Juneteenth is a day to come together from all walks of life and commemorate the end of slavery with parties, discussions, and friendly faces. In Pittsburgh, we have the honor of being home to the August Wilson African American Cultural Center that provides us with education on Black lives and history year round. But, when Juneteenth rolls around on June 19, the city explodes with vibrant events covering educational opportunities, a lively block party atmosphere, and much more. Dive into this bustling schedule of events with something for everyone to not only show support for Pittsburgh’s Black community, but to also support local businesses and organizations in the process.
Juneteenth Events Pittsburgh
Juneteenth Youth Festival/Black Heritage Celebration
Mellon Park, June 8-9
Teach your kids the importance of Juneteenth while participating in activities that get you moving in memory of “Line Dance King” Roland Ford. The weekend includes vendors, live entertainment, a flag football tournament, Duolingo Youth Fun Zone, Pittsburgh Penguins hockey activities, Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Activation, and plenty more.
WPA Juneteenth Celebration
Downtown, June 14-16
Pittsburgh’s main Juneteenth Celebration packs a weekend full of live music headlined by Kelly Price and Stokley, a huge parade led by Master P and co-grand marshal Colonel James H. Harvey III, plenty of food and craft vendors in Market Square, and fun for the whole family.
Big Money Talk with Dame Dash and Master P
Byham Theater, June 15
Hear two different 60-minute discussions from Roc-A-Feller co-founder Dame Dash and hip-hop business mogul Master P. Topics include the rap industry and culture, entrepreneurship, the movie industry, buying back the block, and keys to starting and running a successful business.
Juneteenth Freedom Day
Penn Hills Universal Park, June 15
Immerse yourself into African dancing and drumming, arts and crafts projects, and games for all ages. Plus, grab dinner from local food trucks while at the event to make it an all-day-long occasion.
Art as Liberation
PNC Park, June 18
Before the Pittsburgh Pirates game against the Cincinnati Reds, view a lineup of work by local Black artists for Juneteenth. After you’re done exploring these artists, stick around for the exciting baseball game.
Black Power Storytime
Frick Environmental Center, June 19
Walk through the From Slavery to Freedom Garden exhibit at the Frick Environmental Center and enjoy storytime with award-winning artist DS Kinsel. He will be reading two different stories before children and parents will have an opportunity for a Juneteenth garden activity.
Carnegie Celebrates Juneteenth
Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall, June 22
Take a moment for celebration with food, dance, and art reflective of Juneteenth at the Andrew Carnegie Library. Then hear from Pittsburgh University professor Alaina E. Roberts for a guest lecture about this important holiday and Black social justice.
Juneteenth Fusion Fest
The Greenwood Plan Building, June 29
Come support the local talent of Pittsburgh with a day of performances and art installations. You’ll also get to take a historical walk through Black Pittsburgh, explore the makers market, try delicious African cuisine, let the kids take part in interactive activities, and much more.
Story by Kylie Thomas / Photography by 1Hood Media
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