10 Juneteenth Celebrations In Seattle This Year
June 19 is celebration of culture and the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.
Although it only become a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth has been celebrated by Black communities in Seattle for years. It’s a day for the community to get together and enjoy good food, music, and Black culture. Many of these events are free or low-cost, so make sure to get out there this weekend—and, of course, support Seattle’s Black-owned businesses, makers, and restaurants year-round. Here are ten Juneteenth celebrations that you can attend in Seattle this year:
1. Black Arts Legacies Celebration
This free celebratory social event will have catered bites and drinks and live music and performances.
When: Thursday, June 16 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute
Cost: Free!
2. Laughing in Black, a Juneteenth comedy show
This comedy show is sure to be a good time. You get a free drink with your ticket purchase; find out more details here.
When: Friday, June 17 from 7 to 10 p.m.
Where: Seattle Drum School of Music
Cost: $20
3. Black Love: A Form of Resistance at MOHAI
All ages can enjoy this presentation about the National Award-Winning Unspoken Truths exhibition followed by a special storytelling experience. For more information and to register, go here.
When: Saturday, June 18 from 1 to 3 p.m.
Where: Museum of History & Industry
Cost: Free with museum admission (registration required)
4. Juneteenth Photo Booth: Free Portraits for Black Folks
Black Seattleites can get their portrait taken for free at this Juneteenth photo booth event.
When: Friday, June 17 from 5 to 8 p.m.
Where: Wa Na Nari Gallery, 911 24th Avenue
Cost: Free!
5. We Out Here On The Pier
Food trucks, games, and live entertainment will be available at this free event on the waterfront at Pier 62.
When: Saturday, June 18 from 2 to 6 p.m.
Where: Pier 62
Cost: Free!
6. Women’s Power Soca Brunch
Women are invited to participate in this high-energy, 45-minute power soca dance lesson that is followed by a brunch. Get more info here.
When: Sunday, June 19 at 11 a.m.
Where: Seven Star Women’s Kung Fu, 525 21st Ave
Cost: $30
7. Juneteenth Community Health Fair
The whole family can enjoy food trucks, activities for kids, live performances, and more at this free celebration.
When: Sunday, June 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Rainier Beach Community Center Plaza
Cost: Free!
8. “The Songs of Black Folk” music and book giveaway
This musical Juneteenth celebration will be followed by a book giveaway. Get more information and register for the event here.
When: Sunday, June 19 at 6 p.m.
Where: McCaw Hall
Cost: Free!
9. Skate to Freedom
Swing by Judkins Park for a day of skating, food trucks, music, and more. Don’t own skates? No problem: there will be free skate rentals so all can join in the fun.
When: Sunday, June 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Judkins Park
Cost: Free!
10. Juneteenth Market & Mixer
Popular Black-owned restaurant Communion is hosting this Juneteenth mixer in the Central District. Stop by to support local DJs, storefronts, and over 30 vendors.
When: Sunday, June 19 from 12 to 5 p.m.
Where: 24th and Union (Central District)
Cost: Free!