GROOVE HAUL

WHO WE ARE

COMMUNITY BASED COLLECTIVE

DIY MOBILE PARTY SERIES

Groove Haul actively seeks out the next generation of talent in the DMV area and gives them a place to shine. Our initiatives aim to highlight marginalized groups of talent and recenter the narrative, one U-Haul party at a time.

Groove Haul is exactly what it sounds like - a one-of-a-kind party experience thrown inside of a U-Haul truck. Beyond that, our foundation is built on community. We honor our DMV roots by curating unique experiences and opportunities for its inhabitants. Our collective strives to enrich our community by fostering connection through music and dance, and creating space for those often sidelined on the traditional party scene.

As a mobile party series thrown inside of a U-Haul truck, our truck can and will pop up where you least expect it. All you need to do is show up and enjoy the experience.

TALENT NETWORK

OUR MISSION

Bringing the most talented and least represented creatives among us to the front, one U-Haul party at a time

CREATING A SPACE FOR US BY US

Become a Groove Hauler!

While the DMV is a hub for creativity, community organizing, and DIY parties, finding a space specifically curated for you can be a task. Groove Haul caters to the Black/POC/LGBTQIA+ population in the DMV, with the intention of platforming DJs and uplifting party goers who are often underrepresented. Parties are fun, but they also posses the capability to foster a sense of belonging. It is our aim to showcase diverse individuals who are talented, passionate, and dedicated. Our mission is grounded in the idea that strengthening our community through engaging events and experiences will better us all, one U-Haul party at a time.

GROOVE HAUL'S ORGIN

In early 2024, Groove Haul founder, Kori Stewart, began her journey as a DJ and wanted a space to showcase her newly acquired skills for her friends. Understanding that the likelihood of finding an affordable venue space as a newer DJ was low, she was struck with the idea to create her own venue. She’d seen U-Haul parties before and loved the idea, and since she had plans to move that upcoming summer, it was the perfect opportunity for her to bring her U-Haul party dreams into fruition. Yakeh Rider, a neighbor and close friend of Kori's, had a summer birthday, which was just the excuse she needed to throw a party. Thus, Groove Haul, a celebration of beginnings and community, was born. Kori and her friends gathered at David C. Driskell Park to hear DJ Koris’ curated sets, eat, dance, and enjoy each other’s company.

This first event was only possible with the help of many of Kori’s friends, who assisted with set-up and tear down, provided and grilled the food, and invited others to join the fun, making this a true community driven labor of love. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from Groove Haul's original attendees in addition to interest from others who saw the event on social media led to the development of Groove Haul as a collective.

The original vision behind Groove Haul’s founding, to create a space for those who are talented but underrepresented, continues to be the fuel for Groove Haul's growth. The abundance of ongoing support is what has made the immense growth of the Groove Haul team possible, and we strive to bring this experience to as many people as we can.

MEET OUR TEAM

KORI STEWART

AYIO MAATAFALE

COURTNEY SMITH

RHYTHM BOWERS

Founder | Disc Jockey

Administrative Team Chair

Internal Creative Team Co-chair

External Creative Team Chair | Photographer | Videographer

HALO WARREN

Internal Creative Team Co-chair | Disc Jockey

PARTNERS

To further expand Groove Haul's reach, we need partners who are aligned with our vision and goals. Check out how to get involved for more information, including details on our sponsorship packages.