Woven by Gullah artisans for more than 300 years, sweetgrass baskets are some of the most cherished cultural souvenirs in the country. Seeing the artisans weaving baskets in person at the Charleston City Market, the epicenter of sweetgrass basketry is a must for any first-time Charleston visit. The preservation of this art is one way the Gullah honor their history and help keep their culture alive. Taking place on July 27th, 2024, the annual Sweetgrass Festival in South Carolina is a fun event to attend to learn more about this cultural tradition and the overall Gullah culture in South Carolina as well.
The Sweetgrass Festival is held every summer in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina at Memorial Waterfront Park.
The sweetgrass basket-making art form was designated as South Carolina's official art craft by Governor Jim Hodges in 2006, and the largest percentage of the original sweetgrass basket makers live within Mount Pleasant and surrounding communities.
The art form continues to be passed down from generation to generation, with one current basket maker teaching her grandchildren, the seventh generation in her family to learn it. Originally brought to Mount Pleasant from Sierra Leone when their ancestors arrived and had nothing to work with, the sweetgrass basket weaving art was used to make baskets for storing and carrying things.
Basket weavers have said some of their best basket designs have been created when they listened to the grass! Those of us who love spending time in nature can relate to this notion.
Admission to the festival is free of charge, and you will enjoy basket-making demonstrations ...
... shopping with many vendors offering baskets, jewelry, flowers, and more for sale ...
... Gullah storytelling, drumming, singing, dancing, ...
... and of course, delicious Gullah cuisine, and more! You'll experience so much of the Gullah culture at this wonderful festival in South Carolina.
The Sweetgrass Festival in South Carolina may just become a favorite annual tradition once you've experienced it. Get all the details on this year's event on the Experience Mount Pleasant website and make your plans now to attend this incredible very South Carolina festival. But if you happen to not be able to make it, you can always shop a selection of sweetgrass baskets on Etsy.
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