Discover Ricefest: A Cultural Celebration in Liberty County
Photo by Bianca Croft
Looking for the perfect reason to plan a getaway to Liberty County? Look no further. Ricefest is calling your name. This annual celebration in Riceboro shines a spotlight on the rich history and traditions of the Gullah Geechee, some of the first people to call this area home.
This year, the three-day festival runs from November 7- 9, and it is packed with fun, culture and plenty of reasons to explore Liberty County. From local music and delicious food to crafts and cultural performances, there is something for everyone.
Whether you are a history buff, foodie or just looking for a weekend adventure, Ricefest is the perfect way to experience the heart and soul of Liberty County. Keep reading for a sneak peek at what is in store.
Even though it lasts all weekend, the main attraction is on Saturday! See the full schedule of events below.
Ricefest Weekend Schedule
Friday, November 7
Kick off the weekend at the Riceboro Youth Center, 5649 S. Riceboro, with the Homecoming Dance starting at 6 p.m. Enjoy live music, dancing, food and drinks! The event is hosted by Stefanie Batiste with a performance by the Special Formula Band. Don’t forget to grab your tickets online to secure your spot.
Saturday, November 8
Start your Saturday morning with the Ricefest Parade at 9 a.m., beginning at 4614 S. Coastal Highway in Riceboro. This outdoor celebration features special guests, live music, and tons of fun. Best of all, it is completely free!
Sunday, November 9
Wrap up the festival with a special performance by the famous Swanee Quintet. Hosted by Shannon LeCounte, the event takes place at the Riceboro Youth Center, 5649 S. Coastal Highway. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the show starts at 6 p.m. Tickets are available at www.cityofriceboro.org.
While You’re Here: Explore Riceboro
Photo by Ralph Daniel
Tucked away in the marsh grass, you will find one of Liberty County’s hidden coastal gems: Riceboro, the oldest existing city in the county. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an afternoon cruising along winding dirt roads and catching scenic glimpses of the coastline. Riceboro is so much more than it seems at first glance.
Once a bustling agricultural hub for rice plantations, the town earned its name from the rice that was grown here. While you won’t find fields of rice anymore, the heritage shaped by this history is still very much alive.
One must-visit spot is the Historical Baptismal Trail. For nearly 100 years, this site served as a sacred place where the ancestors of local Geechee communities performed Christian baptisms. Records from the First African Baptist Church indicate that as early as the 1840s, enslaved Africans were baptized here under the guidance of the North Newport Church.
Today, visitors can enjoy a boardwalk, benches, and picnic tables, along with interpretive signage that explains both the natural habitat and the site’s historical importance. The trail is open for self-guided tours Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Hours may change, so be sure to check ahead before you go.
A Celebration of Heritage
Ricefest was first held in 2007 to bring the community together to celebrate, embrace and learn about the area’s rich history. The festival offers education and entertainment honoring the heritage and cultural influence shaped by the local rice industry and the Gullah people.
Each year, the festivities include everything from gospel fests to homecoming dances, but the most important takeaway is always the celebration of Riceboro and the Gullah Geechee people.
#ExploreLiberty and head over to Riceboro to take part in Ricefest activities the weekend of November 7- 9. For more information, contact Riceboro City Hall at 912.884.2986. See y’all there!
