OVERVIEW OF ALL ACTIVITIES
ALL FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES FREE OF CHARGE
Pre-Registration is Only REQUIRED for Bulls Island and Wambaw Creek Trips and the Sweet Grass Basket Workshop held at the Sewee Center
Workshop Registration Opens April 16th
Registration For Bulls Island and Wambaw Creek Activities OPENS May 5th
Register with Outfitters: See Activity Descriptions
Coastal Expeditions (BI) 843.881.4582
Nature Adventures Outfitters (WC) 843.697.2075
Register for Sweet Grass Basketry Workshop at Sewee Center 843-928-3368
Many Activities Take Place Away From the Sewee Center .
Activity Codes
E = Easy (short walk on flat unpaved terrain /short paddling distance)
M = Moderate (longer walk/paddling/ 2-3 miles possible)
D = Difficult (walk is 4 miles/soft sand, unpaved grass terrain)
Bulls Island & Wambaw Creek – Must Register with Outfitters (See Activity Descriptions)
Coastal Expeditions (BI) 843-881-4582
Nature Adventures Outfitters (WC) 843-697-2075
Registration Closes May 12th
Many Activities Take Place Away From the Sewee Center. Please Note the Activity Location Address!
Bee Hive Demonstration Max: None
10 - 11/1 - 2 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Natural History (E) See Honeybees in an actual hive and how the bees play a crucial role in pollination services, providing many of the food items we eat. Hives have long provided humans with honey and beeswax, spawning a large beekeeping industry, though many species occur in the wild. Honeybees are social and cooperative insects, the colonies meant to thrive year after year with thousands of bees! We will describe the bee life cycle from egg to bee. Learn about her Royal Highness and the life of the drones. It’s an amazing bee world! Beekeepers will meet you at the Bee Apiary.
Leader: Jim Strohm, Journeyman Beekeeper, Charleston Community Bee Gardens
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Bird Banding & Identification Max: 20
8 - 10 am Register at Site Location
Natural History (E) You don’t want to miss this very special opportunity to see songbirds up-close and in your hand! Join Aaron and learn about banding methods and how this information that’s gathered is used for research projects. Who knows? Maybe we will have a rare opportunity to get close to some of those brilliantly colored migratory warblers who travel hundreds and even thousands of miles to spend the summers with us! Leader: Aaron Given, Wildlife Biologist, Kiawah Island
Location: Meet at Garris Landing by 7:45 for Check in and walk to banding site. GPS Address: 390 Bulls Island Road Awendaw 29429
Birds of Prey Flying Demonstration Max: None
3 - 4 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Natural History (E) One of the most unique and exciting programs offered by The Center for Birds of Prey is the raptor flight demonstration. The Center's trained staff will demonstrate several raptors’ various flight and hunting adaptations right in front of your eyes! Watch a hawk soar and glide from tree to tree. You might see an owl coast past your head without making a sound. The flying demonstration will include a period for questions and an up-close visit with the birds. Photographs are welcome.
Leader: The Center for Birds of Prey Staff
Location: Sewee Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Bulls Island Exploration Max: 15 Ages 18+
7:30 – 1:30 pm Pre-Registration Required
Call 843.881.4582
Natural/Cultural History (D) 4-mile walking tour. Explore the natural and human history of Bulls Island, located within the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. Guides share their expertise and intimate knowledge gained from years of exploration and study. Travel by boat through the salt marsh estuary. Walk through maritime forest, past water impoundments to the beach and back, experiencing the connections between natural and human histories that have shaped this barrier island landscape. Trip highlights include American oystercatchers and scores of other bird species, Atlantic bottle-nosed dolphin, American alligators, and maritime plants. Bring binoculars, water, snacks, appropriate clothing and shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent. Suitable for Adults ages 18 years and older.
Leaders: Wil Christenson, marine biologist, naturalist and David McLean, biologist, refuge bird surveyor
Location: Meet at Garris Landing by 7:00 for Check in before Ferry Departure at 7:30; GPS Address: 390 Bulls Island Road Awendaw 29429
Trip Sponsor: Coastal Expeditions. Call 843.881.4582 to Register. Credit Card required to reserve seat
Butterfly/Dragonfly/Plant Walk Max: 20
10:30 – 1:30 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Natural History (M) It’s the perfect time of the year to search out those “flowers in flight” aka butterflies that brilliantly grace our natural landscapes, pollinating plants as they feed and rest. Search for the monarchs, swallowtails – spicebush, tiger and black swallowtails, gray hairsteaks and the American Lady. Nature enthusiasts will also be on the lookout for caterpillars, as well as dragonflies and other insects while identifying monarch nectar plants and birds along the way.
Leader: Billy McCord, Biologist, retired, SC Department of Natural Resources
Location: Francis Marion NF. Check in at Sewee Center Registration by 9:45 for Departure to Forest site. Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Edible Plant Walk Max: 20
9 – 11 am Register at Site Location
Natural History (M) Join the search for edible native plants on portions of the South Tibwin Trail in the Francis Marion National Forest. Over 40 species of edibles have been discovered in the area! Plants include cattails, blackberries, blueberries, violet, muscadine grape, greenbriar, wild mustards and cresses, and herbs like red bay and sweet pepperbush to name a few. Bring a water bottle, snacks, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellant.
Leader: Vaughan Spearman, Stewardship Forester, SC Forestry Commission
Location: South Tibwin Trail. Meet at South Tibwin Parking Area, Adjacent of Hwy 17 North, approximately 3 mi. South of McClellanville & 11.7 mi. North of Sewee Visitor Center.
Family Fishing at Sewee Pond Max: None
9 – 3 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Outdoor Recreation (E) Bring your family out to the Sewee Center pond for some free fishing! Our pond has been stocked with catfish so there will be fish to catch and take home. Don't know how to fish? No problem, we have youth fishing clinics going on throughout the day. Bring your own gear and bait. Sewee Pond is adjacent to the Center.
Leader: Self-Serve
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Fly Fishing – Project Healing Waters Max: None
10 – 2 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Outdoor Recreation (E) Meet local Veterans who will show you the intricate art of fly tying and demonstrate the beauty of fly casting in Sewee Pond. You will experience the thrill and yes, the skill, to casting with a fly rod. If you have never tried fly casting, you will be “hooked”! And, you will probably leave the table with a fly in hand – the first for your fly fishing box. Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing is one of the few national programs recognized by VA as one of the top recreational programs across the United States, with over 220 programs working with upwards of 8500 veterans. Project Healing Waters has been in the Charleston area for 8 years.
Leaders: PHWFF Staff – Walter Shockley, Gerry Minnetti, Peter DiNicola
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
A Gullah Spring Tea Tasting Max: None
1 – 2 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Cultural History (E) Jacque Williams, Gullah Geechee herbalist, alchemist, cultural historian and entrepreneur, invites you to an afternoon Tea Tasting. Enjoy a sampling of her herbal teas as Jacque shares the historical history of the herbs, that includes both their edible and medicinal properties. Born and raised in the small community of Midway, located outside of Georgetown, SC, Jacque’s roots run deep in the rich traditions of the Gullah Geechee people. Her upbringing with her big momma, Elizabeth Sumter and grandmother Myrtle Gathers, immersed her in the healing wisdom passed down through generations, the very wisdom that she now infuses in her brand. Products will be available for purchase.
Leader: Jacque Williams, Passion Products, herbalist alchemist
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Gullah Geechee Stories and Basketry Max: None
10 – 10:45 am Register Upon Center Arrival
Cultural History (E) Living and learning the ways of Gullah Geechee people was easy! Raised with family of Gullah Geechee community. Raised on farmland where much was planted. Growing up in church where we sang and Shout. Washing of the feet on communion Sunday. Going to Pastor Dingle for hot meal. I going to express some Gullah Geechee education with storytelling!
Leader: Jennifaye Singleton, Storyteller and Basketmaker
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Hampton Plantation State Historic Site Tours Max: None
10/3 pm Register At Center: Drive to Hampton
Cultural History (E) Hampton Plantation is home to the final remnants of a colonial-era rice plantation. It tells the story of the differing and interrelated cultures who resided there over generations: the prominent ruling families of Colonial and Antebellum South Carolina (Rutledges, Horrys and Pinckneys) and the African- American enslaved peoples who provided labor and expertise. Tours include a study of the architecture and evolution of the house, as seen in the open walls and unfurnished rooms, as well as personal insight into the people, both free and enslaved, that called Hampton home.
Participants will check in at the Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Hwy 17 N Awendaw, SC 29429. Please arrive at the Sewee Center 40 minutes before the scheduled tours as you will drive to Hampton Plantation following your check-in.
Leader: Hampton Plantation Ranger
Location: Hampton Plantation State Historic Site, 1950 Rutledge Rd, McClellanville SC 29458
Hampton Plantation State Historic Site
Hunting Tales with Archibald Rutledge Max: None
11/2 pm Register At Center: Drive to Hampton
Cultural History (E) The program will explore the importance of hunting on Hampton Plantation, from its collection of food for enslaved and the Horry/Rutledge Family, to its importance as leisure activity for almost 300 years. The program will include a demonstration of the loading and firing of a black powder shotgun, similar to the one used by Archibald Rutledge and his father in the mid-19th century.
Participants will check in at the Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Hwy 17 N Awendaw, SC 29429. Please arrive at the Sewee Center 40 minutes before the scheduled tours as you will drive to Hampton Plantation following your check-in.
Leader: Hampton Plantation Ranger
Location: Hampton Plantation State Historic Site, 1950 Rutledge Rd, McClellanville SC 29458
Hunnah! Stories in the Gullah Quilt Max: None
12 – 12:45 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Cultural History (E) Bea Rodrigues tells the story of the Gullah Geechee people and their African ancestors and how they shaped America through the handstitched pieces of living history. The story quilt is made in the bright colors of African tradition, chronicling the lives of generations and their trials, serving as a testament to a history of pride and struggle. Bea, historian at the Gullah Museum of Georgetown, will introduce unique history, distinctive arts, crafts, foodways, music and culture of the Gullah Geechee people.
Leader: Bea Rodrigues, Gullah Historian, Gullah Geechee Museum, Georgetown
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Ion Trail Nature Hike Max: 20
9:30 - 11:30 am Register at Site Location
Natural/Cultural History (E) Discover the natural wonders of this fascinating Carolina bottomland called the Ion Swamp. The trail leads you through the splendors of old cypress, tupelo gum, bay and other plants with a myriad of wildlife found along the way. Be on the lookout for those amazing herps! See alligators, turtles, lizards and perhaps, glimpse a snake. Listen and look for woodpeckers, resident warblers and the migratory songbirds. Blending natural and cultural history, the trail takes you along historic old rice dikes along 1700 era canals of Wythewood Plantation. Recommended are long sleeves, pants, hat, and sturdy shoes. Bring water and insect repellent. Bringing along binoculars and field guides are always helpful.
Leader: Gabe Shuler, Naturalist, Cypress Gardens
Location: Ion Swamp Trail. From Sewee Center, drive 0.2 mi. on Hwy 17 South and turn right onto FS 228 I’on Swamp Rd. Drive 2 mi. to trailhead on left.
KEYNOTE: Black People, White Rice and The Santee Delta
SPEAKER: Dr Richard Porcher Max: None
4:00 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Cultural History (E) Black People, White Rice looks at the introduction of rice in the Lowcountry and how enslaved people first obtained seeds, cultivated the crop in inland swamps, and learned how to process rice with mortar and pestle. Planters appropriated enslaved peoples’ knowledge, imported more Africans and created the plantation enterprise for which rice became a Lowcountry export by 1720. The shift from inland to tidal cultivation just before the Revolution, became the main method of cultivation until 1910-11. Processing methods went from animal power, to waterpower, and finally steam power to run the machines that threshed and milled the rice for market. The presentation concludes with a discussion of the Santee Delta Project, which seeks to document the role of the Santee Delta in the history of rice cultivation.
Speaker - Dr Richard Porcher, noted historian and author, field biologist, PhD/ Emeritus Professor of Biology, The Citadel
Location: Sewee Visitor Center Auditorium, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Mama Hattie’s Memories Max: None
2 – 2:30 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Cultural History (E) When I First Remember (Old Bethel United Methodist Church) featuring Mama Hattie (Rose Atterberry). A Gullah Geechee experience, Mama Hattie tells her story of being forced from her African home to being traded into slavery to the southern low country, and what life was like on a plantation, and Gullah stories. This journey will take you on an emotional roller coaster including audience participation singing traditional African songs, and traditional folk and gospel songs.
Leader: Rose Atterberry, Gullah Geechee Historian
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Hwy 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Native Plant Landscaping and Walk at Sewee Max: 15
10 – 11 am Register Upon Center Arrival
Natural History (E) Examine characteristicsthat define native plant communities that create the perfect habitat for Lowcountry birds, pollinators, and other interesting animals on a tour around the grounds of the Sewee Center. You may gain insight and inspiration to incorporate similar natural elements into your own landscapes during this easy walk. Bring water, appropriate clothing and shoes, sunscreen, & insect repellent.
Leader: John Brubaker, Naturalist, Founder of Lowcountry Chapter of The South Carolina Native Plant Society
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Nature Photography Workshop Max: 20
10 – 12 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Outdoor Recreation (E) Today’s cameras are not simple: each one offers some unique and interesting challenges to us. During this workshop, you will be shown how to work through those challenges and, learn how to use many of the camera functions and how to optimize the settings to improve your nature photography. Discussions will include how to use the ISO, speed settings, white balance, color settings, meter modes image quality setting, file size, shooting modes, scene modes, zoom and the use of flash indoors and outdoors. You will walk the Nebo Trail, learning how to set up and get better nature shots. Bring to the workshop the following: Camera with manual, writing materials, 2-3 prints (4x6), and spare batteries.
Workshop participants will meet on the back porch near the Butterfly Garden.
Leader: Walter Shockley, Professional Nature Photographer
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Red Wolf and Canids Max: None
10 - 11/11:30 - 12:30/1 - 2 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Natural History (E) In 2025, the Sewee Center received four endangered Red Wolves. In the 1960’s the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service began removing the small number of Red wolves from the wild in an effort to save the species from extinction. The Service established a recovery program for the endangered Red Wolf in 1973. Cape Romain NWR has played a significant role in their continued survival. Hear about the amazing history of the Red Wolf as well as the histories of other canids, such as gray wolves and coyotes. “Wolfman” Rob will share with you their incredible stories.
Leader: Rob Johnson, Red Wolf Caretaker, Sewee Visitor Center
Location: Sewee Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Reptile and Amphibian Demonstration Max: None
10 – 3 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Natural History (E) Interact with live reptiles and amphibians native to the Lowcountry! Discover the fascinating natural history of frogs, salamanders, turtles, lizards, snakes and alligators. Learn how to find and identify these cryptic critters, what to do in case of a snake bite, and what work local agencies and organizations do to protect rare and declining species. These amazing creatures will be on display in the Sewee Center laboratory.
Leader: Ben Morrison, Biologist, The Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy; Local Reptile Experts
Location: Sewee Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Sewee Shell Ring Walk Max: 20
9:30 - 11:30 am Register at Site Location
Natural History (E) Take a walk through three distinct ecosystems to one of the most unique archaeological sites found in the United States. At more than 4,000 years old, the Sewee Shell Ring represents the earliest evidence of prehistoric monumental architecture in the Southeast. The trail provides a leisurely 1 mile walk in a shady canopy to two archaeological sites spanning from 600 to 4,000 years in the past; a Woodland Period clam midden and the Archaic Period shell ring. Come and learn how prehistoric peoples lived and thrived in the Lowcountry.
Leader: Christina Stewart, Archeologist, Francis Marion National Forest
Location: Sewee Shell Ring. From Sewee Center, drive 1.5 mi on Hwy 17 North, to Doar Rd. On Doar Rd, go 2.1 mi. and turn right onto FS Rd 243 Salt Pond Rd. Go 0.1 mi. to parking area and trailhead on right.
Stories of the Gullah Geechee Children Max: None
11– 11:45 am/1 – 1:45 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Cultural History (E) Calling all kids and lovers of Gullah Geechee culture as Author Dawn Felder Boren reads her children’s book series “Stories of the Gullah Geechee Children”. You’ll join the Gullah Geechee children as they go on epic adventures throughout the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Get ready for an interactive author talk where you can explore the culture, recant your Gullah Geechee childhood, listen to live readings or most of all have fun!
Leader: Dawn Boren, Youth Author
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Hwy 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429.
Sweet Grass Basketry Workshop Max: 10
10 – 11:30 am Registration - 843.928.3368
Cultural History (E) Weave a small piece of Gullah history! You will be taught the beginning basics of “sewing” a basket. Use the nail bone tool to bind palmetto leaf with long leaf pine needle and sweet grass to make the bottom coil of the basket. The coil makes a marvelous coaster. Workshop will be held in the Sewee Center classroom.
Leader: Vera Maniqault, Gullah Geechee Historian and Sweet Grass Basketry Artisan
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Hwy 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429. Call 843.928.3368 to Register
Tibwin Bird Walk – Francis Marion NF Max: 20
8:30 – 12 pm Register at Site Location
Natural History (M) The Francis Marion National Forest provides essential stopover habitat for hundreds of autumn and spring migrating bird species, as well as critical breeding habitat for migrants and year round residents. Tibwin Plantation, located between US Hwy 17 and the Intracoastal Waterway is a premier birding location. Approximately 250 species of birds have been documented on the FMNF, 220 of which were recorded on Tibwin Plantation alone. Shoes that can get wet & muddy are suggested. Bring water, snacks and insect repellant. No facilities. Plan for 3 miles of walking. Check weather forecast. Walk will be cancelled if a greater than 40% rain prediction by Channel 5 news.
Leader: Matthew Marbert, Interdisciplinary Forest Technician, Francis Marion NF
Location: Tibwin Parking Area, Adjacent of Hwy 17 North, approximately 3 mi. South of McClellanville & 11.7 mi. North of Sewee Visitor Center
Wambaw Creek Kayak & Canoe Paddle Max: 10 per trip
9 - 12 /12 - 3 pm Pre-Registration Required
Call 843.697.2075
Natural History (M) Explore a pristine protected wilderness area in the Francis Marion National Forest by canoe or kayak. See old growth cypress trees, turtles and possibly a few shy alligators in a beautiful black water flooded forest. 2-hour paddle. Families and beginners welcome (ages 4 and up).
Leader: Nature Adventures Outfitters Staff
Location: Francis Marion NF. Directions to Wambaw Creek provided by Nature Adventures Outfitters.
Trip Sponsor: Nature Adventures Outfitters. Call 843.697.2075. Credit card required to reserve spot/equipment.
Watching Wildlife Through a Camera Lens Max: 15
8:30 – 10:30 Register at Site Location
Natural History (E) Colin Hocking, wildlife and bird photographer, takes you on a morning photo tour of the Ion Swamp. During your 2 hour tour, Colin will share with you how he photographs his subjects in sometimes challenging light conditions Colin has been a professional photographer for over 25 years and leads tours and workshops around the Lowcountry.
Leader: Colin Hocking, President of Coastal Master Naturalists Association, Photography Educator for Statewide Master Naturalist Program, Professional Photographer
Location: Ion Swamp Trail. From Sewee Center, drive 0.2 mi. on Hwy 17 South and turn right onto FS 228 I’on Swamp Rd. Drive 2 mi. to trailhead on left.
Wildflower Walk at Carolina Bay Max: 20
10 - 1 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Natural History (M) Nature enthusiasts will be introduced to one of their favorite plant communities on the Francis Marion National Forest - the Carolina Bay. Not only are their origins still a mystery but what you will learn about each plant will captivate you for hours. In May, the Bay is ablaze with wildflowers! Enjoy the “insect eating” pitcher plants, blue flag iris and a myriad of other flowers on your walk. Bring water, appropriate clothing and shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent.
Leaders: Richard Porcher, PhD/ Emeritus Professor of Biology, The Citadel, Joel Gramling, PhD/Professor of Plant Ecology & Director of General Education at The Citadel, Curator of The Citadel Herbarium Location: Francis Marion NF. Check in at Sewee Center Registration by 9:45 am and Carpool to Bay.
Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
YOUTH ACTIVITIES
Youth Archery Max: None
10 - 11 /11 - 12/1 - 2/2 – 3 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Youth/Outdoor Recreation (E) Come and learn the basic steps of Archery! Learn all about stance, grip, aim and shot. Certified archery instructors will teach you safety and consistency for beginners, along with proven techniques to become a successful archer. Improve your hand/eye coordination and participate in some healthy competition at the end of your lesson! Ages: 5 years and older (rubber tip), 10x20x18 tent; 10 years and older (steel tips), 3-D targets.
Leader: Certified Archery Instructors, Bowhunters of SC
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Youth Boating – DNR simulator trailer Max: None
10 – 3 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Youth/Outdoor Recreation (E) Ahoy Captain! Are you ready to take the helm? Learn how to steer the boat at the SCDNR simulator trailer. You will also learn a lot about boating safety when you are “on the water”.
Leader: SCDNR Law Enforcement Officers
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Youth Fishing Workshop for Beginners Max: None
9 –12 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Youth/Outdoor Recreation (E) Kids! Enjoy a fishing workshop at the Sewee Pond that will be sure to have you catching the “big ones” in the Sewee Pond. The topics and techniques that will be covered in the workshop include: safety, knot tying, casting, and catch/release practices. You will be guided through stations to learn how to assemble fishing knots including the Clinch and Palomar knots and how to properly and safely cast a fishing rod and a cast net. Then, learn how to catch and release fish out of the Sewee Pond! The workshop will be held at the Sewee Picnic Shelter. Beginners ages 5 -12
Leaders: Sampit Bassmasters, Georgetown
Location: Sewee Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Youth Forest Management for Wildlife Max: None
10 – 11/12 - 1 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Youth/Natural History (E) Be a part of a hands-on demonstration of active forest management with wildlife in mind. You will collect leaves from common forest trees that are important for wildlife, age a tree (without cutting it down), and measure a tree using tools and exercises. Learn all about prescribed fire, forest thinning, and more. There will be skins, skulls, other parts of native wildlife, and even tracks for you to test your wildlife sleuth skills!
Leader: Jestin Clark, Biologist, Francis Marion NF
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Youth “JAKES Take Aim” with NWTF BB Gun Range Max: None
10 - 3 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Youth/Outdoor Recreation (E) Come and shoot the National Wild Turkey Federation inflatable BB gun range with the Lowcountry Longbeards chapter of the NWtF! The range is designed for use with low-velocity, youth BB guns. The goal of the JAKES Take Aim program is to present opportunities for youth ages 17 and younger to try target shooting in a safe, fun environment.
Leader: NWTF Lowcountry Longbeards Chapter Committee members
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Youth Nature Art – Crafting with Shells Max: None
9 - 3 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Youth/Nature Crafts (E) Come and create unique arts and crafts using Nature’s treasures with the McClellanville arts council “where everyone is an artist” - especially you!
Leader: McClellanville Arts Council
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Youth Pollinator Patrol Max: 20
11 – 12 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Youth/Natural History (E) There are many insects that pollinate flowers besides the non-native honeybee. If the weather permits, we will walk around the Visitors Center and identify insects visiting flowers and capture a few to take a closer look. We'll then build small bee houses to hang in home gardens.
Leader: Dwight Williams, Entomologist, Bottletree Nursery, McClellanville
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Youth Pond Ecology - Life in the Pond Max: 15
12 - 1 pm Register Upon Center Arrival
Youth/Natural History (E) Dive into a world of alien looking animals, where a single drop of water may contain thousands of foreign creatures all fighting for survival, and strange beings lie in the murky depths below. Welcome to "Life in the Pond!" Using aquatic equipment, participants will get to observe and learn about the strange creatures that live below the water's surface and how these wonderful animals can help us assess the quality of the water.
Leader: Madison Proctor, Educator at Green World School
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Youth Turtles N Tots Max: None
10 – 10:30 am Register Upon Center Arrival
Youth/Natural History (E) Meet Madison and learn about aquatic sea turtles. Hear a story about the journey of a loggerhead, learn how to help the endangered sea turtles, meet the only species of turtle found in the salt marsh, and then make a sea turtle hat to wear for the rest of the festival! Fun for ages PreK-1st!
Leader: Madison Proctor, Educator, Green World School
Location: Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 Highway 17 North, Awendaw SC 29429
Youth Community Fireman 9 – 3 pm
Face Painting 10 – 3:00 pm
Build a Bird Feeder to Take Home with Friends of Coastal SC 10 – 2 pm
Wildlife Art Contest Student Winners Recognized – Music Stage 11: 45 AM**
Musical Entertainment 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Enjoy Great Performances with Lowcountry Musicians!
Mark Bryan – Southern rock 10- 10:45
Black River Band – Blues, Americana 11- 11:45
Greg Smith- Southern rock 12 - 12:45
Awendaw Community Singers – Gospel 1 - 1:45
Danielle Howle – Southern rock 2 - 2:45
Lowcountry Gospel Group - Gospel 3 - 3:45
Music Soundstage Sponsored by Awendaw Green
Festival Food Vendors
Charleston Coffee Roasters
Buckshots – Seafood, chicken wings, fries
Buddy’s BBQ - BBQ, hambergers, hot dogs
Carmen y Juans – Burritos, tacos, rice bowl
Gullah Geechee Tastee Treats
Holy City Popcorn
With gratitude to community partners, sponsors, businesses, and to the many volunteers that bring this annual community heritage and nature festival to You!
Festival Partners
Awendaw Green
Hampton Plantation State Historic Site
The Center for Birds of Prey
Bowhunters of South Carolina
Nature Adventures Outfitters Adventure Center
Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge
Coastal Expeditions
Francis Marion National Forest
SC Department of Natural Resources
SC Forestry Commission
Friends of Coastal SC
Lowcountry Longbeards Chapter/National Wild Turkey Federation