Celebrate Juneteenth: Community Events & Activities

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans on June 19, 1865. For Sabathani, as a Black-led and Black-founded organization, Juneteenth holds special significance as it symbolizes the triumph over slavery and the ongoing struggle for racial equality. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Black community and highlights the importance of celebrating Black history and culture.  

Here’s a list of community events taking place in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area to celebrate Juneteenth. From outdoor festivals to live music to film screenings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Downtown and South Minneapolis 

Black Bodies in Motion: The Ultimate Expression of Freedom 

• Presented by: Cultural Wellness Center 
• Date: Saturday, June 17 
• Time: 10am – 11pm 
• Location: Midtown Global Market, 920 E Lake Street, Minneapolis 
• Event Details: This event includes a Juneteenth Freedom Walk, African Dance Workout, African Drumming Workshop, black history film screenings, cultural art exhibits, panel discussions, and a community potluck. More info 

Soul of the Southside 

• Presented by: KRSM, The Legacy Building, and The Hook & Ladder Theater and Lounge 
• Date: Monday, June 19 
• Time: 12pm – 8pm 
• Location: Hook & Ladder Theater and Lounge Canopy, 3010 Minnehaha Avenue, Minneapolis
• Event Details: This free open street festival celebrates black culture and community with music, art, food, and entertainment. Live performances by various artists will take place throughout the day. General admission requires advance RSVP. More info 

Film Screening: “Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom” 

• Presented by: UR Harmony 
• Date: Monday, June 19 
• Time: 6pm – 9pm 
• Location: The Urban Refuge Church, 5501 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis
• Event Details: The Urban Refuge Church is hosting a screening of “Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom,” a feature-length film that explores the cultural and spiritual significance of the holiday. Join this evening of worship, learning, lament, and discussion as the film delves into the incredible significance of Juneteenth. More info

Juneteenth: Celebration of Freedom 

• Presented by: Minnesota Orchestra 
• Dates and times: Friday, June 23 at 8pm; Saturday, June 24 at 2pm
  
• Location: Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis
• Event Details: Under the direction of conductor André Raphel, the concert will feature Adolphus Hailstork’s exuberant “Three Spirituals” and Duke Ellington’s lively “Harlem.” This event welcomes audiences of all ages, including individuals with autism or sensory sensitivities, in an inclusive and welcoming environment. Gather with family and friends to experience the power of music and celebrate the journey to freedom. More info 

A Musical Celebration of Juneteenth – Hosted by T. Mychael Rambo 

• Presented by: Dakota Jazz Club 
• Date: Monday, June 19 
• Time: 7pm (doors at 5pm) 
• Location: Dakota Jazz Club, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis 
• Event Details: Hosted by Emmy Award-winning actor and singer T. Mychael Rambo, this event features a journey through gospel, R&B, soul, and jazz, with performances from talented singers and musicians. Experience the powerful music of “Freedom Train” and songs of freedom that reflect the struggles and triumphs of the African American community. Make reservations for free. More info 

North, Northeast, and North Loop Minneapolis 

Juneteenth Minnesota – West Broadway Block Party 

• Date: Monday, June 19 
• Time: 3pm – 11pm 
• Location: 900 West Broadway Avenue, Minneapolis 
• Event Details: American Slave History Exhibition on Agriculture, live entertainment on two stages, black-owned businesses showcase, mini-carnival, gaming, roundtable discussions, parade kick-off, community resources souvenir book, and more. More info 

The Art of Freedom: A Juneteenth Celebration 

• Presented by: University of Minnesota/UROC (Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center) 
• Date: Saturday, June 17 
• Time: 12pm – 6pm 
• Location: 2001 Plymouth Ave. N., Minneapolis
• Event Details: The event features a commemorative march starting at noon, followed by a block party from 1pm to 6pm. Experience the theme of “The Art of Freedom: Joy. Resistance. Rest.” with Black vendors, workshops, speakers, live performances, DJs, roller skating, free food, art-making, and more. This free and open-to-the-public celebration promises a day of community and commemoration. More info 

Juneteenth Jam Celebration 

• Presented by: Graze Provisions & Libations 
• Date: Monday, June 19 
• Time: 4pm – 8pm 
• Location: Graze Provisions and Libations, 520 4th Street North, Minneapolis 
• Event Details: Join this celebration of liberation, freedom, and black excellence, featuring a cookout provided by Soul Bowl, live music by DJ Aquil, and vibes and cigars provided by Allure Cigars. More info 

Ginger Commodore and Friends: Legacy – A Musical Celebration of Juneteenth 

• Presented by: Crooners Supper Club
• Date: Sunday, June 18 
• Time: 6:30pm – 8pm 
• Location: Crooners Supper Club, 6161 Highway 65 NE, Minneapolis
• Event Details: Immerse yourself in the music from the Black experience with Ginger Commodore and friends. This special performance reflects on the achievements of influential Black American singers and musicians who left a lasting impact on countless people. The lineup includes Ginger Commodore, Dennis Spears, Kendra Glen Johnson, Kevin Jackson, and talented instrumentalists. More info 

Saint Paul 

Juneteenth Minnesota — A Family Celebration! 

• Presented by: The Anika Foundation 
• Date: Saturday, June 17 
• Time: 12pm – 4pm 
• Location: Allianz Field, 400 Snelling Ave N, St Paul 
• Event Details: This free family-friendly celebration offers history and art exhibits, a kids fun zone, scholarship awards, a marketplace, live performances, wellness resources, and a variety of foods from the African Diaspora. More info 

Juneteenth Dinner @ Frogtown Farm 

• Presented by: Healthy Roots Institute 
• Date: Saturday, June 17 
• Time: 2:00pm onwards (dinner portion at 5:30pm) 
• Location: Frogtown Farm, 946 W Minnehaha Avenue, St. Paul
• Event Details: Join the community at Frogtown Farm for a special Juneteenth dinner event focused on sustainability and community building. The day starts with an opening ceremony honoring Juneteenth, followed by story circles that emphasize sustainability and community. At 5:30pm, enjoy a potlikker and smoke-themed dinner curated by Chef Lachelle Cunningham. Registration is required for the dinner portion, but the activities prior to the dinner are open to the public. Experience a day that honors the past while working towards a more sustainable and equitable future. More info

ROCC the City Juneteenth 

• Presented by: Residents of Color Collective (ROCC) 
• Date: Saturday, June 17 
• Time: 2pm – 6pm 
• Location: Dodge Nature Center, 1701 Charlton St., West St. Paul
• Event Details: This event, held at Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul, will feature vendors, entertainment, and a joyous celebration of Juneteenth. Shop from BIPOC-owned businesses, engage in outdoor activities with Dodge naturalists, enjoy live music by DJ Jae Myth, and embrace the spirit of community. More info 

Metro Areas: Brooklyn Center, Richfield, Roseville, and St. Louis Park 

Brooklyn Center’s Juneteenth Festival 

• Presented by: City of Brooklyn Center 
• Date: Saturday, June 17 
• Time: 11am – 7pm 
• Location: Centennial Park, 6301 Shingle Creek Parkway, Brooklyn Center 
• Event Details: Join the City of Brooklyn Center in celebrating Juneteenth with a family-friendly day filled with entertainment, food, vendors, art activities, inflatables, face painting, balloon art, teen activities, city trucks, and more. Enjoy live performances by various artists and explore a variety of food vendors. More info 

Richfield Juneteenth 

• Presented by: City of Richfield 
• Date: Saturday, June 17 
• Time: 12pm – 4pm 
• Location: Richfield Community Bandshell, 636 East 66th Street, Richfield
• Event Details: Join Richfield’s first citywide Juneteenth Celebration at the Richfield Community Bandshell. Enjoy food from Taste the Real Nawlins and Flame Mobile Kitchen, live performances, guest speakers, and browse through vendors and community resources. The event is organized by the Richfield Leadership Network, Richfield Human Rights Commission, and City of Richfield, sponsored by Best Buy and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota. More info 

Roseville Juneteenth Celebration 

• Presented by: Do Good Roseville 
• Date: Saturday, June 17 
• Time: 11am – 3pm 
• Location: Roseville Central Park, 2540 Lexington Avenue N, Roseville
• Event Details: Celebrate Juneteenth in Roseville with free food, ice cream, entertainment, speakers, and a showcase of Black-owned businesses and careers. Enjoy delicious offerings from vendors such as Jamaican Caribbean Cuisine and Dars Double Scoop ice cream. The event features performances, including TKO Drumline & Knockout Dance Team, Brodini the magician, face painting, balloon artistry, a playground for kids, spoken word, and poetry by local students. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear inspiring speakers and support Black-owned businesses. More info 

Juneteenth Celebration – St. Louis Park 

• Presented by: City of St. Louis Park, St. Louis Park Community Education, and St. Louis Park Parktacular 
• Date: Sunday, June 18 
• Time: 1pm – 4pm 
• Location: Recreation Outdoor Center (ROC), 3700 Monterey Drive, St. Louis Park
• Event Details: This community event will feature local, Black-owned business booths, delicious food, educational content, and special guests centered around the Black and African American community. Enjoy live music by DJ Trilogy, engage in focused community conversations, and embrace the spirit of unity and celebration. This free event is open to all ages. More info 

Whether you choose to attend the Juneteenth Family Festival, Soul of the Southside, or any of the other events mentioned, these celebrations provide an opportunity to connect with the community, honor Black heritage, and contribute to the ongoing fight for justice. Mark your calendars and join these events to make Juneteenth a memorable and impactful experience. 

Happy Juneteenth from the Sabathani Community Center!

We want to ensure our list is as inclusive and comprehensive as possible. If you know of any Juneteenth events not mentioned, send us a message, and we’ll do our best to get them added.