Milwaukee is known for having one of the longest-running Juneteenth celebrations in the country. It’s been a city tradition for 55 years!
Juneteenth, held annually on June 19, honors the day the last enslaved people were freed in 1865.
Though the Emancipation Proclamation, intended to end slavery, was signed by Abraham Lincoln in 1863, many didn’t find out until years later.
Here’s a roundup of places where you can celebrate Juneteenth in Milwaukee. (Are we missing something? Feel free to email cwardell@milwaukeenns.org)
1. Juneteenth Celebration: Wednesday, June 17
Fondy Milwaukee is partnering with local organizations to host a Juneteenth celebration from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17 at Fondy Farmers Market, 2200 W. Fond Du Lac Ave. The celebration will include giveaways, food and activities for residents of all ages. More information here.
2. Celebrating Community and Creativity: Friday, June 19
Alice’s Garden Urban Farm is hosting a Juneteenth gathering from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, June 19 at 2136 N. 21st St. A libation will be led by Venice Williams, executive director of Alice’s Garden, and there will be a marketplace and other activities. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket to sit on. More information here.
3. Community Run/Walk: Friday, June 19
Social X MKE, Endure MKE and other Black running organizations welcome community members of all fitness levels to a morning run and walk beginning at 7 a.m. on June 19 at Rise & Grind Cafe, 2737 N. Martin Luther King Drive. Participants can partake in a one-mile walk or a two-to-three-mile run. A waiver must be completed to participate. More information here.
4. Jubilee Parade: Friday, June 19
The Northcott Neighborhood House will host Milwaukee’s 55th Juneteenth Jubilee Parade. The parade will begin at 9 a.m. on Friday, June 19 between North 14th Street and West Atkinson Avenue. It will end between West Locust Street and North Martin Luther King Drive. Attendees can enjoy food from local vendors, listen to live music and watch performances. More information here.
5. Juneteenth at Summerfest: Friday, June 19
After the Jubilee Parade and traditional festival on MLK, Northcott Neighborhood House will be hosting Juneteenth at the Summerfest grounds, 200 N. Harbor Drive, at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 19. There will be music, food and other cultural festivities. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.
6. Photowalk: Runs through Friday, June 19
Photographers of all skill levels are welcome to join Gaining Visuals in a walk through the festival to snap memorable photos. Ten photographers will be selected to capture photos during Juneteenth-related festivities at Summerfest on June 18 and receive other special access. For the festival and parade, participants should meet at The Peace Park & Garden, 464 W. Locust St., at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on June 19. The event lasts two hours. Feel free to bring your personal camera, phone or film. Register and find more information here. Registration is required.
7. Jam on Juneteenth at ThriveOn King: Friday, June 19
The partners of ThriveOn Collaboration invite community members to an afternoon of festivities and free $100 giveaways from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Friday, June 19 at 2153 N. Martin Luther King Drive. Refreshments will be provided. More information here.
8. Gospel Fest: Saturday, June 27
HD Community Enterprise will be hosting the third annual Gospel Fest in honor of Juneteenth at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 27 at Richard E. Maslowski Community Park, 2200 W. Bender Road, in Glendale. The festival will have vendors, food, live music and other festivities. More information here.
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