May 2021 Calendar of Events

Around Town

calendar

MAY 1

Artist Talk: Artist Robin Elise Maaya will present her latest exhibition “Home Away From Home,” that tells the story of a Savannah family living in harmony with the struggles of caring for a special-needs child. Free. Noon-2 p.m., Cedar House Gallery, 122 East 36th Street, Savannah.

Bocce Tournament: The Italian-American Bocce Tournament is single-elimination and filled with friendly competition, food and fun for all. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. iachh.org. 

Hilton Head Humane Association’s Dog Walk on the Beach: Support the Hilton Head Humane Association and bring your canine friends for a walk on the beach. Each participant will receive a dog bandanna, goody bag and T-shirt. Registration required. Cost is $30. 8 a.m., Coligny Beach, 1 North Forest Beach, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-8686 or hhhumane.org.

Spring Swing for Charity Golf Tournament: The Hilton Head Firefighters’ Association has teamed up with Sea Pines Montessori Academy to host the charity golf tournament. Cost is $150 per player, $600 per foursome. 7:30 a.m., Bear Creek Golf Club, 237 Whooping Crane Way, Hilton Head Island. 330-353-5413 or birdease.com/2021springswing. 

The Christian Tamburr Trio at the Jazz Corner: Featuring vocalist and cellist Shana Tucker. $10. 7:30-11 p.m., The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-8620 or thejazzcorner.com.

The Lowcountry Derby: The first Lowcountry Derby Party benefiting The Celebration Projects, Inc. Featuring food stations, mint juleps, take-home favors, a live trumpeter, music and more. Derby attire and hats strongly encouraged. Cost is $150. 4:30-7:30 p.m., The Burnt Church Distillery, 120 Bluffton Road, Bluffton. 843-415-9156 or lowcountryderbyparty.com.

MAY 2

Pedal Hilton Head: A premier cycling event in celebration of our island’s music, culture and two-wheeled lifestyle. Funds raised will benefit over 250 kids who use the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island each day. Cost is $55-$300. Times vary. Coligny Plaza, 1 North Forest Beach, Hilton Head Island. pedalhhi.org.

THROUGH MAY 2

Lean Ensemble: “Private Lives - A Radio Play”: Lean Ensemble brings Noel Coward’s classic wit to life. Let your senses take you to a 1930 British hotel where a newly divorced couple meet honeymooners in adjacent rooms as sparks fly, love is shattered and rekindled. Free. Times vary. Registration required. 843-715-6676 or leanensemble.org.

MAY 4-29

27th Biennale: National Juried Art Exhibit: The longest-running national juried art exhibition in the area will feature the work of 100 artists from around the country. Awards reception on May 7. Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Mondays-Saturdays; Noon-4 p.m., Sundays. 843-681-5060 or artleaguehhi.org. 

MAY 6

Book Launch Party: Join “The Cheese and Biscuit Queen Tells All,” author Mary Martha Greene for a book launch and conversation with artist, actor and writer Terry Sweeney. Free. 7-9 p.m., USCB Center for the Arts, 801 Carteret Street, Beaufort. 843-521-4145 or www.uscbcenterforthearts.com.

MAY 7

Family Fun Night: Designed to bring families together, this event features a bounce house, big blue building blocks, crafts and more. Light refreshments. Free. 5:30-7:30 p.m., The Sandbox Children’s Museum, 18 Pope Avenue, Suite A, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-7645 or www.thesandbox.org. 

Public Policy Meeting: A meeting place to exchange ideas and dialogue on matters of public policy in our community. Free. 8 a.m., Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, 1 Chamber of Commerce Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-785-3673 or www.hiltonheadchamber.org.

World Affairs Council: Russia and China: Dr. Mathew Burrows, director of the Atlantic Council’s Foresight, Strategy and Risks Initiative in the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security, will present the current state of affairs between the United States, Russia and China. Cost is $10 for guests, free for members. 10-11:30 a.m. Register for Zoom link. 843-384-6758 or www.wachh.org.

MAY 7-8

The John Brackett Quartet at the Jazz Corner: $10. 7:30-11 p.m., The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-8620 or www.thejazzcorner.com.

MAY 7-15

Johnny Mercer: The Man and His Music: Experience a musical journey through the life of Lowcountry songwriting legend Johnny Mercer. This cabaret-style musical brings Mercer’s timeless songs to the stage with fascinating narration woven throughout. Cost is $35. Times vary. The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-2787 or www.artshhi.com.

MAY 8

Mother-Son Night: Moms are invited to enjoy a fun game night with their favorite little man. Featuring popcorn, hot dogs, carnival refreshments, a DJ, games and more. Cost is $25 per couple, plus $10 per additional child. 5-7 p.m., Island Rec Center, 20 Wilborn Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-7273 or www.islandreccenter.org.

MAY 8-23

Crescendo Celebration of Arts and Culture Spring: A series of virtual and in-person events that highlight the vast array of arts, culture, historical organizations, individual artists, performers and authors living and creating on Hilton Head Island. Cost and times vary. Visit www.culturehhi.org for more details. 

MAY 9

BLUFFTON ARTISAN MARKETBluffton Artisan Market: An open-air market featuring at least 15 local artists, artisans and makers, plus food trucks and live music. Free entry. 1-5 p.m., The Burnt Church Distillery, 120 Bluffton Road, Bluffton. lcmade.com.

MAY 12

Pizza and Paddle: Teens are invited to join The Outside Foundation for pizza and paddling. Free. 3:30-5:30 p.m., Hilton Head Rowing and Sailing Center, 137 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head Island. rentals.islandreccenter.org.

HEUSER FAMILY

Zoom Seminar: Launching and Growing a Family Business: The Don Ryan Center for Innovation will provide strategies, tips and more for launching and growing a family business. The presentation will be led by the owners of Heuser Ace Hardware. Free. 8-9 a.m., Register for Zoom link. 843-540-0405 or www.donryancenter.com.

MAY 14-15

The Edwin G. Hamilton Trio at the Jazz Corner: $10. 7:30-11 p.m., The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-8620 or www.thejazzcorner.com.

MAY 15

May Day 5K: An exciting race that winds through Historic Old Town Bluffton and along the May River. A virtual race option is available. Cost is $20-$30. 8-10 a.m., Bluffton Oyster Factory Park, 63 Wharf Street, Bluffton. 843-815-1718 or www.runsignup.com.

Sunrise Paddle Boarding: Watch the sunrise while paddle boarding on the May River, followed by mimosas. Free. 6:45 a.m., May River, Bluffton. “Like” the event on Facebook.

MAY 15-16 

Step Forward to Cure Tuberous Clerosis Complex: Virtual Walk-Run-Ride: Raise awareness of this rare, incurable genetic disease. TSC is the leading genetic cause of autism and epilepsy, and affects 1 million people worldwide. Walk, run or ride wherever you are. Share photos on social media with #StepForward4TSC.  www.stepforwardtocuretsc.org.

THROUGH MAY 15

New Mexico Art: Local artist John Roberts will exhibit his vibrant artwork, featuring the beautiful colors and scenes of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Free. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., USCB Center for the Arts, 801 Carteret Street, Beaufort. 843-521-4145 or www.uscbcenterforthearts.com.

MAY 16

Root and Bloom Market: A natural farmers market in the Lowcountry that’s bringing grass roots back. Each vendor has been sought for their passion to provide quality food and goods without the use of added chemicals and unnecessary ingredients. Free entry. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Oyster Factory Park, 63 Wharf Street, Bluffton. www.discoverrootandbloommarket.com. 

MAY 20

Martinis at the Mansion: The Mansion on Forsyth Park’s charity networking series will take place on the third Thursday of every month to benefit a different local nonprofit. Admission is a suggested $5 donation. 5:30-7 p.m., Mansion on Forsyth Park, 700 Drayton Street, Savannah. 912-238-5158 or www.kesslercollection.com.

WAHHI Virtual Author Series: Kirk Neely, author of “December Light 1916,” will be the featured speaker at this month’s Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island’s Author Series. Free for members. 5 p.m. Register for Zoom link. www.wahhi.org.

MAY 21

Cocktails for a Cause: Learn how to make summertime drinks virtually or in-person to raise money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s South Carolina Chapter. Free. 6:30 p.m., Spanish Wells Club, 1 Brams Point Road, Hilton Head Island. “Like” the event on Facebook. 

Cranford Hollow: “The New Stuff”: $20-$50. 8 p.m., The Roasting Room, 1297 May River Road, Bluffton. 843-368-4464 or www.roastingroomlounge.com.

Sunset Palooza: Enjoy live music from Calibogue Sound, Rolling Stones Tribute Band and White Liquor, plus different food vendors. This event will support the Palmetto Ocean Conservancy charity. Admission is $10. 5:30-9:30 p.m., Oyster Factory Park, 63 Wharf Street, Bluffton. 843-757-8520 or www.bearfootsports.com.

MAY 21-22

The Jalen Baker Quartet at The Jazz Corner: $10. 7:30-11 p.m., The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-8620 or www.thejazzcorner.com.

MAY 21-28

The Enchanted Bookshelf Musical: An ordinary used book shop by day, A Likely Story becomes a magical place each night. Thanks to a spell from the Book Fairy, the characters inside the books come alive each night. Watch in-person or virtually. Cost is $12 for adults, $8 for students, $25 for virtual screening. 7 p.m., USCB Center for the Arts, 801 Carteret Street, Beaufort. 843-521-4145 or www.uscbcenterforthearts.com.

MAY 23

DEMO PICKLEDCooking Demo: Pickled Shrimp and Pimento Cheese: Cool down with some Lowcountry classics. Pickle fresh local shrimp and get exclusive access to the recipe for Alexander’s famous pimento cheese with this step-by-step cooking demonstration. Reservations required. Cost is $25. 2-3 p.m., Alexander’s Restaurant, 76 Queens Folly Road, Hilton Head Island. 855-281-2445 or www.alexandersrestaurant.com.

MAY 23-30

Savannah Music Festival: An exciting event featuring renowned artists in classical, jazz and American-roots music. Free live streaming available for specific performances. Ticket prices, times and locations vary. 912-525-5050 or www.savannahmusicfestival.org.

MAY 27

Island Rec Open House: Explore all the Island Rec Center has to offer in a fun, free and informational setting. Booths will include youth sports, fitness memberships, summer camps, swim lessons, fitness classes, raffles and more. Free. 3-6 p.m., Island Rec Center, 20 Wilborn Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-7273 or www.islandreccenter.org. 

MAY 28

Fourth Friday Artists Market: Coligny Plaza and Art League of Hilton Head have partnered to create a monthly outdoor showcase of Lowcountry art and artists. Items for sale include paintings and illustrations, mixed media art, sculptures and more. Free entry. 4-7 p.m., Coligny Plaza, 1 North Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-5060 or www.artleaguehhi.com.

MAY 28-29

Black Jacket Symphony’s Rumours: This full rock concert brings Fleetwood Mac’s legendary Rumours album to life. The second act spotlights more of the band’s greatest hits. Cost is $62. 7:30 p.m., The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-2787 or www.artshhi.com.

KEVIN BALES TRIOThe Kevin Bales Trio at The Jazz Corner: With Rising Star Devon Gates. $10. 7:30-11 p.m., The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-8620 or www.thejazzcorner.com.

MAY 31

Annual Memorial Day Remembrance: Come out to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our nation and freedom. Ceremony includes invited guest speaker from MCRD Parris Island, a proclamation from the mayor of Hilton Head, and music from the Hilton Head Choral Society. Free. 9:30-11:30 a.m., Shelter Cove Park, 59 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. Find more details at www.eventbrite.com. 

SAVE THE DATE

JUNE 4-12

BravoPiano! Festival: The Hilton Head International Piano Competition will celebrate the music of the Americas with performances of classical, chamber music, jazz and Gullah-Geechee music during the week, including a world premiere by American composer Hannah Lash. Tickets go on sale May 5. Locations and times vary. 843-842-2055 or www.hhipc.org. 

ONGOING EVENTS

MONDAYS

Virtual Kid’s Story Time: Listen to Rebecca read family favorites about the Lowcountry’s natural and cultural history on the Coastal Discovery Museum’s Facebook page. Watch on Facebook Live at @coastaldiscoverymuseum. 843- 689-6767 or www.coastaldiscovery.org.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, FRIDAYS

Memory Matters: “Virtual Compass Classes”: An online program designed for adults experiencing mild to moderate cognitive impairment. Compass provides curriculum-based activities, physical exercise, relaxation techniques, life-long learning, small group discussions and socialization. Free. 10 a.m., 1 p.m. 843-842-6688 or www.mymemorymatters.org.

TUESDAYS

Farmers & Makers Market: Now in its eighth year, the Market will present more fresh, local produce, seafood, breads and cheeses, crafts and artisans than ever before. Enjoy the colorful displays that grow and change each week throughout the season. Free entry. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., The Shops at Sea Pines Center, 71 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island.

TUESDAYS

Hilton Head Island Farmers Market: Support our local farmers and producers and take home fresh produce, pasture-raised chicken, free range rabbit, pork, seafood, salsa, sausage, cookies, bread, she crab soup and more. Entrance and parking are free. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum. 70 Honey Horn Dr, Hilton Head Island. 843-473-5231 or www.hhifarmersmarket.com

TUESDAYS

Open Mic Night at Corks: Show up and show off your talent during this open mic night, every Tuesday night at Corks Bluffton. 7-10 p.m., Corks Wine Bar and Restaurant, 14 Promenade Street, Bluffton. 843-815-5168 or www.corkswinecobluffton.com.

TUESDAYS

Sit and Stitch in the Evening: Enjoy knitting, crochet, needlepoint, rug hook practice as Needlepoint Junction stays open late. All levels welcome. Outside food and drink permitted. Free. 5-8 p.m., Needlepoint Junction, Suite J-7-E, Village at Wexford, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-8488 or www.needlepointjunctionhhi.com.

TUESDAYS

Zion Cemetery and Baynard Mausoleum Costumed Cemetery Tour: Visit the gravesites of four Revolutionary War heroes and learn about the blood skirmish fought just a few steps away. $15 Adult/$10 Child, 11 a.m., Corner of U.S. 278 & Matthews Dr, Hilton Head Island. Reservations required- 843-686-6560 or www.heritagelib.org.  

TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS

Marina Mornings: Outdoor Yoga: Practice yoga on the pavilion at Shelter Cove, with draft kombucha to follow. All levels welcome. Cost is $20. 9:30 a.m., Pure Salt Studios, 1 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-707-7027 or www.puresaltstudios.com.

WEDNESDAYS

Haunted History Tales: Listen to graveside storytelling in the eerie setting of Hilton Head Island’s oldest burial ground and hear spine-tingling tales of the island’s shadowy past. Cost is $25 for adults, $20 for children ages 8-16. 9 p.m., Zion Cemetery, 574 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-686-6560 or www.heritagelib.org.

THURSDAYS

Civil War Era: Hilton Head Island was home to thousands of Union soldiers during the Civil War. Join this presentation featuring maps and historic photos of this time on Hilton Head from 1861-1865. Reservations required. Cost is $12 for adults, $7 for children. 3 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-689-6767, ext. 223. or www.coastaldiscovery.org.

THURSDAYS

Dueling Pianos Show: The only Dueling Pianos Show on Hilton Head Island takes place each Thursday night on the Rooftop Bar. Cost is $5. 8-11 p.m., Rooftop Bar at Poseidon, 38 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-341-3838 or www.therooftophhi.com.

THURSDAYS

Farmers Market of Bluffton: New location! Meet local farmers, chefs and artisans every Thursday on Green Street. Buy a fresh assortment of strawberries, produce, beets, potatoes and more. Also, hear local, live entertainment and educational lectures. Noon-5 p.m., Martin Family Park, Green Street, Bluffton. 843-415-2447 or www.farmersmarketbluffton.org. 

THURSDAYS

Paint ’n Party Online: A fun evening of painting online. Any number of people can join, plus no need to pay for a babysitter or an expensive dinner out. Cost is $15 per household. 6:30-8:30 p.m. 843-342-5439 or www.scartstudio.com.

FRIDAYS

Sit and Stitch: Practice needlepoint every Friday during this casual sit and stitch event. All levels welcome. Free. 10 a.m., Needlepoint Junction, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite 6134, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-8488 or www.shopneedlepointjunction.com.

SATURDAYS

Yoga on the Beach at Tybee: All levels are welcome to attend this beach yoga session on Tybee Island. Bring a beach towel or mat. Cost is $20. 9 a.m., North Beach at Tybee, Gulick Street, Tybee Island. “Like” the event on Facebook.

DAILY EVENTS

ALLIGATOR AND WILDLIFE BOAT TOUR

Alligator & Wildlife Boat Tour with H2O Sports in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Get an up-close view of indigenous plant and animal life, including the American alligator, on a one-hour guided boat tour. Reservations are required, 843-671-4386 or www.h2osports.com.

CURBSIDE CRAFTS TO-GO

Children and adults can order a variety of craft activities pre-assembled and ready to enjoy at your home or villa. Book online. Cost is $12-$20. Sea Pines Resort Fitness and Recreation Department, 71 Lighthouse Road, Suite 122, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-1979 or www.seapines.com.

TRAIL RIDES THROUGH THE SEA PINES FOREST PRESERVE WITH LAWTON STABLES

Trail Rides through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve with Lawton Stables. Meander through the preserve on horseback for the true feel of the untouched Lowcountry. Trail riders must be at least 8 years old. Reservations are required. 843-671-2586 www.lawtonstables.com.

PICKLEBALL AT PALMETTO DUNES

Learn how to play Pickleball with daily clinics and round robins at the Palmetto Dunes Pickleball Center in Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. Courts and equipment are available to rent. Reservations recommended. www.palmettodunes.com.

THE HARBOUR TOWN LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM

Explore Hilton Head Island’s rich history and learn the story behind its famous lighthouse in a unique, museum-like setting. Admission is $4.25/person, complimentary for children ages 5 and younger. 149 Lighthouse Rd. 843-671-2810 or www.harbourtownlighthouse.com.