BEAUFORT, S.C. – Gullah Kinfolk Traveling Theater, Inc. (GTTI) invites the public to a captivating Sea Island Christmas Celebration in the heart of historic Beaufort from Dec. 4–7, 2025. The four-day festival promises an unforgettable experience for theater enthusiasts, history buffs, food lovers, and families seeking a unique holiday tradition.
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. The show will be performed Thursday, Dec. 4, and Friday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m. at the USCB Center for the Performing Arts. Through storytelling, song and dance, the production explores themes of freedom, family and faith, capturing the true spirit of a Sea Island Christmas.
The Christmas Marketplace opens Friday, Dec. 5, at the USCB Center for the Performing Arts from 5:30–9:30 p.m., and continues Saturday, Dec. 6, at Chambers Waterfront Park from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Guests can browse unique holiday gifts, savor authentic Lowcountry flavors, and enjoy live music and entertainment.
On Saturday, Dec. 6, the spotlight turns to the Gullah Taste of Christmas & Rice Cookoff, featuring more than $7,500 in prizes and awards. Adult participants will compete for a $3,000 grand prize ($6,500 in total prizes), while younger contestants ages 17 and under can enter the new Da’ Chillin’ Rice Cookoff, which offers a $500 top prize ($1,100 in total prizes). This lively cooking competition is a must-see—and must-taste—event, complete with free rice samples for attendees.
Adding to the excitement, Lowcountry celebrity chef BJ Dennis joins the 2025 celebration as a featured guest. Born and raised in Charleston, Chef Dennis is known for infusing Gullah Geechee culture into his cuisine and honoring the culinary traditions of his ancestors. Trained at the Culinary Institute of Charleston, Dennis has cooked in award-winning Southern restaurants and gained national recognition through appearances on Top Chef, Taste the Nation, and Netflix’s High on the Hog.
The weekend also features a cultural symposium, line dancing, a festive boat parade, a Gullah Heritage Tour through Historic Beaufort, and more opportunities to experience the beauty and spirit of the Gullah culture. From culinary excellence to cultural storytelling, A Sea Island Christmas offers a holiday experience like no other—rooted in tradition, rich in history, and filled with community joy.
For more information on event details, schedules, and tickets, visit www.gullahkinfolktravelingtheater.org/christmas or call 843-379-9276.