Dating back to 1865, Juneteenth is a nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of chattel slavery in the U.S. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers delivered the news to the enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, that the Civil War had ended and they were now free. This was a full two and half years after the Emancipation Proclamation had become official in 1863.
Juneteenth was declared a federal holiday in 2021, after years of activism led by 95-year-old Texas grandmother Opal Lee. Today the holiday is honored across the country each year on June 19. Celebrate Juneteenth 2024 in Chicago by discovering Black history, culture, and traditions.
Chicago cultural events for Juneteenth
North Lawndale History Tour with Chicago Mahogany Tours
Learn about the history and fortitude of the west side’s North Lawndale neighborhood during this tour led by Chicago’s celebrated urban historian Sherman “Dilla” Thomas. The two-hour bus tour will stop at important landmarks and cultural sites that honor North Lawndale’s influence on Chicago.
African Diaspora International Film Festival Chicago
Experience culturally significant films that examine the Black and Indigenous experience at this film festival which runs from June 14 – 16 at Facets. This year’s film topics include colorism, the Harlem Renaissance, and Afro-Brazilian activism. The festival highlights 12 films and also hosts Q&As with the filmmakers.
They Not Like Us: Art, Music and Community, A Celebration of Juneteenth
View the artwork of inspiring emerging artists while listening to live music during this community art event at Pose Cultural Art Gallery on Saturday, June 15. The Black woman-owned space in West Town will also host a Juneteenth open mic with poets, singers, and dancers on Wednesday, June 19.
Juneteenth celebrations in Chicago
Juneteenth Celebrating Freedom
Attend this annual celebration at DuSable Black History Museum and enjoy live music, local vendors, food trucks, and children’s activities on June 19. Don’t forget to visit the museum and explore pertinent exhibits like Freedom: Origin and Journey, which traces the African American journey of freedom and equality throughout history.
The Emancipation Ball 2024
Community, culture, creativity, and commerce is the theme of this year’s formal soiree hosted by Moor’s Brewing Company. The third annual celebration includes bites from Black-owned restaurants, an open bar featuring wine and spirits from Black-owned companies, and live entertainment. The ball is set for June 18 at Rockwell on the River.
Juneteenth Celebration at MLK Skating and Bowling
Glide around to the rhythms of freedom and joy at this all-ages evening event on June 19. Skate and bowl to high-energy music connected to Black history and culture, and enjoy face painting, games, a bounce house, and food at this all-ages celebration.
Juneteenth Celebration Yacht Cruise with Skyline Yacht Cruises
Float across Lake Michigan while absorbing the beauty of Chicago’s legendary skyline during this Juneteenth yacht party. Dress in all-black attire and commemorate Juneteenth on a three-hour cruise with two indoor dance floors, an outdoor sky deck, live DJs, and a cash bar. The boat sails for a sunset cruise on Saturday, June 15.
Juneteenth Village Fest
Commemorate the liberation of African descendants with a free, family-focused event that supplies carnival rides, games, food, and national and local performers. This year’s headliners for the June 15 event include neo-soul singer India Aire and conscious hip-hop duo Dead Prez.
Juneteenth Paddle Canoeing the African American River Trail
Learn about the African American Heritage Water Trail down the Little Calumet River while enjoying a scenic canoe trip hosted by Outsiders Chicago. Splash away on this history adventure on Sunday, June 16.
Juneteenth Jubilee & Resource Fair
Participate in a day of empowerment and connection at this fourth annual celebration on June 15 at Truman College. Discover community services and initiatives and enjoy performances at the Culture Cafe Stage, which will highlight artists, hair care experts, and a genealogist. The event will also supply food, games, free barber services, and a DJ.
Juneteenth markets in Chicago
Juneteenth Freedom Market
The fourth annual Juneteenth Freedom Market by Refine Collective, hosted for the first time at The Salt Shed music venue, will showcase a curated selection of more than 50 Black-owned small businesses. The market, held on June 19, will also feature DJ sets, the renowned 40+ Double Dutch Club, flash tattoos, manicures, and more.
Thank You Chicago Juneteenth Market at The Promontory
Support the creativity and resilience of Black businesses at this pop-up market that highlights a range of Black-owned companies including fashion beauty, art, and home goods. The marketplace also includes food and music and is set for June 19.
The Shops at Water Tower Place Juneteenth Edition
Head to Water Tower Place to shop at a special Juneteenth pop-up that showcases Black designers and fashion brands on June 1 on the third floor of the mall. Hosted by Fashion Bar Chicago, the event is free to the public.
Chicago neighborhood Juneteenth events
1865 Fest in Garfield Park
This three-day cultural experience offers educational workshops, live music, free food, and a Black veterans military ceremony from June 14 – 16. The fest also hosts a highly anticipated Father’s Day grilling contest and house music show on June 16.
Bronzeville’s 2024 Juneteenth Celebration
Unity Rising is the theme of this fourth annual community celebration that focuses on freedom, heritage, and community empowerment. Local historians and speakers will present the history and stories chronicling the neighborhood and creative artists will perform. The celebration kicks off on Saturday, June 15.
Juneteenth Extravaganza on Ellis in Greater Grand Crossing
Hosted by A Polished Work Nail Spa Lounge in the Greater Grand Crossing neighborhood, this block party on Sunday, June 16 includes food, music, games, and vendors in a celebration of heritage.
Juneteenth Family Festival in Beverly
The Beverly/Morgan Park community is the site for the fifth annual celebration of African and African American cultural heritage on June 15. The festival includes live music, African dance performers, family sports activities, fitness classes, food, face paintings, and local vendors.
FarSouth Juneteenth Festival
Neighbors located on the far south side are invited to attend this free festival that highlights housing information and community empowerment. The event includes live music, trolley tours, food, family activities, and housing workshops. The festival runs on June 15 and requires advanced registration.
Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Festival
One of Chicagoland’s largest Juneteenth gatherings, this south side celebration focuses on Black culture, pride, and power. The event on June 15 will include food, live music, dance, and more, followed by a Juneteenth parade on June 19.
