Airing Of The Quilts 2024: Events & Quilting Traditions!

20 May, 2025

Could the simple act of stitching fabric together truly encapsulate the spirit of a community, resonate across generations, and find its way into the hallowed halls of art museums? For the women of Gee's Bend, Alabama, the answer has always been a resounding yes, and the annual Airing of the Quilts festival is a vibrant testament to this enduring legacy.

The "Airing of the Quilts" is more than just a festival; it's a heartfelt celebration of a unique artistic tradition, a gathering that fosters community, and a poignant reflection of American history. This year, the spotlight shines brightly on the third annual event, scheduled for Saturday, October 12, 2024, in the heart of Gee's Bend (Boykin), Alabama. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in a world where vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and the collective stories of generations intertwine on the fabric of life.

The Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy, along with the nonprofit Souls Grown Deep Foundation, is the official host of the festival. This year, the awareness tour will stop in Montgomery, Birmingham, and Mobile, Alabama, offering a rare opportunity for attendees to experience an extraordinary collection of handmade quilts. Live quilting demonstrations, offering a glimpse into the skillful hands and creative minds behind the works, will be a key feature. Visitors will also gain a deeper connection to the rich cultural traditions that have been cultivated within the Gee's Bend community.

The genesis of quilting in Gee's Bend is inextricably linked to the history of the area. From its inception in 1816, when Joseph Gee established a cotton plantation, the community has navigated the currents of American history. The community was shaped by the forces of slavery and later stood on the front lines of the Civil Rights Movement. The quilts made in Gees Bend emerged not just as functional objects but also as powerful symbols of resilience, creativity, and cultural identity. Today, the community is known nationwide for its remarkable talent and contributions to American art.

The festival, an annual tradition, draws visitors from far and wide. Last year, attendance at the Airing of the Quilts festival doubled, with 1,400 visitors, including guests from 26 states and six countries. It is more than just selling quilts. It is about connecting with visitors and sharing the story of Gee's Bend.

This year's event, which runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., will feature an exhibition titled "Just Look Where He Brought Me From: The Family Quilts of Mary Lee Bendolph" at the Gee's Bend Welcome Center. Mary Lee Bendolph, a highly regarded quiltmaker, also crafted the 2024 featured festival quilt. The annual event also includes the unveiling of a new addition to the Gee's Bend Heritage Trail.

The festival offers a unique glimpse into this artistic community that has produced internationally acclaimed African American quiltmakers. The event showcases the tradition of outdoor quilt displays, a practice deeply rooted in the communitys history. From historic downtown to the famous covered bridges, visitors are sure to find a favorite or two. If you have registered for the event, you will receive an email a week or two before the airing of the quilts with more information about events and a map of where the quilts and other events are taking place.

Additional events are planned throughout the state of Alabama. Some of the quilters and quilts will be in Birmingham on Saturday, March 29, from 4 p.m. The festival, the Airing of the Quilts, is set to stop in montgomery, birmingham, and mobile. Braidwood airing of the quilts festival is held each year on the 4th weekend in November. It comprises an indoor quilt exhibition and an outdoor hanging of the quilts. The outdoor quilts are hung each morning and taken in at night, in inclement weather they can be displayed in the church in the main street.

For those eager to explore the artistry further, the community has a strong presence on social media. You can find them on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest at greenwoodquilts.

Beyond the quilts, the festival promises a deeper dive into the history of Gee's Bend, including its evolution from a cotton plantation to a globally recognized art community. This immersive experience encourages visitors to engage with the stories woven into the fabric of each quilt.

The festival relies on the generosity of quilters who enter their quilts. The indoor exhibition categories include.

For anyone interested, the address for the event is 12021 Co Rd 29, Boykin, AL 36723, USA.

The event in Gee's Bend, Alabama is hosted by the Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy and the Souls Grown Deep Foundation. The event is scheduled for saturday, october 12 2024 with 2.2k people interested and 213 people going. There are 23 posts in the discussion.

This year's Airing of the Quilts is a testament to the enduring spirit of Gees Bend. It will provide an unforgettable journey into the heart of American art, history, and culture.

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Airing of the Quilts 2024 Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce

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2024 Airing of the Quilts Festival to be held in historic Gee’s Bend

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