Juneteenth

Juneteenth: Celebrations This Weekend in and Around Chicago

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Juneteenth, a newly recognized holiday honoring the end of slavery in all states in America, is days away, but celebrations have already begun across Chicago.

In June 2021, Juneteenth was made an official holiday after President Joe Biden signed it into law. The day commemorates June 19, 1865, when Maj. Gen Gordon Granger in Texas issued an order, which announced that all slaves would be free in accordance with former President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation.

Here are a few of the celebrations happening around the city:

Juneteenth Celebration at Tilton
June 16
There will be food and music for all ages from 6 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. on June 16 at 230 N. Kolmar.

Juneteenth Illinois Racial Equity
June 16
A career fair and more will be held on June 16 and 17 at 1900 W. Jackson Blvd.

1619: The Journey of a People, The Musical at Vittum Theater in Chicago
June 17
A Juneteenth event filled with musical performances from genres such as hip-hop, blues, and jazz. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, June 17, and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on June 18-19 at 1012 N. Noble St.

1865 Fest
June 17-19
A three-day cultural fest. A celebration of activities geared toward families, history, education, entertainment, and the community. From 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the Music Court Circle in Garfield Park.

Juneteenth Weekend Market Day at POSE CULTURAL ART GALLERY
June 18
Celebrate Juneteenth with a market day full of black arts and crafts. From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. June 18, 2136, W. Chicago Ave.

Juneteenth Village Fest at Anna & Frederick Douglass Park
June 18
Juneteenth with a family-friendly event with games, carnival rides, a petting zoo, rock-climbing, and food. From 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on June 18 at 1313 S. Sacramento Drive.

Trade Day & Juneteenth Celebration in Douglas Park in Chicago
June 18
A celebration with STEM stations, fitness and art stations, performances, and a hands-on experience with trade college students will be held from noon to 3 p.m. on June 18 at the Douglas Park Field House, 1401 S. Sacramento Drive.

Opals Walk for Freedom Juneteenth Parade
June 18
Juneteenth is bringing people together to commemorate the national holiday by strolling with Ms. Opal at the Robert Crown Community Center, 1801 Main Street, on June 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Juneteenth Extravaganza on Ellis
June 19
Music, vendors, and activities are all part of this family-friendly Juneteenth celebration. From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. On June 19, at 1000 E. 76th St.

Juneteenth in Joliet
June 19
Celebrate the history and culture of Juneteenth with music and snacks. From noon to 4 p.m. on June 19 at the Joliet Area Historical Museum.

Juneteenth Market
June 19
A Chicago pop-up market showcasing black businesses will include a variety of businesses and shops ranging from beauty to fashion. It will take place at 2:00 p.m. on June 19th in Hyde Park's Promontory.

Palm Sunday Music Series Afro Jazz Concert
June 19
Musical performances by Black artists on Juneteenth from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on June 19 at 436 E. 47th St.

Lawndale Juneteenth/Father’s Day Celebration
June 19
A BBQ meal, a car show, and music to celebrate both Father's Day and Juneteenth. From 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on June 19 at 3200 W. Douglas Blvd.

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