Juneteenth celebration brings music, comedy, community to Duplin County

KENANSVILLE — Duplin County celebrated Juneteenth with a vibrant event on Friday evening at the Duplin Events Center in Kenansville. The event featured live music, comedy, dance performances, and special guest appearances honoring the holiday’s legacy of freedom and resilience.

Organizer Antron Hayes said a Juneteenth celebration had been held in the past in Warsaw, but this was the first county-wide event.

“I was born and raised in Duplin County,” Hayes said. “This kind of event is past due.”

In his opening remarks, Hayes shared that plans are already underway for another celebration in 2026. He announced to the crowd that music legend Al Green will be the headline performer next year. Green is renowned for his many soul hits from the 1970s.

The event was emceed by Charles Pickett, a native of the area. He is now a professional comedian who appears frequently on the BET network. Another native performer appearing at the event was DJ Jsmooth.

A special guest at the event was Atlanta-based actress Christianee Porter, well-known for her portrayal as Ms. Shirleen on The Christi Show and in Tyler Perry’s films as a sidekick to Perry’s Madea. The special guest musical performer was 803 Fresh, the force behind the hit song Boots on the Ground. The Wallace-based Silver & Gold Steppers, a line dance group, also performed. They are led by Stephanie Fennell. Others on the program included Arthur Young and Grandaddy Harvey.