Juneteenth is a day for all of us to come together to 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 schedule of Juneteenth events in Pittsburgh with something for everyone to not only show support for the Black community, but to also support local businesses and organizations in the process.
Juneteenth Events Pittsburgh
WPA Juneteenth Celebration
Mellon Park, June 19-22
Pittsburgh’s Juneteenth Celebration packs a weekend full of live music featuring Morris Day and The Time, Dru Hill, and Donnell Jones, a huge parade throughout Downtown, plenty of food and craft vendors, educational resources, and fun for the whole family. Each day holds something new like the annual Juneteenth YouthFEST sporting tournaments on the 21.
Juneteenth Concert
Mellon Park, June 19
While you’re attending the WPA Juneteenth Celebration, make time for a special performance on June 19 from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. This Black music commemoration puts a lively big band from PSO’s brass section alongside regional jazz musicians. Vocalist Sydney McSweeney and Hammond B3 organ player Bobby Floyd will also join the stage as special guests.
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 then attend a reading from creative entrepreneur DK Kinsel and James A. Brown, director of the Frick Environmental Center. They will be reading different stories before children and parents will have an opportunity for a Juneteenth nature activity.
Juneteenth All White Boat Party
Gateway Clipper Fleet, June 19
The Empress and the Duchess both set sail for Juneteenth with all white adorning the decks. Guests can enjoy a 25-and-older-only party with drink specials plus two live DJs on the Three Rivers. The best part is getting to choose between the R&B boat and the old school showcase boat.
WPA Juneteenth: R&B After-Party Hosted By Jon B
Lit Cigar Lounge, June 20
After the concert at Mellon Park, Jon B is hosting his own R&B After-Party at Lit Cigar Lounge. Who knows what friends he may bring along for this night that continues the party even after Mellon Park closes. Not to mention it’s the perfect chance to try out Lit Cigar’s selection.
Carnegie Celebrates Juneteenth
Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall, June 21
Take a moment for celebration with food, dance, and art reflective of Juneteenth at the Andrew Carnegie Library. Take a bite from Carmi’s selection of traditional foods, try your skills at yard games, create special crafts, and learn local Black church history from Ashley Askew of Carnegie’s Second Baptist Church.
WPA Juneteenth All Black After-Party
Enclave, June 22
You’ll want to grab your early bird discount tickets to the hottest Juneteenth after-party while they’re still available. Stop the Violence Pittsburgh takes to the energetic atmosphere of the Enclave for performances from Sunshine Anderson, Jadakiss, and Trina. Be sure to dress in your finest all black attire to be on theme.
Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Stop the Violence Pittsburgh
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