Jonkonnu was a very special celebration for enslaved African Americans in North Carolina. What is Jonkonnu all about? In the late 1800’s people danced in masks and multicolored costumes while playing drums and cowbells. Each year at Tryon Palace’s Candlelight, this colorful tradition is reenacted.
To prepare for Candlelight, Jonkonnu Workshops are held for both children and adults every Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. from June 25 to August 6, 2019. At the workshops, participants will learn the dances, songs, and other skills associated with Jonkonnu.