(HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC) — Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park is inviting the community to dust off their boots, grab their hats, and saddle up for one of the Lowcountry’s most spirited events of the year: the 2026 Blue & BBQ Annual Benefit, taking place Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park.
Blending Modern Cowboy flair with Lowcountry soul, Blue + BBQ is a signature fundraising event supporting the Park’s growing youth outreach and educational programming in schools and partner organizations across the region. Funds raised from the event will help expand hands-on history experiences that connect young people with the powerful story of Mitchelville, the first self-governed town of formerly enslaved people in the United States.
Guests will enjoy an unforgettable afternoon filled with live music, dancing, and authentic Southern barbecue, all set against the historic landscape “where freedom began” in 1862. The evening’s musical highlight will be the Gullah Geechee Songbirds, a dynamic band assembled exclusively for this event. Featuring musicians inspired by the rich cultural traditions of the Gullah Geechee corridor, the group will deliver a lively performance celebrating the heritage and spirit of Mitchelville.
Our goal was to bring together an incredible group of musicians to celebrate the living traditions that connect us to Mitchelville’s past. The Gullah Geechee Songbirds are truly a supergroup—a special collaboration of artists assembled just for Blue & BBQ to honor the music, storytelling, and cultural rhythms that have shaped this community for generations.
Joyce Wright, Director of Programs and Interpretation at Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park.
Guests will also enjoy guided dance sessions with a professional instructor, making it easy for everyone—from seasoned dancers to first-timers—to jump in and join the fun.
Of course, no Blue & BBQ would be complete without incredible food. Guests will savor all-inclusive South Carolina barbecue from the beloved local favorite Da Shack, along with beer and wine.
Blue & BBQ is one of those magical evenings where history, music, and community come together in the most joyful way. When you see people dancing under the oaks, enjoying incredible barbecue, and celebrating the spirit of Mitchelville, we’re living the dream of Mitchelville’s first residents.
Ahmad Ward, Executive Director of Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park.
Proceeds from the evening will help Historic Mitchelville expand its youth engagement programs, including partnerships with schools, immersive field experiences, archaeology and cultural heritage programs, and initiatives designed to introduce young learners to the story of freedom and self-governance that began at Mitchelville.
