The Lowcountry is bracing for a record high heat wave this weekend, but the 21st Annual Sweetgrass Festival in Mount Pleasant is determined to continue as planned. This beloved event, which celebrates the rich Gullah Geechee culture, will take place on Saturday, July 26th, despite the soaring temperatures. With a tradition dating back to 2004, the festival has become an essential part of the community, and this year’s organizers are ready to ensure that the heat doesn’t stop the celebration.
A Tradition in the Lowcountry
Mount Pleasant is home to the original Sweetgrass basket makers, and the Sweetgrass Festival honors this craft that has been passed down through generations. Local artisans, exhibitors, and organizers gather every year to educate the public about the history and beauty of Sweetgrass baskets and to celebrate the culture of the Gullah Geechee people. According to Nicole Harvey, Chief of the Mount Pleasant Community Affairs and Marketing Division, the community is no stranger to high heat, especially in the middle of July. However, organizers have made sure to prepare for the heat with air-conditioned areas, misting fans at the entrance, and water stations scattered around the venue.
Preserving the Gullah Geechee Culture
For many, the Sweetgrass Festival is more than just an event—it’s an opportunity to reconnect with their heritage. Freddie Jenkins, President of the African American Historic Commission, has been involved with the festival for 17 years and holds it close to his heart. He describes the festival as a “family reunion” for the settlement communities, where people gather to reminisce and discuss both the past and present of their communities. The festival also gives attendees a chance to engage with Gullah Geechee culture, which is integral to the region’s history.
The Gullah Geechee people, whose ancestors were enslaved and brought to the Lowcountry, are renowned for their rich traditions, including the art of weaving Sweetgrass baskets. Since its inception in 2004, the festival has been an essential venue for showcasing this unique art form, which is now recognized as part of South Carolina’s cultural heritage.
Ensuring Safety in the Heat
With near-record temperatures expected, organizers are taking extra precautions to ensure everyone stays safe while enjoying the festivities. Water stations, cold beverages, and food vendors will be available, and tents will be set up all across the park to provide shade. The festival is set to take place at Mount Pleasant’s Memorial Waterfront Park, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Entrance is free, with parking available at the venue. If the lot fills up, shuttle services will be available to ensure easy access for attendees.
The 21st Annual Sweetgrass Festival in Mount Pleasant is a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Lowcountry community. Despite the heat wave, this year’s festival will continue its tradition of celebrating the Gullah Geechee culture and the craftsmanship of Sweetgrass basket makers. Attendees can look forward to a day of education, community connection, and fun, with all the necessary precautions in place to beat the heat and stay safe.
