July in Beaufort means a few things: summer sunsets, neighborhood barbecues, and thousands of people gathering downtown to celebrate one of the Lowcountry’s most iconic events, the Beaufort Water Festival. Now in its 69th year, the 2025 Beaufort Water Festival kicks off Friday, July 11th and runs through Sunday, July 20th. This ten-day festival brings more than just music and markets to the city; it brings life to Beaufort, customers to local businesses, and national attention to our small but proud coastal community.
What started in 1956 as a way for local business owners to promote Beaufort has become a full-fledged production that draws approximately 60,000 attendees each year with an economic impact of $7 million. Today, the Water Festival has evolved into one of the largest and longest-running coastal festivals in the Southeast. This year’s theme, “Anchored in Tradition”, was chosen by 2025 Commodore Todd Stowe, who emphasized the festival’s importance in bringing generations of families together. In his Letter from the Commodore, Stowe wrote, “We’re a small town with big pride, and this festival is a testament to what happens when a community comes together.”
There’s something for every age and interest to enjoy, from bed races and craft markets to family-friendly concerts in the park. Among the most-anticipated events this year:
- Opening Ceremony with the Parris Island Marine Band and fireworks on July 11
- Motown Monday, Time Warp Tuesday, and Island Time Wednesday concerts at the Pavilion
- Bed Races, Raft Races, and a Fishing Tournament
- The Commodore’s Ball and Lowcountry Supper
- Children’s Day, arts & crafts vendors, and a returning favorite: the Ski Show
See the full event schedule here.
While much of the festival will go on as planned, visitors should be aware that the brick promenade and daydock along the seawall at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is currently closed due to structural safety concerns. The City of Beaufort installed fencing and “No Trespassing” signs along a 40-foot-wide section by the water after engineers confirmed that the concrete pilings beneath the platform are deteriorating and no longer safe for public use. The rest of the park, including the green spaces, playground, and pavilions, remains open and safe, and festival organizers have assured the public that all planned events will still take place.
The festival may look slightly different this year with changes to the park, but its heart remains the same. Volunteers working together, small businesses thriving, and the whole community coming out to celebrate. Whether it’s your first time or your 40th, the Beaufort Water Festival continues to be a tradition worth anchoring to. Hope to see you there!