RALEIGH, N.C. — April 6–7, 2024 marked the return of the Dreamville Festival to Dorothea Dix Park, drawing tens of thousands of music fans to the heart of North Carolina for a weekend of hip-hop, R&B, and cultural celebration.
Curated by Fayetteville native and Grammy-winning artist J. Cole, the two-day event featured a dynamic lineup of global superstars and rising talent, underscoring Dreamville’s commitment to diversity, community, and artistry.
A Weekend of Music and Community
The 2024 edition of Dreamville Festival showcased an eclectic mix of artists across two stages, blending established icons with emerging voices. Saturday’s performances included SZA, 50 Cent (who stepped in for the originally scheduled Chris Brown), J.I.D, Lil Yachty, ScHoolboy Q, Sexyy Red, Jeremih, EARTHGANG, Teezo Touchdown, Amaarae, Lute, Luh Tyler, and Domani.
Sunday’s star power was no less impressive, with headliners J. Cole and Nicki Minaj leading the charge. They were joined by artists including Rema, Jeezy, Monica, Rae Sremmurd, Key Glock, Bas, Muni Long, Cozz, Omen, TiaCorine, and Chase Shakur. The mix of talent reflected the festival’s aim to bridge mainstream success with underground innovation.
The festival attracted attendees from all 50 states and nearly two dozen countries, highlighting its growing international appeal. With its accessible location and inclusive atmosphere, the event has become a cultural pilgrimage for fans of diverse musical genres.
More Than Just Music
Dreamville Festival continues to distinguish itself by offering more than music. The event included immersive art installations, carnival rides, wellness spaces, and a wide selection of food and drink vendors featuring everything from Southern barbecue to vegan specialties.
Local businesses were featured prominently, giving attendees a taste of Raleigh’s culinary and cultural identity. Merchandise stalls, artist meet-and-greets, and interactive brand activations created a lively and engaging environment for festival-goers.
Environmental sustainability and community outreach were also central themes. Refillable water stations, recycling bins, and clean-up crews helped minimize the event’s ecological footprint. A portion of the festival’s proceeds benefited the Dreamville Foundation and the Dix Park Conservancy, supporting local education and community development initiatives.
A Boon for Raleigh
Since its inception, Dreamville Festival has become an economic engine for the Raleigh area. Hotels, restaurants, and local shops reported surges in business during the festival weekend, with many venues selling out or operating at full capacity. Public transportation services saw record usage, and rideshare demand spiked, creating a vibrant buzz throughout the city.
The festival’s economic footprint has grown with each year, further establishing Raleigh as a desirable location for large-scale cultural events. City officials praised the festival’s smooth coordination, effective crowd management, and its positive impact on the local economy.
What’s Next for Dreamville?
Looking ahead, the success of the 2024 edition reinforces Dreamville Festival’s role as a leader in inclusive, experience-driven music events. Organizers hinted at expanding future offerings to include more international acts, themed stages, and digital components for fans who can’t attend in person.
J. Cole’s vision of a music festival that celebrates authenticity, artistry, and community continues to resonate. With its unique blend of high-profile performances and grassroots engagement, Dreamville Festival is poised to grow in stature while maintaining its soulful foundation.