Summer Jams
No Admission Fee
The Island Recreation Association is proud to bring you a fun-filled, festive atmosphere with the highlight of the night fireworks which start around 9 pm. Kids of all ages can enjoy inflatable bounce houses and face painting for a minimal fee. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the fireworks!
DJ Jeff “T-Bone” Taylor of 104.9 The Surf and Island Rec Staff will be spinning great tunes all night long!
☀️ Summer Bounce Pass is HERE! 🎉
Enjoy all 12 bounce events this summer at Summer Jams and Party in the Park for just $99. That’s only $8.25 per visit and a $45 savings compared to retail. Even better, if you come to just 8 events, the pass pays for itself. Additional siblings can join the fun for $75 each, making it a great option for families.
Passes can be picked up at any event (Party in the Park or Summer Jams), and check-in is quick and easy with Extreme Firehouse managing the list on-site.
Don’t miss the simplest and best-value way to bounce all summer long! Buy Now
Thank you to our Title Sponsor!
Party in the Park + Car Show
Join us for Party in the Park, a family-friendly happy hour filled with live music, exciting bounce houses, and refreshing beverages at Lowcountry Celebration Park. This free event takes place on select Thursdays, June 11, June 25, July 9, and July 23, from 6 to 8:30 PM. Kids can enjoy bounce houses for a minimal fee, while adults can sip on beverages from Southern Eagle and Coca-Cola, available for purchase. Each evening will feature live music, a car show, and a delicious food truck, ensuring an unforgettable night for all. Don't miss out on this summer celebration!
☀️ Summer Bounce Pass is HERE! 🎉
Enjoy all 12 bounce events this summer at Summer Jams and Party in the Park for just $99. That’s only $8.25 per visit and a $45 savings compared to retail. Even better, if you come to just 8 events, the pass pays for itself. Additional siblings can join the fun for $75 each, making it a great option for families.
Passes can be picked up at any event (Party in the Park or Summer Jams), and check-in is quick and easy with Extreme Firehouse managing the list on-site.
Don’t miss the simplest and best-value way to bounce all summer long! Buy Now
Thank you to our Title Sponsor
World's Largest Swim Lesson
Thursday, June 25, 2026
The 17th Annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ is Coming to
Island Rec Center - Pool
Join us for the 17th Annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (WLSL) – a global event dedicated to water safety and drowning prevention. The WLSL brings together people of all ages and skill levels for a fun, life-saving event that promotes essential water safety skills, empowering individuals to enjoy water activities with confidence and care.
WHEN: Thursday, June 25, 2026 10:00 - 10:45 am This global event spans 24 hours across multiple time zones. Local event times at Island Rec Center Pool. is 10:00 am - 10:45 am
WHO: Island Rec. Center Pool in Hilton Head Island, SC is proud to serve as an official host for this year’s World’s Largest Swimming Lesson.
WHERE: Having served over 6,300 locations across 56 countries, the WLSL is truly a global event. In Hilton Head Island, this fun, life-saving event will be hosted at 20 Wilborn Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC.
WHY: Drowning is a leading cause of preventable death, especially for young children. The WLSL works to raise awareness about the life-saving power of formal swimming lessons and the critical role of water safety education for kids and adults alike. By participating, Hilton Head Island Pool is joining a global movement to spread the message that Swimming Lessons Save Lives™.
About The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™
Since 2010, more than 448,000 children and adults have participated in WLSL lessons on six continents, generating more than 3.3 billion media impressions about the vital importance of water safety and learning to swim. Learn more about how you can get involved at or visit www.WLSL.org.
COMMON QUESTIONS:
Cost of Lesson - $0 Free
Registration - In person on the day. Arrive 10 minutes early to the event to sign the waiver.
Time - 10:00 - 10:45 am
Date - Thursday, June 25 2026
If your child(ren) are under the age of 5, a parent or guardian (18+) must be in the water with them during the lesson.
All swimmers must be in swimming attire - no street clothes permitted.
Swim Instructors will be the lesson and lifeguards will be on deck.
Parents/Guardians must remain present/on deck at all times.
All pool rules applied during the duration of the class.
BACKGROUND
The problem is real: Drowning is fast, silent and preventable. The CDC reports that drowning is the single leading cause of death for children ages 1-4, and the second leading cause for children ages 5-14 following motor vehicle accidents. Worldwide, drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury death, accounting for 7% of all injury-related fatalities (WHO).
For every child that dies from drowning, another 7 to 8 receive emergency department care for non-fatal drowning. Nearly 40% of drownings treated in emergency departments require hospitalization, transfer, or further care (compared with 10%for all unintentional injuries). Outcomes of morbidity include brain damage, other serious outcomes, and long-term disability.
Many lack basic swimming skills: Over 54% of kids in the U.S. (ages 4-17) cannot perform basic water safety skills, putting them at greater risk in and around water (ARC).
Swimming lessons make a difference: Research shows that formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by up to 88% for children ages 1-4.
Appropriate barriers and parental supervision are key: Nearly 70% of drownings of young children occur during non-swim times. Statistics show 88% of child drowning happen with at least one adult present.
Some people have a higher risk of drowning: Drowning affects different communities disproportionately. Boys are far more likely to drown, and children with autism are at significantly higher risk. Rates are also higher among Black and Native American/Alaska Native children compared to their White peers.
Beer Mile
Friday, September 25, 6:00-8:00 pm
Shelter Cove Park
$40 includes 4 beers and shirt
t-shirts not guaranteed for runners who sign up after Sept 12
A cup of draft beer before every lap
Must be over 21 to participate
Starting at the pavilion, running around the large path (by the playground).
Bring a friend and take part in Island Rec Center's 4th Beer Mile! The beer mile is the ultimate feat of athleticism and drinking prowess. Each competitor drinks four cups of beer and runs four laps. Start with drinking a beer, then run a quarter mile, then beer, then quarter mile, then beer, then quarter mile, then beer, then quarter lap - finish. Each competitor must have a designated driver to participate. Additional beer available for purchase at the afterparty. *We can do a gluten free substitution of Truly!
Thank you to our premier sponsor
Accommodations
The Holiday Inn Express Hilton Head Island offers a perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and location. Just a short walk from Coligny Beach and Plaza, and steps from Lowcountry Celebration Park, it’s ideal for beachgoers and families. Guests enjoy free hot breakfast, a resort-style pool, fitness center, and complimentary beach shuttle. Rooms are modern with comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi, and in-room amenities like mini-fridges and microwaves. Pet-friendly and close to shops, dining, and outdoor fun, it’s a great choice for a relaxed, well-rounded Hilton Head stay.
Discounted rates from $129
Cutoff: 9/11 | Booking code: BER
Pumpkin Patch
Free event! Join us for Pumpkin Patch
Have the kids dress up and participate in our Halloween Costume Contest at 5:45pm.
Free bounce houses, pumpkins, and games! Train ride, concessions, rockwall sold separately.
Thank you to our Title Sponsor!
Thank you to our Premier Sponsor!
Turkey Trot 5K
38th Annual
〰️
38th Annual 〰️
Thursday, November 26, 2026 | 8:00 AM
Start your Thanksgiving morning on the right foot at the Island Rec Center’s annual Turkey Trot 5K! This festive run is perfect for families, friends, and runners of all levels. Come dressed in your best turkey attire and enjoy a scenic course, great company, and a little pre-feast fitness. The race begins in the Boathouse parking lot, winds into Hilton Head Plantation and turns around to finish at the start. Make it a tradition, bring your gratitude and your running shoes, and join us for a morning of fun before the feast!
Registration
Open in July
Packet Pickup and Food Donations
Packet Pickup (Wednesday, Nov 25, 10 AM–6 PM at Island Rec Center). We’ll be collecting canned and pantry items for The Deep Well Project at and on race day.
Race Day Parking
Available at Mt. Calvary Church and the Dockside/Hudson’s parking lots. No roadside parking—please follow all parking attendants for everyone’s safety.
FAQs
No pets allowed. Strollers are welcome but must start at the back of the pack.
Thank you to our Title Sponsor!
Thank you to our Supporting Sponsor!
Winter Wonderland
No Admission! Free Bounce Houses, DJ, and Family Fun! Food/Drink and some activities sold separately. Golden Candy Cane Hunt at 5:30pm
Thank you to our Title Sponsor!
Family Fun Day
Outside activities have been cancelled due to rain.
Join us for Family Fun Day at the Island Rec Center presented by May River Mattress and Wexford! Join us May 2nd from 12:00 to 3:00 PM at Island Rec Center (20 Wilborn Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926). This free event is packed with excitement for all ages, featuring bounce houses, snow cones, and popcorn—all at no cost! Enjoy games on our jumbo TV, test your skills on the rock climbing wall, and take part in special programs happening throughout the event. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore our beautiful facility, learn more about the exciting summer programs we offer, and meet our staff. Bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun, adventure, and community!
Thank you to our Title Sponsor!
Paddle The Lowcountry - Free Paddle Day!
Sunday, April 26th
11am-2pm @ the Rowing and Sailing Center
SOLD OUT
Paddle The Lowcountry - Free Paddle Day!
The Island Recreation Center, Outside Foundation, and Bluffton Paddle Club are thrilled to invite the entire Hilton Head community to join us for a FREE paddle day!
Head out to the Rowing and Sailing Center and choose your adventure! Hop in a kayak, test your balance on a stand up paddle board, or experience the thrill of paddling a dragon boat with your neighbors. All watercraft are available to the public completely free of charge, because everyone deserves a chance to enjoy the stunning waters right here in our own backyard.
Whether you've never touched a paddle in your life or you're a seasoned water enthusiast, this day is made for YOU. Come learn about paddling techniques, water safety, and discover the amazing programs offered by our hosting organizations. Bring the kids, bring the family, bring your friends, the more the merrier!
How to Register & What to Expect
Simply fill out our Google Form to register and let us know which equipment you'd like to try out; kayak, stand up paddle board, or dragon boat, so we can be fully prepared for your arrival. A schedule of events, including your designated paddle times, will be sent out to all registered participants the day before the event.
Please note that children 12 and under must paddle accompanied by an adult at all times.
Want to help make this event a success? We'd love your support! Volunteers are also welcome to sign up through the same Google Form.
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to connect with your community, enjoy the great outdoors, and experience the beauty of Hilton Head from the water. We can't wait to see you there!
FREE and open to ALL. No experience necessary. Just bring your excitement and we'll handle the rest!
Hosted by Island Recreation Center, Outside Foundation & Bluffton Paddle Club
Cornhole Tournament
2026 Cornhole for Charity
April 25 | Team Check In 2pm, First Bag Tossed 2:30pm
Lincoln & South Brewing Co.
Benefitting: The Celebration Projects, HHI Recreation Association, SOAR
The Cornhole for Charity is an annual fundraiser to benefit local youth causes and programs. The needs of our local kids are increasing, and we need your help to improve their lives – one kid at a time. Please also consider playing in the tournament or just coming out to support the day of!
Team Registration
Cost: $70 per team
Sponsorship: Presenting
Cost: $500
2 (2-person) team registration
Logo displayed on JumboTron at event; Logo included in Pre-Event Social Media Posts; Table provided for sponsors to distribute marketing materials at event.
Sponsorship: Supporting
Cost: $250
Sponsorship Benefits: 1 (2-person) team registration
Logo displayed on JumboTron at event; Logo included in Pre-Event Social Media Posts.
Sponsors
Easter Eggstravaganza
Join us for a fun-filled Easter Eggstravaganza—a family-friendly celebration packed with excitement and activities for all ages!
🎟️ Free Admission – Everyone is welcome to attend!
🥚 Egg Hunt at 11 AM – Bring your baskets and get ready to search for colorful eggs hidden throughout the event. Keep an eye out for special surprises!
🍔 Food & Drinks – Delicious treats and refreshments will be available for purchase.
🎈 Bounce Houses – Kids can jump and play on inflatables provided by Extreme Firehouse for an extra dose of fun!
🐰 Meet the Easter Bunny – Snap a photo with our favorite fluffy friend as he helps spread Easter cheer.
💛 Giving Back – With the help of the Easter Bunny, Our eggs are lovingly filled by Pockets Full of Sunshine, a local non-profit that provides meaningful employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. Drop your empty eggs off in the donation bins so they can be reused!
Don’t miss this wonderful community event filled with laughter, joy, and Easter magic! 🐣✨
Thank you to our Title Sponsor!
Mother Son Game Night
Join us for an unforgettable evening of fun, food, and games!
📅 Date: February 7th
🕒 Time: 5-7:30pm
📍 Location: Local Legend Brewery (1014 William Hilton Parkway)
🎮 What’s Happening?
Arcade Games: Challenge each other to classic and modern arcade favorites.
Board Games: Gather around for some quality time and friendly competition.
DJ: Dance the night away to great music and football vibes!
Food: light refreshments will be served
🎟️ Tickets: $25/couple, $10/additional child - includes light refreshments
Thank you to our Title Sponsor!
Daddy Daughter Dance
Dance 1: 4:30-6:00
Dance 2: 6:30-8:00
Where: Poseidon Rooftop Bar
Limit of 120 per time-slot
Light refreshments will be served. $25/couple, $10/additional child(ren)
No tickets sold at the door.
Thank you to our Title Sponsor!
Snow Day
This is a family event that will have inflatable rides, a snowfield, and entertainment! For the kids who have never seen snow, this is the perfect event! Credit Cards and Apple Pay accepted, no cash inside the event.
Admission at the door: $10 for ages 2-17, everyone else is free!
