A Moveable Feast of Southern Delights
This weekend, Charlotte’s Queen City will transform into a vibrant celebration of Southern culture with the inaugural Lowcountry Culture Festival. Hosted on September 14 at Ballantyne’s Backyard, the festival will showcase the rich culinary and artistic traditions of the Lowcountry region, including authentic Gullah Geechee cuisine, arts, and crafts.
From the Lowcountry to Charlotte
Glenn Burkins, festival organizer and publisher of QCity Metro, fell in love with the Lowcountry’s unique heritage during his visits to the region. “My wife and I have been going down to the Lowcountry for two years,” he shared. “We fell in love with the history there. It’s so different from the Piedmont.” Burkins’ passion for the area inspired him to bring a slice of the Lowcountry to Charlotte.
A Culinary Journey
Festival-goers can indulge in a variety of Lowcountry delicacies. Expect to savor dishes like she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, and seafood boils, prepared by 11 talented chefs. The event will also feature Southern-inspired cocktails, beer, and wine, ensuring a flavorful experience from start to finish.
Showcasing Gullah Geechee Arts and Culture
The festival will highlight Gullah Geechee culture through vibrant arts and crafts. Attendees can enjoy traditional sweetgrass basket weaving and other folk arts. Angel Parson, program director of the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, emphasized the importance of such events in promoting cultural awareness. “This festival is an opportunity to highlight the culture, especially among young professionals in the Charlotte metropolitan area,” she said.
Cultural and Tourism Connections
The Lowcountry Culture Festival is not just a celebration but also a strategic effort to boost tourism and cultural exchange. Peach Morrison, director of the Lowcountry Tourism Commission, noted that while the commission does not have a physical presence in Charlotte, events like this help attract interest in the Lowcountry. “We won’t have a physical presence there, but there will be Lowcountry guidebooks given away. It helps attract people who want to spend time here in the Lowcountry or learn more about Gullah culture.”
A Broadening Experience
In addition to culinary delights and arts, the festival will feature booths from cultural organizations such as the Gullah Geechee Seafood Trail and the International African American Museum from Charleston. These booths will offer a glimpse into the broader Gullah Geechee heritage and encourage visitors to explore the culture further.
Event Details
- Date: September 14
- Time: 1-7 p.m.
- Location: Ballantyne’s Backyard, 11611 N. Community House Road, Charlotte
- Tickets: $75
With its diverse offerings and emphasis on cultural education, the Lowcountry Culture Festival promises to be a memorable event that bridges the gap between Charlotte and the rich traditions of the Lowcountry. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the flavors and artistry of Gullah Geechee culture firsthand.