Photo by Nicole Neri
Juneteenth is both a celebration and a time for reflection—a day honoring the end of slavery in the United States and recognizing the enduring contributions, culture, and resilience of Black Americans. Since it became a federal holiday in 2021, communities across Minnesota have increasingly embraced Juneteenth with festivals, concerts, educational programs, art, food, and family-friendly gatherings.
Whether you’re looking for a lively street festival, music, local vendors, or a community celebration, there are plenty of ways to commemorate the holiday—which falls on Friday, June 19, this year—this weekend.
Soul of the Southside
Friday, June 19 | Minneapolis
Noon-8 p.m.
One of the Twin Cities’ signature Juneteenth celebrations returns to East Lake Street and Minnehaha Avenue with an afternoon and evening of live music, dance, storytelling, public art, food trucks, and local vendors. Businesses throughout the neighborhood join the festivities with special programming, creating a celebration that stretches throughout the corridor.
ANIKA Foundation Juneteenth Family Celebration
Friday, June 19 | State Capitol, St. Paul
Noon-6 p.m.
Held on the Capitol grounds, this annual celebration features live entertainment, community organizations, cultural performances, food vendors, youth activities, and opportunities to learn more about Black history and heritage in Minnesota. The event is designed for all ages and emphasizes education alongside celebration.
Rondo Juneteenth Celebration
Friday, June 19 | Rondo Center of Diverse Expression, St. Paul
Noon-5 p.m.
Celebrate in the historic Rondo neighborhood with music, speakers, community programming, and activities honoring one of Minnesota’s most important Black cultural districts. The event highlights local history while bringing neighbors together for an afternoon of celebration, plus the announcement of the Rondo Achievement Awards.
Greater Mankato Juneteenth Celebration
Friday, June 19 | Civic Center Plaza, Mankato
Freedom Walk: 2:30 p.m.
Festival: 3-7 p.m.
Now in its ninth year, Greater Mankato’s Juneteenth celebration begins with a Freedom Walk before transitioning into an afternoon festival featuring live performances, educational exhibits, family activities, food vendors, and community organizations. This year’s theme is “Rooted in History, Rising Together.”
Duluth NAACP Juneteenth Celebration
Friday, June 19 | Central Hillside Community Center, Duluth
1-6 p.m.
Northern Minnesota joins the celebration with a full day of community programming in Duluth. Expect live entertainment, food, cultural performances, children’s activities, local organizations, and opportunities to connect with community members.
St. Cloud Juneteenth Celebration
Friday, June 19 | Lake George/Eastman Park, St. Cloud
Noon-7 p.m.
Higher Works Collaborative hosts the city’s 30th annual Juneteenth celebration at Lake George/Eastman Park. The event includes music, food vendors, family activities, local businesses, and educational programming highlighting Black history and culture. Take advantage of a beautiful day on the lake with fishing and paddleboat rides, too.
Juneteenth Tours at Fort Snelling
Friday, June 19 | Fort Snelling, St. Paul
10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Take a special tour at historic Fort Snelling that highlights the 19th-century stories of Black Minnesotans, while exploring the grounds of one of the state’s most recognizable landmarks.
Freedom in Motion
Friday, June 19 | Blackbird Revolt, Minneapolis
8 a.m.-Noon
This community “run, ride, and celebration” is hosted by Blackbird Revolt, the Loppet Foundation, Sharp Signs, Cool Runnings, and the Missing and Murdered Black Women and Girls organization. Move your body and experience a sense of deep community as you choose a route option that fits your experience level. Free bike rentals available, and Sharp Signs hosts a post-run/ride coffee.
Brooklyn Park Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 20 | North Hennepin Community College, Brooklyn Park
1-4 p.m.
Brooklyn Park’s annual Juneteenth celebration offers a parade walk, family-friendly arts and crafts, a bounce house, live music, a resource fair, food trucks, and more. (Golfers can check out the Juneteenth Golf Tournament on Friday, June 19, at Centerbrook Golf Course.)
Looking for More Events?
Juneteenth celebrations continue throughout Minnesota all month, with concerts, educational programs, walking tours, film screenings, museum events, and neighborhood festivals taking place across the state. Before heading out, be sure to check each event’s website or social media pages for the latest schedules, parking information, and weather updates.
