There are plenty of events around the city honoring and celebrating Juneteenth — a combination of June and Nineteenth — which celebrates the emancipation of Black people from slavery and was established as a federal holiday in 2021.
Concierge Preferred has compiled a list of 10 celebrations you can check out this weekend!
1865 Fest
Friday, June 17 | 3 PM
Come out to Garfield Park Music Court Circle for this Juneteenth celebration. The fest includes honoring Black veterans and military service members, cultural family activities, educational workshops, live music, food, and more!
Freedom Market
Friday, June 17 | 5 PM
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is hosting its second annual Freedom Market, which features over 50 Black-owned businesses to browse and support. There will also be a cash bar and live entertainment from the 40+ Double Dutch Club.
Free-Ish Friday
Friday, June 17 | 6:30 to 9 PM
Kick off Juneteenth festivities with a game night at The Promontory. Hosted by Kyle Santillian, there will also be soul food food, sweet tea and lemonade, and more!
Juneteenth 5K Walk/Run
Saturday, June 19 | 8:30 to 11 AM
Peace Runners 773 is hosting its second annual Juneteenth 5K at Garfield Park Football Field this weekend. The event will also be raising money for the Garfield Park Gators Youth and Football. Tickets are $10 and donations are encouraged.
Black-A-Palooza
Saturday, June 18 | 1 to 6 PM
This Juneteenth celebration at 5401 S. Wentworth Ave. features a pop-up shop with Black-owned businesses and a showcase.
The Joy Room Juneteenth Art Exhibition
Saturday, June 19 | 6:00 PM
This Juneteenth celebration showcases the art of Chicago-based painter Victoria Slone. Her work, entitled All That They Carried, centers around those who were enslaved and highlights their stories. Tickets are $5 and the exhibition is open to all ages.
DuSable Juneteenth BBQ and Block Party
Sunday, June 19 | 11 AM to 8 PM
The DuSable Museum of African American History is hosting what it’s calling a family affair. The Juneteenth BBQ and Block Party is filled with performances, art, food, fashion, and more. But remember to BYOG — bring your own grill!
Thank you Juneteenth Market
Sunday, June 19 | 2 PM
Following its Friday game night, The Promontory is hosting a Sunday market. This pop-up market is a celebration of Black businesses in Chicago, with businesses offering beauty and fashion products, food, and more.
Momentum Coffee Pop-Up Shop
Monday, June 20 | 9 AM
Momentum Coffee is hosting its second annual Juneteenth Pop-Up Shop at 2119 S. State Street. Support local businesses and enjoy special $6.19 menu items and deals in celebration of the day!
Free Admission to the Field Museum
Monday, June 20
The Field Museum is celebrating Juneteenth by offering free admission to Illinois residents on Monday, June 20. There will also be Juneteenth-related programming throughout the day, highlighting important historical African American stories and figures.
