RALEIGH, N.C — Line dances broke out across the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, children competed in dance-offs and the aroma of food from Black-owned food trucks filled the air as hundreds gathered Saturday for NC Throw Down’s Juneteenth Grand Cookout.
The event, held from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., brought together community members from across the Triangle to celebrate Juneteenth through food, music, art and fellowship. Featuring Black-owned vendors, live performances and family-friendly activities, the gathering felt less like a public event and more like a large family reunion.
Rows of Black-owned food trucks served a variety of dishes as visitors waited in line to sample local flavors. Nearby, vendors displayed merchandise ranging from custom T-shirts and purses to handmade jewelry and artwork, creating opportunities for attendees to support Black-owned businesses while celebrating the holiday…