The George Washington Carver Community Enrichment Center (GWCC) is proud to announce the return of one of its most anticipated cultural celebrations—Hattitudes 2026—an event honoring the elegance, history, and spiritual significance of the African American church hat tradition.
Scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 1:00 PM, this year’s program will take place at GWCC, located at 950 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Asheboro. The annual gathering brings together community members, families, and hat enthusiasts for an afternoon of style, fellowship, and cultural reflection.
Celebrating a Timeless Tradition
For generations, African American women have expressed faith, dignity, and creativity through the tradition of wearing ornate hats to Sunday worship. From the era of slavery to the modern church, dressing in one’s finest attire has symbolized reverence, resilience, and pride. Hattitudes was created to celebrate this enduring legacy and to ensure that younger generations understand the cultural and spiritual meaning behind it.
More than a fashion showcase, Hattitudes is a tribute to the role of the church as a cornerstone of African American life—where identity, faith, and community are woven together.
The Signature Hat Parade
A highlight of the afternoon is the Hattitudes Hat Parade, where participants model their most stunning creations. Hats adorned with feathers, florals, ribbons, lace, and intricate designs will take center stage as contestants “strut their Hattitudes” in a joyful display of individuality and artistry.
Participants will also have the opportunity to compete for a $100 prize, celebrating both creativity and tradition.
Introducing the Generations Tea
New this year, GWCC is incorporating a Generations Tea, an elegant intergenerational experience designed to bring women and girls together—grandmothers, mothers, daughters, aunts, nieces, and friends—for an afternoon of fellowship and shared heritage.
The tea emphasizes:
- Honoring the wisdom of older generations
- Inspiring and uplifting younger women
- Strengthening bonds through storytelling, culture, and grace
- Celebrating unity across generations
Guests are encouraged to embrace the occasion’s aesthetic:
- Wear your favorite hat
- Floral dresses or suits are encouraged
- Pastels are welcome
- Yellow is the color of the day
- Special rates are available for three generations attending together
Supporting the Next Generation
Tickets for Hattitudes 2026 are $15.00, and all proceeds will benefit the Carver Arts After-School Academy, GWCC’s arts-centered program serving middle school students in Randolph County. The academy provides young people with creative opportunities, mentorship, and cultural enrichment that nurture both talent and confidence.
Join the Celebration
Whether you are a lifelong hat enthusiast or simply looking to experience a meaningful cultural tradition, Hattitudes 2026 promises an unforgettable afternoon of elegance, history, and community connection.
Come prepared to celebrate the past, embrace the present, and inspire the future—because at Hattitudes, every hat tells a story.
