BEAUFORT, SC – Gullah Kinfolk Traveling Theater, Inc. (GTTI) invites the public to a captivating Sea Island Christmas Celebration in the heart of Historic Beaufort from December 4–7, 2025. With four days of festive events, the celebration promises an unforgettable experience for theater enthusiasts, history buffs, food lovers, and families seeking a unique holiday tradition.
Experience a Sea Island Christmas: A Celebration of Gullah Culture, History, and Holiday Spirit December 4-7, 2025 | Downtown Beaufort, SC
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, December 4, and Friday, December 5, at 7:00 PM 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, December 5, at USCB Center for the Performing Arts (5:30–9:30 PM) and continues Saturday, December 6, at Chambers Waterfront Park (10:00 AM–6:00 PM). Guests can browse unique holiday gifts, savor authentic Lowcountry flavors, and enjoy live music and entertainment.
On Saturday, December 6, the spotlight turns to the Gullah Taste of Christmas & Rice Cookoff, now featuring over $7,500 in total prizes and awards. Adults will compete for a $3,000 grand prize (with $6,500 in total prizes), while younger participants ages 17 and under can enter the all-new Da’ Chillin’ Rice Cookoff, with a $500 top prize (and $1,100 in total prizes). This high-energy, live cooking competition is a must see This high-energy, live cooking competition is a must-see (and must-taste), complete with free rice samples from competitors.
Adding to the excitement, Lowcountry Celebrity Chef BJ Dennis joins the 2025 celebration as a featured guest. Born and raised in Charleston, SC, Chef Dennis is widely recognized for infusing Gullah Geechee culture into his cuisine and honoring the culinary traditions of his ancestors. With training from the Culinary Institute of Charleston, experience in award-winning southern restaurants, and international recognition through appearances at top food festivals and on national television—including Top Chef, Taste the Nation, and Netflix’s High on the Hog—Chef BJ brings authenticity, creativity, and star power to the event.
The weekend festivities also include a cultural symposium, line dancing, a festive boat parade, Gullah Heritage Tour through Historic Beaufort, and opportunities to experience the beauty and charm 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 alive with the joy of community.
For more information on event details, schedules, and ticket options, visit
www.gullahkinfolktravelingtheater.org/christmas or contact our offices at 843-379-9276.
Embrace the season and join us for a holiday experience that combines culture, cuisine, and community in an unforgettable Sea Island Christmas!
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