Juneteenth in Chicago is all about celebrating community and culture through events, workshops, markets, and more. The historical day in our nation’s history is now recognized as a federal holiday and acknowledges the liberation of Black Americans in the United States.
In and around Chicago, community organizers, change-makers, influencers, entrepreneurs, and everyday people are celebrating the holiday with non-stop events and activities.
From community festivals held in neighborhood parks to day and night parties that place black excellence on a pedestal, there are endless ways to celebrate Juneteenth in Chicago.
Check out the guide of events and other things to do to celebrate Juneteenth in Chicago.
What is Juneteenth and why is it important?
Juneteenth is a holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans. Originating in Galveston, Texas, it has been celebrated annually on June 19th in various parts of the United States since 1865. Further prompted by significant events in 2020, including the murder of George Floyd, Juneteenth became a federal holiday and is now more widely celebrated across the country.
Art Events in Chicago
Juneteenth Black History is Our History Art Exhibit
Saturday, June 18th // 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Cost: Free Admission
Join Pose Cultural Art Gallery as they share the Journey to Freedom of Black America in the form of art. This is a multidisciplinary art show taking place during the Juneteenth weekend in Chicago.
Juneteenth Celebration at the Forest Preserves of Cook County
Saturday, June 18th // 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost: Free Admission
Celebrate freedom, family, and country with various activities, presentations, performances, and exhibit displays highlighting Black history, arts, and culture.
Juneteenth: A Day to Celebrate
Sunday, June 19th // 12:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Cost: $15 – $20
This Juneteenth, Something I Can Feel, the art exhibit curated by local Chicago artist D.White will host an all-day Juneteenth celebration. The event will be an accumulation of the black experience through immaculate art, vibes, and togetherness.
My Best Friend Is Black: A Live Comedy Series
Friday, June 17th // 8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Cost: Free Admission
My Best Friend is Black is a live comedy variety show at the Green Line Performing Arts Center. My Best Friend is Black focuses on providing a platform for Black performers. People of all backgrounds are encouraged to come out and laugh.
Wild Hare Music Juneteenth Celebration
Sunday, June 19th // 8:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Cost: $15
End your Sunday Funday and start your official Juneteenth celebration with live music at the Wild Hare. Listen and dance the night away to DJs, Afrobeats, Reggae, Dancehall, and more. Tickets will be available for purchase at the door.
Shopping and Style Events in Chicago
Juneteenth Black Business Market
Saturday, June 18th // 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Cost: Free Admission
Support, shop and celebrate Juneteenth at the black business market at Roosevelt Collection. This complimentary event will feature premium Black-owned food, beverages, lifestyle, and beauty vendors. Plus, live music by DJ Young Lord Scotty and more to keep the excitement going.
Thank You Chicago Juneteenth Market
Sunday, June 19th // 2:00 p.m.
Cost: Free Admission
Thank You Chicago is a Juneteenth market celebrating black businesses in Chicago. The marketplace will feature various businesses and industries from beauty, fashion, food, and more at the Promontory in Chicago.
Refine Collective Presents: 2nd Annual Juneteenth Freedom Market at The Museum of Contemporary Art
Friday, June 17th // 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Cost: $25
Join Refine Collective and the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago for the Second Annual Juneteenth Freedom Market. The Freedom market will feature a diverse range of 50+ local Black-owned businesses, live entertainment, drinks, and more. If that isn’t enough, the museum’s galleries will be open for the evening — where you can browse the current exhibits, like the Forothermore by contemporary artist Nick Cave. Proceeds from the market will benefit The Gray Matter Experience.
Community and neighborhood celebrations in and around Chicago
The Emancipation Ball
Saturday, June 18th // 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Cost: $150 – $400
Join Moor’s Brewing Co. & Disbəlēf Tequila for a premier social event on the 99th floor of Willis Tower. The inaugural Emancipation Ball will feature a special appearance by Emcee Herb Howard along with sounds by DJ Sean Mac and DJ Bamn. This is a black-tie affair with a scenic sunset, fireworks, an open bar, celebratory toast, and more.
Trade Day & Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 18th // 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost: Free Admission
Do you know a teen that enjoys working with their hands? If so, encourage them to attend Trade Day hosted by The Brown House Experience. Trade Day provides teens between the ages of 12-21 with the opportunity to participate in hands-on learning of three trades of their choice. The sessions will be conducted by local businesses and entrepreneurs. Local trade colleges will also be on-site to provide the participants with information on furthering their education with alternative colleges and programs.
Juneteenth Village Fest
Saturday, June 18th // 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Cost: Free Admission
Juneteenth Village Fest, led by the It Takes A Village Family of Schools,will provide a community space to commemorate the liberation of African descendants from the institution of slavery. Local and celebrity artists have confirmed attendance, as well as elected officials, community leaders, and activists who are all truly looking forward to the festival. In addition to the main entertainment stage for adults, there will also be a youth DJ, free carnival rides, games, inflatables, community vendor booths, and so much more.
10th Annual Official Juneteenth Celebration
Sunday, June 19th // 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Cost: Free Admission
Celebrate Juneteenth with the DuSable Museum. The ten-year Juneteenth BBQ & Block party has some major things in store for its decade-long celebration. This includes a sound stage by SocialWorks led by Chance the Rapper and Vic Mensa, children’s activities, horses, free admission to the DuSable Museum, food trucks, vendors, workshops, a Father’s Day presentation, and more.
How to Celebrate Juneteenth Year Around
As I share in my Black History Month celebration posts every year, celebrating culture and history is not limited to just one month or holiday. You can celebrate and support African-American culture throughout the year by doing several things:
- Support Black-owned businesses.
- Dine at Black-owned restaurants.
- Set up recurring donations to Black-owned non-profits.
- Recognize and empathize with African-American issues by being an ally in the fight for equality.
And, so much more. But for today at least, start by recognizing the importance of this holiday. Understand that the celebration of this independence day is not just a day off, but a day to educate, inform, and recognize the significance and power of Black people and culture in America.
