What’s Happening This October? 2026 Events Across Coastal Georgia & the Lowcountry
events September 29, 2026
events September 29, 2026
October is one of the most enjoyable times of year to experience life along Coastal Georgia and the South Carolina Lowcountry. As temperatures begin to cool down, communities from Savannah to Hilton Head come alive with fall festivals, seafood celebrations, live music, arts and crafts, family-friendly activities, historic events and plenty of opportunities to get outside.
Whether you're a longtime local, new to the area, visiting for the weekend or simply looking for something fun to do close to home, October 2026 offers a full calendar of events across the coast.
From Savannah and Pooler to Richmond Hill, Effingham County, Tybee Island, the Golden Isles, Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort, Brunswick and Daufuskie Island, there is something happening almost every weekend.
At The Trisha Cook Team, we believe that getting to know an area means more than knowing its neighborhoods and homes. It's also about understanding the communities, local traditions, restaurants, events and lifestyle that make Coastal Georgia and the Lowcountry such special places to live.
Here are some of the events to put on your October 2026 calendar.
When: Oct 3 | 7:30 – 9:30 PM
Where: The Lucas Theatre for the Arts
A weekend of classical music in one of Savannah's most iconic historic settings.
More Information: https://savannahphilharmonic.org/2026-2027-season/
When: Oct 3 | 1:00 – 6:00 PM
Where: Riverfront Lot at Eastern Wharf
Head to Eastern Wharf for an afternoon of local and regional food trucks, live music and waterfront fun.
More Information: https://theparkateasternwharf.com/food-truck-festival
When: Oct 3 – 11
Where: Plant Riverside District
Savannah's main riverfront Bavarian-style celebration, returning for the first two weekends of October.
More Information: https://www.savannah.com/events/event/savannah-oktoberfest/
When: Oct 8 – 10 | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Where: Hellenic Community Center
The annual festival celebrates Greek food, culture and community with traditional dishes, music, dancing, tours and a marketplace.
More Information: https://www.savannahgreekfest.com/
When: Oct 10 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Where: Plant Riverside District
Get ready for the most adorable race of the season! Come cheer on these energetic dachshunds as they sprint to the finish line in a fun event for all ages!
More Information: https://www.plantriverside.com/event/oktoberfest-savannah-wiener-dog-races/
When: Oct 24 – 31
Where: Trustees Theater and Lucas Theatre for the Arts
Film lovers can experience one of Savannah's signature cultural events as the SCAD Savannah Film Festival brings filmmakers, actors and film programming to venues throughout the city.
More Information: https://www.scad.edu/event/2026-10-24-welcome-film-s-finest-fall-2026-scad-savannah-film-festival
When: Oct 24 | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Where: Bluff Drive
The Isle of Hope community hosts its annual art and music festival featuring local artisans, food trucks and live entertainment.
More Information: https://www.plantriverside.com/event/oktoberfest-savannah-wiener-dog-races/
When: Oct 24 – 25 | Noon to 5:00 PM
Where: Pulaski Square or Starland Yard
Bring the whole family—and your pup! Join us for a massive, costume-filled trick-or-treating fundraiser where humans and dogs alike dress up for a great cause.
More Information: https://www.wagoween.org/
When: Oct 3 | Every Saturday & Sunday
Where: 580 Ralph Rahn Road – Rincon
Enjoy the ultimate autumn experience! Pick your perfect pumpkin straight from the vine, hop on a hayride, explore the corn maze, and dive into tons of fall fun!
More Information: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BtzMKNwH7/
When: Oct 15 – 24 | Daily starting at 5:00 PM
Where: Effingham County Fair Grounds – 409 Zoller Dr, Springfield
Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom & Farming! Join the fun with traditional fair treats, carnival rides, games, and creative local exhibit booths.
More Information: https://effinghamfair.org/
When: Oct 10 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: Guyton Walking Trail – 310 Central Blvd
The event brings food, crafts and vendors to the Guyton Walking Trail.
More Information: https://cityofguyton.com/fall-sale-along-the-trail
When: Oct 17 at 10:00 AM | Oct 18 at 5:00 PM
Where: New Ebenezer Retreat Center – Rincon
Enjoy a children's Treat Trail, a pumpkin patch, seasonal photo spots, and live music performances.
More Information: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FHoZEvJWo/
When: Oct 17 | 8:00 AM
Where: Guyton Gymnasium
An annual community event to raise breast cancer awareness, promote regional wellness, celebrate strength, and support local patient services and early detection initiatives.
More Information: https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/Guyton/EHSBreastCancer5k
When: Oct 8 – 11
Where: Tybee Pier & Pavilion
One of the signature fall events on the Georgia coast, with pirate-themed activities and entertainment throughout the island.
More Information: https://www.tybeepiratefest.com/
When: Oct 25 | 12:00 – 6:00 PM
Where: Huc-A-Poo's Bites & Booze
Tybee Island's only bluegrass festival features live bluegrass music in a casual, boots-on, island-style atmosphere.
More Information: https://www.tybeeisland.com/event/poograss-festival-2026/
When: Oct 2 | 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Where: Downtown Brunswick
It takes place every month on the first Friday festival featuring live music, food trucks, and local shopping.
More Information: https://www.goldenisles.com/event/first-friday-in-historic-downtown-brunswick/111261/
When: Oct 16 – 18
Where: Jekyll Island Tennis Center
Level 4 Open tournament featuring 55 draws across singles and doubles for men, women, and mixed categories.
More Information: https://www.goldenislestennis.com/usta-tournaments
When: Oct 22, 6:00 – 9:00 PM | Oct 23, 5:30 – 8:00 PM | Oct 24, 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Where: Frederica Golf Club, The King and Prince Golf & Beach Resort & The McKinnon-St. Simons Island Airport
The festival combines wine, food, live entertainment and coastal scenery during a three-day celebration supporting arts and education in the Golden Isles.
More Information: https://ssiwinefestival.com/
When: Oct 23, 4:00 – 9:00 PM | Oct 24, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Where: Historic District of Jekyll Island
One of the coast's most anticipated food festivals returns to Jekyll Island's Historic District. Expect shrimp and grits creations, food vendors, live music, an artists market and family-friendly entertainment.
More Information: https://www.jekyllisland.com/signature-events/shrimp-grits-festival/
When: Oct 3 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: JF Gregory Park
Pumpkins, mums, kids' games, and face painting are all back! Plus, along with all our usual pumpkin-themed favorites, we’re excited to offer a selection of house plants this year.
More Information: https://livingrichmondhillga.com/event/annual-pumpkin-patch/
When: Oct 3 | 6:30 – 9:30 PM
Where: Fort McAllister State Park
Step back in time on an entertaining 30-minute candlelit guided tour, continuing a tradition that began in 1979.
More Information: https://livingrichmondhillga.com/event/47th-candle-lantern-tour/
When: Oct 17 | 7:00 – 10:00 PM
Where: Fort McAllister State Park
The event features live actors, intense jump scares, flashing lights, low lighting, and uneven terrain.
More Information: https://livingrichmondhillga.com/event/haunted-trail-2/
When: Oct 24 | 6:00 – 8:30 PM
Where: Fort McAllister State Park
Celebrity impersonators, a dedicated Kids Zone complete with bounce houses, a wide selection of local craft vendors, multiple raffles, and trophy prizes.
More Information: https://livingrichmondhillga.com/event/the-haunting-of-savage-island-3/
When: Oct 24 | 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Tanger Outlets Savannah
A dedicated Dukes of Hazzard replica vehicle display, Movie & TV Car Row, and various celebrity impersonators.
More Information: https://autoshowlist.com/events/the-big-bash-fall-festival-and-car-show-pooler-2026-10-24
When: Oct 9 – 18 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where: Old Town Bluffton
This 22-year tradition celebrates the region's coastal culture, history, local seafood, and art through a 10-day lineup of activities. The festival includes a variety of events throughout the 10-day celebration.
More Information: https://blufftonartsandseafoodfestival.org/
When: Oct 11 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Martin Family Park
Discover extraordinary handcrafted local artwork, from original oil and acrylic paintings to unique pottery and so much more.
More Information: https://blufftonartsandseafoodfestival.org/event/art-in-the-park/
When: Oct 11 | 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Where: Oyster Factory Park
Join us in loving memory of George Adam Simoneaux as we kick off the season! Enjoy our first oyster roast of the year, along with a shrimp boil, BBQ, live music by Crosstown Traffic, and a spectacular drone show.
More Information: https://blufftonartsandseafoodfestival.org/event/oyster-fest/
When: Daily
Where: Historic Old Town Bluffton
Take a stroll through one of the most charming destinations in the Lowcountry. Explore local boutiques, art galleries, waterfront parks, restaurants, and scenic views of the May River while experiencing the laid-back atmosphere that makes Bluffton so popular with residents and visitors alike.
More Information: https://www.visitbluffton.org/
When: Oct 3 | 12:00 – 6:00 PM
Where: Lowcountry Celebration Park
Celebrates the rich heritage of the Gullah Geechee people that features live musical performances (spanning genres like jazz, blues, R&B, and soul), regional food trucks, local culinary guests (such as Chef BJ Dennis), and artisan market vendors.
More Information: https://www.hiltonheadisland.org/events/fish-and-grits-music-festival-2026
When: Oct 1, 8 & 15| 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Where: Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
An outdoor, pet-friendly live music series featuring popular local bands, dancing under the stars, and food and drink options from harbor restaurants.
More Information: https://tinyurl.com/2wykzjek
When: Oct 17 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: 12 Georgianna Drive
Celebrate the foodways, traditions, music, storytelling, and rich cultural heritage of the Lowcountry's Gullah community. Enjoy authentic local dishes and live cultural demonstrations.
More Information: https://www.hiltonheadisland.org/events/gullah-food-festival
When: Oct 24 | 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Where: Lincoln and South Brewery
Approximately 20 local vendors showcasing creative twists on the classic dish, including smoky BBQ blends, spicy kicks, crispy toppings, and gourmet surprises.
More Information: https://www.hiltonheadmacfest.com/
When: Oct 2, Opens at 5:00 PM | Oct 3, Opens at 11:00 AM
Where: Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
Experience the 32nd Annual Beaufort Shrimp Festival, featuring fresh-caught local shrimp and exceptional dishes prepared by the region's leading culinary talent.
More Information: https://beaufortshrimpfestival.com/
When: Oct 9 at 4:00 – 9:00 PM |Oct 10 & 11, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Where: Habersham Marketplace
The Habersham Harvest Festival brings a fall street fair atmosphere to the Habersham Marketplace with food, artisans, live entertainment, carnival rides and family activities.
More Information: https://habershamharvestfestival.com/
When: Oct 16 – 18
Where: Downtown Beaufort
Explore the National Historic Landmark District with exclusive walking tours of private historic homes, gardens, and churches across this multi-day event!
More Information: https://historicbeaufort.org/event/2026-fall-festival-of-houses-gardens/
When: Daily
Where: Downtown Beaufort
Named one of America's most charming small towns, Beaufort offers historic architecture, waterfront parks, unique shopping, excellent restaurants, and countless opportunities to experience the Lowcountry lifestyle.
More Information: https://www.visitbeaufortsc.org/
When: Oct 26 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Daufuskie Island Distillery
Bring your competitive spirit, make great memories, and give back to the Daufuskie community. Have fun and leave a meaningful mark!
More Information: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18yQC4kG8G/
When: Weekend and Mid-week | 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Where: The Old Daufuskie Crab Company
Live acoustic and blues musicians take the stage throughout the week and on weekends at The Old Daufuskie Crab Co.
More Information: https://www.facebook.com/OldDaufuskieCrabCompany
When: Daily by Reservation
Where: Daufuskie Island
Experience one of the most unique adventures in the Lowcountry with guided horseback rides through maritime forests, secluded trails, and beautiful coastal landscapes. Tours are customized to individual experience levels and provide an unforgettable way to explore the island.
More Information: https://www.daufuskietrailrides.com/
When: Daily
Where: Daufuskie Island
Accessible only by boat, Daufuskie Island offers a glimpse into a quieter way of life. Visitors can explore historic landmarks, local art galleries, pristine beaches, golf cart trails, maritime forests, and cultural sites that tell the story of one of the most unique communities in the Southeast.
More Information: https://www.discoverdaufuskieisland.com/
The Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival includes special excursions to Daufuskie Island focused on the island's history and local artisans. These excursions require reservations.
For anyone looking for an authentic Lowcountry experience beyond the mainland, Daufuskie offers a chance to slow down and experience a very different side of the region.
More Information: https://www.outsidesav.com/activity/private-daufuskie-island-history-artisans-tour/
West Chatham YMCA & CMOP Trunk-or-Treat
Date & Time: October 17, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: YMCA of Coastal Georgia - West Chatham Branch
Nine Line Headquarters Trunk or Treat
Date & Time: Saturday, October 17, starting at 5:00 PM
Where: Black Rifle Coffee Company Cafe / Nine Line site
Savannah Martial Arts
Date & Time: Saturday, October 17, from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: 12419 White Bluff Rd, Savannah
Trunk or Treat & Spooktacular Stroll
Date & Time: Saturday, October 24, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Stroll starts earlier at 4:00 PM)
Where: Freedom Park – Rincon
Effingham Combat Academy Martial Arts Trunk or Treat
Date & Time: Saturday, October 17 at 5:00 PM
Where: Effingham Combat Academy
Howl-O-Ween Yappy Hour!
Date & Time: Thursday, October 22, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Fish Tales – Richmond Hill
Trick or Trail
Date & Time: Saturday, October 24, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: Guyton Walking Trail
Trunk or Treat at Pooler Karate
Date & Time: Saturday, October 24, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Where: Pooler Karate, Krav Maga, & Jiu-Jitsu
Trunk or Treat at Savannah Impact Program
Date & Time: Thursday, October 29, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Where: 2005 Water Avenue – Savannah
One of the things that make this region so appealing is the variety of lifestyles found within a relatively close geographic area.
You can spend a morning exploring historic Savannah, enjoy lunch in Pooler, head south toward Richmond Hill or the Golden Isles, or cross into South Carolina for an afternoon in Bluffton or Hilton Head Island.
October adds another layer to that experience.
The weather is becoming more comfortable for outdoor activities, fall festivals fill community calendars, and many of the area's signature food, art and cultural events take place during this season.
For residents, these events are more than things to do on a calendar. They are opportunities to discover neighborhoods, meet local businesses, experience community traditions and find the places that feel like home.
At The Trisha Cook Team, we know that choosing a home is also about choosing a lifestyle.
Whether you're interested in Savannah real estate, Pooler homes, Richmond Hill communities, homes in Effingham County, Tybee Island properties, the Golden Isles, Hilton Head Island, Bluffton or Beaufort, understanding the surrounding community can be just as important as understanding the property itself.
From waterfront living and historic neighborhoods to golf communities, new construction, family-friendly suburbs and coastal retreats, the Coastal Georgia and Lowcountry region offers a wide range of ways to live.
If you're considering making a move to the area, exploring local events can be a great first step toward getting to know the communities you may eventually call home.
The Trisha Cook Team is proud to serve buyers and sellers throughout Coastal Georgia and the Lowcountry, helping clients discover not only the right property, but the right community for their lifestyle.
Whether your ideal October weekend involves live music, seafood, local art, football, historic homes, a farmers market, Halloween activities or simply enjoying the cooler coastal weather, there is no shortage of ways to experience the region.
From Savannah to Pooler, Richmond Hill to Effingham County, Tybee Island to the Golden Isles, and Hilton Head, Bluffton, Beaufort and Daufuskie Island, October 2026 is filled with opportunities to get out and experience what makes the Lowcountry so special.
And if you're exploring the area because you're thinking about making Coastal Georgia or the Lowcountry your home, The Trisha Cook Team is here to help you get to know the communities, neighborhoods and lifestyles that make this region unique.
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