Black Boat Weekend to bring hundreds of boats, live DJ sets to Lake Norman
A popular summer boating celebration is making its return to Lake Norman with a bigger, multi-day lineup this year.
More than 3,000 partygoers attended Black Boat Weekend last year, and organizer Charisme Dhanani anticipates even larger crowds in 2026, he told CharlotteFive.
“With how much it’s been growing on TikTok, Instagram and now the news picking it up, I definitely see it being just as big, if not bigger, than last year,” Dhanani said. “We’ve upgraded the sound system, so it’s going to be way louder and a lot better this year.”
Lake parties scheduled over 2 days in June
This year’s event runs June 20-21, with lake parties scheduled both days. Attendees can expect multiple DJs, jet skis, floats and kayaks, along with an expanded lineup of food and drink vendors on Dog Island.
“The event is totally free — no tickets required. Just rent a boat, get out there and enjoy it,” Dhanani said, noting that some changes were made from last year to improve safety. “We’re not doing boat charters this year. We’re just focused on hosting the event and making sure everything runs smoothly.”
“The DJ setup is going to be on the water this year, right off the island, to give it more of that floating festival feel,” he added. “We want people more in the water and part of the experience, not just on land.”
Hip-hop, R&B, dance hall and Afrobeats
Saturday’s main event will take place from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., featuring hip-hop, R&B, dance hall and Afrobeats, while Sunday’s Afro-Latino lake day will run from noon-6 p.m. with a mix of Latin and Caribbean music.
Beyond the water, there are a full slate of events, including a Friday welcome party and several after-parties at Charlotte venues. Some ticket proceeds will benefit local nonprofits, including the Boys & Girls Club and NAACP, Dhanani said.
The main lake events are free to attend, though participants will need boat access to reach Dog Island. Boaters can pay $350 for the option to secure a spot alongside the DJ stage.
Those interested in going to the event can RSVP at blackboatweekend.com.
This story was originally published April 30, 2026 at 2:30 PM.