Last year, Fayetteville experienced the vision of LeJuane “El’Ja” Bowens come to life with the inaugural D’Jilla Weekend, an immersive artistic weekend full of spoken word, music, and the release of El'J Dilla: Poems Inspired by the Music of J Dilla. This book of poetry has an accompanying J’Dilla playlist and a foreword written by the one and only Ma Dukes, the legend's mother.
“Last year, Ma Dukes officially sanctioning the release of El’J Dilla: Poems Inspired by the Music of J Dilla, did more than validate the work—it rooted it in legacy. That blessing shifted everything. It let the community know this wasn’t just a tribute, it was stewardship. Because of that moment, Dilla Day Fayetteville, NC, is coming together with deeper intention, wider trust, and stronger partnerships, along with being the first official Dilla Day event for North Carolina,” said El’Ja.
“Artists, venues, and supporters are showing up knowing this event honors J Dilla’s spirit the right way—with care, creativity, and community at the center. The sanction opened doors, but more importantly, it raised the standard. This year’s event isn’t just inspired by Dilla; it’s aligned with the values Ma Dukes has always protected—authenticity, respect, and love for the culture.”
This year’s event promises to be an expansion and elevation of last year's. Dilla Day: Fayetteville Weekend is a four-day weekend that encompasses the vibe of J’Dilla, captures the spirit of creativity, and celebrates a music legend. Festivities begin on Thursday, Feb. 19, and conclude on Sunday, Feb. 22. Events this year will be a mix of free and ticketed.
J’Dilla weekend 2026 kicks off with T.A.P at Winterbloom Tea at 7 p.m. The Dilla Day Edition will feature award-winning poet and slam coach, Letitia Brown. T.A.P. is an open mic for poets, musicians, vocalists, and any creative with something to say. Sign-ups start at 6:30 p.m. for those who want to take the “stage.” This is a free event.
Friday is the $1000 J’Dilla Poetry Slam at The Sweet Palette, hosted by the incomparable Grammy-winning poet, Steph Love.
Twelve poets will compete in 3 rounds, and only one poet will come out on top. Second, third, and fourth place won’t walk away empty-handed. Cash prizes will be handed out to the top 5 poets of the night. Durham’s hottest DJ, DJ Jimmie V, will be on the ones and twos, keeping the vibe going between rounds and poets in the zone. This is a free event, doors open at 7:30 p.m., and the show starts at 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, the vibe and beats continue with two events. Sample This: Writing and Music Workshop at 11 a.m. starts the day at the Capital Encore Academy located at 126 Hay Street. This is a free workshop for anyone interested in writing or beat-making, featuring Emmy-winning poet Boris “Bluz” Rogers and music producer, Supa Trav. Saturday night is Dilla Day Fayetteville: Dilla Sessions, the highlight of the J’Dilla weekend. Get ready for a night of music at the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County’s newest addition, Arts XLR, located at 214 Burgess St. On the turntables for the night is DJ Prodigee, keeping J’Dilla classics in the mix.
The night starts with a Beat Battle, as some of the best producers go head-to-head, showing off their skill and mastery of the music catalogue. Rizzy takes the stage for a special performance, followed by Dasan Ahanu and The Eloquent Band, a unique and dynamic blend of live music, poetry, and hip-hop. This is a ticketed event. To purchase tickets visit, https://bit.ly/49YBhq5
Sunday wraps up the weekend with Dilla Brunch at The Sip Room. This brunch will honor the legend, with Ma Dukes as the guest speaker, DJ Yodo in attendance, and a fantastic spread of delicious bites. Brunch will be served from noon to 3 p.m. This is a ticketed event. Tickets can be purchased at https://bit.ly/3ZipT27
El’J had plenty of help making this year’s event happen.
“This year, Dilla Day Fayetteville is powered by the support of 20+ sponsors who believe in honoring culture the right way. We’re especially grateful to Equal Space for Peace, 7 Directions of Service, Poetry-n-Motion LLC, the James Dewitt Yancey Foundation, and the Fayetteville Heckler, whose commitment to community, creativity, and legacy helped make this celebration possible. Their support goes beyond sponsorship—it’s an investment in culture, education, and the future. And they’re just a few of the many partners who stepped up to ensure Dilla Day Fayetteville continues to grow with intention and respect,” he said.
Dilla Day 2026 is a can’t-miss event, from the first event to the last, each one was curated to bring the spirit of J’Dilla to Fayetteville. This is far from the last Dilla Day: Fayetteville Weekend. El’Ja has a vision for the future, noting, "This is a community in motion, and I’m grateful to be part of it. I see Dilla Day Fayetteville becoming a cultural landmark—an annual tradition people plan for and travel to. As it grows, I see expanded programming: workshops, panels, beat showcases, and youth engagement, all rooted in Dilla’s spirit. The goal isn’t just growth, but longevity—building something that remains authentic, community-centered, and intentional. A living legacy that honors the culture with respect, education, and love, while positioning Fayetteville as a place that truly understands how to celebrate hip-hop history,” El’Ja said.
“I also want to acknowledge the artists, DJs, poets, speakers, and vendors who showed up with their whole selves and trusted the vision. And finally, Fayetteville—for showing up, for listening, and for holding space.

(Photo: El'Ja Bowens is hosting Dilla Day Fayetteville, a celebration of J Dilla. Photo courtesy of El'Ja Bowens' Facebook Page)