The May River Shrimp Festival is a beloved annual tradition in the charming town of Bluffton, South Carolina. Taking place July 19-21, 2023, this 3-day event celebrates Bluffton’s history and culture with lively music, delicious food, family-friendly activities, and more. Let’s take a closer look at what to expect at the May River Shrimp Festival 2023.
An Iconic Bluffton Tradition Since 1987
The May River Shrimp Festival has been a summertime staple in Bluffton since 1987. This festival was founded to honor Bluffton’s heritage as a historic fishing village and highlight the plentiful local shrimp harvested from the May River.
Over 30 years later, the festival has grown into one of the most popular events in the Lowcountry, attracting over 10,000 attendees each year. It continues to showcase Bluffton’s unique food traditions, arts, and lively culture.
The 2023 festival will mark the 37th year of festivities along the banks of the May River at Oyster Factory Park It promises fun for all ages with live music, food, arts & crafts vendors, and more
Schedule of Events
The 3-day schedule for the May River Shrimp Festival 2023 is packed with excitement,
Hawaiian Shirt Sunset Run
The festival kicks off on Wednesday, July 19 at 7:30 PM with the Hawaiian Shirt Sunset Run. This fun 5K run/walk takes participants along the streets of Old Town Bluffton in their best tropical attire. Prizes will be awarded for the most festive “Flyin’ Hawaiian” outfits.
Thursday Sunset Party
On Thursday, July 20 from 5:30-9:30 PM, the festival continues with live music, food vendors, a craft beer garden, arts & crafts vendors, and more family fun at Oyster Factory Park. Musical acts include The Chilly Willy Band and The Jason Lee Cook Band.
Friday Sunset Party
Friday, July 21 from 5 30-9 30 PM caps off the festival with another evening of live music food and entertainment. Friday’s music lineup includes Voodoo Soup and The Kelli Baker Band.
Favorite Attractions
Beyond the music and food, there are many attractions that make the Shrimp Fest a must-do event.
5K Sunset Run
The Hawaiian Shirt Sunset Run kicks off the festival with a chance to get moving in your most outrageous tropical outfit. Prizes will be awarded for best costumes!
Delicious Shrimp Dishes
Local restaurants serve up amazing shrimp creations like shrimp burgers, boiled shrimp, shrimp tacos, shrimp and grits, and more. Don’t miss the chance to sample Lowcountry shrimp at its finest.
Craft Beer & Cocktail Garden
The craft beer garden offers a great spot to sip a cold brew and unwind. Or check out the wine bar for refreshing cocktails. Make sure to hydrate between all that dancing!
Arts & Crafts Vendors
Shop jewelry, pottery, paintings, and more handmade items from local artisans. It’s a chance to take home a unique Bluffton keepsake.
Family Friendly Activities
From dazzling face painters to balloon artists, there is family fun around every corner. Let the kids enjoy rides and games while parents relax.
Tips for Attending
To make the most of the Shrimp Festival weekend, keep these tips in mind:
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Arrive early to get a good spot for the music and avoid long lines. Gates open at 5:30 PM.
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Bring cash for food, drinks, and vendors. ATMs will be available.
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Pack sunscreen and bug spray to stay comfortable outdoors.
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Bring blankets/chairs for seating by the music stage.
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Take a pedicab or walk to avoid parking hassles.
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Make hotel reservations early – rooms book up fast!
Why You Should Attend
The May River Shrimp Festival offers a vibrant slice of Bluffton’s culture. It’s a chance to:
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Honor Bluffton’s history as a fishing village
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Celebrate summer in the Lowcountry
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Sway to talented local musicians
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Savor mouthwatering shrimp dishes
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Shop for one-of-a-kind art and gifts
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Enjoy a family friendly atmosphere
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Soak up the charm of this historic riverside town
If you’re visiting the area or a local looking for some summertime fun, make plans to attend the 2023 May River Shrimp Festival. It’s the can’t-miss event of the season!
The May River Shrimp Festival returns for 2023!
The three-day festival will be held July 19th thru the 21st. It’s a celebration of the town’s history as a fishing village, and there will be live music and many events centered around local seafood. A 5K run, arts and crafts vendors, a craft beer garden, and a wine bar are some of the best things about the festival.
Food vendors and restaurants from the area also set up booths and sell a wide range of tasty shrimp dishes, such as shrimp and grits, shrimp po’boys, shrimp skewers, shrimp burgers, and more.
- Wednesday, July 19th – 7:30pm
- Bluffton Oyster Factory Park on the May River
- Run or walk a 5K; party after the race; Flyin’ Hawaiian contest
- July 20th – 5:30 til 9:30 pm
- Bluffton Oyster Factory Park on the May River
- $15 in advance, $20 at the door; kids 12 and under are free.
- Food Court, Craft Beer Garden, Wine Bar, Arts & Crafts
- “The Chilly Willy Band” and “The Jason Lee Cook Band”
- July 21st – 5:30 til 9:30 pm
- Bluffton Oyster Factory Park on the May River
- $15 in advance, $20 at the door; kids 12 and under are free.
- Food Court, Craft Beer Garden, Wine Bar, Arts & Crafts
- “Voodoo Soup” and “The Kelli Baker Band”
Sunset 5K – Hawaiian Shirt Run
Get your running shoes and favorite Hawaiian shirt ready for The May River Shrimp Fest Sunset 5K Hawaiian Shirt Run! This fun event will happen on Wednesday, July 19th at 7:30 pm and will begin and end at the Bluffton Oyster Factory Park. It will go through the charming streets of historic Old Town Bluffton.
The Hawaiian Shirt Run promises to be a fun-filled evening for both walkers and runners alike. Show off your island spirit by wearing your favorite Hawaiian shirt and/or shorts. If you want to get into the Hawaiian spirit, don’t be afraid to wear bright colors and patterns. There will be prizes for the most colorful Flyin’ Hawaiians.
Registration for the race is open now, and participants can sign up online at bearfootsports.com. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to run, walk, and celebrate the summer in style. All Participants will receive a Hawaiian-themed event t-shirt, Hawaiian Lei, Post Race Refreshments and Beer for adults 21+ only.