Juneteenth celebrations recognize June 19, 1865, the day the last enslaved people in the United States learned they were free. It was 900 days after the Emancipation Proclamation when word finally reached parts of Texas.
For generations, this dark time in American history has been reclaimed with a celebration of Black joy through festivals, parades and barbecues all centered around community.
President Joe Biden signed a bill making the annual celebration a federal holiday in 2021. Despite being on a Wednesday this year, there are plenty of ways you can immerse yourself in the celebration of Black joy the weekend before and on the actual day. Here’s a look at some Chicago events that are worth checking out.
When: June 14, 3-6 p.m.; June 15-16, noon-8 p.m.
Where: Garfield Park, 100 N. Central Park Ave.
The three-day festival includes a ceremony honoring Black veterans, activities for children, a Father’s Day “Grill Off” and performances by Shawnna and Crucial Conflict.
“Of Her Becoming: Elizabeth Catlett’s Legacy in Chicago”
When: June 14-Aug. 14, 1-5 p.m. Thursdays to Saturdays
Where: Arts + Public Life’s Arts Incubator Gallery, 301 E. Garfield Boulevard
This exhibition highlights the printmaking and impact of the late artist and activist Elizabeth Catlett. The American and Mexican artist was known for her sculptures and prints featuring African American women.
Juneteenth Village Fest at Douglass Park
When: June 15, noon-8 p.m.
Where: 1401 S. Sacramento Drive
Hosted by It Takes A Village Family of Schools, this free, family-oriented festival will have rides, games, food and live performances from headliners India.Arie, Dead Prez and Domani.
Juneteenth Festival, Far South Community Development Corporation
When: June 15, noon-5 p.m.
Where: Halsted and 115th streets
Chicago’s Far South Side communities come together to celebrate Juneteenth in Morgan Park. Expect live music, dance performances, family activities, food from local restaurants and a small business marketplace.
When: June 17, 4-7:30 p.m.
Where: UIC Quad, 750 S. Halsted St.
The goal of this event is to celebrate the Black disability community and the role it’s played in the advancement of accessibility for Black people. The day includes vendors, food, giveaways and resources for and from the Black and disability community. Advanced sign-up is recommended.
Juneteenth at the Dusable Black History Museum and Education Center
When: June 19, 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
Where: The DuSable, 740 E. 56th Place
The DuSable has a range of events all day on Juneteenth, including a barbecue and block party. Here’s a look at the highlights:
- Yoga with De’Shon McClain and Prison Yoga Chicago, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
- DuSkate: Freedom Roller Rink, noon-4 p.m.
- The DuFarm, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Du Country featuring a performance by Immanuel L33, 5-5:20 p.m.
- Musical performances from Glenn Jones, DJ Ambassador Kevin Nevels, A Patch of Blues and more, 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
- Joe Pratt and the Source.One.Band, 1-5 p.m.
You’re Invited to the Cookout! A Juneteenth Celebration of Black Comedians
When: June 19, 7 p.m.
Where: Cornservatory Theatre, 4210 N. Lincoln Ave.
A comedy show featuring more than a dozen performers. The theater is BYOB.
When: June 19, 3 p.m. meetup, 3:45 p.m. rollout
Where: Formal Gardens at Grant Park to the Salt Shed
Hosted by Black JoyRide, bikers are encouraged to join the community for a ride from the Formal Gardens at Grant Park to the Salt Shed for the Freedom Market.
Juneteenth Freedom Market at the Salt Shed
When: June 19, 4 p.m.
Where: Salt Shed, 1357 N. Elston Ave.
Hosted by the Refine Collective, this market is your chance to shop wares from 50+ Black and Brown creators and business owners.
Festival on the Square with Congo Square Theatre
When: June 19, 2:30 p.m.
Where: Boxville Marketplace, 330 E. 51st St.
In the spirit of the original Congo Square in New Orleans, this annual free event offers art, culture and community while supporting local Black businesses. Highlights include:
- Reading of “Anna” by Pen Wilder, 2:30 p.m.
- Tiny Desk performance with Peter Jericho, 3:15 p.m.
- Boxville Marketplace summer opening, 4-7 p.m.
Juneteenth Community Recommitment Celebration
When: June 19, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: Pullman community, locations vary
A parade, block party and Youth Olympics events take place throughout Pullman. Sports activities include the Chi Ball Y League Basketball Championship, the Juneteenth Youth Football Tournament and the Juneteenth Track and Field Event. The Playstreets Block Party begins immediately following the parade and will feature vendors, games, food, music and giveaways. Parade registration and line-up starts at 8 a.m.; the parade steps off at 10 a.m. at Gately Stadium and concludes at the Pullman Porter Museum.
Celebrating Freedom and Entrepreneurship: Juneteenth Food Truck Festival
When: June 22, noon-4 p.m.
Where: Chicago Urban League, 4510 S. Michigan Ave.
The vibrant celebration includes food trucks, a DJ, bounce house, gaming truck, face painting and community vendors.
Follow Angel Idowu on Twitter: @angelidowu3
Angel Idowu is the JCS Fund of the DuPage Foundation Arts Correspondent.
