From food trucks to music to history discussions, there are numerous ways to honor and celebrate Juneteenth this year.
Juneteenth, which commemorates the day enslaved people in Texas learned in 1865 of the end of American chattel slavery, was made a federal holiday in 2021. The day has become more mainstream and commercialized recently, but it’s been recognized in one way or another every year on June 19.
Here are some events happening around Juneteenth locally.
CBLC Book Fest & Juneteenth Celebration
Join the Center for Black Literature and Culture to discuss Juneteenth, sign up for summer reading and participate in a 360-degree photo booth. There will also be an opportunity to sign up for the library’s summer reading program and meet local Black authors.
When: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. June 18
Where: Central Library, 40 E. St. Clair St.
Cost: Free
Learn more: indypl.org
Juneteenth Foodways Festival
The first annual event inspired by President Benjamin Harrison’s hire of Black female chef Dolly Johnson will celebrate Juneteenth and African American cuisine from more than 20 Black restaurants, caterers and vendors.
When: 4-8 p.m. June 17
Where: Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, 1230 N. Delaware St.
Cost: Free
Learn more: bhpsite.org
5th annual Indy Juneteenth Celebration
Indy Juneteenth is looking to spice up this year’s festival with food trucks, games and live music to celebrate freedom and diversity.
When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. June 18-19
Where: White River Park at Celebration Plaza, 801 W. Washington St.
Cost: Free (registration is required at indyjuneteenth.com)
Juneteenth Eastside Celebration: Honoring Fathers, Families and Freedom
Join Moorhead Community Resource Center and Asante Art Institute to celebrate unity this Juneteenth with free food and performances.
When: 12-5 p.m. June 19
Where: Warren Performing Arts Center, 9500 E 16th St.
Cost: Free
Learn more: asanteartinstitute.org
Juneteenth Community Celebration
Bring the family to eat ethnic cuisine and win giveaways at Martin University’s third annual Juneteenth celebration. Wearing African attire is encouraged.
When: 4-7 p.m. June 16
Where: Martin University Gathertorium, 2186 N. Sherman Drive
Cost: Free
Learn more: martin.edu
Juneteenth celebration at Flanner House
Flanner House will celebrate Juneteenth, as well as the third anniversary of Cleo’s Bodega & Cafe. There will be live performances, Black business vendors, food trucks and games. Park at Newfields or International School, and there will be a complimentary shuttle service every 30 minutes.
When: Noon-5 p.m. June 19
Where: Flanner House, 2424 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St.
Cost: Free
KIPP Indy Public Schools 3rd annual Community Peace Walk
KIPP Indy Public Schools will host a community peace walk with students, families and community leaders to celebrate Juneteenth. The walk is also meant to combat violence in the community, protest systemic racism, and promote peace and community.
When: 9 a.m. June 17
Where: Edna Martin Christian Center’s Leadership and Legacy Campus, 2259 Ralston Ave.
Cost: Free
Second Annual Juneteenth Freedom Celebration at Tarkington Park
Midtown Indy’s Juneteenth celebration will include African drumming, Epiphany Dance Collective and storyteller Portia Sholar Jackson, who will share the history and significance of Juneteenth. Local poets Corey Ewing and Januarie York and rapper OG Pee will perform spoken word pieces.
When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 18
Where: Tarkington Park, 45 W. 40th St.
Cost: Free
