The 2025 Blue & BBQ Annual Fundraising Benefit, hosted by Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, is a unique celebration where Old West charm meets the Lowcountry’s soulful vibes. This one-of-a-kind event features live music, dancing, the Lowcountry’s finest BBQ, and immersive activities, all while supporting critical fundraising efforts to preserve and share the rich history of Mitchelville.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 19, 2025

Dust Off Your Boots & Hats: Saddle Up for the 2025 Blue & BBQ Annual Fundraising Benefit

When:
Saturday, March 29, 2025
4:00 – 7:00 PM

Where:
Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park
40 Harriet Tubman Way, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

Event Highlights:

  • Live Bluegrass Music & Dancing: Enjoy live performances by the Shellring String Band and Lavon Stevens–PLUS guided dance sessions led by a professional line dancing instructor.
  • All-Inclusive Food & Beverage Experience: Relish in South Carolina’s finest BBQ and libations.
  • Interactive Activations: Bringing History to Life! Step back in time with live blacksmith demonstrations, where sparks fly as history is forged before your eyes. Experience the legacy of the Lowcountry’s Cowboys with Yemassee’s own Carolina Cowboys, showcasing the rich tradition of horsemanship and resilience. Explore archaeology dig site tours, uncovering the hidden stories beneath our feet, and take a stroll through the ghost structures, where the past whispers through every beam. All while savoring the flavors of the Lowcountry with delicious BBQ and Southern culinary delights! 
  • Modern Cowboy Dress Code: Cowboy boots, hats, and a touch of blue are encouraged!

Digging into Our Past to Preserve Our Future: Fundraising for Education & Preservation at Mitchelville

As part of its mission to preserve and share the powerful history of Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, this year’s Blues & BBQ Fundraiser aims to raise $30,000 to expand educational opportunities and enhance visitor experiences. Funds will directly support the development of Interpretation Center educational materials, a new video exhibit, adult archaeology camp opportunities, and increased public programming—including augmented reality learning experiences.

“Increasing accessibility to Mitchelville’s rich history is at the heart of our fundraising efforts,” said Ahmad Ward, Executive Director. “Since the addition of our ghosted structures, we’ve seen a 30% increase in visitors, proving that when there’s ‘something to see,’ people come. Our goal is to continue that momentum—offering engaging experiences that connect visitors of all ages with Mitchelville’s legacy.”

Tickets:
$125 per person, including all food, drinks, and entertainment. Proceeds directly support Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park’s mission to preserve and interpret the story of America’s first self-governed community of the formerly enslaved. Get tickets here: https://exploremitchelville.org/visit/blue-and-bbq-annual-benefit/

For More Information:
Visit exploremitchelville.org or call 843-255-7301.

Press Materials: Additional press materials and graphics can be found here. 

Media Opportunities:
Interviews with featured speakers and performers are available upon request. For media inquiries, please contact Courtney Young at cyoung@thinkfsc.com.

Email: cyoung@thinkfsc.com

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