Turtlefest 2025 Recap: A Shell-abration of Art, Community, and Conservation

The Edisto community came together on Saturday, May 31st for a fun-filled day of creativity, connection, and conservation at Turtlefest 2025. Hosted by the Edisto Chamber of Commerce and the Edisto Beach State Park, this year’s event celebrated the start of Loggerhead turtle nesting season and the official launch of Year 4 of the Turtle Tide Art Project. What began as a small initiative has grown into one of the most anticipated events of the summer, bringing together local artists, families, visitors, and sea turtle enthusiasts alike.

This year’s Turtlefest was a true celebration of how far the Turtle Tide Art Project has come. Over the last three years, the project has raised $254,000 in support of 17 different non-profits local to Edisto. Excitement was high as the 2025 turtles were revealed to the public for the very first time. As a surprise for this year’s project, three new sculptures were included with the turtles: a dolphin, a deer, and an oyster shell!

Each sculpture, uniquely painted by a talented local artist, reflects the charm, color, and creativity of Edisto. These beautiful animals will be on display across the island throughout the summer before heading to find their forever home at the auction in the fall. Mark your calendars to join us on Saturday, October 11!

Educational booths hosted by the Edisto Beach State Park, the Edisto Beach Loggerhead Turtle Project, and FRESPACE were there sharing information on sea turtle nesting and protection. Additional booths included the Edisto Senior Center, the Edisto Island Open Land Trust, Edisto Beach Volunteer Fire Department, and Charleston Fossil Adventures.

Crafts and Face Painting booths were available for kids and families, and Dem Ravies food truck was there serving up some crowd favorites.

Turtlefest continues to be a perfect blend of fun and purpose — raising awareness for sea turtle conservation and local philanthropic organizations, while also supporting public art and local artists. With great weather, great food, and even better company, this year’s event was one to remember.

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who attended, volunteered, and helped make Turtlefest 2025 such a success. Be sure to look for the turtles around the island this summer. Take your family on a scavenger hunt to find all 10 with our Turtle Tide Guide. Stop by the Edisto Chamber to pick one up or download your own copy.

Introducing this year’s Turtle Tide Sculptures: