Celebration of Gullah culture, history, holiday spirit coming to downtown Beaufort
Staff reports
Gullah Kinfolk Traveling Theater, Inc. (GTTI) invites the public to a captivating Sea Island Christmas Celebration in the heart of Historic Beaufort from Thursday, Dec. 5 through Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024. With four days of festive events, the celebration promises an unforgettable experience for theater enthusiasts, history buffs, and those with a passion for Lowcountry cultural arts. Visitors can enjoy this family-friendly event with holiday performances, culinary delights, activities for children, and immersive Gullah traditions throughout the weekend.
At the heart of the celebration is “Christmas Wish… Freedom!,” a full-stage musical production that brings the Gullah community’s rich Christmas traditions to life. This stirring show will be performed on Thursday, Dec. 5, and Friday, Dec. 6, at 7 p.m. at the USCB Center for the Performing Arts. The production explores themes of freedom, family, and faith through storytelling, song, and dance, making it a must-see event that captures the true spirit of a Sea Island Christmas.
The Christmas Marketplace on Friday, Dec. 6, at USCB Center for the Performing Arts (5:30 to 9:30 p.m.) and Saturday, Dec. 7, will be held from 10 a.m., to 6 p.m., at Chambers Waterfront Park. Guests are invited to browse unique holiday gifts, savor authentic Lowcountry flavors from food trucks, and soak in live music and entertainment.
On Saturday, Dec. 7, the Gullah Taste of Christmas & Rice Cookoff brings an exciting competition, featuring live on-site cooking and a surprise celebrity judge. Local chefs will battle it out to create the best rice dish, with a $2,000 grand prize awarded to the top entry. Visitors can join in the fun with line dancing, a Christmas boat parade, and a festive atmosphere that celebrates the season with true Sea Island spirit.
This event not only offers a unique holiday experience but also provides an opportunity to engage with the vibrant Gullah culture that defines the Lowcountry. Whether you’re drawn to the performances of the “Christmas Wish Freedom” show or the historic Gullah Heritage Tours, this celebration welcomes everyone looking to connect with Beaufort’s rich cultural history.
For more information on event details, schedules, and ticket options, please visit www.gullahkinfolktravelingtheater.org/christmas or contact Denise Bullitt at 843-593-0904. Embrace the season and join us for a holiday experience that combines culture, cuisine, and community in an unforgettable Sea Island Christmas!
