Entertainment

Fayetteville's Juneteenth Jubilee: Guide to area-wide celebrations

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
-Nelson Mandela

Juneteenth is more than a celebration of freedom; it’s a celebration of culture and an appreciation for the contributions African Americans have made to America. Since its recognition as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth has become a widely celebrated holiday, with cities across America hosting festivities highlighting African American culture. Fayetteville and surrounding cities are no different and are gearing up to bring the community together for fun, family, and entertainment.

Juneteenth Jubilee: Sovereign
Cool Spring Downtown District is hosting its fourth annual Juneteenth Jubilee on Saturday, June 14, at Festival Park, 1335 Ray Street, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. The CSDD has worked hard to build on the momentum and success of previous years, curating a truly spectacular lineup of entertainment, food, and vendors for the whole family to enjoy. If a variety of food trucks, cultural vendors, black artists, and a good “Boots on the Ground” line dance with the one and only Stephanie Kiegler of Dancing without Sin isn’t enough incentive to come down to the celebration, then the entertainment lineup for the evening will be.
Hitting the stage first is recording artist Rissi Palmer. Palmer is a Governor at the Recording Academy Nashville, and the first black female artist to rise on the Billboard Top 100 Country charts since Dona Mason. Palmer, a music scene veteran, has recorded several albums and was one of nine artists featured on PBS’s American Masters: In The Making series.
Headlining this year’s event is New Orleans-based, Grammy Award-winning band, Tank and the Bangas! This quartet of talented musicians and a powerhouse singer has flooded the airwaves since 2011 with their unique sound, a fusion of R&B, soul, hip-hop,
rap and rock.
It wouldn’t be a CSDD if local talent weren’t on full display. Leading up to the headlining concert, attendees can enjoy a variety of performances from local artists and groups. Other event highlights include the crowning of Miss Juneteenth Fayetteville in association with J19 Unity Fayetteville.
“Sovereignty is associated with royalty, agency and power, which is a strong theme for a celebration that uplifts the history and cultural contributions of Black Americans in this country and in our community,” said Ashanti Bennett, interim president/CEO and curator for the jubilee. “This year, we are highlighting, in particular, the achievements and contributions of Black Women to the culture. We will celebrate our Queens throughout the day – From our opening speaker, Crystal McLean, president and founder of Money Box Academy Inc., a financial literacy hybrid non-profit in Fayetteville; to some of our stage talent courtesy of Book Black Women, Inc, Cumberland Choral Arts, and more; to the crowning of Miss Juneteenth Jubilee - we are delighted to showcase Black Girl Magic at this year’s Jubilee.”
Bennett is excited about this year’s event and seeing all the work CSDD put in pay off. Bennett has been a curator of the
event since 2022.
“I am really excited for the entire day to unfold, but I am most excited about seeing so many smart, talented, beautiful black women make this day come alive! We don't always get our proper due, so I am pleased to be able to host a space where we get to shine,” Bennett said. While Juneteenth is a celebration centered around the African American experience, it is the perfect opportunity for the WHOLE community to come together, learn, laugh, commune, and celebrate.
“CSDD strives to offer art, culture, education, and entertainment that is accessible and meaningful for all of our attendees. This is not simply a ‘black event’ – we believe that Juneteenth is an incredibly significant holiday with relevance for all Americans. We want those who are unfamiliar with Juneteenth to embrace the history and perspective, and for those who celebrate to feel welcome to share in a unified moment of reflection and joy,” Bennett said.
“In addition to the entertainment, we will have roaming historians on site with ‘Ask Me About Juneteenth’ shirts ready to answer questions, as well as a Black Fayetteville History Tour that is curated by a friend to CSDD, archivist Nicholle Young from Fayetteville State University, our local Historically Black College and University. We will have a full stage schedule with performances from various local community groups and artists.
“We’re excited to put our boots on the ground with some line dancing, as well! Of course, there will be plenty of art at the Jubilee – we are hosting the 2nd HBCU Student and Alumni Showcase, along with displayed art by the collective, Black Artist Forward. We will have other marketplace and nonprofit vendors, as well. And of course, a solid group of some of our favorite local food trucks that attendees can enjoy while catching some shade at the Jubilee Community Tent. There will also be a children’s area on site with bounce houses, games, and new to the Jubilee this year, a Virtual Reality game truck, U Got Game,” Bennett stated.
This is a free community event thanks to community sponsors ABC11, PWC, Duke Energy, Healy Wholesale, City of Fayetteville, Fayetteville State University, Methodist University, Capitol Encore Academy, CityView, The Crown Complex, The Fayetteville Press, SAAMS Party Tents, Clubtails, Beasley Media Group and Cumulus Media.

13Juneteenth Liberty and Legacy Celebration
The Town of Hope Mills is sponsoring this year’s Juneteenth celebration on June 13 and June 14 at Dirtbag Ales located at 5435 Corporation Drive. The two-day celebration will feature art, a night market, food and a lineup of entertainment including local disc jockey, DJ Yoda, The Phobes, Radioboxx, and Motrax. This event is a free community event.
Friday
• 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Hosted by Dr. Sonny Kelly, featuring a night market (a variety of vendors), art crawl, live music by Radioboxx, fashion show, and culture and canvas
Saturday
• 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Hosted by Tomeka Bright, featuring an open market with 50+ vendors, live music by The Phoebes, Motrax, and Radioboxx, poetry, African dance, vendors

400 Years: The Evolution of Black America
Book Black Women and No Longer Bound are presenting their highly acclaimed and title production at FTCC’s Cumberland Hall Auditorium, located at 2211 Hull Road, on Thursday, June 19, and Friday, June 20. This year’s event is powered by Circa 1865 and sponsored by The Capitol Encore Academy, Fayetteville/Cumberland County Arts Council, and Sweet Tea Shakespeare. This production is a collaboration by community artists, telling African American history through dance, song, and spoken word. Tickets can be purchased online at www.bookblackwomen.org.

Juneteenth Heritage Brunch
Closing out the Juneteenth holiday week is the annual Juneteenth Heritage Brunch at Carvers Creek State Park, located at 2505 Long Valley Rd., Spring Lake. This event, held on Sat. June 21, is presented by Book Black Women and No Longer Bound. This year won’t just feature a brunch under the iconic cypress trees of the state park, but will include an expert-led hayride around the property, learning about the rich and diverse history of the land. Attendees can choose from four convenient times: 11 a.m., noon,1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased online at www.bookblackwomen.org. The 2025 Juneteenth Heritage Brunch is sponsored by Circa 1865, Cal’s Catering, and Fayetteville/Cumberland County Arts Council.

(Top Photo: Courtesy of Cool Springs District Facebook Page. Bottom Photo: Courtesy of Book Black Women LLC Facebook Page.)

Eastover holds monthly summer concert series

For the third year in a row, Eastover will host a monthly concert in the park series. The series is already underway, kicking off with a performance by The Catalinas on May 31, but don’t worry, there is still lots of music and fun to be had throughout the summer of 2025. Once a month throughout the summer, the Eastover Community Park turns into a concert venue, welcoming anyone and everyone to gather and enjoy live local music.
11Since 2023, this Eastover Summer Concert Series has been a popular community event, and this year proves to be no different. According to Stan Crumpler, one of the events’ primary organizers, attendance at the concerts has grown significantly since the first summer. Their first concert in the summer of 2023 had about 250 in attendance. Last summer, the Band of Oz concert drew in over 500 people, attracting crowds from Cumberland, Harnett, Bladen, and Sampson counties.
The concerts all provide a full evening of fun for all ages. The park has playgrounds, a splash pad, and room to run, all open during the concerts. The park’s concessions stand is open, selling drinks and snacks, Chick-fil-a sandwiches, BBQ sandwiches, and pizza. There is always a food truck or two on hand for the concerts as well; those options will rotate, but the ever-popular Sweet Frog truck usually makes an appearance at some point during the summer. No alcohol is permitted in the park.
The concert venue is simple with an outdoor stage and an open lawn for seating. Audience members are invited to bring chairs and blankets to sit on as they enjoy good music in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. As parking can be a bit of a walk for some folks to make on their own, especially in the summer heat, there are free shuttles provided. For those needing a bit of help getting from their car to the lawn, there will be three shuttles taking people back and forth, free of charge. There is also security provided by off-duty Sheriff deputies for some additional peace of mind.
The June 14 concert will feature Rivermist, a favorite Fayetteville band. This group of 5 local guys plays an energetic mix of classic rock, R&B, and party music. With over 200 years of music experience between them, Rivermist’s strong sense of musicianship is matched only by their high-energy, fun and intensely performed shows. Their accolades speak for them: the Carolina Beach Music Awards named them “Rising Star” in 2023, and their song “Everything’s Changed” won The Surf 94.9’s Song of the Year in 2024. Readers of this publication have voted them Best Band for nine years running.
The rest of the summer promises to be equally exciting, featuring local bands that all play a variety of music. On July 12, North Tower will take the Eastover stage; the band has been playing for over 40 years and is a member of the Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame. August 23 welcomes Jim Quick & Coastline. All the concerts are sure to offer a night of free fun, great music, and community. Bring your chairs to the Eastover Community Park at 2721 Ballpark Road in Eastover; enjoy dinner in the park, visit with friends, old and new, and enjoy great local music, all for free.

(Photo: Concert goers enjoy music in the Eastover Community Park. Photo courtesy of Eastover Concerts in the Park)

Cadillac Ranch hosts thrilling “Showdown: Volume Two”

Get ready for an electrifying weekend at Cadillac Ranch as they present The Showdown: Volume Two – Swing Through from June 13 to June 15 at 3101 Fort Bragg Road. Organized by 8 Count Country, this three-day dance extravaganza is not just another event; it’s a celebration of rhythm, community, and the joy of dance not to be missed.
8bJoin in for an action-packed schedule filled with workshops led by top-tier instructors eager to share their expertise. Their workshops are open to novices and seasoned dancers on Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will provide invaluable insights and techniques to elevate dancing skills.
The excitement continues with thrilling competitions taking place throughout all three days. Get ready for the ultimate showdown in country swing, two-step, and line dance; a special advanced-level country swing showdown featuring their guest instructors competing head-to-head. All competitors must have an event pass, either a workshop pass or an event-only pass, to join in on the fun.
Flexible tickets are an option, whether it's an individual day pass or a weekend pass for maximum value. Plus, spectators are welcome without needing a ticket; just bring cash for cover at the door.
For those looking to sharpen their dance skills, private lessons with the guest instructors are available. And don’t forget about their “Sunday Funday” for high-level competitions paired with refreshing mimosas available for purchase.
Please take note of the competition rules to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience:
• Line dancers may choose either Beginner or Intermediate, not both.
• Country Swing dancers may compete in Beginner or Intermediate, not both.
• The two-step competition is open to all levels.
• Safety first—no aerials or lifts allowed; one foot must remain on the floor at all times.
• All competitors must have a workshop ticket or event-only pass to participate.
Attendees require a Cadillac Ranch membership (not included in ticket purchases).
When it comes to finding the best country bar in Fayetteville, look no further than Cadillac Ranch. Nestled on Fort Bragg Rd., this lively venue is not just a bar; it's an experience waiting to unfold. With its unique coyote ugly-style bar in the back, separate from the main area, Cadillac Ranch offers a vibrant atmosphere that caters to all country music needs.
If you are a fan of line dancing, two-stepping, or country swing, this is the place. The dance floor is always buzzing with energy as both men and women showcase their skills under the lights, creating an ambiance that is hard to resist. With the largest dance floor in Fayetteville, there is plenty of room to show off dance moves while enjoying fantastic live music from amazing DJs.
Cadillac Ranch takes pride in being clean and accessible, making it a welcoming environment for everyone who walks through its doors. The friendly staff ensures that you have everything you need while you enjoy great drink prices and interact with fellow patrons who share a love for country tunes. For those looking to party or simply wanting to unwind with friends over fantastic pool tables, this venue has it all.
For more information on the event, visit their website at https://bit.ly/4mNnYNC

Red, White, Boom: Celebrate America at Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg’s Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation is gearing up to celebrate the 4 of July with their “biggest yet” event. For over 20 years, the Red, White and Boom event has brought attendees an unforgettable celebration, and this year will be no different. An impressive lineup of musical artists, patriotic ceremonies, fun for kids, food, and a fireworks show will keep visitors busy from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday, June 28. The event is free and open to the public.
Amanda Cahill, special events Coordinator for the MWR, said she’s excited about the lineup.
“From doors opening, there is just so much entertainment going on. I’m excited for basically everything,” she said.
Doors open at 3 p.m. and Cahill recommends coming early and making sure everyone over 18 has a DoD ID or visitor pass. The event annually draws between 65,000 and 75,000, making preparation and early arrival essential.
9At 4:30 p.m., visitors will get their first taste of music for the day when the All American Chorus (replacing the 82nd Airborne Division Rock Band) performs. At 5 p.m., there will be a Golden Knights parachute demonstration. The U.S. Army Parachute Team, also known as the Golden Knights, is “a combination of expert teams and soldiers brought together by their love of skydiving,” according to goarmy.com. They have performed around the world at festivals, airshows and sporting events.
Their demonstration will be followed by a flag ceremony at 5:32 p.m.
“We'll have the traditional five harmony with the Tanna salute, representing all 50 states and US territories. We'll have the colors of the major commands, major subordinate commands, tenant units of Fort Bragg, the colors of the United States Army and the flag of the United States of America,” Cahill said of the ceremony.
Starting at 3 p.m., three highly anticipated artists will consecutively take the stage: Parmalee, Neon Trees, and headliner, Ludacris. Cahill said they’ve received incredible feedback regarding these artists.
“We’ve had tremendous feedback on social media when we announced our artists. Everyone is super excited. We definitely have people that come back year after year and it's been nothing but great responses,” said Cahill.
Parmalee, an American Country Music band from Parmele, North Carolina, is known for its new album Fell in Love with a Cowgirl, including the headline track Cowgirl. The band performs a diverse range of sounds, ranging from traditional-leaning to ultra-contemporary, according to their website.
Neon Trees is a Pop alt-rock band founded in Provo, Utah. Known most recently for their 2024 album Sink Your Teeth, they will perform at 7:10 p.m. following Parmalee.
Atlanta-based rapper and actor Ludacris will headline the event at 8:30 p.m. For individuals with young children, check out Kiddie Land. There, kids will be entertained by summer favorites such as inflatables, slides, and bounce houses.
Families and individuals looking to beat the heat throughout the day can reserve a spot in Tent City. Reservations for Tent City open June 12 at noon. Two options are available for reservations; guests can rent a spot and bring their own tent for $20, or they can pay $50 and have a place with a tent already set up.
Visitors can look forward to plenty of food options offered by vendors.
“We have a variety of different foods, from fair food to hot dogs, cotton candy, popcorn, ice cream—all the good stuff,” Cahill said.
Vendor lists are available online.
Every visitor over 18 who is not a DoD ID cardholder must go online to obtain a visitor pass. April Olsen, Media Relations representative from the Fort Bragg Public Affairs Office recommends visitors do this no later than June 21. To register for a visitor pass, visit https://home.army.mil/bragg/ and select “Online Visitor Pass.” According to Olsen, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or acceptable alternative identification (birth certificate, passport, etc.) is needed to register for a visitor pass.
“Guests can also obtain a pass in person at the All American Gate Visitor Center on the day of the event, but should expect long lines and delays,” Olsen explained.
Main parking is located at the Womack Army Medical Center, and ADA-compliant parking is available closer to the venue. Cahill recommended visitors review the prohibited items list before attending. Prohibited items include pets (except service dogs), self-defense items, alcoholic beverages, handheld weapons, glass bottles or glass containers, and tents (without permit, event-specific).
The event will end with a “boom,” showcasing 15 minutes of fireworks.
Cahill encouraged the community to take advantage of the free event and plan ahead to avoid unnecessary delays.
“It’s an amazing event for Fort Bragg and the surrounding community to come and celebrate the independence of our nation. We encourage everyone to come out if they’re able to,” she shared.
Access details of the event at bragg.armymwr.com.

(Photo: The Red, White, and Boom event at Fort Bragg celebrates the 4th of July with concerts, parachute demonstrations and, of course, fireworks. Photo courtesy of Amanda Cahill, Fort Bragg FMWR)

Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra to play at Gilbert Theater

Join the FSO for an enchanting evening as they present 'Classical Connections: Echoes in Time.' This series of concerts promises to transport guests through time with a curated selection of chamber music that embodies the rich heritage of classical compositions while resonating with modern sensibilities.
The performances on Saturday, June 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, June 22 at 2 p.m. will provide a mesmerizing journey that blends timeless elegance with contemporary flair, ensuring an immersive experience for all attendees.
8aNestled in the heart of downtown Fayetteville, the Gilbert Theater offers an intimate setting that enhances the concert experience. Its historic charm and acoustically favorable environment make it the ideal venue for showcasing the nuanced performance of a string quartet.
By hosting the concerts at the Gilbert Theater, the FSO aims to create a connection between the audience and the musicians, making each performance a memorable occasion.
The Gilbert Theater eagerly anticipates this fresh partnership, bringing exciting new possibilities to the stage.
“Back in October, when I spoke with Anna Meyer [FSO executive director] about this event, there was no hesitation to say yes. The Gilbert Theater is thrilled and honored to partner with the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. We are looking forward to having not just the Gilbert Theater audiences, but the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra audiences here at the Gilbert for this concert,” says Matt Lamb, artistic director of the Gilbert Theater.
The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra boasts a roster of highly skilled musicians, each bringing their unique artistry and passion to the ensemble. Their string quartet, featured in 'Classical Connections: Echoes in Time,' consists of accomplished players dedicated to delivering exquisite performances.
By attending these concerts, attendees will have the opportunity to witness the extraordinary talent and dedication of the FSO musicians, who strive to bring both classical masterpieces and contemporary hits to life.
'Classical Connections: Echoes in Time' is not just a concert; it is an innovative musical experience that bridges the gap between classical and contemporary music. This program includes a dynamic mix of time-honored compositions and modern-day favorites, reinterpreted through the expressive power of a string quartet.
This unique blend ensures that there is something for everyone, whether you are a classical music aficionado or a fan of modern genres, making it a truly inclusive and engaging event.
Tickets for 'Classical Connections: Echoes in Time' are available for $30 per person, with general admission seating. To secure your spot at this unmissable event, you can purchase tickets online at https://ci.ovationtix.com/36404/production/1241322 or contact the FSO office at 910-433-4690, or buy them at the door on the night of the concert.
The Gilbert Theater is located at 116 Green Street. Doors will open an hour before each performance, so arrive early to find the perfect seat and fully immerse yourself in this musical journey.

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