Golden Isles Fall Events

Fall is one of the most vibrant seasons in the Golden Isles of Georgia, when coastal breezes meet award-winning food, live music, film, and world-class sporting events. From St. Simons Island and Sea Island to Jekyll Island and Historic Brunswick, autumn brings a full calendar of signature festivals and annual traditions worth planning a trip around.

Below is your guide to the top fall events happening each year across the Golden Isles.

Southern Grown Concert Series
When: Labor Day Weekend 2026

Sea Island commemorates the distinct culture of the South during Southern Grown, where history and hospitality entwine. This annual event curated by Garden & Gun consists of an oceanside concern live at the Sea Island Beach Club and a weekend full of activities, celebrating the heritage that makes the South shine. 

A crowd enjoys live music as part of the Southern Grown Festival on Sea Island, Georgia

 

Firebox: BBQ on the Bluff
When: October 2026

The annual Firebox: BBQ on the Bluff brings together the best of St. Simons Island’s food, music, and coastal culture in one unforgettable fall celebration. Held on St. Simons Island, this BBQ invitational showcases an incredible lineup of pitmasters, chefs, farmers, brewers, and distillers serving up a wide variety of barbecue styles, from sweet and tangy to bold, smoky, and spicy. Guests can spend the day sampling local flavors, enjoying live music, and taking in the laid-back island atmosphere along the coast.

Firebox BBQ on the Bluff event

 

Golden Isles Film Festival
When: October 22-25, 2026

The Golden Isles Film Festival highlights independent filmmakers and creative storytelling in the heart of Historic Brunswick. Screenings, panels, and community events take place throughout the weekend, showcasing regional and national talent in an intimate coastal setting.

Golden Isles Film Festival

 

St. Simons Wine Festival
When: October 23-24, 2026

One of the most anticipated fall traditions, the St. Simons Wine Festival brings together curated wine tastings, culinary pairings, and lively entertainment. Guests gather under the oaks at Gascoigne Bluff for an elevated yet relaxed coastal celebration.

St. Simons Wine Festival

 

Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival
When: October 23-24, 2026

A signature culinary event for the Golden Isles, the Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival celebrates the region’s most iconic dish. Guests sample creative interpretations from top chefs while enjoying live music, artisan vendors, and coastal charm at Jekyll Island’s waterfront venue.

Jekyll Island's Shrimp & Grits Festival

 

Georgia-Florida Weekend
When: October 30-November 1, 2026

Known as one of the biggest weekends in the Southeast, Georgia-Florida Weekend transforms the region into a high-energy celebration of college football. Fans gather for tailgating, riverfront festivities, and game-day traditions centered around the iconic rivalry in nearby Jacksonville.

Georgia Florida Weekend

 

Brunswick PorchFest
When: November 2026

Historic Downtown Brunswick comes alive during PorchFest, where front porches become performance stages for local and regional musicians. This walkable music festival creates a laid-back, community-driven atmosphere filled with live entertainment and neighborhood charm.

Live music at Brunswick's PorchFest

 

RSM Classic PGA Tour
When: November 16-22, 2026

Hosted at Sea Island Golf Club, the RSM Classic is a PGA TOUR event that attracts top professional golfers from around the world. Set against the backdrop of coastal marshes and pristine fairways, it blends elite competition with the natural beauty of the Golden Isles.

RSM Classic High Res