What began as an idea to celebrate Black entrepreneurs in the Lowcountry has blossomed into one of Bluffton’s most anticipated community events. Now in its third year, the Roots & Rivers Festival is returning to Bluffton’s Oyster Factory Park September 6 from 2 to 8 p.m.
The festival offers live music, dancing, food trucks, local artisan vendors, and family-friendly fun – all set against the stunning backdrop of the May River.
More than just a festival, though, it’s a testament to the power of unity, Black entrepreneurship, and local pride. It’s a living, breathing expression of the mission behind BlacQuity, a Bluffton-based nonprofit working to empower Black entrepreneurs across the Lowcountry.
Attendees at last year’s Roots & Rivers Festival laugh, dance and enjoy themselves.
“We originally planned a small oyster roast for about 100 people,” said Gwen Chambers, executive director of BlacQuity. “The idea was to spread awareness of our work and to let Black Equity University (BEU) graduates share their stories. But the interest was overwhelming and it quickly snowballed into a full festival.”
That first year exceeded expectations, and momentum only grew. By its second year, the festival welcomed more than 500 guests, some traveling from as far as Ohio and New York, but also attracting neighbors in Savannah and Charleston. Organizers anticipate an even larger crowd this year.
“The Roots & Rivers Festival gives us a beautiful way to celebrate the brilliance, resilience, and excellence of Black-owned businesses across the Lowcountry,” Chambers said. “It’s about building community, sharing culture, and putting our dollars where our values are.”
This year’s festival is headlined once again by the ever-popular Deas Guyz, the local band with a mix of Motown and R&B, among other popular music.
Youth dance performances will highlight local talent and add vibrant energy. More than 30 vendors, many of whom are BEU graduates, will be showcasing products from artisan crafts to savory dishes. A Kid Zone packed with games and activities ensures fun for festival-goers of all ages.
The atmosphere is one of genuine joy and connection. “It’s really a day to come out, enjoy incredible food, shop local, listen to great music, and meet the people behind these businesses,” Chambers said.
While the Roots & Rivers Festival was born from BlacQuity’s mission, it thrives because of a dedicated team working behind the scenes. Many of the organizers are BEU graduates bringing not only their skills, but also a deep, personal investment in the festival’s purpose.
Key organizers include Derek Jenkins, board chair, with Brenda Shelton, LJ Bush, Denice Brown, Trelani Michelle, Sherry Todd, Carl Statham, Karla Zavala, Courtney Hayes, Ally Hughes, and Maria Robinson.
“It really takes a village, and these are people who not only volunteer their time but also share their expertise and passion for what BlacQuity stands for,” Chambers said.
Sponsors and partners, including local foundations, businesses, and civic leaders, play a crucial role as well. The presenting sponsor is Bill Anderson, Realtor, with Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’s International Realty.
The Purpose Behind the Party
The Roots & Rivers Festival supports BlacQuity’s programs via fundraising and awareness building. BlacQuity (the name is a blending of the words “Black” and “equity”) was founded by community and business leaders Billy Watterson and Bridgette Frazier. They recognized the need to go beyond visibility and business directories, creating real pathways to success for Black-owned businesses in the region that were otherwise, according to Chambers, “often under-resourced and flying under the radar.”
BlacQuity’s mission is to change that, through education, opportunity, and connection. The Roots & Rivers Festival supports the mission by funding several initiatives, including but not limited to:
• Black Equity University (BEU): A 12-week accelerator covering branding, business planning, and tax essentials.
• BEU 2.0: Advanced workshops on human resources, contracts, and growth strategy.
• Motivation Mondays: Monthly meetups with expert guest speakers.
• Pitch Night: A Shark Tank-style competition offering real funding for BEU grads.
This year’s event will be held on September 6, from 2 to 8 p.m. at Bluffton’s Oyster Factory Park.
At the festival, expect to find delicious food from local favorites like Da Shack and Food Savvy, along with handcrafted products, art, and more. Experiencing BEU graduates’ skills and creativity firsthand is one of the most rewarding parts of the festival – guests will be able to see and taste exactly where their investment is going.
While the festival centers on Black entrepreneurship, it welcomes everyone. Thanks to a growing list of sponsors, this annual celebration remains accessible, inclusive, and family-friendly.
In just three years, the Roots & Rivers Festival has grown from an intimate oyster roast into one of Bluffton’s most anticipated events. But for Chambers and the team, its heart remains unchanged. “It started as a small idea to showcase our entrepreneurs,” she said. “Now it’s a space where, whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time guest, you get a unique opportunity to experience Bluffton’s warmth, celebrate local talent, and support a mission that’s making a real difference.”
The Roots & Rivers Festival isn’t just growing; it’s planting something lasting. In a region rich with culture and creativity, this event reminds us that investing in Black businesses is investing in the future of our home here in the Lowcountry.
