Holiday Season Activities

Want something festive to do to put you into the holiday spirit, that at the same time offers financial and/or moral support to organizations committed to the preservation of cultural heritage in Beaufort County? Visit a local cultural heritage institution, take a local holiday tour, or dance beneath the stars!

Friday is Beaufort's "Night on the Town." The Beaufort Branch Library will be open extended hours. Entertainment will be provided by Amanda Brewer, the "singing librarian" and Dennis Adams, who remains the Library's Information Services Coordinator. (I heard them practicing earlier today. I promise that you will enjoy the bluesy renditions of favorite holiday songs.)

This Saturday, Dec. 4th, the Beaufort County Historical Society is holding its 2nd Annual Tour of Churches from 10 am - 4 pm. This year there are 6 churches on tour, special performances, and even the opportunity for lunch. Fee for the tour; optional lunch is an additional $10 (RSVP to Louise Williams 525-6799 or 986-8759 about the lunch). Tour tickets are available at the participating Churches, LuLu Burgess on Bay St, or by contacting Pamela Ovens or call 843-785-2767.

Bluffton Historical Preservation Society is hosting a Victorian Christmas Party in the Colcock-Teel House on Friday December 10th from 6:30 pm -10 pm. Fee includes party and a 2011 BHPS membership. The house will be decorated for viewing. Dinner and dancing will be held in the live oak grove across the street (under a tent with outdoor heaters). More information: Maureen Richards, Bluffton Historical Preservation Society 843.757.6293 - Heyward House 843.304.2737 - cell; 843.706.2938 - fax; www.heywardhouse.org

A slightly different approach is being taken by Historic Beaufort Foundation. HBF is hosting a Leighton & Co. Jewelry Trunk Show, Thursday, December 9, 11 am -5 pm at the Verdier House on 801 Bay Street. A portion of all sales will be donated to Historic Beaufort Foundation. Shop for friends and family or even yourself while supporting HBF. Details: Maxine Lutz 843-379-3331 or visit www.historicbeaufort.org online.

Although the "Tabby Tour" on our website isn't part of any specific holiday festivities, should you want to take a "no-cost" approach while entertaining your guests who have interests in archaeology, architecture, or cultural heritage tourism in general, you can print-out our "Tabby" article and the self-guided tour map designed by Ian deNeeve, and have a grand time looking at the tabby ruins around downtown Beaufort.

Another "freebie but goodie" is the Parris Island Museum. Take your guests (or yourself) to see the Santa Elena exhibit or to learn more about the history of the Marine Corps. There's a self-guided "Iron Mike" tour map available on the web.

Coastal Discovery Museum's "Grass Roots" exhibit leaves January 11th so there's still time to catch it. If you go on Dec. 6th, you can attend the 3rd Annual Lowcountry Holiday Market.

Penn Center has programs and exhibits that locals and visitors can enjoy regardless of season.

Enjoy!