Another Charlotte festival pauses, citing ‘circumstances outside of our control’

Charlotte’s Durag Fest — a Juneenth celebration of Black art, music, fashion and culture in the city since 2018 — won’t be happening in 2026.

“As the festival has grown, so have the considerations required to deliver the experience our community deserves,” a statement emailed to CharlotteFive from festival co-founder Lisa Michelle said.

“Due to circumstances outside of our control, Durag Fest will be taking a temporary pause this year. This decision was not made lightly, but it is necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability and quality of the experience we’re committed to delivering,” the statement continued.

The event originally started out at Camp North End as an effort put together by Charlotte creatives including artist Dammit Wesley to uplift and showcase Black culture and talent. Soon, it became known as the “Met Gala of Durags”.

By last year, organizers said festival had outgrown the space. That led the 2025 event to take place at Blackbox Theater and The Pine, with more than 17 musical acts, food trucks, vendors and more spread across the two sites.

“Thank you for the love and support you’ve poured into Durag Fest over the years. Because of you, Durag Fest has grown into more than an event — it’s a cultural platform celebrating creativity, community, and Black excellence,” the organizers’ statement said.

Festivals canceled

The Durag Fest isn’t alone in taking a break this year.

In December, Charlotte’s Lovin’ Life Music Fest also announced it would “take a short pause” in 2026, “due to circumstances outside our control.” Organizers of the successful uptown music festival told fans to “stay tuned for updates.”

Nationwide, other festivals are cancelling this year, too.

The popular Hangout Festival in Gulf Shores, Alabama, won’t be back this year because of organizational difficulties, the Music Row website reported. Neither will Morgan Wallen’s Sand in My Boots Festival, also in Gulf Shores. Put-in-Bay, Ohio’s Bash on the Bay and St. Louis’ Evolution Festival aren’t happening, either.

However, there is hope the Durag Fest can make a return in the future, organizers said.

“We’re using this time to work toward the conditions needed to support festivals like ours at scale. Please stay tuned for updates — we’re excited about the future and grateful to have you with us.”