This Independence Day week, Beaufort County is inviting residents and visitors alike to step back in time as part of the statewide SC250 celebration commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun family outing, there are all kinds of opportunities to experience Beaufort’s rich Revolutionary history.
If you haven’t started yet, there’s still time to take part in the free “Revealing the Revolution” Scavenger Hunt. Pick up the brochure at any Beaufort County Library branch or download one online, then visit Revolutionary-era historical markers throughout Beaufort County. Find five markers to earn a commemorative car sticker, ten markers to receive a commemorative coin, or complete all fifteen for a chance to win the grand prize.
Wednesday, July 1 is packed with special events featuring living history interpreter Greg Robin Smith as Benjamin Franklin. The day begins at 10:00 a.m. with “Liberty & Legacy” at the Beaufort Branch Library, where families can meet “Ben” through an interactive presentation filled with stories, humor, and history. Admission is free.
At 2:00 p.m., head to Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park for “Putting Down the Roots of Liberty,” a free community celebration featuring a living history presentation and the ceremonial planting of a descendant of the historic Liberty Tree, a powerful symbol of the American Revolution.
Later that afternoon, at 4:00 p.m., Ben Franklin comes alive again during a free performance at the USCB Center for the Arts, followed by “A Dialog Across Centuries” at 6:15 p.m. in the Parish Hall of St. Helena Anglican Church, where “Benjamin Franklin” joins historians Dr. John McCardell and Dr. Larry Rowland for a lively discussion about the Revolution.
The party continues on Friday, July 3, with “First Friday: Red, White & Beaufort” from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. in downtown Beaufort. Hosted by Main Street Beaufort, this free community celebration features live music throughout downtown, inflatable games and family activities, rides on the little train, visits with furry friends, a cake walk, and even a hot dog eating contest. It’s the perfect excuse to stroll Bay Street, browse local shops and galleries, enjoy dinner at one of downtown’s restaurants, and kick off the holiday weekend with a little hometown spirit.
Of course, the biggest celebrations take place on Saturday, July 4. The day begins with the “Community Freedom Fest” at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., featuring live entertainment, family activities, food vendors, and patriotic fun along the waterfront.
At 1:00 p.m., make your way to Hunting Island, Fripp Island, or another Beaufort County beach for “Salute from the Shore,” an official SC250 event and one of South Carolina’s most beloved Independence Day traditions. Watch military aircraft, including F-16s, Apache helicopters, and vintage Warbirds, soar along the coastline in a moving tribute to the men and women of our armed forces.
Then wrap up the holiday at The Sands in Port Royal, where the annual Fourth of July Celebration begins at 4:00 p.m. Enjoy live music, food trucks, family activities, and an unforgettable fireworks display over the Beaufort River at approximately 9:15 p.m. It’s the perfect finale to a week of celebrating America’s 250th birthday right here in Beaufort County.
For a complete schedule of SC250 events taking place throughout Beaufort County, visit www.beaufort250.com, and discover how America’s story unfolded right here in the Lowcountry.
An ExploreBeaufortSC.com contributor, Heather Bruemmer is an author, arts advocate, and travel enthusiast who has called the Lowcountry home since 2001. A mother of six, she enjoys exploring the people, places, food, and culture that make the region unique.
