ROCK HILL, SC – The Emmett Scott Literary & Arts Festival returns on February 7-8, 2025, bringing together music, literature, and the arts to celebrate the rich cultural legacy of the African American community. Held at the historic Emmett Scott Center, this two-day festival will feature a star-studded benefit concert and an inspiring literary and arts showcase, reinforcing the importance of storytelling, creativity, and history during Black History Month.
A Historic Night of Music – Friday, February 7, 2025
Kicking off the festival, the Benefit Concert will take place on Friday, February 7th, inside the newly renovated McGirt Auditorium—marking the first concert in over two decades at this historic venue. Headlining the event is the Grammy-nominated neo-soul duo Kindred the Family Soul, bringing their signature sound of love, unity, and storytelling. Rock Hill’s own Mello Groove will open the evening, delivering a dynamic performance that blends jazz, soul, and R&B. Proceeds from the concert benefit youth literary and arts programming at the Emmett Scott Center through the African American Cultural Resource Center and the Arts Council of York County.
Tickets for the Benefit Concert are still available and can be purchased at https://checkout.square.site/
Literary and Arts Showcase – Saturday, February 8, 2025
On Saturday, February 8th, the2nd Annual Emmett Scott Literary & Arts Showcase will feature over 25 local and regional authors, artists, and creatives, offering attendees an immersive experience in Black literature, visual arts, and cultural expression. Held at the Emmett Scott Center, this event is free and open to the public, providing a space for dialogue, inspiration, and celebration of Black excellence in the arts.
Honoring the Legacy of Emmett J. Scott & Emmett Scott High School
Named after Emmett J. Scott, a key advisor to Booker T. Washington and a champion for African American education, the Emmett Scott Center holds deep historical significance. Once the site of Emmett Scott High School, a pillar of Black education in Rock Hill, the center continues its mission of uplifting culture, education, and community progress. The Emmett Scott Literary & Arts Festival builds on this legacy, ensuring that Black voices and stories remain at the forefront of artistic and historical preservation.
Join us as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future through music, literature, and the arts.
Event Details:
Benefit Concert – Friday, February 7, 2025 | McGirt Auditorium (Emmett Scott Center)
Performers: Kindred the Family Soul & Mello Groove
Tickets Available: https://checkout.square.site/
Literary & Arts Showcase – Saturday, February 8, 2025 | Emmett Scott Center
Featuring: 25+ local & regional authors, artists, and creatives
Featuring: 25+ local & regional authors, artists, and creatives
FREE & Open to the Public
About the Emmett Scott Literary & Arts Festival
The Emmett Scott Literary & Arts Festival is dedicated to celebrating African American literature, arts, and culture while honoring the legacy of Emmett J. Scott and the historic Emmett Scott High School. Through performances, discussions, and exhibits, the festival creates a space for artistic expression and community connection during Black History Month.
