Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, in 1865—more than two years after Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. It marks not just a delayed freedom, but a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength, and enduring fight for equality within the Black community.
Today, Juneteenth is both a celebration and a call to action—a day to reflect on the past, honor Black culture and contributions, and recommit to justice and equity. Across the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota, communities are coming together to uplift this legacy. Here are a few meaningful ways to take part.
Courtesy of Meet Minneapolis
Juneteenth Freedom Walk/Roll Time Capsule
When: June 14, 9 a.m.
Where: Venture Bikes, 1000 Midtown Greenway, Minneapolis and Midtown Global Market, 920 E. Lake St., Minneapolis
Experience Black History brought to life with a Juneteenth journey through Minneapolis’ Midtown neighborhood. Starting at Venture Bikes, participants will stroll through various historic landmarks (including Fort Snelling) while listening to guided storytelling. The ride concludes with a historical reenactment, “We Claimed the Soil: An Interview with Dred and Harriet Scott,” in Midtown Global Market. Afterward, all are welcome to a community meal and reflection to celebrate freedom, resilience, and a shared purpose.
Photo by Anthony Taylor
Juneteenth Fun Run
When: June 14, 9 a.m.
Where: The Trailhead, 1221 Theodore Wirth Parkway, Minneapolis
The Loppet Foundation invites you to honor Juneteenth with a 5K or half-mile fun run. Before the run, the foundation will recognize Coach Mike “Talley” Tate, a North Minneapolis native who has served his community through volunteer work with Seeds of Harvest, coaching at North Commons Park, and raising his eight children and 22 grandchildren. During the run, participants and spectators can take a break to enjoy a Jamaican food truck.
Photo by Todd Bauer
NAACP’s Rochester Branch: 20th Annual Juneteenth Celebration
When: June 14, 12 p.m.
Where: Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park, 1738 E. Center St., Rochester
The Rochester Branch of the NAACP invites the Rochester community to its annual 20th annual Juneteenth celebration. The event includes diverse food vendors, a community food pantry, musical performances, a Black history exhibit, and free health testing.
The Freedom Ball
When: June 14, 5 p.m.
Where: Blue Moon Ballroom, 2030 US-14 East, Rochester
Since 2020, Journie has celebrated Juneteenth with a formal ball in Rochester. This year’s theme is royalty–think red, black, green, and gold. Every year, Journie recognizes two seniors from Rochester Public Schools as Mr. and Miss Juneteenth. These seniors are honored for their commitment to higher education and will receive a $1,500 scholarship. The ball features three guest speakers, a live band, a DJ, food, and beverages.
Juneteenth at the Fort
When: June 19, 10 a.m.
Where: Historic Fort Snelling, 200 Tower Ave., St. Paul
Learn about Black history with a special tour of Historic Fort Snelling. The tour focuses on stories of enslaved people, including Dred and Harriet Scott. It also features stories from the 25th infantry, an African American regimen stationed at Fort Snelling during the 1880s.
Juneteenth Minnesota West Broadway Block Party
When: June 19, 12 p.m.
Where: Various Locations in West Broadway, Minneapolis
Juneteenth Minnesota invites everyone to honor Juneteenth with a block party on West Broadway. The festival features two live entertainment stages, dozens of Black-owned businesses, a historic exhibition, and traditional Juneteenth food. Kids can celebrate with a mini carnival and jubilee parade.
Photo by Rebecca Rabb
Juneteenth with the Minnesota Orchestra
When: June 19, 7 p.m.
Where: Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis
Celebrate Juneteenth with a performance at Orchestra Hall. The program features six moving pieces written and performed by Black artists, including conductor Jonathan Taylor Rush and soloist Wordsmith. Before and after the performance, guests are invited to support local Black entrepreneurs at a vendor space in the lobby.
Waltz for Debbie: A Juneteenth Tribute to Debbie Duncan
When: June 19, 7 p.m.
Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis
Photo by Courtney Perry
Debbie Duncan, known as “Minnesota’s first lady of song,” was one of the greatest jazz vocalists in the Twin Cities. The Dakota jazz club honors her on Juneteenth with a tribute by Minnesota Music Hall of Fame inductee Dennis Spears, Judi Vinar, and the Wolverines Jazz Quartet.
Juneteenth Community Picnic
When: June 21, 11 a.m.
Where: Southern Woods Park, 600 W. 12th St., Stillwater
The Stillwater community is celebrating Juneteenth with a picnic! This family-friendly event includes food trucks, free hot dogs, live music, inflatables, games, and prizes. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs.
Juneteenth Minnesota: A Family Celebration
When: June 21, 12 p.m.
Where: Minnesota State Capitol, 75 Rev. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd., St. Paul
Hosted by the Anika Foundation in partnership with Ramsey County, this annual celebration commemorates Juneteenth with music, food, and vendors. The event will offer fun for all ages, including a kids pavilion and health and wellness resources.
Courtesy of the Anika Foundation
