February is Black History Month, a month honoring the shared stories and contributions of African Americans who have shaped our nation and also Hilton Head Island.
During this month-long celebration, the Town of Hilton Head Island encourages you to take advantage of the many incredible events being hosted to highlight the Island’s Gullah Geechee culture and other significant contributions of local African Americans. Experience live musical performances, special gatherings, art gallery shows, festivals and more. These wonderful celebrations are fun and educational opportunities for the whole family to enjoy.
Freedom Day Celebration Hosted by Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park
Saturday, February 4 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park
40 Harriet Tubman Way, Hilton Head Island
This free program explores black resistance in the fight for freedom and honors the life and legacy of Robert Smalls, who was born into slavery in Beaufort, South Carolina. Smalls later won freedom for himself and his family, and became a prominent leader in the community during the Reconstruction era, including service in both the state and national legislature. Special guests include Michael Boulware Moore, the great-great grandson of Robert Smalls; Gullah artist Quentin Smalls and the Claflin University Concert Choir. Visit exploremitchelville.org for more info.
Family and Friends Day
Tuesday, February 7 at 7 p.m.
Historic First African Baptist Church
70 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island
Cost: Free
Join the Historic First African Baptist Church for its annual family and friends program, featuring traditional and contemporary Gullah songs and samples of authentic Gullah food! Visit gullahcelebration.com for details.
Gullah Celebration’s Patrons and Friends Party
Wednesday, February 8 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Art League Gallery
14 Shelter Cove Lane Hilton Head Island
Cost: Free
Spend the evening with the 2023 featured artist Lisa Rivers and many other exhibiting artists at the Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration’s Patrons and Friends Party. Complimentary food and beverages. Visit gullahcelebration.com for more details.
A Taste of Gullah
Saturday, February 11 from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Art League Gallery
14 Shelter Cove Lane Hilton Head Island
An afternoon filled with gumbo, conch stew, fried fish and shrimp dusted in traditional Gullah seasonings and more favorites, storytelling, music, and other activities. Free admission but food is available for purchase. Visit gullahcelebration.com for more details.
Gullah Market and Block Party: An Arts, Crafts and Food Expo
Saturday, February 18 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Historic Honey Horn
70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island
Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for youth. Children 5 and under admitted for free.
An all-access experience to Gullah culture featuring Gullah and African crafts and food, traditional storytelling, music entertainment, and more. Events will proceed rain or shine. Visit gullahcelebration.com for more details and tickets.
Celebration of African American Authors
Saturday, February 25 from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Rotary Community Center
11 Recreation Drive, Bluffton
An afternoon experience that shines the light on African American authors and the important narratives revealed in their latest publications. The featured guest author is former NFL player Aaron Maybin. A complimentary lunch will be provided at this free event.
For more information on local events celebrating Black History, visit the websites for the following organizations:
Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park
Native Islander Business & Community Affairs Association’s Gullah Celebration
Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra