After a long season of disconcerting weather trends, the time has finally come to ditch that cumbersome winter coat and don your favorite sunglasses. Spring is in the air! The first of two seasons suited for exciting outdoor festivals and lazy days at the beach is finally upon us. It’s a great time to be on Tybee. The island really springs into action during the warmer months, hosting a surfeit of eclectic events that are sure to get you out of the house and under the sun. Spring spent on Tybee is like a breath of fresh air on a warm sunny day but with the bonus of a beautiful beach. If you want a good bit of fun with your sun this season, mark your calendars for these can’t-miss spring events on Tybee.
Tybee Turtle Trot
Now in its 13th year, the annual Tybee Turtle Trot is an exciting alliance between physical fitness and marine life conservation. Around this time each year, our sea turtle population nests; the Tybee Island Marine Science Center watches over the turtles and their hatchlings in the process. In support of the sea turtle project, you can participate in the Tybee Turtle Trot. Taking place on April 29th from 7 am to noon, the 5K beach run, or walk, commences at the famous Tybee Pier and Pavilion. After the race, stick around for the ceremonial release of a loggerhead sea turtle back into the Atlantic. You can register for the Tybee Turtle Trot here.
Tybee Island Kite Festival
April 30th presents an exciting opportunity for kids and kids-at-heart. The 6th annual Tybee Island Kite Festival kicks off on North Beach at 11 am. Feel free to b.y.o.k. or you can rent a kite from North Beach Bar & Grill for just $10, and they’ll throw in a hearty bowl of gumbo to sweeten the deal. Donations will benefit the Savannah Parkinson Support Group. Enjoy face painting, demonstrations, contests, live music and great family fun.
Tybee Wine Festival
A yearly island favorite, the Tybee Wine Festival is just weeks away. Whether you’re a refined aficionado or a novice looking to develop a proper appreciation, the Tybee Wine Festival is the premier opportunity to experience the beautiful harmony that exists between food and wine. This year’s festival takes place May 4 – 6 at several venues across the island. Expect expert sommeliers, opulent island views, satiable multi-course meals and, of course, beautiful pairings. Get your tickets today!
Tybee Rainbow Fest
Every year, Tybee Island boldly displays its solidarity with the LGBTQ community by hosting the Tybee Rainbow Fest. From May 5 – 7 watch the town burst out in a polychromatic party complete with a parade, the T-Dance, a beach sweep and even Sunday Brunch. No matter where you fall any spectrum, everyone loves a good time. Check out the link for more information about Rainbow Fest 2017.
2017 Tybee Island Tour of Homes
The 20th annual Tybee Island Tour of Homes will take place on Saturday, May 6th from 10am to 4pm. Tickets are currently on sale for $40, which provides admission to eight of the island’s most memorable homes, a parking pass and an appetizing lunch at the Tybee Island Maritime Academy. The annual Tour of Homes affords patrons the unique opportunity to get a true sense of what island life means on Tybee from the myriad perspectives of those who live there. If architecture and interior design are particular interests of yours, you’ll have a great time at the Tour of Homes. Get your tickets before they sell out!
EVP Beach Bum Open Volleyball Tournament
Volleyball fans of every variety can look forward to the 8th annual EVP Beach Bum Open Volleyball Tournament from May 12 -14. Each day from 8:30 am to 6 pm, fans can watch the sport’s best compete on the sand for bragging rights. Fans also have ample opportunity to engage with the athletes in contests and other promos at local island venues. For more information about the Beach Bum Open, visit the link.
SCAD Sand Arts Festival
Although you probably haven’t given it much thought as it yields beneath your feet, sand is one of nature’s most pliable mediums. Each year, talented Savannah College of Art and Design students mold that medium into awe-inspiring marvels. The SCAD Sand Arts Festival will take place Friday, May 12 in its new location on South Beach near the Pier and Pavilion. This event is free and open to the public. Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach watching gifted artists create dramatic art pieces from Tybee’s sandy shores.
Tybee Beach Bum Parade
The biggest bash of the season will take place on Friday, May 19 on Butler Avenue from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. The annual Beach Bum Parade is an all-out water war. Come armed with water balloons, squirt guns and hoses, and prepare to engage as well-stocked floats glide down the street defeating ill-prepared parade goers in an aquatic ambush. The Beach Bum Parade is great fun for the whole family, so don’t miss out!
