Juneteenth, officially Juneteenth National Independence Day, is celebrated annually on June 19.
Finally recognized as a Federal Holiday in June of 2021, Juneteenth has been celebrated since 1865, recognizing Black Liberation and the richness of African American culture. This historic date recognizes the true emancipation of all remaining slaves in 1865 after the emancipation proclamation was previously enacted two years prior.
Chicago neighborhoods will begin celebrating Juneteenth this weekend.
LINKS TO CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD JUNETEENTH EVENTS
The Garfield Park 1865 Coalition will host a 3-day African-American cultural festival celebrating Juneteenth Emancipation Day, also known as Freedom Day.
On Friday June 14th to Sunday June 16th, the 3-day cultural experience is meant to educate and enhance Black culture by hosting many family-friendly programs such as educational workshops, sports activities, art, live music and food.
- Friday, the festivities will begin with a Military Honors ceremony and VIP reception recognizing Black veterans in the raising of the original Juneteenth flag that will fly throughout the entire weekend.
- Saturday will be Youth Day with dancers participating in a citywide footwork dance battle and performance by Crucial Conflict and Shawnna in Garfield Park’s Music Court Drive.
- Sunday will conclude the festival with a “Grillin and Chillin” cook-off for Father’s Day along with a steppers set and multi-genre music featuring The Delfonics, blues, gospel and more.
Founder of The 1865 Festival and Westside Cultural Alliance Carol Johnson says “This is not just a celebration it’s a cultural experience. Emancipation and freedom were not created equal so it’s our responsibility to educate, create, cultivate and enhance our Black culture.”
Bronzeville’s 2024 Juneteenth Celebration
Bronzeville’s 2024 Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday June 15, 2024 from 11 am to 5 pm at 35th and Dr. Martin Luther King Drive promises to be an unforgettably positive experience hosted and or sponsored by Absolutely Anything Essential, My Block My Hood My City, The Black Star Project, State Representative Kam Buckner, The BudBilliken Parade, FAM Entertainment Theater Company, NFP. and the Chicago Defender Charities.
With over 400 attendees expected to check out Local historians, keynote speakers including Alderman Lamont Robinson, Public Pioneer Ms. Delmarie Cobb, Bronzeville Historian Myiti Sengstacke – Rice and performing artists from the Chicagoland area, who willl come together to showcase their depictions, share stories, educate residents and entertain attendees.
This year, the village themed community event will highlight youth and adult creative artists as well as local small businesses with a lot of fun and educational activities featuring an array of performances, including live musical bands, dance, spoken word, and more, showcasing the talent and diversity of the community.
The Pullman Community will celebrate in a number of ways including sports events, a parade and Playstreet Block Party for a day filled with fun games, delicious food, and live entertainment.
Juneteenth Family Festival in Beverly
Every year, thousands of people flock to Chicago’s south-side Beverly/Morgan Park community to attend the annual Juneteenth Family Festival. 5,000+ attendees are expected this year on June 15th, 2024, 110th & Longwood, Chicago IL, from Noon – 7pm.
On June 15, this free all-ages event celebrates the Juneteenth holiday by inviting Far South Side communities together for an afternoon of live music, food from local Black-owned restaurants, family activities, a resource vendor fair, and a small business marketplace featuring everything from beauty products to fashion. 11420 S Hasted St, Chicago, IL.
Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Festival
The Homewood-Flossmoor (HF) Juneteenth Festival, said to be the largest Chicago Southland Juneteenth celebration is organized by You Matter 2 in celebration of African American culture as expressed through food, music, dance, and arts. SATURDAY, JUNE 15, 2024 | 11:00AM – 6:30PM
Homewood-Flossmoor High School, South Parking Lot, 999 Kedzie Ave, Flossmoor, IL.
In addition, there will be the annual Parade on Wednesday June 19 at Sterling Ave & Flossmoor Rd beginning at 9AM
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