Juneteenth celebrations are gearing up in and around Seattle to commemorate June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved people in the U.S. learned they were free — over two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021 but has been celebrated in Seattle communities for over four decades, largely due to the work of Central District beauty salon owner and advocate DeCharlene Williams. Over the past few decades, Juneteenth traditions transformed from small-scale, private family events to large, communitywide celebrations of freedom and Black heritage in Seattle and beyond.

Below is a roundup of Juneteenth celebrations happening in the area over the Juneteenth weekend, including a Central District food tour, the Northwest African American Museum’s annual Skate to Freedom Party, musical performances and more.

Waterfront Black Night Market — June 13 and 20

The inaugural season of summer events at the reimagined waterfront park will include two Black Night Markets at Pier 62, featuring food trucks, vendors and live performances.

3:30-9:30 p.m.; 1951 Alaskan Way, Seattle; free; st.news/black-night-market

REVIVAL Juneteenth Celebration — June 14

Groove to music from KEXP disc jockeys at this market pop-up organized by the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, along with hip-hop performances from The Residency, Black retailers, food vendors and more at Midtown Square Plaza.

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Noon-5 p.m.; 2301 E. Union St., Seattle; free; artenoir.org/event-details/revival-juneteenth-celebration

Bellevue Juneteenth Community Celebration — June 14

On the Eastside, Eton School and The Little School will host their third annual Juneteenth Community Celebration with musical performances, food trucks, vendors and a line dancing session open to all.

11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; 2701 Bellevue-Redmond Road, Bellevue; free; st.news/eton-school

24th Annual Juneteenth Celebration — June 18

Atlantic Street Center has hosted one of the longest-running Juneteenth traditions in Seattle, according to its site. This year’s celebration at Rainier Beach Community Center will have regional food trucks and educational performances, meant to share the significance of the Juneteenth holiday.

5-8 p.m.; 8825 Rainier Ave. S., Seattle; free; atlanticstreetcenter.org/juneteenth

Juneteenth: A Movement for Joy — June 19

The Northwest African American Museum will host its celebration at two locations: at the museum itself 10 a.m.-3 p.m., and at nearby Judkins Park 10 a.m.-5 p.m. NAAM will host its second Black Art Takeover at the museum, highlighting Black artists and creators, along with scheduled community fireside chats and performances, as well as spaces for crafts and games. At the park, check out the Juneteenth Community Expo, which will host exercise segments, sports and drill clinics and the annual Skate to Freedom party in collaboration with Roll Around Seatown.

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Northwest African American Museum, 2300 S. Massachusetts St., Seattle, and Judkins Park, 2150 S. Norman St., Seattle; free; naamnw.org/juneteenth

2025 Juneteenth Commemoration — June 19

The Washington State Historical Society has planned a night of storytelling and live performances at the Washington State History Museum, curated by storyteller Eva Abram. The lineup includes Seattle cellist and composer Gretchen Yanover, a dance by Northwest Tap Connection and an African music performance by Maya Soleil.

4-7 p.m.; 1911 Pacific Ave., Tacoma; free; washingtonhistory.org/event/juneteenth-2025

Juneteenth Celebration: A Road to Economic Freedom — June 19

In 2024, “the largest Juneteenth Celebration in Washington State” drew between 12,000 and 15,000 attendees, according to Tacoma’s Juneteenth website. This year’s lineup includes gospel artist performances, the return of the Miss Juneteenth pageant and more than 100 vendors.

11 a.m.-5 p.m.; 5715 Reginald Gutierrez Lane, Tacoma; free; juneteenthwa.com

Summer of Soul Juneteenth Festival — June 19

Africatown Community Land Trust and King County Equity Now will host, as part of the Summer of Soul event series, a Juneteenth event featuring “a day of music, food, and education as we honor the resilience and resistance of our ancestors” at Jimi Hendrix Park.

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2400 S. Massachusetts St., Seattle; summerofsoulseries.org/juneteenth

Celebrate Juneteenth in Seattle’s Seward Park — June 19

The city of Seattle will set up at Seward Park, Shelter No. 3, with a lineup of community activities, including line dancing, a video game truck and the Detective Cookie’s Chess Club.

11 a.m.-4 p.m.; 5900 Lake Washington Blvd. S., Seattle; free; st.news/juneteenth-seward-park

Lynnwood Juneteenth Freedom Festival — June 19

Project Girl Mentoring will host a health fair at its Juneteenth celebration in Lynnwood, with local booths, food vendors and family activities. Health care providers and wellness experts will be available for health screenings, fitness demonstrations and other services.

10 a.m.-3 p.m.; 19200 56th Ave. W., Lynnwood; free; project-girl.com/lynnwood-juneteenth

Ninth Annual Juneteenth Celebration — June 21

It Takes a Village — AMSA Edition was founded a decade ago to serve the New Holly neighborhood in South Seattle and plan community Juneteenth celebrations. This year’s event will be held in Othello Playground with free food, local performances and family-friendly activities.

1-6 p.m.; 4351 S. Othello St., Seattle; free; st.news/village-juneteenth

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Juneteenth CD Foodie Tour — June 21

Spend a day walking through Seattle’s historical Central District and trying local bites with Seattle Cultural Food Tours. The 1-mile route will feature a handful of locally owned eateries such as Ezell’s Famous Chicken, Zagol Ethiopian Restaurant and Fat’s Chicken & Waffles, plus historical sights around the area.

2 p.m.; 2323 E. Cherry St., Seattle; $50; seattleculturalfoodtours.com

Sundaes Outside: A Celebration of Black Folks — June 22

Combine a love for the outdoors with Juneteenth at this event organized by Golden Bricks Events at Bridle Trails State Park in Kirkland. Featuring local Black businesses, music and games, Sundaes Outside builds on the tradition of Sunday family gatherings within the Black community. Please note: Vehicles entering the park require an annual or one-day Discover Pass.

1-5 p.m.; 5300 116th Ave. N.E., Kirkland; free; goldenbricksevents.com/main/sundaes-outside-series

Songs of Black Folk — June 22

Songs of Black Folk returns to McCaw Hall for its fourth event during Juneteenth weekend, with a program that will “continue to honor the rich musical traditions that originated on the African continent, endured the horrors of slavery, and became a source of strength and resistance,” according to its website. Featured performers include Tony Award-winning tap dancer Savion Glover; vocalists Soloman Howard, J’Nai Bridges and Zebulon Ellis; and conductor maestro Ramón Bryant Braxton, who will direct a choral group and 50-piece orchestra.

7 p.m.; 321 Mercer St., Seattle; $61.05-$158.15; songsofblackfolk.org

Across several North Jersey counties, there will be various Juneteenth events.

Four years after President Joe Biden signed the bill making Juneteenth a federal holiday, and five years after Gov. Phil Murphy made it a state holiday, events will be held throughout North Jersey celebrating this important day in the African American community.

On June 19, 1865, Union Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to give enslaved Black people the news that their owners never told them: President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation two and a half years earlier. The years that followed saw Juneteenth celebrations across Texas, which later spread across the South and to other areas in the United States.

Those in North Jersey wanting to recognize Juneteenth can do so at various events, from the release of a new report on reparations for African Americans in New Jersey to a silent walk from Hackensack to Teaneck. All events listed are free to the public unless otherwise indicated.

Juneteenth events in Bergen County

East Rutherford: Juneteenth Is the American Dream, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. June 19, is an all-day celebration of Black culture, excellence, and community at the American Dream mall. The event will feature a Buy Black Marketplace, live musical performances, DJ sets, Divine 9 strolls, engaging panels and more. It’s an opportunity to celebrate freedom, amplify Black voices and engage with attendees. Brought to you by the Culture Lab, the HBCUNY Classic and HBCU Inspired.

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Fair Lawn: The borough’s third annual Juneteenth celebration will be held on June 13 at the Fair Lawn Community Center Gym, 10-10 20th St. The event, hosted by the Fair Lawn Community Relations Advisory Committee, will run from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and will feature live music, local vendors, food, and performances.

Little Ferry: The historic Gethsemane Cemetery, 35 Summit Place, will have open self-guided tours June 19 to 21 from noon to 4 p.m. The site holds the graves of over 500 individuals, including formerly enslaved persons, local entrepreneurs, and two Civil War veterans. A recorded tour of Gethsemane Cemetery, featuring historian Dr. Arnold Brown of Englewood—whose advocacy was key to preserving the site—is available on YouTube. The cemetery is owned by Bergen County. For more information, contact (201) 336-7272.

Hackensack: Bergen County will hold Juneteenth Freedom Day on June 19 at 5:30 p.m. in the Bergen County Administration Building, The Piazza in the Bergen County Plaza. June 22 is the Hackensack Juneteenth Festival in Carver Park, 294 2nd St., from 1 to 6 p.m. The festival will feature a live DJ, pickleball, giveaways, a fashion show, and more.

Teaneck: A full day of festivities with music, food, and activities will take place from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on June 19. The event will include a silent walk from the FDU MLK monument to Pomander Walk from 8 to 9 a.m.; a flag raising at the Votee Sportsplex from noon to 12:30 p.m.; a Juneteenth Jubilee at the Richard Rodda Center MP1, from 1 to 3 p.m.; and fellowship at Czen Restaurant in Englewood, from 5 to 8 p.m. For information, contact juneteenthteaneck@gmail.com.

Juneteenth events in Essex County

Belleville: Juneteenth Jazz featuring Carrie Jackson and her All Star Jazz Ensemble will be 6 to 8 p.m. June 19, at Belleville Public Library, 221 Washington Ave. bellepl.org/juneteenthjazz

Bloomfield: The Township’s 5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration will take place noon to 7 p.m. June 21 (rescheduled from June 14) at Bloomfield Center, Glenwood Avenue and Washington Street. The event will be preceded by a special morning inspiration and worship service, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., followed by live performances by local artists, food trucks, family-friendly activities and shopping opportunities supporting local and Black-owned businesses. Guests will also have the chance to connect with community leaders and historians, who will share insights on the significance of Juneteenth and its importance in the fight for justice and equality. For information, visit thegivebackhairshow.org

Maplewood: The Durand-Hedden House & Garden Association and the South Orange-Maplewood Community Coalition on Race will hold their annual Juneteenth celebration noon to 5 p.m. June 14 at Grasmere Park, surrounding Durand-Hedden House, 523 Ridgewood Road. The family-friendly event will feature historical reenactors, musical performances, dance and poetry. Children can enjoy face painting and crafts. Visitors can also view the exhibit “Slavery in New Jersey: A Troubled History,” which provides historical context for Juneteenth and the history of enslaved people in New Jersey. The Coalition will host its free Integrated Art Circle featuring West African traditional dance at 2 p.m., led by West African dancer and drummer Yahaya Kamate. The event is free and all are welcome. Visit communitycoalitiononrace.org/events for information.

Millburn: A celebration will take place at 3 p.m. June 17 at the Bauer Center in Taylor Park, 100 Main St.

Montclair: The township will hold its Juneteenth Festival 2025 on June 21 from noon to 5 p.m. in Nishaune Park, Cedar Avenue between High Street and Harrison Avenue. There will be live performances, food vendors, family activities, local artisans, and community resources. The event is hosted by the Friends of the Howe House in partnership with community sponsors.

Newark: The New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., will host on June 19 at 7 p.m. the release and discussion of the New Jersey Reparations Council’s long-awaited report, “For Such a Time as This: The Nowness of Reparations for Black People in New Jersey.” The New Jersey Reparations Council was convened by the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice on Juneteenth 2023 to “finally confront and repair the deep and often overlooked history of slavery in New Jersey and its lasting impact on the contemporary life of Black people in the state.” The event will feature an introduction by Paulette Brown; Fireside Chat (Courageous Philanthropy & Advocacy) with Amber Randolph, Maisha Simmons, Rich Besser, Ryan Haygood; Panel 1: From the slave state of the north to the two New Jerseys, moderated by Taja-Nia Henderson with panelists Dreisen Heath, Melissa Miles, Walter Greason and Madiba Dennie; Panel 2: What’s next to move reparations forward?, moderated by Khalil Gibran Muhammad with panelists Jean-Pierre Brutus, Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, Reverend Charles Boyer, Nicole Rodriguez, and Larry Hamm, and the conclusion with Pastor Timothy Adkins-Jones. Register for the free event at njpac.com.

Nutley: Mayor John V. Kelly III, the Department of Public Affairs and Health, and the Nutley Cultural Inclusion and Diversity Council, invites all residents to a community celebration, 5 to 8 p.m. June 19 at the Oakley Kitchen, 789 Bloomfield Ave. The festive evening will feature extended happy hour pricing, free tastings, live music by the Musician House Band, and a specially curated Juneteenth menu that highlights traditional red foods symbolic of the occasion, along with signature cocktails and desserts crafted just for the celebration. In addition to food and music, the evening will offer raffles, giveaways prizes, barbecue specials and a special presentation by a representative of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, who will share the story of Nathan “Nearest” Green, America’s first known African-American master distiller. Guests will have the opportunity to sample Uncle Nearest bourbon and learn about its roots in American history.

Verona: Join Verona’s Township Council at the raising of the Juneteenth flag to honor freedom and unity and the end of slavery in the U.S. on June 16 at 10:30 a.m. at the Verona Civic Center, 600 Bloomfield Ave.

Juneteenth events in Hudson County

Jersey City: The All About Us Festival on June 19 in Liberty State Park from 12 to 8 p.m. is a celebration of Black culture, family, and community. The festival features performances by R&B, house music, and hip-hop stars such as Jadakiss, Mario, and Robin S. Along with music, there will be food trucks, kid-friendly fun, art, and curated shopping from Black-owned brands. Tickets are $44.99 for general admission, $17.99 for seniors, and kids are admitted free and can be purchased at https://posh.vip/e/all-about-us-festival-3.

Juneteenth events in Morris County

Dover: Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 61 Richards Ave., will host Dover’s first Juneteenth Celebration in partnership with Wind of the Spirit on June 19 at 6 p.m. This commemoration of the emancipation of enslaved Africans and their descendants will highlight Dover’s significant role in the Underground Railroad and the contributions of local African Americans. The evening will include: a celebratory dinner, a presentation on the history of Juneteenth, music including the Black National Anthem, reflections and testimonies from local Black residents, recognition of Reverend Keisha Cohen, Mt. Zion’s first woman reverend, and Mayor Carolyn Blackman, Dover’s first African American Mayor. All members of the Dover area community are welcome, and Spanish-language interpretation is provided. RSVP at mtziondoversecretary@gmail.com

Morristown: Local nonprofit arts organizations will come together to host free events known as the Juneteenth Arts Celebration. The Juneteenth Arts Celebration Kickoff Concert featuring Lynette Sheard and Gregory Burrus Productions on June 18 at 6 p.m. at The Vail Mansion, 110 South St. Then, Art in the Atrium – Opening Reception of Another Slice of Sweet Potato Pie on June 19 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Morris County Administration and Records Building, 10 Court St., and Morris Museum’s Celebration with Unity Steppers on June 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the museum, 6 Normandy Heights Road. RSVP for the events at https://juneteenthartscelebrationcom.wordpress.com/.Dover

Randolph: The Morris County Human Relations Commission will host a screening of Sense of Urgency, a new, award-winning documentary about a young attorney’s battle to overcome cancer that reshaped her world, at the County College of Morris on June 21 at 6 p.m. as part of celebrating Juneteenth. After the screening, a panel discussion featuring local leaders, as well as Queen Stewart, the featured attorney in the film. The event will be in the college’s Dragonetti Auditorium, 214 Center Grove Road. Registration for the event at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Pg11kX2rHzPsg3OCVh6vOCpvvcSgVAzVKRDVttHUPP0/viewform?edit_requested=true.

Juneteenth events in Passaic County

Passaic: There will be a Juneteenth celebration on June 14 hosted by Mayor Hector Lora and the Passaic City Council from 1 to 5 p.m. at Third Ward Memorial Park, 350 Passaic Ave. The event will feature vendors, raffles, live entertainment, arts and crafts, food, and community resources. Later that day, from 7 to 9:30 p.m., fireworks at Passaic City Hall Courtyard, 330 Passaic St.

Paterson: The Family Legacy Day on the 160th Juneteenth Anniversary will be at 9 a.m. June 14 at the HVR Underground Railroad National Historic Site, 125 Martin Luther King Blvd. Join the African American Independence Day, celebrating family legacy and the legacy tree planting, hosted by Jimmy Richardson, and honoring the Benson/Wimberly family, the John Kline family, William Van Rensalier family, Big Jim and Kate Ellerbee family. Visit Patersonnj.gov/ugrr.

Woodland Park: The Passaic County Board of County Commissioners will hold a Juneteenth celebration on June 19 from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Pat DiIanni Boat House in Garret Mountain Reservation, 227 Virginio Pl. This free event is open to the public and invites residents from across the county to gather in recognition of freedom, heritage, and community.

Juneteenth events in Sussex County

Newton: The North Jersey organizations Norwescap and HEAL will host the 5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration on June 21 at the Newton Green, 4 Spring St., 1 to 5 p.m. The event will include various speakers, performers, vendors, and art exhibits. The event is free with tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/h3als-5th-annual-juneteenth-celebration-on-the-newton-green-tickets-1375107356119.

It was 160 years ago that enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned they had been freed — after the Civil War’s end and two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.

The resulting Juneteenth holiday — its name combining “June” and “nineteenth” — has only grown in one-and-a-half centuries. In 2021, President Joe Biden designated it a federal holiday — expanding its recognition beyond Black America.

This year will be the first Juneteenth under President Donald Trump’s second administration, which has banned diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, or DEI, in the federal government. This has included removing Black American history content from federal websites. Trump officials have also discouraged some federal agencies from recognizing other racial heritage celebrations.

Still, many people anticipate getting Juneteenth off work. There are a plethora of street festivals, fairs, concerts and other events planned throughout the week leading into the holiday. But with the current political climate, some may wonder if their company will honor it.

“I don’t think anyone should be intimidated or obligated into not celebrating the day,” said Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League. “I’ve not heard of anyone being denied. I think it would be absolutely reprehensible.”

FILE – Chelsea Andrews, of Washington, waves the Juneteenth flag during a Juneteenth celebration at Black Lives Matter Plaza in Washington, Monday, June 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, file) Photo:

People who never gave the occasion more than a passing thought may be asking themselves, is there a “right” way to celebrate Juneteenth?

For beginners and those brushing up on history, here are some answers:

Is Juneteenth more of a solemn day of remembrance or a party?

It depends on what you want. Juneteenth festivities are rooted in cookouts and picnics. Originally celebrated as Black Americans’ true Independence Day, outdoor events allowed for large, raucous reunions among formerly enslaved family, many of whom had been separated. The gatherings were especially revolutionary because they were free of restrictive measures, known as “Black Codes,” enforced in Confederate states. Codes controlled whether liberated slaves could vote, buy property, gather for worship and other aspects of daily life.

Last year, the White House kicked things off early with a concert on the South Lawn for Juneteenth and Black Music Month. The atmosphere was primarily festive with Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black vice president, dancing on stage with gospel singer Kirk Franklin.

Plans for a Juneteenth event or proclamation this year have not been decided, according to the White House press office.

Others may choose to treat Juneteenth as a day of rest and remembrance. That can mean doing community service, attending an education panel or taking time off.

“The most important thing everyone should do is be able to quickly answer the question ‘What is Juneteenth?’” Morial said.

What if you’ve never celebrated Juneteenth?

Dr. David Anderson, a Black pastor and CEO of Gracism Global, a consulting firm helping leaders navigate conversations bridging divides across race and culture, never did anything on Juneteenth in his youth. He didn’t learn about it until his 30s.

“I think many folks haven’t known about it — who are even my color as an African American male. Even if you heard about it and knew about it, you didn’t celebrate it,” Anderson said. “It was like just a part of history. It wasn’t a celebration of history.”

For many African Americans, the farther away from Texas that they grew up increased the likelihood they didn’t have big Juneteenth celebrations regularly. In the South, the day can vary based on when word of Emancipation reached each state.

What kind of public Juneteenth events are taking place?

Search online and you will find gatherings nationwide varying in scope and tone. Some are more carnivalesque festivals with food trucks, arts and crafts and parades. Within those festivals, you’ll likely find information on health care, finance and community resources. There also are concerts and fashion shows to highlight Black creativity. There will also be panels to educate about Juneteenth’s history.

The National Park Service is again making entry into all sites free on the holiday, according to its website.

Are there special Juneteenth decorations or foods?

The red, black and green African Liberation Flag, also known as the Pan-African flag, has historically been displayed at both Black History Month and Juneteenth celebrations. Red represents bloodshed and sacrifice of enslaved ancestors. Black symbolizes Black people. Green represents richness of the land in Africa.

More people, however, have leaned into the Juneteenth flag created in 1997 by activist Ben Haith, who founded the National Juneteenth Celebration Foundation. Like the American flag, it is red, white and blue to indicate those freed are also Americans. The five-point white star in the middle is a tribute to Juneteenth’s birthplace of Texas. It is encircled by another white starry line that represents the spreading of freedom.

Aside from barbecue, the color red has been a through line for Juneteenth food for generations. Red symbolizes the bloodshed and sacrifice of enslaved ancestors. A Juneteenth menu might incorporate items like barbecued ribs or other red meat, watermelon and red velvet cake. Drinks like fruit punch and red Kool-Aid may make an appearance at the table.

In recent years, Juneteenth has become more commercialized with national chains selling Juneteenth party supplies, T-shirts and other merchandise. However, this year, Juneteenth items appear to be fewer or only online. Morial says he would be disappointed if companies decided selling Juneteenth items out in the open was too risky because of politics. At the same time, it might be a good opportunity for consumers.

“I would also encourage people to go online and look for an African American vendor,” Morial said. “If you got to participate in that (commercialism), that’s what I would do.”

Does how you celebrate Juneteenth matter if you aren’t Black?

Dr. Karida Brown, a sociology professor at Emory University whose research focuses on race, said there’s no reason to feel awkward about wanting to recognize Juneteenth just because you have no personal ties or you’re not Black. In fact, embrace it.

“I would reframe that and challenge my non-Black folks who want to lean into Juneteenth and celebrate,” Brown said. “It absolutely is your history. It absolutely is a part of your experience. … Isn’t this all of our history? The good, the bad, the ugly, the story of emancipation and freedom for your Black brothers and sisters under the Constitution of the law.”

What are other names used to refer to Juneteenth?

Over the decades, Juneteenth has also been called Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, Black Fourth of July and second Independence Day among others.

“Because 1776, Fourth of July, where we’re celebrating freedom and liberty and all of that, that did not include my descendants,” Brown said. “Black people in America were still enslaved. So that that holiday always comes with a bittersweet tinge to it.”

Is there a proper Juneteenth greeting?

It’s typical to wish people a “Happy Juneteenth” or “Happy Teenth,” according to Alan Freeman, a comedian who has organized a June 19 comedy show at Club 68, which local media has described as the last Black bar and club on Galveston Island. The day after he will host a stand-up comedy and jazz show at his Houston restaurant and lounge, the Frisky Whisky.

“You know how at Christmas people will say ‘Merry Christmas’ to each other and not even know each other?” Freeman said. “You can get a ‘Merry Christmas’ from everybody. This is the same way.”

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As June arrives, bringing long-awaited warmer days, many people are contemplating or finalizing how they’ll spend their summer. For some, particularly millennials, the realization is that we have transitioned from being cookout guests to hosts, whether we like it or not. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for the invite for. However, if the idea of hosting a gathering sends you into a spiral, there are plenty of events happening around the country to celebrate Juneteenth this month.

While amplifying Black culture and supporting Black-owned businesses should be a year-round endeavor, Juneteenth is a particularly special time to invest in the community. Discover 26 cultural celebrations that showcase Black American liberation, resilience, and excellence.

Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria’s Black history and cultural experiences will be on full display this Juneteenth with several events. On June 19, reflect on the journey toward freedom with traditional storytelling and songs at the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices Juneteenth Concert at Market Square. The Juneteenth Celebration at The Athenaeum will provide families with an opportunity to explore the history of Juneteenth through hands-on activities, art, and poetry readings. On June 21, the Manumission Tour Company will host 90-minute guided bus tours to visit Alexandria’s African American historic sites.

Atlanta, Georgia

As a city synonymous with Black culture, June is the perfect time to get outside for the Juneteenth Atlanta Parade & Music Festival. This massive celebration, spanning over 100 acres in Atlanta’s Piedmont Park, will take place on June 14–15, 2025. Community, equality, human rights, and justice are the central focus of the multi-day fest, considered Georgia’s official celebration. Multiple live music stages, a parade, the 5K Freedom Run, and more will keep ATLiens in the Juneteenth spirit. There’s also a Car, Truck, Low Rider, and Bike Show slated for the weekend, although details are still to come.

To see another side of Atlanta, the Atlanta History Center is hosting its festivities on June 15. The museum’s on-campus events will spotlight the enduring power of Black craftsmanship and artistry. Attendees can expect hands-on craft demonstrations and an exclusive conversation with author Robell Awake and Dr. Tiffany Momon. There will also be a DJ, food truck park, and Makers’ Market to support local makers and artists.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Jordan Hefler

New Orleans typically gets all the attention, but Baton Rouge is not to be missed this Juneteenth, either. As the home of Southern University, the largest HBCU in the world, the state’s capital city honors African American heritage through numerous community events.

On June 14, the city’s annual Juneteenth Celebration will take place at Gus Young Park. This celebration is a family-friendly day of food, festivities, and a special performance by legendary blues musician Kenny Neal. The celebrations continue on June 21 with Juneteenth Discovery Day at the Capitol Park Museum in downtown Baton Rouge. There’s also Bella Noche Summer Fest, featuring performances by Tyrese, Tank, Jacquees, Southern rap legend Mia X, and Baton Rouge favorite Level.

Baltimore, Maryland

Aside from the abundance of activities on any visit to Baltimore, you’ll equally have several ways to celebrate Juneteenth. AFRAM 2025, Baltimore’s official Juneteenth celebration and African American music, cultural, and arts festival, returns on June 21-22 in Druid Hill Park. This free, two-day festival showcases local artists, businesses, and makers who display their goods, talents, services, and resources to up to 200,000 attendees each year. This year’s lineup of live performances includes Vedo, Amerie, Saweetie, Teedra Moses, Juvenile, and Patti LaBelle.

For an alternative experience, the Walters Art Museum is presenting “AfroFutro: A Journey to the Golden Cloud Nebula.” This free event takes place on June 21, during which Afro House’s Astronaut Symphony creates symphonic performance art. The afternoon performance combines voice, sound design, and live instrumentation to create a futuristic and lush cosmic soundscape.

Buffalo, New York

Buffalo’s Juneteenth is one of the city’s longest-running festivals, with origins that date back to 1976. This year’s events mark the beginning of the committee’s historic 50-year celebration, which is scheduled to run through June 2026. The community-based organization behind the celebration, B.U.I.L.D., aims to preserve and promote the broad spectrum of African American Heritage through educational and cultural activities. This year’s festival will take place on Saturday, June 14 – Sunday, June 15, featuring a parade, musical performances, food vendors, and cultural activities. Held in Martin Luther King Jr. Park, this event in upstate New York is one of several the organization will host throughout the month of June.

Charlotte, North Carolina

This year, the greater Charlotte area has more than a dozen events happening to celebrate Juneteenth. The Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas returns for its 28th year, celebrating from June 12 to 15. Taking place in Plaza Midwood, this free multi-day lineup is the largest and oldest Juneteenth Festival in the Southeast. On-site activities include local vendors, live entertainment, healthcare and children’s villages, and a fashion show by international fashion designer Khadim Soung of Senegal.

The following weekend, on June 21, the culture-filled Durag Festival is celebrating Juneteenth and Black creativity in the Queen City. This art, food, and fashion mash-up is becoming one of the Carolinas’ standout events, and this year is no exception. If an afternoon at the “Meta Gala of Durags” plus a healthy dose of immersive art, local cuisine, and Black excellence at every turn sounds like your Juneteenth vibe, grab your ticket sooner rather than later.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is also commemorating Juneteenth with a variety of events, including voter awareness initiatives, galas, and parades. The Dalton-Whitfield NAACP will host a parade on June 14 at 10 a.m., while the Juneteenth National Freedom Day parade will take place on June 19, starting at 4 p.m. Following the parade, the Juneteenth National Freedom Day Remix will feature community line dancing, art exhibits, a fashion show, and live music.

The Bessie Smith Cultural Center is celebrating Juneteenth on June 19 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event will feature live music, food trucks, children’s activities, a Black-owned vendor market, and a documentary screening. In the spirit of the culture, the Dalton-Whitfield NAACP is also hosting a Spades Tournament and Fish Fry on June 21. Registration is required for teams, but a cash prize awaits the best duo.

Cleveland, Ohio

Matt Shiffler

In Cleveland, the Cleveland Juneteenth Freedom Fest is a family-friendly way to commemorate the holiday. Festivities include live performances, Soul Food Row, and a vendor village of Black-owned businesses. The festival will also feature interactive art demonstrations, roller skating, and a family fun zone in Downtown Cleveland on June 14 from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Mx. Juneteenth also returns for its 5th year on June 21. This inclusive Juneteenth celebration is where Black and Queer joy takes center stage. Expect live music, drag performances, local vendors, poetry, food, and a welcoming community.

Columbus, Ohio

The 28th Annual Juneteenth Ohio Festival is the country’s third-largest celebration of African American history and culture. Attendees can expect fair bites from food vendors, live music performances, and speakers sharing cherished stories. The two-day weekend of cultural discovery is a great way to explore Ohio’s capital on June 21-22 at Genoa Park. This year’s lineup includes a heartfelt tribute to Frankie Beverly, line dances to “Boots on the Ground,” an “Old School” concert on Saturday, and “Cool Jazz & Blues Sunday.”

Juneteenth On The Ave is also happening in the city on June 21 from 12 – 6 pm on Historic Mt. Vernon Avenue. This district of Columbus comes together to celebrate Black artistry while promoting and supporting Black-owned businesses. The free, family-friendly event will feature performances and visual arts, food trucks, games, art exhibits, health screenings, and information sessions on higher education.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

The city of Fayetteville is gearing up for a series of events to commemorate Juneteenth this year. Festivities kick off with the 2nd Annual Juneteenth Liberty & Legacy Celebration at Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom on Friday, June 13, and Saturday, June 14. Friday night features the Art Crawl, with a night market and live performances, followed by Saturday’s open-air market and immersive cultural experiences.

Celebrations culminate in Fayetteville’s signature event: the 5th Annual Juneteenth Jubilee in Festival Park, from 3–9 p.m. on June 14. This year’s theme is Sovereign, spotlighting the legacy and contributions of Black women, past and present. Expect nationally touring headliners, local acts, food trucks, artisan vendors, and interactive experiences that celebrate Black history, joy, and excellence. The Jubilee blends education and entertainment, offering a powerful and inclusive experience for residents and visitors.

Galveston, Texas

Galveston, Texas, is the birthplace of Juneteenth, as the town in which Union troops arrived on June 19, 1865, delivering the withheld news of the enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation. Ahead of the official day, the Galveston Island Juneteenth Festival & Celebration will take place on June 14 from noon to 8:00 p.m. The 2024 festival will take place on the historic grounds of McGuire Dent Recreational Center, now known as Menard Park. Along with the festival’s food, vendors, and live entertainment, The Rolling Sevens are bringing blues, rock, and funk to the stage at 7 p.m.

Other Galveston event options for Juneteenth are plentiful, from the 3rd Annual Juneteenth Celebration Concert (June 15) to “Juneteenth 160: Freedom, Fireworks & Family” on June 19. The latter event will feature a variety of performances, such as spoken word and live music, as well as food trucks and a fireworks display. There’s also the Juneteenth Parade, which ends with a picnic at Wright Cuney Park on June 19.

Houston, Texas

With the abundance of Black culture throughout Houston’s history, it’s no surprise that the city has plenty to offer. The Juneteenth Culture Fest kicks off with a free concert at Miller Outdoor Theatre on June 13, with performances by Ernest Walker Band, LeToya Luckett, Madicin, Jenni P, and Ruben Studdard. On June 14-15, the family-friendly celebration continues with live music, DJs, local vendors, a health and wellness stage, food trucks, and a vibe lounge.

The Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy is celebrating 160 years of the holiday with a month-long series of events, including “Juneteenth 160 Fest: Building What We Started” on June 19. This event will feature activities such as yoga, dance, games, face painting, and educational workshops. The organization is also gearing up for a special fireside chat with Dr. Marc Lamont Hill and a tribute to former mayor and congressman Sylvester Turner. There’s also a Juneteenth Tea Cakes and Tours series throughout the month, with upcoming tours on June 14 and 19.

Jacksonville, Florida

Spend the day at the Melanin Market Juneteenth Celebration in Jacksonville on June 14. Jax Melanin Market amplifies Black-owned businesses year-round, making it the perfect way to celebrate in the city. The festival will feature dozens of local Black-owned businesses, artists, and live performances in the Historic Eastside neighborhood of Jacksonville. The organization will shut down A. Philip Randolph Blvd , the main street in the neighborhood, for a day filled with vendors, food trucks, and entertainment stages.

Lexington, Kentucky

In Lexington, Kentucky, SoulTeenth Fest celebrates Juneteenth on June 21. SoulTeenth Fest is part of the multi-day SoulFeast Week, highlighting Black restaurants, farmers, and chefs in Central Kentucky from June 19 to 23. This event celebrates Black culinary culture by showcasing the Black visionaries who are making waves in Lexington’s culinary scene. Curated experiences, educational exhibits, and themed events are offered daily, providing an opportunity to support Black businesses through food and drink.

To honor those who came before us, check out the self-guided African American Heritage Trail walking tour. With more than 45 stops, discover the wealth of African American history in Lexington, including the numerous achievements of Black Lexingtonians.

Little Rock, Arkansas

In Little Rock, Juneteenth in Da Rock is an all-day event celebrating Black culture for the 16th year. The day-long street festival on June 21 will feature a variety of activities, vendors, virtual programs, food, and entertainment. Juneteenth in Da Rock 5K kicks off the day’s events, with music performances ending the night. This event is organized by the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, Arkansas’s only museum that tells the stories of Black Arkansans.

Madison, Wisconsin

Madison, Wisconsin, is holding its 36th Annual Juneteenth in the Park on June 21 at Penn Park. In 1990, a group of Madison’s Black community leaders collaborated with the Madison Inner City Council on Substance Abuse to implement this now-longstanding Juneteenth tradition. From its inception, Madison’s Juneteenth Celebration has been family-centered, providing an enjoyable experience for children and their families. Madison’s celebration of the Black community includes a parade, performances, food trucks, live music, and more.

Memphis, Tennessee

Tennessee Tourism

This year’s Juneteenth Community Day in Memphis will offer free admission to the National Civil Rights Museum. Located at the Lorraine Motel where Dr. King was assassinated in 1968, the immersive experience includes comprehensive exhibits, artifacts, and interactive media that cover five centuries. On June 19, visitors can learn more about the holiday’s origins and the stories of hard-fought freedom that have unfolded since its inception.

In North Memphis, the 32nd Annual Juneenth Douglass Freedom Festival will focus on “Women of Color, Women of Excellence” as its theme this year. This three-day festival includes a youth day, heritage parade, BBQ competition, and live art. Attendees will also enjoy a music showcase, local vendors, and family-friendly activities that honor the history and legacy of Juneteenth.

Miami, Florida

Miami is paying homage to Black culture in numerous ways, making it a busy June lineup in The Magic City. The Miami Juneteenth Festival will commemorate the holiday on June 18 at the Griffing Center. Open to the public and free to attend, this celebration will feature live performances by national and local artists, Black-owned vendors, and interactive exhibits.

In Miami fashion, a family-friendly beach bash is happening at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park on Saturday, June 14. Activities include interactive games, food, live music, and entertainment, along the shores of a historic beachfront location. On June 20, the Black Miami Weekend Beach Frolic will offer free massages, an ancestor blessing, and Kompa dance lessons.

Montgomery, Alabama

Experience Montgomery

The birthplace of the civil rights movement, Montgomery, Alabama, has several events that make it a must-visit destination. Aside from numerous historic sites, the 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration is taking place at Rosa Parks Museum on Saturday, June 14. The free event includes admission to the museum, vendors, live music, and local food to savor.

The Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) is delivering a series of Juneteenth concerts on June 18 and 19. On opening night, Yolanda Adams and Donald Lawrence and Company will present performances to ticketholders. On Juneteenth, a free performance by Jason Max Ferdinand and his choir, the Jason Max Ferdinand Singers, will take place at noon. Grammy Award-winning artists Cécile McLorin Salvant and Terence Blanchard will headline the jazz concert later that evening. EJI will also offer free admission to the Legacy Sites: the Legacy Museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park.

Nashville, Tennessee

June marks the return and commemoration of Black Music Month. In Nashville, the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) celebrates the contributions, legacies, and icons of music’s past, present, and future. The month-long celebration features live performers, special guests, and appearances, culminating in a Juneteenth Community Day on June 19.

The Juneteenth615 Celebration has become one of the most widely celebrated Juneteenth events in Nashville, attracting 10,000 people annually. The city-wide celebration spans numerous events, including Juneteenth Restaurant Week, a fireworks presentation, craft and community vendors, and live entertainment. This year also marks the unveiling of the “First Family of Black Country” mural by local artist Elisheba Israel Mrozik on June 19.

New Orleans, Louisiana

The New Orleans Juneteenth Festival is taking place at the legendary Louis Armstrong Park on June 19. The free event kicks off in New Orleans style, featuring a second-line parade, followed by live performances. The 2025 Juneteenth Freedom Gala, on June 20, will celebrate the Black past, present, and future, awarding Tarriona “Tank” Ball with the 2025 North Star Award.

New York City, New York

New Yorkers (and visitors) will have to choose wisely, with nearly a dozen events taking place across the city. In Brooklyn, the 16th Annual Juneteenth NY Celebration spans a week of programming (June 12-19) this year. Events include the Black Kings Awards ceremony, a restaurant crawl, and a live virtual Juneteenth Day Summit. The main event, a free festival at Linden Park, begins at 8:30 a.m. on June 14 with a parade, followed by performances from local artists, vendors, and interactive activities for the whole family. On the same day, the Juneteenth Bar Crawl in Harlem is a great way to make new friends from noon to 7 p.m.

Black Restaurant Week also coincides with Juneteenth in New York, offering foodies an opportunity to honor the culture through cuisine. From June 15 to June 29, explore and dine at more than 100 Black-owned restaurants, bakeries, food trucks, and more. There’s also the Juneteenth Food Festival, co-hosted by Black-Owned Brooklyn and the Weeksville Heritage Center. Broadway is also celebrating Juneteenth with its fifth annual event, which honors and features Black artists and allies.

Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix offers several events to choose from within the city. The annual Valley of the Sun Juneteenth Celebration is happening at Eastlake Park on June 14. Attendees can expect a variety of family-friendly activities, live music, and a Buffalo Soldiers presentation. The event will also host a variety of retail and food vendors, educational dialogues, a movie screening, and a talent show. On Sunday, June 15, the 5th Annual RYBE Juneteenth Freedom Celebration will deliver a day of family fun and education.

In nearby Tempe, the 12th Annual Juneteenth Celebration will take place at Tempe History Museum on June 14. From there, head to the Juneteenth Block Party in Downtown Tempe to enjoy line dancing, a barber battle, and plenty of Black-owned eats.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Juneteenth in Pittsburgh is a great time, with several events that have a significant impact on the city each year. The CommUnity Concert & Family BBQ has a soulful lineup of music performances, cultural activities, and vendors on June 14. On June 18, the Schenley Park Roller Rink is opening for a free night of roller skating, and Dollar Bank Cinema in the Park welcomes families to watch “Fences” or “Soul” at dusk throughout the week.

From June 19 to 22, the WPA Juneteenth and Black Music Celebration will host a series of events at Mellon Spray Park. Festivities include a ticketed boat party (June 19), a free concert featuring Dru Hill (June 20), and the annual Juneteenth March and Parade (June 21). The free celebration also features educational talks with anti-racist Scholar Tim Wise and community activist 19-Keys.

Richmond, Virginia

Richmond residents and visitors can join in the celebration at “Juneteenth 2025, A Freedom Celebration” on June 14 at the Manchester Dock. Attendees are invited to reflect, engage in dance, and enjoy conversations, food, and activities for the children. Following the day celebration, A Tribute to the Ancestors, Along the Trail of Enslaved Africans immerses attendees in narratives that honor the ancestors.

On June 21 at Dorsey Park in Richmond, Virginia, Henrico Recreation & Parks will host its Juneteenth Celebration for the community. From 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., the family can shop local vendors, play in the kids’ zone, and enjoy a variety of food trucks. A community stage will showcase local talent, while the main stage features go-go performances. Pull up with your blanket and chairs to celebrate and enjoy the 9:45 p.m. fireworks finale.

St. Louis, Missouri

The Lou is honoring Black culture with several events, starting with Neighbors Impacting Communities’ Third Annual Juneteenth Celebration. On June 14, 2025, head to Soulard Park for a Freedom Parade that transitions into a day of family fun. Alternatively, the Delmar Blvd Juneteenth Celebration will feature a 5K run/walk, a family fun day, a food truck pop-up, and evening performances. The Griot Museum of Black History is also hosting its own celebration and freedom march on June 19.

These celebrations around the U.S. are only a fraction of the ways communities are honoring the emancipation of enslaved people. Whether visiting major cities or smaller towns, there will likely be a festival nearby to gather, make memories, and continue celebrating and reflecting on the legacy of Black America.

This story has been updated to add new information.

What does Juneteenth celebrate?

Juneteenth celebrates the liberation of the enslaved people of Texas at the end of the Civil War.

Pres. Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, freeing all enslaved people in the Confederate states, but it couldn’t be fully enforced until 1865, when federal troops occupied all of the south.

Some enslaved people weren’t freed until later that year, but the June 19 enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Galveston marked the symbolic end of American slavery.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture calls it “our country’s second Independence Day.”

What began as a local holiday in Galveston has spread nationwide as a day to celebrate Black freedom, heritage and culture with parades, picnics, festivals and ceremonies.

According to the Galveston Historical Foundation, more than 200 cities across the U.S. now hold Juneteenth celebrations.

It became the newest federal holiday in 2021.

How will Asheville celebrate Juneteenth?

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Association of Asheville and Buncombe County has partnered with the city of Asheville and Buncombe County to put on half a dozen events from June 16 to 19.

The YMI Cultural Center also has a full roster of Juneteenth events that week.

“I am expecting a wonderful event again this year,” Dr. Oralene Simmons, civil rights activist and founder of the MLK Association, told the Citizen Times June 9. “This is something that, I feel, people have looked forward to all year.”

Juneteenth has been an official city holiday in Asheville since 2021. Simmons said that their events will kick off with a proclamation from the city.

Rain and thunderstorms are forecast throughout the week, but all events scheduled by the MLK Association are indoors. “I don’t think the rain is going to dampen any of our events,” Simmons said.

June 16

The MLK Association will hold a screening and discussion of the short documentary “A Time to Yell,” on the removal of Confederate monuments. 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Stephens Lee Community Center.

June 16 also kicks off a month-long pop-up art exhibition at the YMI Cultural Center with music and “root beer floats for all.” The exhibit “And still we rise,” by the local artist Jenny Pickens will be on display, “celebrating the beauty and perseverance of Black identity.”

June 17

The MLK Association will hold a screening of the documentary “Rosenwald,” on the life of philanthropist and education advocate Julius Rosenwald, who worked with Booker T. Washington to establish schools for Black Children, and a remembrance of voting rights activists James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner, who were murdered by the KKK in Mississippi in 1964. 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Stephens Lee Community Center.

June 18

On Wednesday, there will be a “Dinner and Discussion” workshop with genealogist Sasha Mitchell on researching family trees. 5:30 to 8 p.m. organized by the MLK Association at the Stephens Lee Community Center.

June 19

On Thursday, there’s a musical event featuring North Carolina gospel singer Mary D. Williams, who the North Carolina Arts Council says on its website has “chronicle(d) the history of the Civil Rights movement through song.” 12 to 2 p.m. organized by the MLK Association at the Shiloh Friendship Center.

The MLK Association’s week of festivities will culminate with a gala of music, food, dancing and an “African attire fashion show” that night, Simmons said. She expects around 300 people to attend. 6 to 9 p.m. at the AB-Tech Conference Center.

On June 19, free tours of the YMI building, “A Tour in Black Resilience,” are scheduled for 12, 2 and 4 p.m., according to a YMI release. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.

Beginning at 10 a.m., tours by YMI partners Collective Noir and Eagle Market Street are set to guide walking tours of the Block, the historically Black downtown district, “highlighting the economic history and cultural significance of Black entrepreneurship in Asheville.”

UPDATE: The YMI Cultural Center’s community health fair was moved from June 14 to June 19 because of a rain forecast, Reverend Sean Palmer of YMI told the Times-News.

Participants in YMI Cultural Center’s Ujima Virtual 5K can run a 5K independently in the week leading up to a community health fair June 14.

The health fair will have health screenings, live music, movement sessions and activities for kids, as well as “resources to inspire sustainable healthy living,” according to a June 3 news release from YMI Cultural Center.

The goal of the event is “to promote holistic well-being in Asheville’s Black community.”

June 20

The MLK Association and Black Wall Street are partnering with the Asheville Downtown Association to put on a special Juneteenth edition of Downtown After 5.

DJ Phantom Pantone opens for Southern Avenue, “known for their Memphis-style sound blending blues, soul, and gospel,” according to a news release from the Downtown Association. 5 to 9 p.m. at Pack Square Park.

George Fabe Russell is the Henderson County Reporter for the Hendersonville Times-News. Tips, questions, comments? Email him at GFRussell@gannett.com.