THE NORTH CAROLINA RICE FESTIVAL

Join us for Living Legacies, a powerful and immersive event celebrating the resilience, ingenuity, and lasting contributions of African Americans whose stories are deeply interwoven with our shared history.

Guided by living historians and artists from the renowned Slave Dwelling Project, you’ll step back in time to explore and honor the lives and legacies that shaped our community. Experience the rich aromas of live cooking demonstrations that showcase traditional recipes, witness compelling historical reenactments that bring untold stories to life, and try your hand at brick-laying as a tribute to the craftsmanship that built this land.

We’re proud to partner with the SouthCarolina State Museum and ChefAmethyst Ganaway for HarvestingHeritage, a special evening honoringthe deep roots of Black foodways inSouth Carolina.

Join us at The Penn Center on St.Helena Island for Harvesting Heritage:Lowcountry Legacy, where we’llcelebrate the flavors, artistry, andstorytelling traditions that define GullahGeechee culture. From rich culinary
history to vibrant creative expression, this night will highlight the legacy of the Lowcountry in a way that feeds both the body and the soul.

Come join us for an unforgettable experience at Mama Peg's Backyard in Brunswick!

 

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Gullah life in Georgia through this captivating musical drama. Get ready to be transported to another time and place as you witness the vibrant performances that bring this unique story to life.

The Gullah/ Geechee people of Coastal Georgia and South Carolina have always demonstrated tremendous strength and tenacity, even in the face of insurmountable and unimaginable circumstances. Much of this can be attributed to their enduring spirits and strong connection to their African roots.

 

Griot and Master Storyteller Lillian Grant-Baptiste will use the art of storytelling to bring the Gullah/Geechee story and history to life. She will skillfully demonstrate how storytelling was used during the most difficult and fiery times of our history, and beyond, as both tools of resistance and resilience. Lillian promises to stir, awaken, enlighten, inform, and entertain all in attendance. The young and old alike will be caught up and mesmerized by the magic of Gullah/Geechee storytelling.

This year’s theme, Reconstruction Through the Lens of Gullah Geechee and Other Communities within the African Diaspora, examines how these communities have historically rebuilt and redefined themselves after conflict and oppression. The conference will feature presentations, workshops, performances, and panel discussions on topics such as Afrofuturism, Pan-Africanism, race and politics, and cultural heritage.

The conference will take place at Coastal Carolina University and our Gullah Geechee Community Day activities will take place in Downtown Conway, SC.

This year’s theme, Reconstruction Through the Lens of Gullah Geechee and Other Communities within the African Diaspora, examines how these communities have historically rebuilt and redefined themselves after conflict and oppression. The conference will feature presentations, workshops, performances, and panel discussions on topics such as Afrofuturism, Pan-Africanism, race and politics, and cultural heritage.

The conference will take place at Coastal Carolina University and our Gullah Geechee Community Day activities will take place in Downtown Conway, SC.

Join us for a vibrant journey into the heart of Gullah Geechee culture with Virginia(Genya) Watson's Doll Making Workshop. Immerse yourself in a hands-on experience that celebrates tradition, artistry, and cultural history. In this workshop, Genya will share her unique techniques and personal stories, guiding you through the process of creating your own beautiful doll.

 

Whether you're an experienced crafter or a curious beginner, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to connect with an enduring legacy and create meaningful piece of art to take home. All materials will be provided.

Celebrate history and culture at the North Carolina Rice Festival! Held annually along the beautiful coast, this live event brings the past to life with vibrant music, delicious local food, arts and crafts, and exciting activities for all ages.

 

Dive into the rich history of rice cultivation that shaped the region, with interactive exhibits and storytelling that highlight the unique Gullah-Geechee heritage. It’s a family-friendly event you won’t want to miss, offering a perfect blend of fun and learning. Join the celebration of tradition, culture, and community.

Join us in celebrating the rich tapestry of African Traditional Spirituality and paying tribute to the profound energies of the Isis Moon Temple. Immerse yourself in an uplifting experience that promises to leave you with unforgettable memories, as we honor diverse African-based spiritual traditions, including the Gullah-Geechee Hoodoo Culture.

 

The Isis Moon Festival is a transformative 4-day celebration of the Divine Feminine, the Ifa Orisa tradition, BuKongo spirituality, and the rich Gullah Geechee folk heritage. At this 5thannual event, attendees will explore holistic wellness practices, connect with renowned healing specialists, engage with influential spiritual and African leaders, enrich their cultural awareness, and celebrate the impactful contributions of powerful women.

From the nationally acclaimed series, the newest chapter written by AnitaSingleton Prather (a.k.a. Aunt Pearlie Sue) delves into the extraordinary lives of Robert Smalls & Martin Luther Kingry.

 

This full-stage musical production takes us on the journey of two dreamers: Robert Smalls who sailed himself and others to freedom to become the first Black hero of the Civil War, and Martin Luther King, jr., another Dreamer of civil rights for all people.

Experience the vibrant spirit of the South at the Original Gullah Festival of South Carolina! This iconic event honors the rich traditions, history, and culture of the Gullah-Geechee people, with lively music, traditional food, arts, crafts, and storytelling.

 

Held annually in Beaufort, SC, the festival celebrates the unique language, heritage, and contributions of the Gullah community, offering a deep dive into their vibrant culture. Enjoy performances, local cuisine, and hands-on activities that bring the Gullah way of life to the forefront.

Decoration Day is an award-winning theatrical production by the Gullah Traveling Theater that brings to life the rich history and cultural traditions of the Gullah people.

 

Set during the post-Civil War era, this powerful play honors the origins of Memorial Day, highlighting the role that formerly enslaved Gullah people played in decorating the graves of fallen Union soldiers. Through moving performances, soulful music, and vivid storytelling, Decoration Day delves into themes of freedom, resilience, and community, showcasing the Gullah contributions to American history.

We’re excited to announce that applications for our Q2 Subgrant Program are now being accepted! If you’re working on a project that preserves, promotes, or protects Gullah Geechee culture, this is your opportunity to secure funding.

​

Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include registered nonprofits, tribal entities, educational institutions, and government agencies. Your project must align with GGCHC’s mission and meet our1:1 match requirement.

Projects can focus on:
• Cultural Preservation
• Education and Awareness
• Community Development
• Environmental Stewardship
• Cultural Celebrations

Don’t miss this opportunity to make a lasting impact on the Gullah Geechee community!Review the guidelines, ensure your project meets the requirements, and apply today. 

The Gullah Geechee Seafood Trail is a tourism website highlighting and promoting Gullah Geechee businesses and history throughout the Corridor. Scan the QR code at the end of the video to learn more and get on the Seafood Trail listing.

​

ww.gullahgeecheeseafoodtrail.com

​

Register to receive additional news from the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor. Sign up to be added to our new Tourism Alliance Newsletter. Please send us your Event News for future editions!