A look at some of the ways you can celebrate Juneteenth in Charlotte NC in 2023
By Devin Berry
Juneteenth is one of the newest observed holidays. However, it has been celebrated for over 100 years. Across the country people will be celebrating Juneteenth in many forms, and Charlotte is no different. Looking for ways to celebrate Juneteenth in Charlotte NC? Look no further as we take a look at some of the many ways people are celebrating this year.
Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas
Located in the heart of Plaza Midwood, the Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas seeks to bring the community together. Expect numerous events over the course of the weekend. From June 15th to the 18th, the festival will feature a range of events from youth camps to live entertainment. Further, each day the festival has a schedule of all the events they will be holding in observance of the holiday. This year is no different, with performers and vendors from across the globe. The Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas emphasizes community and togetherness as well as historical importance for this American Holiday.
The Juneteenth Jam Block Party
This year is the third annual Juneteenth Jam Block Party in Uptown Charlotte. Alongside the Harvey B. Gantt Center, The Mint Museum and Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, the Juneteenth Jam will be bringing a load of celebrations. These include live musical performances, arts and crafts, and even video games for teens. The Juneteenth Jam Block party was created by the Emmy Award-winning poet and Blumenthal Director of Creative Engagement Boris “Bluz” Rogers. It’s a way to bring members of the community together for a fun, eventful evening to commemorate the holiday. All events will be free to access for everyone so make sure to bring the family over to Levine Avenue for a day jam packed with events.
Juneteenth Cookout and Father’s Day Celebration
Join the Southern hospitality group on their inaugural Uptown Juneteenth celebration in Victoria Yards. The celebration is split between Saturday the 17th and Sunday the 19th with different events planned for each. On Saturday the 17th, you can find free live performances and spades tournaments as well as information from youth entrepreneurs. Sunday will feature a Father’s Day celebration and panel hosted by Eddie Owens along with vendors. The Juneteenth Cookout and Father’s Day Celebration will also feature guest appearances from keynote speaker Lamon Brewster, rapper Tiffani D, and poet Sir Abstraxxx.
Queen City Juneteenth Parade
Join Pridemore Properties as they celebrate their second annual Juneteenth Parade on June 17th. Located at the Piedmont Community College Cato Campus, the parade will be starting at 10am. With the goal of encouraging young people to accomplish their dreams, participants will consist of professionals across dozens of fields, as they celebrate the deep history of the community. Vendors will be present along the parade as well as other events. People may sign up to be a participant as well as a volunteer assisting the parade.
Town of Davidson Juneteenth Celebration
Celebrate Juneteenth in Charlotte NC a bit north of the city. The town of Davidson is holding their own Juneteenth Celebration this year at Ada Jenkins Center on June 17th from 11:30AM to 2PM. The free celebration will include music, dancing and food trucks, as well as activities for children like face painting and a bounce house. Make sure to stop by the Welcome Tent for a free lunch too!
