Hilton Head Island Food and Fireworks Guide 2025
The 4th of July falls on a Friday this year, which means the weekend will kick off with a loud boom of fireworks over Broad Creek and Harbourtown. Firework lovers flock to Hilton Head from all over the Lowcountry for this big night of festivities. Of course, folks will need a good meal on the 4th so today I am sharing island events on the 4th and where to eat nearby!
The biggest July 4th happenings are around Shelter Cove:
Summer Jams at Shelter Cove Towne Center (40 Shelter Cove Lane)
The Island Rec Center is hosting their Summer Jams concert featuring Rock Candy and lots of activities for the whole family. Admission is free, and bounce houses and face painting are available for a fee. Bring your own chair to enjoy this event and the fireworks!
Restaurants close to this party include: Poseidon, Chophouse 119, Jane Bistro, and Tio’s Latin American Kitchen.
HarbourFest at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina (1 Shelter Cove Lane)

The marina is hosting Shannon Tanner with his patriotic family show at both 6:30 and 8PM. Cappy the Clown will be there from 6-9PM with face painting and balloon animals. Bouncy houses and other kiddo activities will be set up for a fee. Coolers are not allowed. A free parking shuttle will be running from Sparklight/HH Community Church (860 William Hilton Parkway) from 5:30-10:30 PM.
Restaurants in Shelter Cove Marina include Scott’s Fish Market, Ela’s on the Water, Top Dawg Tavern & Pizzeria and San Miguel’s Mexican.
Pro Tip: Since the fireworks are shot off from a barge in the middle of Broad Creek, you can view them from the other side of Broad Creek too. The Old Oyster Factory, Fishcamp on Broad Creek and Up the Creek Pub & Grill are all great spots to enjoy a meal and view the fireworks!
Harbourtown Fireworks
Gregg Russell will take the stage under the Liberty Oak from 8-9PM followed by fireworks over the Calibogue Sound. Parking is available in lots along Greenwood Drive and free shuttles will run from 3-11pm.
Restaurants nearby include Crazy Crab, Quarterdeck, CQ’s, Fraser’s Tavern and Links American Grill.
Gotta have BBQ?
Well it is the Fourth of July after all! One Hot Mama’s is ready to help you get your fix at their new location (35 Office Park Rd) or Bullies BBQ has reopened after a short closing this spring. Smokehouse on Palmetto Bay Rd is another popular BBQ joint. Another option that is brand new to the island is Slow Country BBQ & Grill (formerly Forrest Fire BBQ) in Coligny Plaza!
Have a fun and safe 4th of July weekend!
Brooke is a Hilton Head local and shares her best tips for island eats, drinks, events, activities and fun with her @hifromhhi Instagram followers.
# # #
