Chicago will commemorate the end of slavery in the United States with numerous events across the city, including the long-awaited opening of the Obama Presidential Center to the public. The federal holiday, which marks June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned they were free, will be celebrated with brass bands, jazz, community cookouts, and thousands of residents coming together.

Local Events

Some of the local events include the Juneteenth Freedom Market at the Salt Shed, featuring over 50 Black artists, entrepreneurs, and business owners. The DuSable Black History Museum will also host its annual Juneteenth celebration, with morning yoga, live music, and spoken word performances. Additionally, the Millennium Park Summer Music Series will return with a free Juneteenth concert.

Other events include the Honey Pot Performance Juneteenth Celebration, the Boxing Out Negativity celebration, and the 1865 Fest in Garfield Park. These events will feature live music, food, community resources, and local vendors.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.