CARRBORO, NC – The third annual Chapel Hill – Carrboro Juneteenth Festival returns to the Hargraves Community Center on Saturday, June 17 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Hosted by the Towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro, along with numerous community partners, the event celebrates Black culture and community with music, art, food, and more.
The Towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro proclaimed the observance of Juneteenth in 2020 and encourage residents and employers to recognize the holiday. John French, Director of the Hargraves Community Center, says “Juneteenth is important for our country and for our community. We are excited to once again partner with Carrboro and many community organizations to celebrate local Black culture and excellence.”
Here's what’s in store for this year’s celebration:
Historic Marker Dedication
Hargraves Community Center has been selected as a spot on the North Carolina Civil Rights Trail, with a marker that describes the Center’s importance in the local and national fight for civil rights. At 10:00 a.m., the community will gather to dedicate this new marker and celebrate the past, present, and future of Hargraves Center.
Live Music & Entertainment
The Juneteenth stage will welcome a variety of local artists, representing a range of musical genres. Pittsboro-based group The Dowdy Boys will provide gospel music, while Mickey Mills & Steel will offer Caribbean music featuring steel drums. Local favorite Zone will play a rap set, while Finesse will get everyone on their feet with upbeat rhythm and blues. In between acts, DJ Dominic will keep everyone dancing and entertained.
Small Business Fair & Nonprofit Showcase
A wide variety of Black artisans and Black-owned businesses will be highlighted at the festival, with everything from handmade jewelry and figurines to roofing, healthcare, and other services. Likewise, a wide range of community organizations that represent and serve the Black community will have booths at the event, including the Marian Cheek Jackson Center for Saving and Making History, the Hannah Ruth Foundation, and the local alumni chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Zeta Beta Phi Sorority Incorporated, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.
Food Trucks & Kids Zone
Black-owned food trucks and businesses will offer festival-goers a variety of food and drink, including African cuisine from Yagg Sii Tenn, soul food from McCamm’s, and wings, hotdogs, and more from Jolly’s Catering. The Kids Zone will have face painting, street performers, mural making, and more – including a visit from Chapel Hill Public Library’s Circulator. The Northside Gymnasium will be open with basketball activities throughout the event.
An estimated 4,000 people attended last year’s event and a large crowd is expected again this year. Attendees are encouraged to consider biking, walking, carpooling, and riding Chapel Hill Transit. Festival parking will be available at Northside Elementary, and general information about parking around downtown Chapel Hill and Carrboro can be found at www.parkonthehill.com
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