local artists, great food and an environment of fellowship and friendship that brings the island together.
“On our island, we look out for each other and we take care of each other, and I’m so honored that the people of Hilton Head are so willing to help us honor the legacy of Charli,” said Daisy Bobinchuck, Charli’s mother. “She was so special to people. It’s not even like she was our girl, she was the island’s girl.”
Charlifest 2025 runs from 12-4 p.m. January 11, honoring the spirit of a child the entire community held in its heart. But that’s not all the new year holds at Coligny.
Izzy and Cliff enjoy the festivities at last year’s CharliFest
Their commitment to our community continues on February 8 with the Souper Bowl of Caring. Featuring a dizzying array of soups, bisques, and chowders from Coligny’s stellar lineup of restaurants, this fundraising festival supports Second Helpings. Last year’s event raised $5,533, helping to feed more than 20,000 people. And this year looks to be even bigger.
“Coligny and The Richardson Group are fantastic. This is my favorite event of the year,” said Second Helpings Director of Operations Marcus Tanner. “It really allows us to make a huge impact and put a lot of meals back into the community. And it’s a great time.”
With live music and some of the tastiest soups in town, The Souper Bowl of Caring is more than just a great community event. It’s a reminder of why, for 70 years, our community has been proud to call Coligny Plaza our downtown.
Jevon Daly will return for this year’s event to entertain the kiddos.
