Carolina Chocolate Drops Reunite To Headline Rhiannon Giddens’ New Biscuits & Banjos Festival

Rhiannon Giddens has revealed the debut of her first-ever festival, Biscuits & Banjos, a celebration of Black art, music and culture. The event is set to take place in downtown Durham in Giddens’ home state of North Carolina April 25 – 27, 2025.

Giddens will act as the festival’s Artistic Director, and the event marks the 20th anniversary of the Black Banjo Gathering, a pivotal moment in her career that led to the formation of her band, Carolina Chocolate Drops. The initial lineup includes both a Carolina Chocolate Drops reunion and a set from Rhiannon Giddens. The Carolina Chocolate Drops’ first performance since 2014 will see the original lineup plus members from over the years.

Leyla McCalla, Christian McBride, Rissi PalmerThe Legendary Ingramettes and New Dangerfield round out the initial Biscuits & Banjos lineup. Additional performers, authors and chefs will be announced soon.

Biscuits & Banjos performances will take place at multiple indoor and outdoor venues throughout Durham. The three-day event will offer “a unique festival experience where attendees can walk from location to location to watch performances, hear talks, and participate in interactive sessions that celebrate the rich tapestry of Black culture – including music, literature, food, and visual arts – while showcasing the diversity of voices and traditions that exist outside the mainstream narrative,” as per a press release.

“This festival has been a long-time dream of mine,” explained Giddens, who will perform multiple times in different configurations, including fronting a revue-style set with special guests and friends. “It’s about honoring the connections that tie Black culture together across time and geography, whether it’s through music, food, or storytelling. The Black Banjo Gathering was such an important milestone for me personally, and I want Biscuits & Banjos to bring that same spirit of discovery and community to today’s generation of artists and fans.”

A portion of ticket sales and merchandise receipts will be donated to Hurricane Helene relief efforts. Giddens picked Durham due to her roots in the city and its thriving culture, rooted in a rich Black heritage. “Durham is the perfect place to launch Biscuits & Banjos,” Giddens added. “It has a vibrant community, an incredible artistic scene, and a history that aligns with the festival’s mission to uplift and honor Black culture.”

Biscuits & Banjos tickets go on sale to the general public this Friday, October 25 at 10 a.m. ET.