Taste of Beaufort Is Back — What You Need To Know
A Weekend to Savor…
Y’all ready? One of the Lowcountry’s favorite weekends returns to downtown Beaufort on May 1–2, 2026, and it’s bringing more flavor, fun, and hometown pride than ever. The City of Beaufort and the Cultural District joined forces to freshen things up, adding new arts, neighborhood happenings, and an extra spotlight on our local chefs, restaurants, and makers. Here’s everything you need to know to soak up the scene.
What’s New This Year
– Expanded Taste of the Arts — In partnership with the USCB Center for the Arts, expect a lively arts presence with talent coming in from across the country.
– Expanded Taste of the Community — Washington Street Park is hosting neighborhood music, storytelling, and history to give folks a true taste of Beaufort’s spirit.
– Stronger Local Spotlight — More local restaurants, chefs, and small businesses than ever keep this weekend rooted in our community.
Waterfront Park — The Heart of It All
Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park will once again be the hub, with live music, food, family fun, and gorgeous river views.
Event Hours:
– Friday, May 1: 5:00–10:00 PM
– Saturday, May 2: 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Highlights:
– Live Music All Weekend — From Cody Webb and Deas-Guyz to the Parris Island Marine Corps Band and more, the park will be humming with tunes for every taste.
– Food Vendors — Sample Lowcountry classics and creative bites from local favorites like Mother Smokin’ Good and Sea Eagle Market.
– Family-Friendly Fun — Kid-friendly activities and plenty of green space make this a great outing for the whole clan.
– Art & Artisan Vendors — Shop local makers for jewelry, art, and unique finds.
Taste of the Arts at the USCB Center for the Arts
The Center for the Arts will host Taste of the Arts with an outdoor art market and a juried indoor exhibition.
Outdoor Art Market Hours:
– Friday, May 1: 1:00–5:00 PM
– Saturday, May 2: 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
What to expect:
– Browse artist tents under a majestic live oak — paintings, photography, jewelry, woodwork, and more.
– Live music, food trucks, and that festival vibe all day.
– Meet the artists and take home one-of-a-kind pieces.
Indoor Juried Exhibition Opening Reception:
– Friday, May 1: 5:30–7:00 PM
Featuring 73 works by 40 artists from across the region and over $2,500 in awards presented at the reception.
A Taste of Community at Washington Street Park
Saturday, May 2 (11:00 AM–4:00 PM) — step into a neighborhood-style celebration inspired by the gatherings “back in the day.”
What’s on the bill:
– Live entertainment: musicians, storytellers, magicians, and interactive fun like a scavenger hunt, time-period photo booth, and dunk tank.
– Community eats: Sons of Beaufort Lodge #36 fish fry, burgers, hot dogs, cotton candy, popcorn, and baked goods from local churches and groups.
– Student art display: Clothesline showcase from Beaufort Elementary and Robert Smalls Leadership Academy.
– Historic marker unveiling: Celebration of the Washington Street Park historical marker (SC-C-963).
– Local history & tours: National Park Service representatives and guided tours of Stokes Cottage by Second Founding of America: Reconstruction Era.
Savor The Lowcountry
A Taste of Beaufort is more than a food festival — it’s a hometown celebration of culture, history, and all the flavors that make Beaufort special. With waterfront views and local businesses center stage, this weekend is made for lingering, tasting, and celebrating together.
For updates, head to atasteofbeaufort.com or follow A Taste of Beaufort on Instagram and Facebook.
See y’all there!
