CHICAGO — Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, marks the day in 1865 in which Black people who were still enslaved over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed learned they were finally free.
As the federal holiday approaches, communities across the city prepare to mark the day with music festivals, educational panels and celebrations.
Chicago offers countless ways to honor Juneteenth, including:
Cook County Juneteenth Celebration
What: A celebration themed “Getting to the Heart of the Matter” with breakfast, panel discussions, a blood drive, resource fair, senior Bingo and $10,000 in scholarships will be awarded to 10 students.
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 14
Where: Malcolm X College, 1900 W Jackson Boulevard
Price: Free but pre-registration is strongly encouraged
Juneteenth Annual Community BBQ
What: A day of celebration, reflection and community with education, food, local vendors and entertainment.
When: 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on June 19
Where: DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, 740 East 56th Place
Price: Free
Juneteenth Jubilee & Resource Fair
What: A day of celebration and empowerment with a live DJ, raffle and prizes, food, guest speakers, hair care experts, free barber services and a genealogist.
When: 1-5 p.m. on June 19
Where: Harry S Truman College, 1145 West Wilson Avenue
Price: Free
R&B Music Experience: Juneteenth Music Fest
What: A music festival centered around 80’s and 90’s R&B classics with performances by Ashanti, Lil Kim, Mya, Lloyd and Chicago’s Donnell Jones.
When: 8 p.m. on June 19
Where: Wintrust Arena, 200 E Cermak Road
Price: Tickets start at $65.50
1865 Fest
What: An annual fest that offers educational workshops, live music, free food, a Father’s Day grill off, Black veterans’ military ceremony and more.
When: 12-8 p.m. on June 19 and 3-8 p.m. on June 20
Where: Garfield Park, W Music Court Drive
Price: Free
Bronzeville’s 2025 Juneteenth Celebration
What: A day to reflect and rejoice with local vendors, live performances, cultural showcases, food, art, history and family fun. The theme is “Honoring the Legacy of Freedom: Remembering the Past, Inspiring the Future.”
When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 19
Where: Two blocks – from 35th through 37th and King Drive (east side of the street)
Price: Free
Juneteenth at the Field Museum
What: A day for learning about Juneteenth at the Field Museum’s African Fashion exhibit which features a live runway show with original designs and contemporary African style.
When: Fashion show begins at 12 p.m.
Where: Field Museum, 1400 S DuSable Lake Shore Drive
Price: Included with Field Museum admission
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