Beaufort, South Carolina, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Beaufort, South Carolina is gearing up for the 39th Annual Gullah Festival, a vibrant celebration of Gullah/Geechee heritage. This three-day event from May 23rd to 25th will offer attendees various activities that showcase the rich culture, including arts and crafts, musical performances, and traditional cuisine. With over 40,000 expected visitors, the festival reflects the community’s commitment to honoring its historical roots and providing a family-friendly cultural experience.
Beaufort, South Carolina, is set to welcome visitors for the 39th Annual Gullah Festival, taking place over Memorial Day weekend from May 23rd to 25th. This vibrant celebration honors and showcases the Gullah/Geechee heritage, a culture that descends from enslaved Africans from the Sea Islands of the Lowcountry. The festival draws in over 40,000 attendees, both local and international, making it a significant event in the region.
Located about 50 miles east of Savannah, GA, Beaufort is known not only for the Marine Corps Air Naval Station and training facility but also for its picturesque Old Town Historic District along the Beaufort River. This area is a hub for water sports and scenic views, making it a popular destination for tourists. Henry Chambers Waterfront Park, similar to Savannah’s Rousakis Plaza, is a must-visit location that hosts various weekend festivals, including Beaufort’s own Waterfront Festival every July that features arts and crafts vendors, music, and evening activities.
The Historic District of Beaufort spans over a dozen blocks and is centered around the main commercial district. Many of its historic homes date back to the 1800s, prior to the Civil War, providing a rich backdrop for visitors. Longstanding local businesses such as A.D. Fordham and Sons, a two-story hardware store, and Beaufort Hardware, founded by a retired Marine, add to the charm and history of the town.
The Gullah Festival, established in 1986, coincides with Decoration Day (now known as Memorial Day) and includes a commemorative play that honors the cultural significance of the Gullah people. Attendees can expect a lineup of activities including authentic arts and crafts, Gullah presentations, workshops, and a variety of music performances and dancing. Traditional Gullah cuisine is a major highlight at the festival, with vendors offering a vast array of dishes that reflect Gullah culinary traditions.
Festival-goers can look forward to sweetgrass basket weaving demonstrations, concerts, and lectures that provide insight into the Gullah culture. Performances will feature notable artists such as Dr. Marlena Smalls and the Hallelujah Singers, Aunt Pearlie Sue & The Gullah Kinfolk, alongside various other local musicians and storytellers. The festival aims to be a family-friendly cultural experience that integrates entertainment and education, ensuring that attendees leave with a greater understanding and appreciation of Gullah heritage.
For those interested in making the most of their visit, a complete schedule of events can be accessed on the official festival website, offering detailed information on activities and performances throughout the three-day event.
FAQ
What dates will the Gullah Festival be held?
The Original Gullah Festival takes place over Memorial Day weekend, specifically from May 23rd to 25th.
What is the significance of the Gullah Festival?
This festival has celebrated the Gullah/Geechee heritage for 39 years, honoring the descendants of enslaved Africans from the Sea Islands of the Lowcountry.
How many attendees does the festival attract?
The festival attracts over 40,000 attendees both local and international over the three-day event.
What types of activities are featured at the festival?
Activities at the Gullah Festival include authentic arts and crafts, Gullah presentations, workshops, music, dancing, and traditional Gullah cuisine.
Who are some of the notable performers at the festival?
Notable performers at the festival include Dr. Marlena Smalls and the Hallelujah Singers, Aunt Pearlie Sue & The Gullah Kinfolk, along with various other artists.
Key Features of the Gullah Festival
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Festival Dates | May 23rd to 25th |
| Attendees | Over 40,000 |
| Purpose | Celebrate and honor Gullah/Geechee heritage |
| Activities | Arts and crafts, music, dance, workshops, and Gullah cuisine |
| Notable Performers | Dr. Marlena Smalls and the Hallelujah Singers, Aunt Pearlie Sue & The Gullah Kinfolk |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Beaufort Prepares for Annual Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens
Discover Beaufort, South Carolina: A Hidden Gem
Discover the Charm of Beaufort, South Carolina
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Additional Resources
- Explore Beaufort: Gullah Festival
- Island Packet: Local News
- Your Island News: Beaufort Water Festival
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gullah
- Google Search: Gullah Festival
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
