Bluffton festival combines seafood, music and Hawaiian shirt 5k
The 2026 May River Shrimp Festival will return July 24-25 with two days of events highlighting seafood, live music, health and fitness as part of the Bluffton Sunset Party Series.
The festival will begin Friday, July 24, with the May River Shrimp Festival and Sunset Party at Oyster Factory Park on the May River. The event is scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and will feature live performances by Mily Kinner and Rock Candy.
Organizers describe the festival as a celebration of Bluffton’s fishing heritage. Attendees can expect local seafood, food trucks, craft beers, boutique wines and family-oriented activities. Children and leashed pets are welcome.
Advance tickets are $14. Admission at the door is $20. Children younger than 12 will be admitted free. Group discounts are available online, with four entries offered for $38.
Organizers said all tips collected from beer and wine sales will support local charities.
The festival will continue Saturday morning with the May River Shrimp Fest Hawaiian Shirt Run, a 5-kilometer event beginning at 9 a.m.
The race will start and finish at Oyster Factory Park and travel through the streets of historic Old Towne Bluffton. Organizers said the event is open to both runners and walkers.
Participants are encouraged to wear brightly colored Hawaiian shirts or shorts. Prizes will be awarded for the most colorful outfits.
All registered participants will receive a themed T-shirt, a lei and post-race refreshments during what organizers describe as a post-race celebration. Strollers and leashed pets are welcome.
Registration for the event is currently open.
The 2026 Bluffton Sunset Party Series is presented by Coastal States Bank, Kroger, Beachside Tire & Auto, Savannah Hilton Head International Airport, The Law Office of Healy & Foreit, Latitude Margaritaville, Old Town Bluffton Inn, Lowcountry Lifestyle Group, Schumacher Homes, Alliance Roofing, HHI Builders, Mountain High Outfitters, Southern Barrel Brewing Co. and Service Brewing Co.
Tickets and race registration are available through the Bluffton Sunset Party Series website www.blufftonsunsetparty.com. Additional information is also available by calling Bear Foot Sports at 843-757-8520.
