Hilton Head Crescendo and Annual Lantern Parade

 Photo Credit: Local Life Magazine 

The Hilton Head Island Crescendo is an annual, multi-week celebration of arts, culture, and history on Hilton Head Island, held in October and November to coincide with National Arts and Humanities Month. Now in its 7th year and created by the Town of Hilton Head Island to highlight the culture and talent on the island, it has quickly become a sought-after event for vacationers to Hilton Head and residents alike.  Visiting Hilton Head Island for Crescendo? Be sure to check out our extensive options for vacation rentals on Hilton Head Island for this event and many others. 

Crescendo itself features over 100 programs including visual art exhibitions, historical tours, concerts, theater and concludes with the signature Lantern Parade, showcasing the island’s diverse cultural scene.  Whether you’re are vacationing on Hilton Head Island or live here full or part-time, the Lantern Parade is an incredible scene that is not to be missed!  For all of the Crescendo events line-up, visit their website.

This year’s Lantern Parade lights up the night sky and the Coligny Beach coastline on Saturday, November 22, turning the town into a twinkling festival of color and community.  This annual event has quickly become a beloved fall tradition that celebrates our island’s history, natural beauty, and spirit of togetherness.  It’s an incredible spectacle of community and art not seen elsewhere. 

You’ll see Chantelle Rytter’s stunning lanterns shining alongside hundreds of handmade lanterns created by locals, visitors, school groups, and organizations. The festivities also feature four lively bands: Black Sheep Ensemble, Soda City Band, the United States Marine Corps Dirty Boots Brass Band, and the Atlanta Drum Academy.

“For this parade, we want to see our entire community shine as volumes of light—whether you’re carrying one of the many beautiful lanterns or cheering from the sidelines. It’s all about coming together to enjoy this wonderful event on our beach,” says Natalie Harvey, Director of Cultural Affairs about the vibe. 

Plan your evening with these essentials! 

Time and route

·       The parade lineup starts at 4:45 p.m. at Alder Lane beach access, with step-off at 5:30 p.m., just after sunset.

·       March route: north along South Forest Beach from Alder Lane, exit through the Beach House parking lot, and finish at Lowcountry Celebration Park.

Parking options Several lots will accommodate parade-goers:

·       Coligny Beach Parking Lot

·       Former Wild Wings lot, 72 Pope Avenue

·       Former Aunt Chilada’s lot, 69 Pope Avenue

·       First Baptist Church, 100 S. Forest Beach Dr.

·       St. Luke’s Anglican Church, 50 Pope Avenue

·       USCB Hilton Head Island campus, 1 Sand Shark Dr. A shuttle runs 4:15 p.m.–9:15 p.m. from USCB to the parade and viewing areas. If you’re dropping off a group, please have one designated rider per group on the shuttle. Return shuttles to USCB run until about 9:15 p.m.

Accessibility A portion of the southern Coligny Beach Lot near the tree line (South Forest Beach Drive access) will have reserved handicap parking and viewing spaces. Volunteers will help verify parking hangtags.

Where to watch

·       You can catch the march along the beach anywhere from Alder Lane to the Beach House, or enjoy the finale at Lowcountry Celebration Park.

·       Can’t attend in person? The parade will be livestreamed on the Beaufort County Channel.

Rules for a smooth, joyful night

·       Follow directions from Town staff, Beaufort County Sheriff’s deputies, security, and volunteers.

·       Keep the parade route clear.

·       Children should be accompanied by an adult.

·       Do not walk on dunes.

·       Dogs are welcome on the beach, but they won’t be allowed to walk in the parade for safety.

·       Bicycles are allowed off the parade route only.

·       Pets should be left at home during the march.

·       Flaming or flying lanterns are not permitted.

If you’re marching with a group, let the town of Hilton Head know in advance by emailing oca@hiltonheadislandsc.govwith your group name, number of participants, and a contact email and phone number.

Make it an entire afternoon and evening event! 

Food, fun, and music at Lowcountry Celebration Park From 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., food trucks and beverages will be rolling at Lowcountry Celebration Park. Groove Town Assault will keep the energy up before and after the parade. For even more information, visit culturehhi.org.

Get your lanterns ready and your friends lined up—this is one magical night you won’t want to miss. We hope to see you under the glow!