Juneteenth week has arrived, a time to commemorate a pivotal moment in American history.
On June 19, 1865, Union troops reached Galveston, Texas, informing enslaved people of their freedom—a full two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation took effect on January 1, 1863.
This holiday, known for its historical significance, has been celebrated by Black communities across the South for decades.
Since being designated a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth festivities have expanded nationwide, and in Chicago, the city officially recognized it as a city holiday in 2022.
This year, Chicago is poised to come alive with a multitude of cultural events honoring the abolition of slavery, offering experiences ranging from vibrant nightlife to family-oriented activities.
For those seeking to celebrate in various neighborhoods across the city, The TRiiBE has curated an extensive guide to ensure there’s something for everyone.
One of the standout events is the 1865 Fest, taking place from June 18 to June 20.
Commencing on June 18 at 3:00 p.m., the fest features a flag-raising ceremony at the Garfield Park Field House, also known as The Gold Dome, located at 100 N. Central Park.
Following this, attendees can enjoy live music, educational workshops, and a Father’s Day grill-off on the subsequent days at Garfield Park from noon to 8:00 p.m.
On the evening of June 19, the Juneteenth Celebration featuring The Magnificent Mile Orchestra promises a delightful performance from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Held at the Time Out Market in the West Loop, located at 916 W. Fulton Market, this free event will set a celebratory tone among attendees.
The festivities continue with the Juneteenth Kickoff Party, scheduled for June 19 from 6:00 p.m. to midnight.
Taking place at Vertiport, a helicopter landing facility in Little Italy at 1339 S. Wood St., this event is geared towards Black boaters and party-goers who love gathering in Lake Michigan’s Playpen.
For $35, guests will enjoy DJ sets, curated food options, and vibrant vibes to kick off the celebrations.
Another exciting addition is the Inspired By: You Fest, happening on June 22 from noon to 6:00 p.m.
Set in Douglass Park at 1401 S. Sacramento Dr., this festival, in collaboration with City Clerk Anna Valencia and the Black-owned coffee shop Muse Coffee, emphasizes community and culture.
Merchandise inspired by the work of Chicago-based artist Natalie O. Decor will be available for purchase, with tickets priced at $15 for adults and $5 for children.
For those looking to dance, the Juneteenth Disco Party at Empty Bottle, an indie music venue and bar in Ukrainian Village at 1035 N. Western Ave., is a must-attend on June 19.
The doors will open at 8:00 p.m., with the show kicking off at 9:00 p.m.
Chicago-based artist Ric Wilson will bring his party-ready hip-hop sound infused with disco and house elements, with tickets priced at $20.
One of the city’s most awaited grassroots Juneteenth celebrations, From the Low End With Love: Juneteenth Celebration Vol. IV, will take place on June 18 from 6:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Located at 47th Street and South Indiana Avenue in Bronzeville, this event will showcase South Side vendors and a diverse lineup of live music from various DJs.
Profits from this year’s party will benefit Live Free Illinois, an organization that promotes public safety and criminal justice reform.
Tickets are still available for $20, though early bird options have already sold out.
The Juneteenth Annual Community BBQ is another highlight on June 19, running from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Hosted on the lawn of the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center at 740 E. 56th Pl., this event will feature local vendors in a family-friendly setting.
Highlighting the museum’s theme for the month—“Black Power Era”—the BBQ will celebrate the impactful legacy of Black Power during the festivities.
For those interested in a relaxed evening, A ‘Lit’ Juneteenth Happy Hour will be held at Mesler, a restaurant and bar inside the Sophy Hotel in Hyde Park.
From 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on June 19, attendees can sip on specially crafted cocktails featuring Black-owned brands such as Uncle Nearest and Beyoncé’s Sir Davis.
Proceeds from the event will support the Black Boy Literacy Campaign, which focuses on making reading enjoyable for boys in grade school on the South and West sides.
The 2025 Juneteenth Festival, organized by the nonprofit Far South CDC, is set for June 21 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Taking place at 821 W. 115th St., this event will present live music, housing workshops, and a trolley tour.
It will be held on the site designated for the future Morgan Park Common, which aims to spur investment in the Far South Side.
On June 17, the Juneteenth Freedom Market promises excitement and engagement from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Happening at The Salt Shed, an indoor/outdoor entertainment venue at 1357 N. Elston Ave., this market will showcase over 70 Black-owned vendors, along with DJ sets from DJ Ca$h Era and Slot A.
While entry is free, attendees are encouraged to make a suggested $10 donation.
Another unique element of this year’s celebrations is the Juneteenth Floral Installations, which will be displayed from June 19 to June 22 at Seward Park in Old Town at 375 W. Elm St.
Created by the Black-owned florist Planks and Pistils, the installation is themed “A Higher Law,” reflecting the concept that the care and protection of Black life is guided by moral principles exceeding those of the Constitution.
The theme draws inspiration from a quote by William Seward, the former U.S. Secretary of State under President Abraham Lincoln, who the park is named after.
For those interested in historical cinema, the Downtown Islamic Center will host the event Juneteenth-From Captivity to Freedom on June 19, running from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
This all-ages event, set at 231 S. State St., will screen a film exploring the legacy of Black Muslim slaves and their relentless pursuit of freedom.
Tickets for this enlightening screening are available for $7.18.
With various events occurring throughout the city, Chicago is ready to embrace the spirit of Juneteenth, honoring the journey towards freedom and celebrating culture and community.
As the city buzzes with festivities, there is no doubt that this year’s celebrations will create lasting memories and foster unity among attendees.
image source from：https://thetriibe.com/2025/06/where-to-kick-it-for-juneteenth-in-chicago-heres-a-list-of-things-to-do/
