GOLDSBORO, N.C. — The fifth annual Juneteenth celebration in Goldsboro is set to take place this Saturday, June 21, from noon to 6 p.m. in downtown Goldsboro — now under a new banner: the Juneteenth Unity and Heritage Festival. While the name has changed from “Jams Out Juneteenth,” the heart of the festival remains the same — a vibrant, inclusive celebration of African American culture, history, and community.
The event is the brainchild of Kariana “K.T.” Taylor, founder of the Juneteenth Unity and Heritage Festival and program director at local radio station 92.7 Jams. This year marks a significant shift, as Taylor is organizing the event largely on her own, with support from community partners and sponsors.
“It’s the same festival, just a rebrand,” said Taylor. “This was my baby from back in 2018. I came up with the idea and brought it to my station, and now it’s grown into something bigger than I imagined.”
Festival Highlights
This year’s event promises a full day of activities, including:
- A free live concert
- Local and regional performers, including The Smitty Band, DJ C-Ray, a jazz ensemble led by Eric Dawson, and performances by the Triple D Majorette Team and community drumline Funk Nation
- A Kid Zone with bouncy houses from Big Bounce Rentals
- Vendors and an arts marketplace curated by the Arts Council of Wayne County
- Food trucks and handcrafted items from local artisans
- An honor guard ceremony featuring the Goldsboro Police and Fire Departments
- Appearances from local officials, including Congressman Don Davis
Additionally, the City of Goldsboro is hosting a free indoor concert at the Paramount Theatre following the festival, featuring Alexander Starr and the Golden People.
Community Support and Vision
Taylor credited a long list of sponsors and partners for making the event possible. Presenting sponsor Wayne County Department of Social Services (DSS) is using the platform to raise awareness about the need for African American foster parents. Other major sponsors include the Arts Council of Wayne County, Wayne Community College, Cricket Wireless, and several historically Black fraternities and sororities.
“I reached out and said, ‘Hey, I need help,’ and people rallied behind me,” Taylor said. “It’s been overwhelming — but in the best way.”
A One-Woman Operation — For Now
While Taylor has handled much of the planning herself this year, she hopes to build a team moving forward.
“I already know who’s good at what,” she explained. “So the idea is to start building small teams, with leads I trust, and grow from there.”
The event has not only evolved in structure but has also served as the launchpad for Taylor’s forthcoming nonprofit organization. While details are still under wraps, she revealed the festival will be a flagship event for the nonprofit’s future work.
Growing the Festival
In previous years, the festival featured nationally recognized artists, but Taylor said this year’s focus on regional talent was intentional — and next year, she hopes to return to blending both local and national acts.
There’s also potential for the event to expand to include more communities in Wayne County.
“How amazing would it be if the entire county came together to celebrate Juneteenth as one?” she asked. “That’s the vision.”
Event Logistics
- Date: Saturday, June 21
- Time: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Location: Downtown Goldsboro, from Chestnut to Spruce Street on Center Street
- Admission: Free and open to the public
- Social District: Attendees may enjoy beverages from local participating businesses within the city’s Social District guidelines
Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and umbrellas. While there is no need to register or get tickets, Eventbrite has been used for promotion — though tickets are not required for entry.
Taylor’s message to the community?
“Come out, celebrate with us, enjoy the music, the culture, the food, and the fellowship. This is for all of us.”
