Beaufort Water Festival marks 70th year with ‘Platinum Celebration’; entrance change, limited park space

by Aaron Dixon

BEAUFORT, S.C. (WTOC) - The Beaufort Water Festival is set to kick off its 70th year, a milestone organizers are calling the festival’s Platinum Celebration, with an opening ceremony planned for Friday night.

Organizers say planning for the 70th festival began even before last year’s celebration ended, and crews and volunteers have spent recent days putting the final pieces in place at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

Final preparations underway at Waterfront Park

Festival setup began earlier this week, with crews unloading and assembling the stage that will host multiple musical acts during the 10-day event. Additional work followed, including the installation of fencing, a VIP tent, and electrical hookups throughout parts of the park.

Festival Commodore Dusty Vickers said the week is about finishing touches ahead of the first night.

“Sunny days and friendship waves, man. It’s going to be the reunion of reunions. Everyone’s going to come together, and we are going to have a great time,” Vickers said.

What’s changing this year

Organizers say the festival will look familiar to longtime attendees, but there are a few things to know before heading downtown.

Main entrance relocated

Public Safety Director Chris Hooper said the main entrance has been relocated.

“We will have the main entrance relocated, which will be the entry into the marina, just a few feet down from where it was in previous years,” Hooper said.

The entrance shift is tied to a storm drainage project on Charles Street.

The other entrance near the park will remain open.

Limited space in the park

The promenade area (relieving platform) remains closed due to structural concerns while the city works through repair options. Organizers say that means there will be less space available inside the park.

However, the day dock is back open after previously being closed, reopening just in time for the festival.

Safety, weather planning, and a reminder to hydrate

With thousands expected to attend, Beaufort police will be monitoring the area during the festival.

Organizers also said they’re keeping an eye on weather conditions and have protocols in place if events need to be adjusted.

“We do have a safety protocol when it comes to that, and we make sure that the public stays updated with it,” Hooper said.

Hooper also encouraged festivalgoers to drink plenty of water, even if they’re in the shade or spending time on the water.

“You may think that just because you are in the shade, it’s not going to affect you…but at all times you need to stay hydrated,” he said.

Get there early

Organizers recommend arriving early, especially for popular nights, because parking and walking in downtown Beaufort can be tight.

“We all know parking and walking in downtown Beaufort can be a little tight, so if you plan on coming down, don’t be afraid of coming down a little early,” Vickers said.

Vickers suggested visitors build in extra time to shop and dine downtown before heading into the festival.