Staff reports
A Taste of Beaufort returns to downtown Beaufort on Friday and Saturday, May 1 and 2, 2026, bringing together the region’s best food, local flavor, and community spirit across an expanded lineup in three unique locations.
This year, the City of Beaufort has teamed up with the Cultural District of Beaufort to introduce a refreshed experience featuring new additions organizers hope will enhance the event for locals and visitors, alike.
What’s new for 2026
A Taste of Beaufort continues to evolve, and 2026 introduces several new elements that build on the festival’s legacy:
• Expanded Taste of the Arts Experience – In partnership with the USC Beaufort Center for the Arts, guests can enjoy creative talent from all over the country, adding a vibrant arts component to the weekend.
• Expanded Taste of the Community Experience – In partnership with the Washington Street Park Neighborhood, guests are invited to experience local music, storytelling, and history, bringing Beaufort’s culture and community spirit to life.
• Stronger Local Spotlight – A continued emphasis on local restaurants, chefs, and businesses keeps A Taste of Beaufort rooted in the community it celebrates.
Waterfront Park: The heart of the festival
Set against the backdrop of the Beaufort River, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park once again serves as the central hub of the festival — offering a full lineup of entertainment, activities, and unforgettable views.
Admission is free. All food is exchanged for tickets, which are available for $1 each.
The event runs from 5 to 11 p.m., Friday, May 1 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 2 and features:
• Live music all weekend long – Enjoy performances from Cody Webb, Deas Guyz, Lowcountry Mojo Band, the Parris Island Marine Corps Band, and Corey Tate — music spanning a variety of genres to create the perfect soundtrack for your tasting experience.
• Food vendors – Sample signature dishes from a wide range of local restaurants and food vendors, including Mother Smokin’ Good and Sea Eagle Market. From Lowcountry classics to creative bites, there’s something for every palate.
• Family-friendly activities – Bring the whole crew—interactive activities and open green space make this a welcoming event for all ages.
• Art & artisan vendors – Browse unique goods from local artists and makers, adding a shopping element to your day downtown.
Taste of the Arts at the Center for the Arts
The USCB Center for the Arts will present Taste of the Arts, featuring both an outdoor art market and an indoor juried exhibition—bringing together visual arts, live entertainment, and interactive experiences.
The Outdoor Art Market will be open from 1 to 5 p.m., Friday, May 1 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday May 2 and will feature:
• Outdoor Art Market – Beneath the shade of the Center’s majestic live oak, visitors can stroll through artist tents showcasing original works in acrylic, pastels, oils, photography, wood, jewelry, outdoor water features, handbags, and more.
• Live music & festival atmosphere – Enjoy live music, food trucks, and additional attractions that create a lively, festival-style experience throughout the day.
• Meet the artists – Connect directly with artists and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
• Juried Art Exhibition – The exhibition will feature 73 works by 40 artists from Georgia, North Carolina, California, and South Carolina. More than $2,500 in awards will be presented during the opening reception from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Friday, May 1.
A Taste of Community at Washington Street Park
On Saturday, May 2, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Washington Street Park will host A Taste of Community—a vibrant celebration inspired by the gatherings that once brought the neighborhood together “back in the day.”
Reminiscent of historic traveling variety shows like the Silas Green from New Orleans tent performances, this event highlights local culture, history, and creativity through an engaging, family-friendly experience, featuring:
• Live entertainment & activities – Enjoy a lively lineup of musicians, storytellers, magicians, and interactive fun, including a scavenger hunt, time-period photo booth, dunk tank, and more.
• Community food offerings – Featuring a Sons of Beaufort Lodge No. 36 fish fry, along with hamburgers, hot dogs, cotton candy, popcorn, and a variety of baked goods prepared by local churches and community organizations.
• Student art showcase – A special clothesline art display will feature student artwork from Beaufort Elementary School and Robert Smalls Leadership Academy.
• Historical marker unveiling – Witness the unveiling of the South Carolina historical marker for Washington Street Park (SC-C-963), honoring the site’s cultural significance.
• Local history & tours – Representatives from the National Park Service will share the rich history of the area, with a focus on the Northwest Quadrant and Old Commons neighborhoods. Guided tours of the historic Stokes Cottage, located at 1313 Congress Street, will be offered by Second Founding of America: Reconstruction Era.
A weekend to savor
A Taste of Beaufort isn’t just a food festival — it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the charm that defines downtown Beaufort. For more information, visit atasteofbeaufort.com or follow A Taste of Beaufort on Instagram and Facebook for updates, highlights, and event details.
