SHIPS OF THE SEA MARITIME MUSEUM
LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC WILLIAM SCARBROUGH HOUSE AND GARDENS
MUSEUM EVENTS 2026
UPCOMING EVENTS 2026
APRIL 2026
(FULL) MOON (MAY) RIVER CRUISE
April 30, 2026
6PM - 7:30PM
The Grace Dock, Palmetto Bluff
Bluffton, SC 29910
Step aboard The Grace for a magical sunset cruise along the May River under the glow of the full moon.
Enjoy champagne, light bites, and sweeping Lowcountry views while Executive Director Molly Carrott Taylor shares stories of Savannah’s rich maritime heritage.
This intimate evening on the water is a special fundraiser benefiting Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum. Seating is limited.
MAY 2026
DRAWN
TO THE SEA
May 1 , 2026
Drawn to the Sea: Maritime Stories from Savannah opens May 1, 2026 at Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum. This exhibition features four sequential artists who bring maritime history to life through original comic storytelling inspired by ship models in the museum’s historic ballroom.
COMIC CURRENTS
May 17 , 2026
1-5PM
Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum
Join us for Comic Currents, a special event inspired by Drawn to the Sea, our newest exhibition celebrating sequential artists and the epic voyages of historic ships from our ballroom gallery.
Throughout the afternoon, visitors can explore a vibrant gathering of comic and zine artists, meet creators, browse independent publications, and discover how storytelling and illustration bring maritime history to life. Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a hands-on zine-making station and create their own comics inspired by ships, adventures, and the sea.
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon in the museum and gardens, connect with local artists, and experience the imaginative world of comics alongside the historic vessels that inspired them.
More coming soon.....
JUNE 2026
AFTER DARK
HOUSE PARTY
June 19, 2026
Explore the museum after hours, enjoy signature cocktails, live DJ sets in the Assembly Room, and atmospheric lighting throughout the mansion. This event transforms the museum into an immersive nighttime experience—perfect for date nights, friend groups, and anyone looking for a creatively charged night out.
JULY 2026
FAMILY DAY PICNIC
250TH AMERICAN ANNIVERSARY
July 3 , 2026
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a festive Family Day in our refreshing gardens!
Join us on July 3rd for a patriotic picnic filled with food trucks, fun games, hands-on crafts, and creative activities inspired by America’s favorite summer holiday. Families can enjoy classic lawn games, art stations, sidewalk chalk, and maritime-themed crafts that connect America’s story to our nation’s early seafaring history.
Bring a blanket, explore the museum galleries, enjoy the sunshine, and kick off Independence Day weekend with community, creativity, and summertime fun.
More coming soon.....
AFTER DARK
HOUSE PARTY
July 17, 2026
Explore the museum after hours, enjoy signature cocktails, live DJ sets in the Assembly Room, and atmospheric lighting throughout the mansion. This event transforms the museum into an immersive nighttime experience—perfect for date nights, friend groups, and anyone looking for a creatively charged night out.
AUGUST 2026
AFTER DARK
HOUSE PARTY
August 21, 2026
Explore the museum after hours, enjoy signature cocktails, live DJ sets in the Assembly Room, and atmospheric lighting throughout the mansion. This event transforms the museum into an immersive nighttime experience—perfect for date nights, friend groups, and anyone looking for a creatively charged night out.
SEPTEMBER 2026
FAMILY DAY
September 13 , 2026
Celebrate Grandparents Day with a special Family Day that honors the generations who inspire us, guide us, and shape our stories.
Families are invited to enjoy hands-on crafts, art stations, chalk, and maritime-inspired activities set up throughout our gardens. This themed Family Day is designed for grandparents and grandchildren to explore creativity side-by-side, celebrating the legacy they build together through shared experiences and memories.
Enjoy activities at your own pace, explore the museum, wander the gardens, and take home artwork made as a family. It’s a joyful afternoon dedicated to connection across generations.
More coming soon.....
OCTOBER 2026
MICHAEL GIBSON
FIRST TRIM
October 19-22 , 2026
Join us as celebrated topiary artist Michael Gibson performs the first official trim of Ships of the Sea’s garden topiaries. Known for his innovative approach to property art and his nationally recognized topiary sculptures, Gibson brings more than 30 years of experience, artistry, and storytelling to every cut.
Guests will have the rare opportunity to watch an acclaimed topiarist at work, learn about the techniques behind living sculpture, and get a preview of the creative vision leading to his upcoming 2027 exhibition at Ships of the Sea.
This live demonstration reveals how a topiary begins its artistic journey — shaped by history, culture, precision, and imagination.
More coming soon.....
NOVEMBER 2026
CELESTIAL SEAFARERS
November 5 & 6 , 2026
Local artists transform the museum grounds using light, sound, projection, and interactive technology inspired by maritime themes and the night sky. Wander through glowing installations, atmospheric soundscapes, and creative interpretations of navigation, astronomy, and the mysteries of the sea.
This is a rare opportunity to see the museum gardens come alive after dark through the lens of Savannah’s most innovative creators.
More coming soon.....
DECEMBER 2026
A VERY
MARITIME HOLIDAY
December 10, 2026
Enjoy festive music, drink, treats, family photo moments with Santa, and cozy activities throughout the museum. It’s a laid-back, joyful evening designed to bring our community together during the most magical time of year.
More coming soon.....
PAST EVENTS ARCHIVE
From lively family days in the gardens to thought-provoking exhibitions, concerts, and community celebrations, Ships of the Sea has hosted an incredible variety of programs over the years. Our past events gallery highlights just a glimpse of the energy, creativity, and connection that fill the Museum and gardens. We invite you to enjoy these moments — and to join us in creating new ones at our upcoming events.
EVENTS FAQ
ARE ALL EVENTS FREE FOR MEMBERS?
Most events are free for Museum members. If a specific membership level is required for complimentary admission, that information will be clearly noted on the event ticketing page and event description.
IS THERE PARKING ON-SITE?
Yes. We have a parking lot conveniently located at the garden entrance on MLK Jr. Blvd and Orange Street. Parking in our lot is free for event guests. If the lot is full, metered on-street parking is available along MLK Jr. Blvd, Orange Street, and Ann Street. There is also a private lot directly across from our entrance (between Zubly and Orange Streets on MLK Jr. Blvd), which is pay-by-the-hour.
IS THE MUSEUM ACCESSIBLE FOR VISITORS WITH MOBILITY NEEDS?
Yes. The Museum and gardens are designed to be as accessible as possible. Our parking lot includes curb cuts and four accessible spaces. The gardens are fully wheelchair accessible, and the North Garden ramp provides access to the Assembly Room with accessible restrooms. The main floor of the Museum can be reached by a wheelchair lift (800 lb capacity) located under the south porch, accessible via the Scarbrough Garden. Please note: the second floor and basement are only accessible by stairs.
WILL PHOTOS OR VIDEOS BE TAKEN AT EVENTS?
Yes. Photography, audio, and video recording may take place during Museum events. By attending, you consent to the Museum using these materials for promotional, educational, and archival purposes in print and digital media. If you prefer not to be photographed or recorded, please let a staff member know.