2027 Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration

Experience an extraordinary program like no other as you immerse yourself in the soul-stirring melodies, captivating stories, heartfelt prayers, and rich history of The First African Baptist Church. Established in 1862 with an initial membership of approximately 120 individuals, this iconic congregation stands as the oldest church on Hilton Head Island. Led by the remarkable Pastor Abraham Murchison, a literate former slave from Savannah and a respected leader in Mitchelville - the first self-governed freedman's town in America. Join us and bring your loved ones for an unforgettable journey through time and spirituality. “We welcome everyone from far and near to share in our worship experiences. Let us all rejoice in knowing that the Lord continues to bless us and we are thankful to him today and always!”

Step back in time and indulge in a truly unforgettable and historically significant experience. Celebrate one of the most historic days of the year with crafted with samplings of authentic Gullah cuisine. Your ticket not only grants you the pleasure of enjoying tastings from Authentic Bites, coffee and hot chocolate. As the sun rises, immerse yourself in the captivating ambiance of Mitchelville Freedom Park, transporting you to a bygone era. Ticket holders will also have the exclusive privilege of being part of the highly anticipated 2027 Freedom Day Celebration, beginning promptly at 11:00 AM. Don't miss out on this intellectually stimulating, genuinely authentic, and entertaining journey into history for all ages.

The Roots, Recipes & Reunion: A Gullah Cook-Off Celebration invites you to experience soulful dishes prepared by chefs and home cooks who honor Gullah traditions through three essential ingredients, okra, rice, and collard greens. VIP Admission includes 10 tastings, early entry at 12:00 PM, and an exclusive meet & greet with our celebrity guest judges — Chef BJ Dennis, Art Fennell of YouTube, and Jesse Blanco of Eat It and Like It. Just 100 VIP tickets available. General Admission includes 5 tastings and entry from 1:00–4:00 PM. Additional tasting tickets will be available for purchase, along with beverages, live music, and more, making this a celebration of community, culture, and cuisine. A panel of celebrity judges will select winners for Best in Category and Best Overall, while guests cast their votes to crown The People’s Plate — a community favorite. Celebrate heritage. Taste the legacy. Make your vote count.

Pull up a chair at the table where heritage, flavor, and fellowship come together. The Roots, Recipes & Reunion: A Gullah Cook-Off Celebration invites you to experience soulful dishes prepared by chefs and home cooks who honor Gullah traditions through three essential ingredients — okra, rice, and collard greens. General Admission includes 5 tastings and entry from 1:00–4:00 PM. VIP Admission includes 10 tastings, early entry at 12:00 PM, and an exclusive meet & greet with our celebrity guest judges — Chef BJ Dennis, Art Fennell of YouTube, and Jesse Blanco of Eat It and Like It. General Admission includes 5 tastings and entry from 1:00–4:00 PM. Additional tasting tickets will be available for purchase, along with beverages, live music, and more, making this a celebration of community, culture, and cuisine. A panel of celebrity judges will select winners for Best in Category and Best Overall, while guests cast their votes to crown The People’s Plate — a community favorite. Celebrate heritage. Taste the legacy. Make your vote count.