In light of the rapidly developing COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and its effect on public gatherings, organizers of the NC Freedom Fest have elected to reschedule the Military Appreciation Festival in Downtown Goldsboro to Saturday, August 22nd, 2020.
The commitment to health and safety runs deep, therefore the City of Goldsboro is rescheduling the event, originally planned for Armed Forces Day on Saturday, May 16th, 2020. The city is extremely thankful for everyone from the sponsors, the artists, their management, to the festival’s committee, SJAFB and local government officials to finalize a new date for the NCFF. The city says it appreciates everyone’s flexibility and are excited to still be able to have the festival this year. Organizers says they believe that rescheduling to August will provide welcome respite after what looks to be a long road in the months ahead.
The most notable feature of the NC Freedom Festival is the headliner, Edwin McCain. Called the “great American romantic” by the New York Times, McCain has built an enviable career over the past 20 years by balancing his massive pop success with the year-round touring schedule of a tireless troubadour. His hit songs, authentic spirit and surprisingly affable sense of humor keep fans coming back time and time again for nights that feel more like parties with old friends than rock concerts. Those enduring love songs (and wedding must-haves) “I’ll Be” and “I Could Not Ask For More” aren’t just for the romantic at heart; “American Idol” and “The Voice” contestants turn to Edwin’s ballads every single year to help them win over judges and fans alike (just ask last season’s AI winner, Nick Fradiani). Even Justin Bieber has been known to belt out “I’ll Be” during his own concerts. 2018 marked the 20th year of the success of “I’ll Be,” which topped the Billboard charts in 1998 and has proven to be a timeless classic over the past two decades. Also performing at the festival include fellow North Carolinians Brooke McBride, Joe Brown & the Band, and Michael Daughtry & the Drift.
In addition to an amazing lineup of entertainment, this year’s festival will also feature a car show, courtesy of Wayne County Cruisers, a Kids Zone with multiple inflatables, interactive games, face painting and more.
As for food and beverage, the festival is kicking it up a notch by offering the Wings of Wayne Wing Cook-off, hosted by the Elks Lodge BPOE #139, a beer garden and a wide range of food trucks from around the state! Wash down those delicious wings with one of many ice cold beers that will be served in the beer garden near the festival stages. Coastal Beverage Company is a sponsor and will be serving your favorites all night!
