Janelle Monáe, Tierra Whack to Lead Election Year Festival

Fall Festivities Around the Corner

Get ready for fall festival season with Janelle Monáe and Tierra Whack headlining the Carolinadaze Music & Arts Festival.

Festival in Raleigh

The nonprofit Common Cause North Carolina will host Carolinadaze in downtown Raleigh at the Red Hat Amphitheater on September 14. Besides Monáe and Whack, artists like Moses Sumney, Lute, and Helado Negro will also perform.

A Different Tune

Common Cause, a non-partisan voting rights group, shared their vision for the festival. “The organizers of Carolinadaze hope the concerts can strike a different chord — connecting to what’s motivating young people at this pivotal moment for our democracy.”

Unique Approach

Unlike MerleFest and Bonnaroo, Carolinadaze emphasizes movement-building and youth involvement in democracy. Community leaders and special guests will join musicians on stage too.

We think it’s cool when festivals have a deeper purpose, not just music.

Community Support

Local nonprofits and vendors will set up outside the venue. Part of the proceeds will benefit grassroots groups like Carolina Abortion Fund and Campaign for Southern Equality.

Discounted Tickets

To attract younger people, Common Cause North Carolina offers discounted tickets starting at $25. “We want audiences to leave these festivals inspired to take action and know that when we fight, we can win a brighter future,” said Lisette Rodriguez, Carolinadaze Producer.

Continuing in Asheville

After Raleigh, the festival series moves to Asheville on October 13. This lineup features Cavetown, Indigo De Souza, Adia Victoria, and Pink Beds, but not Monáe and Whack.

A Love Letter to NC

Gino Nuzzolillo from Common Cause North Carolina expressed, “When it comes to this year’s elections, I know young people like me feel a disconnect between what they believe in and what’s being offered. Our hope is that Carolinadaze can be a love letter to North Carolina that resonates with our communities and showcases the stories and people who are creating a future worth fighting for.”

That’s all for now. Don’t forget to grab your tickets and enjoy the festival!