Columbia, S.C., September 16, 2025
News Summary
The historic Mann-Simons Site in Columbia will host the 47th annual Jubilee: Festival of Black History & Culture, featuring headliner LADY STOUT and a variety of performances. The family-friendly event includes interactive activities, free guided tours, and a Kids Zone with activities for children. Attendees will have the opportunity to delve into the rich heritage of Black culture while enjoying food options and cultural experiences.
Columbia, S.C. – The historic Mann-Simons Site in Columbia will host the 47th annual Jubilee: Festival of Black History & Culture this Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event is free and family-friendly, promising a vibrant celebration of Black culture and heritage.
Cornering the spotlight this year is mainstage headliner LADY STOUT, who will lead a lineup of remarkable performances. Other featured acts include Preach Jacobs & The Negro League, Chukk Gregory, the Charles B. Jackson Singers of Brookland Baptist Church, Cr3Wizdom, and Sir Chance. Attendees can anticipate an impressive variety of entertainment throughout the day.
Alongside live music, the festival will offer a wealth of interactive experiences, food options, and opportunities for cultural exploration. Two notable highlights are the free guided tours of the Mann-Simons Site, which provide insights into local history, and complimentary Black history bus tours operated by C&S Tours. Both initiatives are sponsored by Columbia SC 63 and USC’s Center for Civil Rights History and Research, extending a deeper understanding of the area’s significant heritage.
The festival also features a Kids Zone, organized by the Columbia (SC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. This family-friendly area includes robotics demonstrations, face painting, and character meet-and-greets with SCETV’s Smart Cat and Gordon the Purple Yam. Furthermore, local children’s book authors will be present to engage young readers and encourage literary exploration.
Interactive cultural experiences will enhance the festivities, with sweetgrass basket weaving demonstrations and hands-on STEM activities coordinated by the Girl Scouts. These activities aim to promote engagement and appreciation of Black history and culture among attendees of all ages.
The Jubilee festival serves not only as a celebration but also as a tribute to the rich history and significant contributions of African Americans in Columbia. Visitors and locals alike are invited to partake in this enriching cultural experience.
For a complete schedule of events and more details about the festival, attendees should check Historic Columbia’s website.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
- Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Location: Mann-Simons Site, 1403 Richland Street, Columbia, S.C.
- Admission: Free
Festival Highlights
- Mainstage Headliner: LADY STOUT
- Other Performers: Preach Jacobs & The Negro League, Chukk Gregory, Charles B. Jackson Singers, Cr3Wizdom, Sir Chance
- Free Tours: Guided tours of the Mann-Simons Site, Black history bus tours
- Kids Zone Activities: Robotics, face painting, book authors, character meets
- Cultural Experiences: Basket weaving, STEM activities
FAQ
What is the Jubilee: Festival of Black History & Culture?
The Jubilee is an annual event celebrating Black history, culture, and contributions in the Columbia community, featuring performances, activities, and cultural experiences.
When and where will the festival take place?
The festival will occur on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Mann-Simons Site, 1403 Richland Street, Columbia, S.C.
Is there an admission fee for the festival?
No, the event is free and open to the public.
What activities are planned for children at the festival?
The Kids Zone will host robotics demonstrations, face painting, meet-and-greets with characters, and appearances by local children’s book authors.
Are there any cultural experiences offered at the festival?
Yes, attendees can participate in sweetgrass basket weaving demonstrations and STEM activities led by the Girl Scouts.
Key Features of the Jubilee Festival
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Main Performance | LADY STOUT will headline the main stage. |
| Additional Performances | Includes acts such as Preach Jacobs & The Negro League and others. |
| Children’s Activities | Face painting, robotics, book signings by local authors. |
| Cultural Workshops | Sweetgrass basket weaving and STEM demonstrations. |
| Guided Tours | Free tours of the Mann-Simons Site and Black history bus tours. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Jubilee Festival 2025
- Post and Courier: Jubilee Festival 2024
- Spokesman: Columbia Cavalcade 2025
- Google Search: Black Culture History Columbia
- ABC News 4: Jubilee Festival Highlights
- Wikipedia: Jubilee
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