News Summary
The Beaufort Water Festival is ready to celebrate the coastal culture of Beaufort. Kicking off with an opening ceremony, the festival will offer ten days of events, including concerts, sporting events, and arts markets. With an expected attendance of around 50,000 visitors, activities such as The Parris Island Marine Band’s performance, a Raft Race, and a concert by Chris Janson promise to deliver excitement. The festival aims to foster community spirit while adhering to new security measures, such as a clear-bag policy for events.
Beaufort – The 69th Annual Beaufort Water Festival is set to kick off on Friday, July 12, 2024, celebrating the rich coastal culture of the city. The festival will span a total of 10 days, anticipating an impressive attendance of around 50,000 visitors. The opening ceremony will commence at 6 PM at the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, with festivities beginning at 7 PM, featuring the musical talents of The Parris Island Marine Band followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
To facilitate access to the festival, a free shuttle service will be available, transporting visitors from the Beaufort County Government Center to the Waterfront Park. An arts and crafts market will also be open on July 12, from 2 PM to 7 PM at the Promenade, showcasing local artisans and their works.
Exciting Sporting Events
July 13 promises a day packed with thrilling sporting events starting with the popular Raft Race from 8:30 AM to noon, sponsored by Lowcountry Window Tinting. Other sporting events that day include a Bocce Tournament beginning at 8 AM, a Badminton Tournament at 9 AM, and a Children’s Toad Fishing Tournament for children aged 12 and under from 10 AM to noon.
A Sponsor’s Expo will take place from 10 AM to 2 PM on July 13 at the Waterfront Park Pavilion, giving local businesses the opportunity to showcase their offerings.
Featured Entertainment
On Saturday, July 13, attendees can enjoy a concert in the park featuring country music star Chris Janson. The gates will open at 6 PM, and the show is set to begin at 7 PM. Tickets for this event are priced at $35.
The festivities continue with a River Rally event on July 14 from 9 AM to 1 PM at local waters, followed by a Free Children’s Day filled with games, shows, and activities from 10 AM to 1 PM. In the afternoon, a free Ski Show will commence at 1 PM.
Daily Attractions
Further attractions include a Teen Dance on July 15, featuring entertainment provided by Veteran’s Pride Entertainment from 6 PM to 9 PM, with tickets costing $10. That evening will also host Motown Monday with Deas-Guyz, where tickets are priced at $15.
Caribbean Night on July 16 will see performances by Ragga Lox, with tickets available for $5. The festival will also include a Talent Show on July 17, hosted by The Preceptor Omega Chapter, with tickets priced at $10 or free with a festival T-shirt.
The much-anticipated Lowcountry Supper is scheduled for July 18, featuring entertainment from the Departure: Journey Tribute Band with tickets available at $15. A unique Bed Race event will be held on July 19 at 5 PM, starting at the corner of Bay and Harrington Streets, followed by a concert featuring the CRUEligans titled Rockin’ the River with tickets at $20.
Finale and Security Measures
The festival will conclude on July 21 with the Grand Parade, organized by The Beaufort Lions Club from 10 AM to noon, and will be followed by the Blessing of the Fleet from 12:30 PM to 2 PM, with free boat registration for participants.
This year, the festival will implement a new clear-bag policy for gated events to enhance security measures. Furthermore, tickets will only be available for purchase online, eliminating sales at the gate.
The Beaufort Water Festival aims to foster a spirit of community and celebration, showcasing the cultural and scenic beauty of the Lowcountry. For more information about the events and schedule, the official Beaufort Water Festival website is available at bftwaterfestival.com.
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Additional Resources
- Explore Beaufort: 69th Annual Beaufort Water Festival Schedule
- Wikipedia: Beaufort, South Carolina
- Live 5 News: Coast Guard Advises Caution During Beaufort Water Festival
- Google Search: Beaufort Water Festival
- Explore Beaufort: Chris Janson to Headline 69th Beaufort Water Festival Concert
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Water Festival
- Your Island News: Beaufort Water Festival Kicks Off
- Google News: Beaufort Events
