Are you looking to start a new holiday tradition? Or maybe you just want a change of scenery this season? No matter your reason for planning a fall getaway, a Hilton Head Thanksgiving is the perfect answer. With festive events, outdoor activities, and plenty of ways to celebrate together, the island makes it easy to enjoy the holiday in a fresh way. To make sure you have all the details you need for your upcoming visit, we’ve curated a list of our top to-dos. Check them out and get ready for an incredible holiday trip to the beach!
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Hilton Head Thanksgiving Festivities
At Beach Properties of Hilton Head, we love helping guests make the most of their holiday visits. Here’s a look at events, activities, dining options, and ways to enjoy Thanksgiving in Hilton Head this year.
Hilton Head Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 27, 2025 | 8 AM
Start your holiday on the right foot at the Island Rec Center’s annual Turkey Trot Hilton Head Island 5K! This festive run is perfect for families, friends, and runners of all levels. Come dressed in your best turkey attire and enjoy a scenic course that begins in the Boathouse parking lot, winds through Hilton Head Plantation, and finishes right back at the start.
- Registration: $40 includes race shirt, medal, and entry to the afterparty (increases to $50 on Nov 1). No refunds.
- Packet Pickup: Wednesday, Nov 26, 10 AM–6 PM at Island Rec Center. Food donations for The Deep Well Project will also be collected.
- Parking: Available at Mt. Calvary Church and the Dockside/Hudson’s lots. No roadside parking.
- Rules: No pets; strollers are welcome but must line up at the back.
Make this HHI Turkey Trot part of your Thanksgiving tradition and burn a few calories before the big feast!
More Thanksgiving Events and Activities
Sea Pines Wagon Rides
Nov 24–29, 2025 | 3 PM
Take in the fall colors of the Sea Pines Forest Preserve on a guided wagon ride. Tickets are $22/adult and $18/child.
Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt
Nov 27, 2025 | 9 AM | Harbour Town
Gather the family and solve clues that lead you across Sea Pines by bike or car. $35 per family.
Annual Fishing Tournament
Nov 28, 2025 | 10–11:30 AM | Fish Island
Try your luck fishing for bass, bream, and catfish at Fish Island in the Forest Preserve. $15/person or $22 with pole rental.
Gregg Russell Thanksgiving Concert & Tree Lighting
Nov 28, 2025 | 7:30 PM | Liberty Oak in Harbour Town
A beloved Hilton Head holiday tradition! Enjoy Gregg Russell’s family concert, followed by the official lighting of the Harbour Town Christmas tree. Santa will also stop by from 5:30 PM to 7 PM.
Caramel Apple Festival
Nov 29, 2025 | 1–3 PM | Heritage Farms
Head to Heritage Farm for a sweet afternoon of fall fun. Enjoy caramel apples, family games, a bounce house, and more seasonal activities. You can purchase individual apples for $6 apiece, or buy an all-inclusive pass for $18 that includes apples, face painting, and access to the bounce house.
Harbour Town Holiday Lights
Beginning the Friday after Thanksgiving, Harbour Town glows with colorful light displays. It’s the perfect evening stroll after a day of celebrating.
Thanksgiving Dinner on Hilton Head Island
While your Beach Properties vacation rental comes with a fully equipped kitchen, you may want to let someone else handle the holiday cooking. Fortunately, there are excellent Hilton Head Island Thanksgiving dinner options. Many restaurants offer special menus, from traditional turkey with all the fixings to coastal-inspired dishes.
Some top choices include:
Reservations are highly recommended as Hilton Head Thanksgiving dinner spots fill quickly.
Check out more Thanksgiving menus from top Hilton Head restaurants.
Shopping Experiences
For many, Thanksgiving weekend marks the beginning of the holiday season. For those who love to get a head start on holiday shopping, Hilton Head Island has you covered:
- Santa and Shopping Day: The day after Thanksgiving, head to Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina. Enjoy special deals at harbor shops and restaurants, then watch Santa arrive by firetruck at the Neptune Statue.
- Gallery of Gifts: From mid-November through the holiday season, visit the Hilton Head Art League Gallery's Gallery of Gifts. This market showcases handmade gifts and one-of-a-kind decor created by local artists – perfect for finding unique holiday presents.
- Black Friday Deals: Many local shops and boutiques participate in Black Friday sales. It's a great opportunity to find island treasures at bargain prices.
Your Home Away from Home for Thanksgiving
Featured Property: 9 Laural Lane - Gorgeous dining area for Thanksgiving dinner overlooking the water
Make your Hilton Head Thanksgiving unforgettable with a stay in one of our Beach Properties vacation rentals. From oceanfront homes with room for the whole family to cozy villas perfect for a couple’s getaway, you’ll find the ideal space to gather and celebrate. Many homes feature fully equipped kitchens for your holiday feasts, hot tubs for after-dinner relaxation, and easy beach access for leisurely strolls when the day is done. Plus, shoulder season rates mean your trip will be even more affordable than peak summer stays.
Make this Thanksgiving on Hilton Head Island one to remember when you book directly with Beach Properties. Our local team is ready to help you secure your stay.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Hilton Head Thanksgiving
Is Thanksgiving a good time to visit Hilton Head?
Yes! Thanksgiving in Hilton Head is a wonderful time to visit. The island has mild weather, fewer crowds than summer, and plenty of seasonal events and dining options. It’s a great mix of relaxation and celebration.
What is the weather like in Hilton Head on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving weather on Hilton Head Island is typically mild, with highs between 60 and 70 degrees and lows in the 50s. It’s comfortable for outdoor activities like the Turkey Trot, wagon rides, or strolling Harbour Town’s holiday lights. Just be sure to pack layers.