Celebrate Juneteenth 2024!
About Juneteenth
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond. Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. To learn more, click here.
Download the Juneteenth Fact Sheet (compiled by Ebony Hill of Hilltastic Coaching and Consulting)
Downtown Akron Juneteenth Celebration Weekend
While you are in downtown, be sure to check out all of the other great events happening from June 15 - 22, and make plans to explore 35 Black-owned downtown businesses, grab a drink, a bite to eat or even do some shopping.
Juneteenth Adult Mix & Mingle
Friday, June 21 | 6 - 8 pm | The Knight Stage (Akron Civic Theatre) | space is limited: register below
Join us for a Juneteenth mixer at the beautiful Knight Stage. The Mix & Mingle will be an opportunity for community members to enjoy time together, network and get to know some of downtown Akron’s Black-owned businesses. Details coming soon. Get free tickets here.
Juneteenth Celebration Saturday Family Celebration
Saturday, June 22 | 3 - 7 pm | Cascade Plaza | Free & Open to All - All Ages | Find out more
Live Performances
Free Activities
Crafts and games
Downtown Akron Black-owned business vendor fair
At 7 pm, join us in the Lock 3 Back Yard for live music, including a free concert at 8:30 pm by the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, presented by Lock 3 and the City of Akron.
The 2024 Downtown Akron Juneteenth Celebration is presented by DAP in partnership with the City of Akron, Lock 3, and Akron Civic Theatre, with additional support from Knight Foundation, Ohio Arts Council, Akron Community Foundation, Akron Civic Commons and GAR Foundation, State and Federal Communications, Inc., Heera Indian Cuisine, and through the time and efforts of the Downtown Akron Juneteenth Planning Committee.
Downtown Akron
Spike Lee's Crooklyn at The Nightlight
Wednesday, June 19 | Three screenings: 3 pm, 5:30 pm, 8:15 pm | The Nightlight Theater
Minority Behavioral Health Group presents Crooklyn at The Nightlight on Juneteenth! There are three showings at 3:00, 5:30, and 8:15 and tickets are available now at nightlightcinema.com.
50% of ticket sales will go directly to the Harambee Summer Camp!
Juneteenth Celebration with the City
Wednesday, June 19 | 1 - 7 pm | John S. Knight Center
Join The Akron Urban League and The City of Akron on June 19, 2024 at the John S. Knight Center, for a vibrant celebration of Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in American history marking the end of slavery. This event is FREE to the public, offering a diverse range of activities designed to educate, inspire, and bring our community together. With programs scheduled from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and learn. Find out more.
Don't miss: Juneteenth Kids Zone, Small Business Vendors, Reclaim Your Vote Booth, Community Wellness Booth, Akron Urban League Program Booth.
East Akron
East Akron 5th Annual Juneteenth Festival
Wednesday, June 19 | noon - 4 pm | B & V Family Community Resource House
1290 7th Ave., Akron, 44306
West Akron
Juneteenth - Celebrating the History and Importance
Monday, June 17 | 6 - 7 pm | Odom Boulevard Branch Library
Commemorate freedom and reflect on history. This workshop offers a deep dive into the significance of Juneteenth, its impact on culture, and ways to honor this pivotal moment in American history. Find out more.
Let's Celebrate Juneteenth
Tuesday, June 18 | 3 - 7 pm | Maple Valley Library
Free, presented by New Generation Drill Team and Flag Unit
Essay contest, drum roll, door prizes, vendors, and the play "What's the Meaning of Juneteenth?"
For more information call 330-481-8462.
Honoring Our Past. Celebrating the Present. Renewing Our Faith in the Future.
Wednesday, June 19 | 4 - 7 pm | John Brown House
The John Brown Institute of the Summit County Historical Society of Akron will be partnering with many organizations for the annual Juneteenth programming on June 19th. Find out more.
- 4 pm | Hike to the John Brown Monument at the Akron Zoo
- 4 pm | Activities at John Brown House (diverse African American cuisine, cultural organizations, tours of John Brown House, including new exhibits by Akron Black Artist Guild
- 5:30 - 6:30 pm | Spoken word performance by Xposyur
Community Talk Back open to guests to share "What Juneteenth Means to You"
Grounds and house open for free. Food and vendor items available for purchase.
There will also be a bus tour of African American historical sites including the University of Akron's Dr. Shirla R. McClain Gallery of Akron's Black History and Culture, Wesley Temple A.M.E. Zion Church, the Sojourner Truth Legacy Plaza and Statue and the Matthews Hotel. Tickets for this tour are $20.00 per person.
This is a joyful celebration! Come and join us for a time of reflection on the historical highlights, accomplishments and resilience of our African American community.