Juneteenth | Events to Celebrate in Chicago
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Officially observed on June 19th, this holiday commemorates the day in 1865 that news of the Emancipation Proclamation (issued more than two years earlier on Jan. 1, 1863) reached Texas, the last Confederate state to practice slavery.
A plethora of events are scheduled in Chicago to commemorate Juneteenth. These include exhibits, theatrical productions, cookouts, festivals, and other activities meant to foster fellowship, inform about the past, and empower the future. Read on for a list of celebrations to attend and businesses to support throughout the weekend and beyond!
Cultural Events and Celebrations
Juneteenth South Side Tour with Shermann “Dilla” Thomas
Monday, June 19th | 12pm - 6pm | South Shore Cultural Center
Two-hour adventure highlighting the historical context of different landmarks and neighborhoods on the South Side.
1619: The Journey of a People, The Musical:
Monday, June 19th | 1:30pm - 3:30pm / University of Chicago Logan Center for the Arts
Using various musical forms including hip-hop, jazz, and blues, this fabulous musical theater production commemorates the struggle for equality and celebrates the story of America’s African sons and daughters.
Juneteenth Celebration at the American Writers Museum
Monday, June 19th | 6pm | American Writers Museum
The evening includes artists readings, gallery talks, and a special chat with Chicago artists Dorothy Burge, Damon Reed, and Dorian Sylvain.
African Diaspora International Film Festival
June 15th - June 19th | Facets + Gene Siskel Film Center
Visitors can view the international debut of several new culturally significant films that explore the interaction between immigrants and their surroundings.
Juneteenth Village Fest
Sunday, June 18th | 12pm - 8pm | Anna & Frederick Douglass Park
This free event in Douglass Park provides a space for the community to commemorate Juneteenth with programming that highlights Black culture.
Juneteenth BBQ at DuSable Black History Museum
Monday, June 19th | 10am - 8pm | DuSable Black History Museum
A family-friendly event, the barbecue will also feature food vendors, live entertainment, and activities for the kids.
Accessible Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 17th | 1pm - 5pm | UIC Quad
The third annual celebration prioritizes accessibility and commemorates Black disabled communities and the work they’ve done to help create a more free world for Black people everywhere.
GoldGrrl Fest
Saturday, June 17th | 6:30pm - 10pm | Elastic Arts
This event is billed as a space “where racialized rockers can celebrate Juneteenth as their most authentic selves” and will feature local vendors, live performances, and dancing.
Markets + Neighborhood Events
Walk South Shore with Sister Outsider
Saturday, June 17th | 75th St. Corridor!
This walking program promotes the usage of outdoor space to young Black girls, women, and gender nonconforming individuals.
Juneteenth Freedom Market – Refine Collective x MCA Chicago
Friday, June 16th | 5pm - 9pm | Museum of Contemporary Art
Refine Collective’s Juneteenth Freedom Market at the Museum of Contemporary Art highlights Black creativity and entrepreneurship in Chicago with over 50 local Black-owned businesses and creators.
Bronzeville’s 2023 Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 17th | 12pm - 6pm | Absolutely Anything Essential
On Saturday, June 17, local historians, visual and performing artists, crafters, and other creatives from all over the Chicagoland area will come together to showcase their talents and share stories.
Thank You Chicago Juneteenth Market at The Promontory
Monday, June 19th | 2pm - 7pm | The Promontory
Shop Black-owned businesses at this year’s Thank You Chicago Market – Juneteenth Edition.
Juneteenth at 360 CHICAGO
Monday, June 19th | 9am - 3pm | 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Shop a community market of Black-owned businesses at 360 CHICAGO observation deck, located on the 94th floor at 875 N. Michigan.
Hyde Park Juneteenth Fest
Sunday, June 18th | 12pm - 7pm | Harper’s Court
Festivities will feature lots of opportunities to get out and move including performances, dance classes, food, and lots of fun for the entire community.