Jonkonnu at Stagville 2024
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Artistic rendering โ€“ Event may differ

Jonkonnu at Stagville 2024

African diaspora masquerade tradition performance and bonfire storytelling

About

Discover Jonkonnu at Historic Stagville, a captivating celebration of African diaspora traditions. Experience a dynamic outdoor performance by Durham youth and musicians, honoring a rich cultural heritage. Afterward, gather around a bonfire for engaging stories and music, connecting with the history of Jonkonnu in the Americas. This event offers a unique glimpse into preserved dance, drum, and costume traditions.

Our Take

Family Friendly

๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ (5/5)

Best For

Cultural exploration, family outings, historical immersion

Vibe

Cultural, festive, historical, community-oriented

Energy Level

Low

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท (3/5)

Weather Sensitivity

High

Special Events & Promotions

  • Performance by Durham youth and musicians
  • Storytelling and drumming around a bonfire
  • Honoring Jonkonnu, an African diaspora holiday tradition

Tags

cultural eventscommunity celebrationfamily friendlylive entertainmentholiday traditionseasonal activitiesfree eventguided tours

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Location

5925 Jock Road
Bahama, NC
27503

Event Details

Pricing

FREE

Duration

1.5 hours

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Featured Performers

  • St Sya Academy
  • Braima Moiwai

Organizer

Historic Stagville State Historic Site

Practical Information

Parking

Parking will be in the grass lot on Jock Road.

Accessibility

The program is entirely outdoors, with walking in low light and over uneven surfaces. Contact stagville@dncr.nc.gov with any questions about accessibility.

Pet Policy

Pets are permitted on historic sites grounds so long as they are on an attended leash no longer than 6 feet and under the constant control of the owner. Pets are not allowed in visitor centers, museums or historic structures, except for documented service animals.

Food & Drink

Warm beverages available

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive by 4:30 PM to ensure you don't miss any part of the captivating performances.
  • Bring your own chairs or blankets for comfortable seating during the outdoor performance and bonfire.
  • Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes, as the program is entirely outdoors with walking in low light over uneven surfaces.
  • Contact stagville@dncr.nc.gov in advance if you have specific accessibility needs.
  • Explore the history of Jonkonnu at Stagville, a rare site with primary source documentation of this tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours of operation for Historic Stagville?

Most historic sites are open Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours. It's best to check the specific site's details.

Is there an admission fee for Jonkonnu at Stagville?

No, admission to Jonkonnu at Stagville is free. Some other historic sites may charge a small fee for guided tours or specific attractions.

Can I bring my pet to Historic Stagville?

Pets are welcome on the grounds at Historic Stagville as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet and under your control. They are not permitted inside buildings.

What should I do if I have questions about accessibility for this event?

Please contact stagville@dncr.nc.gov with any questions or concerns regarding accessibility for the Jonkonnu event.

What is Jonkonnu?

Jonkonnu is an African diaspora masquerade tradition with roots in West Africa and the Caribbean, celebrated in North Carolina by people of African descent to preserve dance, drum, and costume traditions.

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Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 23, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The ChristmasLocal.com editorial team

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