Hilton Head Island Jam
A free September songwriter festival: original songs, told in the round, at stages across the island.
- When: September each year; the dates for the next Jam are posted on the official site once announced
- Where: Stages across the island, from Lowcountry Celebration Park to bars, breweries and restaurants
- Tickets: Free
- Hosted by: Hilton Head Island Jam
- Partner: The Town of Hilton Head Island partners with the festival
The Hilton Head Island Jam, often just called the Jam, is a free songwriter festival held each September. Country and pop songwriters play their own songs in the round, up close, at stages around the island. The festival's own figures for 2026 were more than 30 songwriters, nine stages and over 6,000 festival-goers.
The 2027 dates have not been announced yet; the festival says it will be back next September. The official site takes email sign-ups for dates and line-up. Between Jams, the live music guide covers where to hear music on the island.
How the Jam works
Songwriters swap songs
Writers sit together and take turns playing original songs, often with the story behind each one.
No ticket needed
The festival is free to attend.
Pick a stage, or wander
The 2026 festival used nine stages, so you can settle in or move around between sets.
Where the music was in 2026
The stages change, so check the official schedule once it is published. In 2026 they included Lowcountry Celebration Park, the Beach House, Big Bamboo, Lincoln + South Brewery, the Liberty Oak, FISH, The Jazz Corner, Pour & Proper and Slow Country BBQ & Grill.
A stage at Coligny Plaza.
A brewery stage.
A stage in 2026.
More music and events
What is on across the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Hilton Head Island Jam?
It is held each September. The 2027 dates have not been announced yet; the official site takes email sign-ups for them.
Is the Hilton Head Island Jam free?
Yes. The festival is free to attend.
What kind of music is it?
Original songs from country and pop songwriters, played in the round in small, close settings.
Where is the Jam held?
At stages around the island. In 2026 there were nine, including Lowcountry Celebration Park, Big Bamboo, Lincoln + South Brewery and The Jazz Corner.
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