CHARLOTTE'S 1st. ANNUAL CELEBRATION
OF RHYTHM, CULTURE & COMMUNITY
FREE ADMISSION
AUG 02, 2026
Charlotte's Newest
Celebration of Rhythm
Cajón Festival is a new annual celebration that brings people together through music, dance, and culture.
Inspired by the Afro-Peruvian cajón—one of the world's most influential percussion instruments—the festival invites audiences of all ages to experience live performances, interactive workshops, and the joy of making music together.
Whether you're discovering the cajón for the first time or already love Latin rhythms, Cajón Festival is a place to connect, learn, and celebrate community.
Brett Farling
What You'll Experience
More than a performance, Cajón Festival is an interactive celebration where music, dance, and community come together. Whether you come to listen, learn, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, there's something for everyone.
Meet the Instruments
The Afro-Peruvian musical tradition is shaped by unique percussion instruments, each with its own history, sound, and role in creating the rhythms you'll experience at Cajón Festival.
CAJÓN
CAJITA
QUIJADA
The iconic wooden box drum that became one of the world's most versatile percussion instruments.
A traditional percussion instrument made from a donkey jawbone, producing its unmistakable rattling sound.
Originally a small wooden collection box, transformed into a distinctive Afro-Peruvian percussion instrument.
Meet the Artists
Musicians, dancers, and cultural leaders come together to share the rhythms, traditions, and energy that make Cajón Festival a unique experience in Charlotte.
Festival Program
Opening Ceremony
Welcome remarks by Mauricio Salas, CEO of Salas Art Agency.
Cajón Ensemble
PEX Dance Company
An energetic opening performance showcasing the power and versatility of the Peruvian cajón.
Community Percussion Workshop
Claudio Ortiz
Create music together using buckets and drumsticks while exploring vibrant rhythms from across Latin America.
No experience needed.
Festejo
PEX Kids Dance Company
Experience the joyful energy of one of Peru's most celebrated Afro-Peruvian dance traditions.
Zamacueca
PEX Teens Dance Company
Discover one of Peru's oldest and most elegant dance traditions, performed live.
Calypso & Bomba Workshop
Son de Pueblos
Join an interactive celebration of Venezuelan Calypso and Puerto Rican Bomba through live music and movement.
Marinera
PEX Kids Dance Company
Peru's national dance, celebrated for its elegance, grace, and playful spirit.
Alcatraz
PEX Teens Dance Company
An exciting Afro-Peruvian dance where rhythm, movement, and improvisation come together.
Peruvian Cajón Workshop
Marcos Napa
Discover the rhythms, techniques, and traditions of Peru's iconic percussion instrument with internationally acclaimed percussionist Marcos Napa.
Cajón Ensemble Finale
PEX Dance Company
A vibrant percussion performance bringing together the festival's musicians in one unforgettable finale.
Zapateo Showcase
Angela Castillo & Mauricio Salas
A breathtaking dialogue between traditional Peruvian footwork and live percussion.
Community Celebration
All Festival Artists
Dance, clap, and celebrate together as the festival concludes with a joyful Afro-Peruvian Festejo open to everyone.
Festival Closing
Thank you for celebrating Charlotte's first annual Cajón Festival!
Bring your cajón to Cajón Festival and experience the rhythm from the inside.
Join our interactive workshops, play alongside professional musicians, and become part of Charlotte's first annual Cajón Festival.
Have a Cajón? Bring It!
In the Heart of Charlotte
Levine Plaza at Mint Museum Uptown provides the perfect backdrop for Charlotte's first annual Cajón Festival—bringing rhythm, culture, and community together in one of the city's most iconic public spaces.
VENUE DETAILS
Levine Plaza – Mint Museum Uptown
500 South Tryon Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
Sunday, August 2, 2026
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
FREE EVENT
Levine Plaza is located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte and is easily accessible by car, light rail, rideshare, bike, or on foot.
Parking garages and street parking are available throughout the Levine Center for the Arts district.
Presented by
Supported by
In partnership with
Community partners
01
Is the festival free?
Yes! Admission is completely free, and everyone is welcome to join the celebration.
02
Do I need tickets?
No tickets are required. Simply come to Levine Plaza and enjoy the festival.
03
Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely! Cajón Festival is designed for all ages, with live music, dance performances, interactive workshops, and activities everyone can enjoy.
04
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, water, and your curiosity! If you own a cajón, we encourage you to bring it along and join the interactive workshops and community performances.
05
Where can I park?
Several public parking garages and street parking options are available throughout Uptown Charlotte, all within a short walking distance of Levine Plaza.
06
Will there be food nearby?
Yes! Levine Plaza is surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and coffee shops, making it easy to grab lunch or enjoy a meal before or after the festival.
07
What happens if it rains?
Cajón Festival is planned as an outdoor event. In the event of severe weather, any schedule updates or changes will be announced on our website and social media channels.
08
Can I participate in the workshops?
Yes! All workshops are free and open to the public. No previous musical or dance experience is required—just come ready to have fun and make music together.
09
What is a cajón?
The cajón is Peru's iconic wooden percussion instrument and one of the most influential rhythm instruments in the world. Throughout the festival, you'll discover its history, explore its unique sound, and experience the traditions that continue to inspire musicians across cultures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Join the Rhythm
Be part of Charlotte's first annual Cajón Festival.
Experience the energy of live percussion, vibrant dance performances, hands-on workshops, and the joy of making music together—all in the heart of Uptown Charlotte.
Sunday, August 2, 2026
12:00 PM – 2:00 PML
evine Plaza | Mint Museum Uptown
FREE ADMISSION