Juneteenth, a significant holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, is set to be celebrated in New York City this year with an array of events designed to honor Black culture and heritage.
This year marks a renewed vigor for Juneteenth celebrations, particularly following a surge in attention in 2020 when the Black Lives Matter movement called for justice and change after the tragic death of George Floyd.
In 2025, New Yorkers can look forward to a variety of festivities including festivals, concerts, family-friendly activities, and comedy shows dedicated to the observance of this important day.
The main Juneteenth celebrations will occur on Thursday, June 19, but many events will extend into the weekend, allowing for a broader community engagement.
Among the highlights is the Juneteenth Family Festival at Lewis Latimer House in Flushing, Queens, on Saturday, June 20. This immersive event promises live performances along with hands-on activities that celebrate Black innovation, creativity, and resilience, drawing inspiration from Latimer’s legacy in science and invention.
Another celebratory offering is the Juneteenth Food Festival taking place at the Weeksville Heritage Center in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, on Thursday, June 19. This event will feature 29 local food vendors showcasing diverse African American, Caribbean, Latin American, and African cuisines, complemented by entertainment from DJ Spinna and various local artists.
The annual Juneteenth NY Festival will span several locations and runs now through Thursday, June 19. This vibrant festival comprises family-oriented entertainment, music, dance, parades, and gatherings aimed at celebrating Black culture with events like a fashion show and a Black Kings celebration.
Music lovers will find joy in the We Outside: A Brooklyn Juneteenth event at The Plaza at 300 Ashland Place in Downtown Brooklyn on Saturday, June 21. This free event will showcase a variety of performances alongside workshops and a marketplace that focuses on Black-owned businesses.
Broadway enthusiasts have much to look forward to with the Broadway Celebrates Juneteenth concert in Times Square, scheduled for Thursday, June 19. This free outdoor concert features an all-Black cast performing well-known Broadway numbers in a celebration of Black artistry.
For jazz aficionados, the Juneteenth Jazz Jubilee at Adler Hall on Saturday, June 21, will showcase renowned jazz musicians paying tribute to iconic artists like Louis Armstrong and Mahalia Jackson. Tickets range from $30 to $200 for this soulful experience.
Families can enjoy the Still We Rise: Juneteenth Celebration at Brower Park in Crown Heights on Thursday, June 19. Organized by the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, this event includes a variety of activities such as live performances, line dance workshops, and engaging educational programs for attendees of all ages.
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan will also host its own Juneteenth celebration on the Upper West Side on June 19. With activities focused on interactive art projects celebrating Black liberation, resilience, and joy, this event caters to revelers of all ages.
Comedy lovers can partake in the Drunk Black History Celebrates Juneteenth show at The Bell House in Gowanus, Brooklyn, on Thursday, June 19. This hilarious and insightful event celebrates the holiday with engaging performances that humorously reflect on historical Black figures through the lens of comedy. Tickets for this comedy event start at $32.
For fans of improv, the REPARATIONS! event at Caveat in Lower East Side Manhattan on June 19 promises laughter with a lineup of some of NYC’s top Black improv talents. After its success in previous years, this fourth edition showcases talented performers in a comedic celebration of Juneteenth, featuring a stand-up set by Eagle Witt and various sketch teams. Tickets are available for $20 to $25.
From family festivals and concerts to food events and comedy nights, Juneteenth celebrations in NYC offer something for everyone to engage, reflect, and celebrate the resilience and contributions of Black Americans throughout history.
With its rich lineup of events, New York City is setting a vibrant stage for the 2025 Juneteenth celebrations, connecting communities through culture, education, and entertainment.
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