Juneteenth is celebrated every year on June 19th, a day known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day. It commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, when General Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to announce that all the enslaved persons were now free. This announcement came more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation went into effect in 1863.
Though Juneteenth didn’t become a federal holiday until 2021, the celebrations have been a staple in Milwaukee for over 50 years!. According to juneteenthmilwaukee.com, “From parades and festivals featuring live music, dance performances, and delicious cuisine, to educational workshops and historical exhibitions, Juneteenth in Milwaukee serves as a platform for unity, reflection, and the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice. It is a time for people of all backgrounds to come together, celebrate freedom, and reaffirm their commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society.”
JUNETEENTH PARADE
- June 19th, 9 am
- Atkinson Ave to MLK Drive
The Milwaukee Jubilee Parade is now in its 53rd year, making one of the longest running Juneteenth celebrations in the country. Parade participants include members of the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Brewers, and Marquette Men’s Basketball team. For those unable to attend in person, TMJ4 News will broadcast the parade live.
JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL
- June 19th, 9 am – 4 pm
- Northcott Neighborhood, along MLK Drive
The festivities continue after the parade with a festival that has been known to draw over 50,000 people. More than 300 vendors will line the parade route with local food and products, there will be stages with live music, a Teen Zone, and a Kids Zone.
CONCERT SERIES
- Every Saturday, from 6/22 – 8/31 @ 2 pm
- Rose Park, 3045 N Dr. MLK Jr Drive
There’s plenty of outdoor music to enjoy all summer long in Milwaukee and this summer series is no exception. The open-air performances through August feature local and national talent.
FREEDOM BALL
- June 14th, 6 pm
- Harley Davidson Museum, 500 West Canal Street
The Juneteenth Milwaukee Freedom Ball is described by juneteenthmilwaukee.com as a “Cultural event with a silent auction that serves as the main fundraiser for the Juneteenth Pageant … Awards for community leaders, father of the year, and a non-African American who has helped Northcott fulfill its mission of serving disadvantaged residents.”
Want more details and information? Check out juneteenthmilwaukee.com!
