What to Know About RBC Heritage 2023

When’s the busiest time on the island, you ask? Other than gorgeous, hot summer days that beckon not only visitors out of their hotel rooms, but residents of surrounding towns to flock to the beach?  If we’d have to guess, we’d say the weekend that the RBC Heritage Golf Tournament is wrapping up and competition is coming down to the wire—it’s a busy time for sure, but it’s oh so exciting!

This year’s RBC Heritage will take place April 10th-16th.

That being said, if you’ve booked a stay during this time period and have no interest in golf whatsoever, the good news is that you’ll have no problem finding a spot on the beach to catch some rays. We do recommend making dinner reservations to your favorite places, getting those rental bikes reserved in advance, and staying clear of the Harbour Town area.

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So, what exactly is the RBC Heritage?

2023 marks the 55th playing of this golf tournament at Harbour Town Golf Links, an award-winning golf course that was named the best course in South Carolina. A stop on the PGA Tour, the RBC Heritage directly follows the Masters in Augusta. This year’s purse is said to be $20,000,000, which is more than double that of 2022, meaning that even more popular golfers are expected to attend. Exciting, indeed!

Hilton Head Island’s image as a resort destination is heavily linked to this tournament. Charles Fraser, developer of Sea Pines, announced that the first Heritage Classic would be played on this little-known sea island in 1969. Golf legends such as Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus brought attention to both the tournament and the island itself. Now, more than 100,000 golf fans flock to the island each year to catch a glimpse of the action. Learn more about the tournament’s traditions here.

Another component of the RBC Heritage is the Heritage Classic Foundation. Founded in 1987, donations upward of $49.1 million have been sent to charities in South Carolina. With focuses on the local community, educational scholarships and grants, the environment, and more, this foundation is passionate about the betterment of the region.

According to Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, they were chosen by the Heritage Classic Foundation to be their charity beneficiary of choice for this year’s PGA Tour Charity Challenge. Follow the following members on their selected 8-player fantasy team as they play in tournaments scheduled from January to August:

Scottie Scheffler

Justin Thomas

Tom Kim

Davis Riley

Gary Woodland

Joel Dahmen

John Rahm

Will Zalatoris

Take a look at this year’s schedule of events:

Monday, April 10th

Pro-Am Presented by Boeing

The course is closed to spectators.

Tuesday, April 11th

Opening Ceremonies

12:00 pm

18th Green

Attend the traditional opening ceremonies and parade in Harbour Town. This year’s parade will include 2022 RBC Heritage Champion, Jordan Spieth, board members of the Heritage Classic Foundation, volunteers of the tournament, and state dignitaries.

Youth Day Putting Contest

2:00 pm-3:00 pm

Putting Green

Children under the age of 15 years old can compete in this contest. Those wanting to join may register in the tent beside the Harbour Town Golf Links Clubhouse.

Pro Practice Rounds

All day

Wednesday, April 12th

RBC Heritage Pro-Am

7:00 am-7:00 pm

Thursday, April 13th

First Round

Starting Times:

7:20 am-9:00 am

11:50 am-1:30 pm

Friday, April 14th

Second Round

Starting Times:

7:20 am-9:00 am

11:50 am-1:30 pm

Saturday, April 15th: Plaid Nation Day

Third Round

Starting Times: 8:30 am-1:30 pm

Plaid Nation Games

12:00 pm-2:00 pm

Heritage Lawn

Don’t forget to wear your plaid!

Spectators are encouraged to compete in hole-in-one, various trivia, and a best-dressed competition.

Sunday, April 16th

Sunrise Service

7:30 am

Liberty Oak

No ticket is needed to attend this nondenominational service.

Final Round

Starting times: 8:30 am-1:30 pm

The trophy presentation will be held immediately after play has ended on the 18th green.

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Hilton Head Island’s IrishFest 2023

Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day like an islander on March 11th and 12th during this year’s IrishFest! The annual Saint Patrick’s Day parade is the largest and most anticipated parade on the island, bringing bands and specialty groups from across the country and the local community together.

South Carolina’s oldest parade, Hilton Head’s Saint Patrick’s Day parade was founded by local business owner, Tom Reilley and his friends and family. The grand marshal for the 38th annual parade will be Stan Smith, a tennis champion and now local of Hilton Head Island.

If you’re going to be in town, make sure to pack accordingly and wear your green!

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IrishFest Concert

Saturday, March 11th, 2023 | 4-7pm

Lowcountry Celebration Park


A new tradition started in 2022 to celebrate the return of the Saint Patrick’s Day parade after a brief hiatus, the IrishFest weekend will be kicked off by an outdoor concert at the Lowcountry Celebration Park.

This is a FREE event and all are welcome to join in on the fun! Bands in attendance will be:

Boston Police Gaelic Column P&D

NYPD Emerald Society P&D

The Fenian Sons, a Boston Irish Rock Band

IrishFest Parade

Sunday, March 12th, 2023 | 3:00pm

Pope Avenue


The main event that is expected to bring up to 25,000 spectators, the IrishFest Parade will step off near the entrance of Lowcountry Celebration Park, continue on Pope Avenue, and end at Park Plaza off Office Park Drive.

Because this is such a big day in that area of the island, plan accordingly and find parking early enough so you can find a place to watch the parade! Breeze Trolley is offering one-way trips from 11 am-2 pm, picking up at the USCB campus and dropping off near Lowcountry Celebration Park.

For more information about IrishFest, visit their website.


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Where to Watch Super Bowl LVII on Hilton Head Island

Super Bowl LVII is fast approaching! On February 12th, we’ll get to watch the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs battle it out for the title of 2023’s Super Bowl Champion. Do your vacation plans happen to line up with the most exciting night of football? Better yet, do you know where you’ll be watching the game on Hilton Head Island? If you haven’t decided yet, we’re here to give you a few suggestions.

Reilley’s Grill and Bar

Already known to be a great spot for sports fans, Reilley’s has both indoor and outdoor seating. There are TVs indoors, but the real gem for those wanting to catch the game will be the outdoor bar—and don’t worry, the outdoor heaters will keep you warm if it happens to be a bit chilly.

You should expect this establishment to be as busy as it is festive since it is already known as a local crowd favorite. We recommend making reservations, especially if you want to join in on the Valentine’s Day specialty menu that coincides with the Super Bowl. For more information, click here.

reilleyshiltonhead.com

Plate recommendation: the Buffalo Shrimp and Spring Rolls are two of our favorite appetizers to share!

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Mellow Mushroom

You can’t go wrong with pizza on game day, so take your group to this well-known spot where you can order your favorites and sit back and watch the game on many of the various TVs throughout the room. There are plenty of tables and seats at the bar, but we recommend getting there early enough to grab one.

This option might be the best one for those who get a little too into the game—order online and pick up a pie in time to get back to the comfort of your condo or room to enjoy. That way you can watch, pace around, or even holler at the TV to your heart’s content.

Photo by Brenna Huff

Pizza recommendation: mushroom lovers will love the Holy Shiitake pizza, but you can never go wrong with a House Special.

Carolina Crab Company

For great atmosphere and beautiful views, head over to the Carolina Crab Company located in Palmetto Bay Marina. This seafood-lovers paradise features indoor and outdoor seating and is a great place to watch the game from any seat.

On both Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm, all bars and high-top tables will have the option to order from the C3 Football menu that includes certain plates and drinks at discounted prices to celebrate the big game. This includes All You Can Eat Peel N’ Eat Shrimp, Buffalo Shrimp Nachos, buckets of domestic and imported beers, and much more. For the full event menu, click here.

carolinacrabco.com

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Hinchey’s Chicago Bar and Grill

Another great place for catching the game is Hinchey’s Chicago Bar & Grill. With happy hour from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm every day, a great menu to order from, and TVs throughout the room, you’ll wonder why you didn’t stop in for a game before!

If you’re bringing a party of 5 or more, please call to reserve a table. Hinchey’s is in a convenient location on the south end of the island and has plenty of parking, so the only thing you’ll need to worry about is if your team wins or not!

We recommend the Toasted Ravioli as a shared plate. The Crab Cake Dinner and Ribeye Steak are two main plates you won’t want to share!


For information about how to receive discounts on some of the restaurants mentioned in this article, fill out the form below:

Upcoming 2023 Hilton Head Island Food Festivals & Events

The beginning of a new year is always an exciting time on Hilton Head Island. As the weather gradually heats up, more festivals and events dot the calendar! If you’re visiting the island within the next couple of months, make sure to come hungry! Here are some of the festivals and events that are coming up!

If you aren’t going to be in town for any of these events, don’t worry! Check out where you can grab a quick bite to eat or dine at some of the best restaurants and cafes on the island.

Photo by Cloris Ying

Chamber Restaurant Week

Jan. 28 – Feb. 4

The 15th annual Restaurant Week is back and better than ever! It’s always an exciting week to be on the island since it’s a great way to try restaurants that are new to you, and of course, visit your favorite spots. Participating restaurants in Hilton Head and Bluffton will offer specially-priced or prix-fixe menus.

See a full list of restaurants here.

Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival

Feb. 20 – 26

The main fundraiser for the David M. Carmines Memorial Foundation, the 16th annual Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival is set to wow guests once again. Attend celebrity guest chef dinners, cooking demos, wine tastings, and more. The best pitmasters, mixologists, and scholars in the south will help you experience and celebrate southern culinary culture. Set in the Lowcountry’s beautiful landscape, indulge in delicious cuisine and learn more about the area’s fishing heritage.

Tickets are on sale now!

Wingfest

March 18 | 11 am – 5 pm

Lowcountry Celebration Park

Spend the afternoon in the sunshine surrounded by delicious wings from 20-25 local restaurants, competitions for adults and kids, and a kid zone complete with a rock climbing wall and bungee jump. Admission is $10 per person, and children under the age of 11 are free! All food, beverages, and activities are sold separately, and tickets for these are $1.00 each.

Find more information here.

Hilton Head Food & Wine Festival

March 19 – 25

Supporting the local community for 38 years, the Hilton Head Food and Wine Festival’s wine auctions and tasting events benefit the John F. & Valerie Currie Educational Scholarship Fund for college students following their passion for either hospitality or tourism. With many different events throughout the festival period at different locations around the island, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the best food, wine, and craft beer in the Lowcountry.

Purchase your tickets here!


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Celebrate New Year’s 2023 on Hilton Head Island

Looking for ways to ring in the new year? Here are some events on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day on Hilton Head Island:

The Jazz Corner

Dec. 31st, 2022 | 5:00pm-10:30pm

1000 William Hilton Pkwy,

Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Enjoy a fabulous concert by the Noel Freidline Quintet featuring Maria Howell over a delicious four course dinner.

Click here for more information

Harbour Town

Dec. 31st, 2022 | 6:00pm-1:00am

149 Lighthouse Rd,

Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Join in on the festivities and attend the main event at midnight, or catch the 7pm ball drop if you and your crew want to get a good night’s sleep.

Can’t make it? Watch the livestream here!

Coligny Polar Plunge

Jan. 1st, 2023 | 11:00am

1 Coligny Cir,

Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Everyone is welcome to join in on this island tradition that benefits Charli’s Critters Charity.

New Year’s Bloody Bar Extravaganza

Jan. 1st, 2023 | 10:00am-3:00pm

232 S Sea Pines Dr,

Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Salty Dog Cafe’s biggest Bloody Mary bar yet!


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Arts Center of Coastal Carolina’s December 2022 Production of “A Christmas Story: The Musical”

Celebrating the holidays on Hilton Head Island?

Starting on December 7th, the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina will open A Christmas StoryThe Musical, a holiday film classic turned hilarious musical. A great way to get into the Christmas spirit, grab your tickets and join Ralphie Parker on his exploits to fulfill his Christmas wish. Purchase tickets here.

When

December 7-31, 2022

Evening performances are at 7:30pm, and afternoon performances are either at 1:00pm or 2:00pm depending on the date. There are no performances scheduled on Sunday, the 25th and Monday, the 26th.

Where

The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

14 Shelter Cove Ln., Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Who Should Go

This musical is a great treat for families, and is best for ages 5 and older.

More About the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

This award-winning regional arts center, is an independent, non-profit theater that not only brings quality performances to the region, but organizes cultural festivals and opportunities for educational outreach to the community. Not only is there the 349-seat, Elizabeth Wallace Theater, but there is the Walter Greer Gallery that showcases artwork from over 150 local artists, and is a partnership between the Arts Center and the Art League of Hilton Head.


Fill out the short form below to receive more information about activities on Hilton Head Island:

Mark Your Calendar for These Holiday Events on Hilton Head Island

Winter Wonderland

Shelter Cove

Dec. 3 | 4:00-7:00pm

Organized by the Island Rec Center, all are invited to the Winter Wonderland Festival at the Shelter Cove Community Park. Enjoy fun carnival games, bounces houses, and don’t miss the children’s parade! Santa has RSVP’d to this event, so make sure to bring a camera!

A Christmas Story: The Musical

Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

Dec. 7-31 | Various Times

Starting on December 7th, the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina will open A Christmas Story: The Musical, a holiday film classic turned musical. Recommended for ages 5 and up, grab your tickets and join Ralphie Parker on his exploits to fulfill his Christmas wish. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.

Historic Holidays on Hilton Head Island

USCB (HHI Campus)

Dec. 10 | 12:00-4:00pm

Attend the holiday tea service or find unique gifts from local authors and artists. Children under 12 are free to attend for holiday stories and complimentary cookies and milk. Learn about the island’s history and support The Heritage Library at this festive event. Purchase tickets here.

Photo by Kelsey Weinkauf

Holiday Nights and Lights

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

Dec. 3-5 | 6:00-8:00pm

Celebrate the island’s newest holiday tradition at the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park. In its third year, the park will once again be transformed, welcoming cars filled with cheery visitors looking for some holiday magic and Christmas lights.

Holiday Lights at Shelter Cove Towne Centre

40 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head, SC 29928

Nov. 23-Dec. 31, 2022

Harbour Town Lights

149 Lighthouse Rd., Hilton Head, SC 29928

Nov. 25-Jan. 1, 2022

**Gate pass required

Santa & Mrs. Claus Visits Shelter Cove Towne Center

40 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head, SC 29928

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting Shelter Cove to spread some holiday cheer and take festive pictures with the kiddos. Remember to bring your camera!

Black Friday & Shop Small Saturday

Nov. 25th & 26th

12pm-2pm

Winter Wonderland Festival at Shelter Cove

Dec. 3rd

5pm-7pm

December’s Friday & Saturday Dates

Fri. 9, 16, & 23 at 5pm-7pm

Sat. 10, 17, & 24 at 12pm-2pm

Menorah Lighting

Shelter Cove Towne Center

28 Shelter Cove Lane,

Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Dec. 19 | 5:30-6:30pm

Hosted by Chabad Greater Hilton Head

Music, light refreshments, and 9′ Menorah


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Celebrating Thanksgiving on Hilton Head Island

If you happen to be celebrating Thanksgiving on our beautiful, Hilton Head Island, here is a list of festive events, as well as restaurants that will be open on November 24th.

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by Photo Jakob Owens

Thanksgiving Wagon Rides at Heritage Farm

Sea Pines Heritage Farm

Nov. 22-26

10:00am-5:00pm

Join in on the Thanksgiving-themed wagon ride brought to you by Sea Pines. Starting at the Heritage Farm, this festive wagon ride will bring you through the beautiful Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Take in Hilton Head’s version of fall colors and the natural beauty of the island’s plant and wildlife. We strongly recommend that you reserve your seats ahead of time. Purchase tickets and view available dates and times here.

Turkey Trot

Skull Creek Dockside

Nov. 23

8:00-10:00am

Organized by the Island Recreation Center, join the Hilton Head community for the 34th Annual Turkey Trot. Starting and ending at Skull Creek Dockside, runners and those walking the 1-mile Fun Walk will have a blast and are encouraged to bring nonperishable items to donate to the Deep Well food pantry. Packets must be picked up on Wednesday, Nov. 23. Click here for more information.

Gregg Russell Thanksgiving Concert

Harbour Town

Nov. 25

7:30-9:00pm

Known to be one of the best family-friendly shows in town, celebrate Thanksgiving as a community with Gregg Russell. This complimentary event will be held at the Liberty Oak Tree in Harbour Town, however gate passes are necessary when entering the Sea Pines property. Not only will it be a night full of great music and entertainment, but the Harbour Town Christmas Tree will be officially lit for the 2022 holiday season.

Photo by Element5 Digital

Hilton Head Diner

(843) 686-2400

Hours: 7:00am-10:00pm

6 Marina Side Dr,

Hilton Head, SC 29926

Fishcamp on Broad Creek

(843) 842-2267

Hours: 12:00-7:00pm

11 Simmons Rd,

Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

Nick’s Steak and Seafood

(843) 686-2920

Hours: 12:00-7:45pm

9 Park Ln.,

HIlton Head, SC 29928

Thanksgiving Dinner Special Available

Reservation Required

Kind of Blue

(843) 686-2868

Hours: 2:00-7:00pm

19 Dunnagans Alley,

Hilton Head, SC 29928

Thanksgiving Dinner Special Available

Reservation Required

Thanksgiving Day Feast at Grand Ocean Terrace at the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

(843) 681-1055

Hours: 1:00-5:00pm

2 Grasslawn Ave,

Hilton Head, SC 29928

Inside Shipyard

Reservation Required

Family Style Thanksgiving Day Champagne Brunch & Dinner at Sonesta Resort

(843) 842-2400

Hours: 12:00-8:00pm

130 Shipyard Dr,

Hilton Head, SC 29928

Inside Shipyard

Reservation Required

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Halloween Events on Hilton Head Island

The fall season is well underway in the Lowcountry, and as the end of October creeps up on us, we’re getting ready to celebrate this spooky time of year. Read on to learn more about the events scheduled just in time for Halloween.

Click here for a full schedule of 2022’s fall events.

October 19-22, 2022

7:00pm

Zion Cemetery & Baynard Mausoleum Outdoor Learning Center

Directions

Join the Heritage Library at one of the spookiest and most haunted locations on Hilton Head for an evening full of ghost stories and paranormal accounts. Recommended for those 10-years and older, learn all about the most famous historical figures haunting the island. Purchase tickets here.

October 22-29, 2022

10:00am-11:30am

Sea Pines Heritage Farm

Directions

You’re cordially invited to a festive wagon ride through the scenic Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Play a specially-themed game of I-Spy to get into the Halloween spirit. Reserve your seat ahead of time, and feel free to arrive in costume. Tickets can be purchased here.

October 21, 2022

4:00pm-7:00pm

Shelter Cove Community Park

Directions

Shelter Cove will host this free event on the Friday before Halloween. Kids are encouraged to dress up and enter the Costume Contest at 5:45. Enjoy free games and activities with the option of purchasing concessions and the chance to climb a rock wall or go for a train ride.

October 30, 2022

1:30pm-3:30pm

Harbour Town

Directions

Another reason to show off your wicked Halloween costume, all ages are invited for this Harbour Town celebration. Join in on fun activities and trick-or-treating, hosted by Sea Pines Resort. Although this is a free event, a gate fee is required to enter the Sea Pines property.


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Arts Center of Coastal Carolina’s October 2022 Production of “Little Shop of Horrors”

If you’re visiting Hilton Head Island this October, make sure to grab tickets to see the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina’s latest production, Little Shop of Horrors! Read on for more information about the show, and click here to purchase tickets.

When & Where

Performances are on Wednesday through Sunday evenings at 7:30pm, with an additional afternoon showtime available on Saturdays only. Your last chance to see Little Shop of Horrors will be on Sunday, October 30th.

The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

14 Shelter Cove Ln., Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Who Should Go

The show is recommended for comedy and musical lovers ages 13-years and older. Parental discretion is advised.

Show Synopsis

This hilarious musical has been an Off-Broadway favorite for over 30-years. Full of comedy and rock, this show centers around a floral shop assistant named, Seymour, who discovers an unusual plant that will change his life as he knows it. Only after naming it after his crush at the floral shop, Seymour finds that this strange plant has a thirst for human blood! A perfect show to see just in time for Halloween, the Little Shop of Horrors is a production you’ll never forget.

More About Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

This award-winning regional arts center, is an independent, non-profit theater that not only brings quality performances to the region, but organizes cultural festivals and opportunities for educational outreach to the community. Not only is there the 349-seat, Elizabeth Wallace Theater, but there is the Walter Greer Gallery that showcases artwork from over 150 local artists, and is a partnership between the Arts Center and the Art League of Hilton Head.


Fill out the short form below to receive more information about activities on Hilton Head Island: