Water Festival – Inside Scoop

The 67th Annual Beaufort Water Festival is a continuation of many time-honored traditions while evolving as one of the largest community celebrations, standing the test of time. Led by Commodore James Nutt, the all-volunteer crew has worked tirelessly over the past year to plan several lead-up events and ten July days that are chock full of fun and entertainment for Beaufort residents and visitors.

The Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park will again transform into the hub of Water Festival sporting and entertainment events that bring the community together. The first night opens with a bang! as fireworks signify the beginning of the Festival, in addition to the Opening Ceremony and Parris Island Marine Band. Then, the first Saturday boasts unique Lowcountry events, like the raft races, children’s toad fishing tournament, and more, before the park turns into a major concert venue Saturday evening.

Randy Houser, a well-known country music star, will headline the night with other great opening acts. Spectators are encouraged to bring their chairs, dancing shoes, and appetite for a good time at a classic Water Festival concert night. Be sure to return on Sunday for a daytime Ski Show on the Beaufort River!

Following opening weekend, the festivities continue with a different theme and performance each night during the week. Motown Monday, a local favorite, features Deas Guyz, and Tuesday is amping up with a Jimmy Buffett cover band, where the Parrotheads are welcome. Wednesday night’s event showcases local talent of all types, and Thursday’s Lowcountry Supper provides dinner and a show, with the classic Frogmore Stew, a Lynyrd Skynyrd cover band, and Water Festival’s original group, “The Whistlers,” an act unlike any other and steeped in Water Festival tradition.

Friday’s Rockin’ the River is the only night with an 18+ age restriction, a babysitter favorite. The band Led Zeppelin 2 is sure to entertain with their classic rock music. This night, as with the others, themed attire is encouraged and adds to the fun ambiance.

The second weekend of the Water Festival brings a new variety of activities with the Grand Parade and Air Show, and concludes with the Blessing of the Fleet. All are a sight to see for all ages. These weekend events and many others are no cost to the public thanks to the support of local businesses who sponsor the Festival. Check out the full schedule here.