Honoring History & Heritage: Georgetown to host Middle Passage Remembrance Weekend
October 12, 2026
As part of a month-long series of Middle Passage Remembered events commemorating 500 years of African history and presence in North America (1526–2026), the Gullah Geechee Chamber Foundation invites the community to spend a transformative weekend in historic Georgetown, South Carolina, on October 23–24, 2026. This multi-day commemoration blends vibrant cultural celebration with deep historical reflection, honoring the resilience, contributions, and memory of African ancestors.
An Evening of Jazz & Dinner with Nahi Gruv
Kick off the weekend with an unforgettable evening along the waterfront featuring live music by Nahi Gruv on Friday, October 23, beginning at 6:30 pm at SC Maritime Park (725 Front Street, Georgetown, SC 29440). Guests will enjoy smooth jazz, community fellowship, and a delicious dinner in the heart of historic Georgetown.
It’s an evening designed to celebrate the richness of African American artistic expression and Lowcountry culture ahead of Saturday’s historic marker dedication. Admission is $35 Single and $60 Couple (includes dinner).
Middle Passage Ceremony & Port Marker Unveiling
On Saturday morning, October 24, community members, leaders, and historians will gather for a solemn and uplifting ceremony marking the official unveiling of the Middle Passage Port Marker, recognizing Georgetown’s historical role as an arrival port during the transatlantic slave trade.
The celebration begins with a Ceremonial Cleansing at 10:45 am, followed by the Middle Passage Ceremony at 11:00 am, the Unveiling of the Middle Passage Port Marker at 12:55 pm and ending with the Salute to Mother Africa at 1:00 pm. This event is free and open to the public. Attendees are asked to wear white or African attire and are encouraged to bring flowers to honor the ancestors.
How to Attend & Learn More
Whether honoring family roots, supporting local heritage, or learning more about the Gullah Geechee culture, all are welcome to attend. For ticket reservations for Friday night’s jazz dinner, click here. For further information on the month-long Middle Passage Remembered series, visit the Gullah Geechee Chamber Foundation.
