Blufftonian

A Lifestyle Guide From the Locals – Bluffton, South Carolina

A Lowcountry Gem in the Fall: Things to Do in Bluffton, SC in November 2025 🍂


November in Bluffton, South Carolina, offers the perfect blend of pleasant, mild weather and a bustling calendar of local events, making it an ideal time to explore this charming Lowcountry town. With average high temperatures around 71°F and lows around 49°F, the crisp, less humid air invites you to enjoy everything from historic walking tours to lively outdoor markets and special holiday kick-off events.

📅 Featured Events in November 2025

The month is packed with community gatherings, highlighting the town’s artistic spirit and deep history.

Weekly Markets & Cultural Happenings

  • Bluffton Farmers Market: A cornerstone of the community, this market takes place every Thursday at Martin Family Park (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM). It’s a wonderful place to find fresh, locally grown produce, regional specialties, baked goods, and local art.
  • The Bridge Collective Market: Also held on Thursdays, this market provides another opportunity to support local vendors and artisans.
  • SOBA (Society of Bluffton Artists) Gallery: Located in the heart of Old Town, the gallery is a co-op featuring the work of over 100 local artists and craftspeople. Look for their Holiday Market happening all month, perfect for unique gift shopping.

Key Dates & Community Celebrations

  • November 2nd: 7th Annual Candy Bounce Back: A family-friendly event at Field of Dreams at Oscar Frazier Park.
  • November 8th: 2nd Annual Under the Ancient Oaks: Held at Martin Family Park, this market and community event celebrates the Lowcountry under the canopy of Bluffton’s iconic live oak trees.
  • November 9th: Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk: A meaningful event supporting a great cause.
  • November 11th: Veterans Day Parade: The Historic District hosts a parade to honor those who have served. Town offices will be closed.
  • November 14th: Bluffton Music Series – Southern Heat: An evening concert at the Buckwalter Place Park Amphitheater.
  • November 16th: Buzzard Day: A unique and quirky Bluffton tradition held at Martin Family Park.
  • November 27th: Historic Bluffton Annual 5K Turkey Chase: Start your Thanksgiving Day with this popular race at Oyster Factory Park.
  • Thanksgiving Holiday (November 27th – 28th): Town offices are closed.

🚶 Immerse Yourself in Old Town Bluffton’s History & Art

The historic district, or “Old Town,” is the heart of Bluffton and is particularly enjoyable in the cooler weather.

  • Explore Calhoun Street: This half-mile stretch is the epicenter of the town’s famous Calhoun Street Art District. Stroll through numerous galleries, including the SOBA Gallery, Pluff Mud Art, and the Filling Station Art Gallery, and boutique shops.
  • Visit Historic Landmarks:
    • The Church of the Cross: A stunning example of Southern Gothic Revival architecture built in 1854, with a magnificent view of the May River.
    • The Heyward House Museum: Built in 1841, this Carolina farmhouse serves as the official welcome center and a museum. Pick up a self-guided walking tour map here to explore other historic sites. Guided tours are also often available.
  • Discover the Shell Art Trail: Follow this fun and interactive public art trail featuring 21 uniquely decorated fiberglass oyster sculptures placed throughout Old Town, which helps to promote the importance of the local marine ecosystem.
  • Bluffton Oyster Company & Park: The Bluffton Oyster Company is the last remaining hand-shucking house in South Carolina. While the facility itself is historic, the nearby Bluffton Oyster Factory Park is a scenic spot on the May River, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the marsh view.

🌳 Experience the Lowcountry Outdoors

November’s mild temperatures are perfect for outdoor exploration without the intense heat and humidity of summer.

  • May River Activities: Take advantage of the pleasant weather with a water excursion. Options include boat, kayaking, and paddleboard tours on the May River, where you can look for Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins and enjoy the scenic marshlands.
  • Walk or Bike a Preserve: Explore the region’s natural beauty by walking or biking the trails at:
    • Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge: Located just a short drive away, this refuge offers miles of trails ideal for hiking, bicycling, and bird watching. November is a fantastic time as various species of water birds and even Bald Eagles become more abundant in the area.
    • Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve/Wildlife Management Area: This preserve provides a quieter escape with trails through a rare pine-saw palmetto flatwoods community.
  • Picnic at Pritchard Pocket Park: Grab a to-go meal from one of the Old Town eateries and enjoy it at this small riverside green space on the end of Prichard Street, offering a lovely view of the May River.

🛍️ Shopping, Dining, and Relaxation

Beyond the main events, Bluffton offers plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining.

  • Retail Therapy: For serious shoppers, the Tanger Outlets Hilton Head (actually two separate centers) are a short drive from Old Town and offer a wide selection of designer and brand-name stores. In Old Town, don’t miss the unique boutiques along Calhoun Street and the specialty items at the Bluffton General Store.
  • Savor Local Cuisine: November is an “R” month, meaning oysters are in season and at their best! Visit the Bluffton Oyster Company for fresh seafood, or dine at the Bluffton Oyster Co.’s Family Seafood House. For a cozy meal, check out the popular Corner Perk for coffee and breakfast, or The Cottage Café for brunch and desserts.
  • Distillery Tour: Stop by Burnt Church Distillery for a tour and tasting of their locally crafted spirits, enjoying the beautiful architecture and history of the facility.

Whether you’re celebrating a holiday with a 5K race, hunting for the perfect piece of local art, or simply soaking up the lovely Lowcountry atmosphere, Bluffton in November 2025 promises a charming and memorable experience.