Roots & Rivers Festival

BlacQuity, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Black entrepreneurs, is thrilled to present the second annual Roots & Rivers Festival, a vibrant celebration of local businesses and community spirit. This year’s Coastal Cowboy and Cowgirl-themed event will take place on September 14, from 2 – 8 p.m. at the scenic river view of Oyster Factory Park, 63 Wharf St., and will include live music, line dancing, mechanical bull riding, artisanal vendors, craft beer, food trucks, and new to the festival this year, a Kid Zone and VIP experiences.

The Roots & Rivers Festival is set to invigorate coastal Beaufort County by providing a bustling marketplace for small businesses, artisans, and Black entrepreneurs to showcase their unique products. The festival aims to support the local economy and foster community growth by offering a platform for these talented individuals, creating a positive and inclusive environment for all.

"Reflecting on last year's phenomenal success, we are thrilled to elevate the experience even further at this year's Roots & Rivers Festival. We've planned an unforgettable day that not only captures the spirit and culture of the Lowcountry but also showcases the incredible talent and entrepreneurship of our black-owned businesses. It's a celebration of our community's resilience, creativity, and success," said Gwen Chambers, Executive Director of BlacQuity.

The festival boasts an array of highlights, including a lively beer garden, line dancing, captivating live music performances by Deas Guyz, and more. In addition, attendees can explore a variety of delectable food trucks offering mouthwatering culinary delights. The festival's vendors will showcase various unique products and services, providing an unforgettable shopping experience.

The Roots & Rivers Festival sends a heartfelt thank you to the community and festival sponsors for their support. Burnt Church Distillery and the Lowcountry Legacy Fund, and the Town of Bluffton - Heart of the Lowcountry as the Platinum sponsor. “Through their commitment of helping bring the magic of entrepreneurship, music, arts, and community to life, these sponsors' unwavering support has made a huge impact and promises an unforgettable experience for all attendees,” says Chambers. “We are beyond grateful for their belief in our mission, and we can't wait to showcase the region's diverse talent with their fantastic support.”

Early Bird general admission tickets for the Roots and Rivers Festival are now available for $15. For those who prefer to purchase tickets at the gate, they will be priced at $20. A limited number of VIP experiences are also available for $125. 

Join us at the Roots and Rivers Festival, where creativity, entrepreneurship, and community converge to inspire and uplift. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit our website at www.rootsandriversfestival.com.

To learn more about BlacQuity’s nonprofit and program, visit www.blacquitysc.org.