75th Anniversary Celebration of John Chavis Memorial Park

John Chavis Memorial Park is 75 years old! Come celebrate this historic anniversary with us!
All events are FREE and open to the public. Download flyer here!

Click here to read an article about the event.

Videos of the Soul Train Line are available on YouTube here and here!
Please click here to view Raleigh TV Network footage.

Photos from the celebration!

Event Schedule

Friday, September 27

Reception Honoring John Chavis and the History of John Chavis Memorial Park: 5:30-6:15pm

  • Master of Ceremonies Venessa Harrison, President of AT&T North Carolina 
  • Remarks by Dr. Helen Chavis Othow, author of John Chavis – African American Patriot, Preacher, Teacher and Mentor (1763-1838)
  • Remarks by Representative Yvonne Lewis Holley, NC House District 38
  • Performance by Miss Symone Spencer
  • Light refreshments

Live Music in the Park: 6:15-10:30pm

  • Food trucks will be on site for food purchase
  • Music Lineup coming soon!

Saturday, September 28

Rediscover John Chavis Memorial Park Community Celebration: Noon – 4:00pm

  • Games and Activities
  • Free carousel rides
  • Inflatables
  • Live broadcast by WSHA
  • Food trucks will be on site for food purchase.
  • On-site, free financial education and credit reports from DHIC, Inc.

Historical Scavenger Hunt in the Park: 1:00-3:00pm

  • A great way for families to play together and learn about the history of this park

Soul Train Dance Line!: 3:30pm

  • Help us attempt to break the World Record for the Longest Soul Train Dance Line
  • Join us at the track for this event. 
  • We need 292 participants to break the World Record.