Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park hosts holiday lights display

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. (WTOC) - Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park is hosting its annual Nights and Lights drive-through display this weekend at the site of the country’s first self-governed town for the formerly enslaved.

The holiday lights event is in its sixth year, according to Ahmad Ward, executive director for Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park.

“This started during COVID. We couldn’t be around each other and we wanted to do something to get people into the holiday spirit,” Ward said.

The park used leftover money to light the display during the first year. Ward said they expected about 700 to 800 people but had 2,500 visitors come through in three days.

The display includes structures that show what the historic villages used to look like. Ward said the event serves as both entertainment and education about the park’s history.

“We want you to come through and have fun, but also learn a little something,” Ward said. “People can come and learn this. Oh, I want to come back and see it during the daytime.”

Ward said the event also serves as a way to thank supporters of the park throughout the year.

You can see The Gullah Village at Holiday Nights & Lights December 6-8, each night from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.