POTTSTOWN — The spirit of freedom, family, and Black excellence will be in full bloom this June as Pottstown hosts its annual Juneteenth Celebration.

This year will feature a multi-day series of events.

From music and art, to education and empowerment, the 2025 Juneteenth festivities promise something for everyone. This year’s theme, “Family Reunion: Rooted in Love,” invites the entire community to come together and reflect on the rich heritage, resilience, and brilliance of Black culture through gatherings and thoughtful programming.

The celebration will begin with a special event to uplift and empower youth on Saturday, June 7, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Pottstown High School Auditorium

The Crowned With Excellence Pageant will be a Juneteenth first, showcasing talent, confidence, and cultural pride. The Youth Entrepreneur Business Fair (ages 6-21), will be held at the same time, providing a platform for young entrepreneurs to showcase and grow their businesses.Following this kickoff, a variety of community-focused events will be held, including:

• Juneteenth Street Festival — Saturday, June 14 from 12 to 6 p.m. on High Street, from York to Charlotte streets.

The Pottstown area cheerleaders who boosted the spirits of the basketball tournament players last year reached new heights. (Evan Brandt -- MediaNews Group)
The Pottstown area cheerleaders who boosted the spirits of the basketball tournament players last year reached new heights. (Evan Brandt — MediaNews Group)

It will feature live music and entertainment’ 3-on-3 basketball tournament; face painting and family-friendly activities; health screenings; vendors and more.

• Black Excellence Masquerade Ball — Thursday, June 19 at the RIVET at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by David Charles, CEO/Founder of The STRIVE Initiative. The guest speaker will be Lauren Hughes, a candidate for the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas.

Jason Thomas, owner of Smokin' Jay's Caribbean Barbecue, was working hard filling orders during last year's Juneteenth celebration in Pottstown. (MediaNews Group File Photo)
Jason Thomas, owner of Smokin’ Jay’s Caribbean Barbecue, was working hard filling orders during last year’s Juneteenth celebration in Pottstown. (MediaNews Group File Photo)

The evening will feature meals crafted by local chefs, an exciting casino gaming experience, and much more exclusive VIP table options. Tickets are on sale now.

• Community Worship Service in Smith Family Plaza — Sunday, Jun 29, at 3 p.m.

Juneteenth events will end with a community worship service to reflect on resilience, hope, and unity. Pottstown will welcome guest speaker The Rev. Dr. Alan E. Waller of Enron Tabernacle Baptist Church located in Philadelphia. Attendees can expect an uplifting service and a free community dinner provided by a local business. All events are open to the public and designed to foster connection, education, and celebration in the heart of the Pottstown community.

Messiah Johnson of Pottstown, then 4, chose Captain America for the theme of his painting while younger brother Zion, then 3, chose Spider-Man during last year's celebration. (Evan Brandt -- MediaNews Group)
Messiah Johnson of Pottstown, then 4, chose Captain America for the theme of his painting while younger brother Zion, then 3, chose Spider-Man during last year’s celebration. (Evan Brandt — MediaNews Group)

In addition to the festivities, the Juneteenth Committee will award the Juneteenth Scholarship for the 3rd year. This is available to local college-bound or currently enrolled students from the Pottstown and Pottsgrove school districts. This scholarship supports young leaders who are committed to making an impact in their communities.

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply via the official website at www.pottstownjuneteenth.org. The deadline and full eligibility criteria can be found online.

As soon as they got to the bottom, all the kids wanted to get back to the top of the inflatable slide again during last year's celebration. (Evan Brandt -- MediaNews Group)
As soon as they got to the bottom, all the kids wanted to get back to the top of the inflatable slide again during last year’s celebration. (Evan Brandt — MediaNews Group)

Organizers are still welcoming sponsors, vendors, and volunteers who want to contribute to the success and impact of this meaningful celebration. Sponsorship offers a unique opportunity for businesses, institutions, and community leaders to visibly support cultural awareness, education, and equity in the region.

Organizers would like to thank the following organizations who have already committed to sponsoring this year’s event: Pottstown Area Health and Wellness Foundation, Boyertown Multi-Services, Tower Health, Health Sparks, Montgomery Community College, Wolf, Baldwin and Associates, IBall United, The STRIVE Initiative, Be ReZilient, U.S. Axle, PAED, The Hill School, Hobart’s Run, Heart of God Worship Center, Mount Olive Baptist Church, Bethel AME, Rhema Ministry, Bethel Community Church of Pottstown.

Denise Williams, founder of BeRezilient and a primary organizer of this year's Juneteenth Celebration, had a handy map to show where all the vendors, events, food and other things of importance were located for last year's event. (Evan Brandt -- MediaNews Group)
Denise Williams, founder of BeRezilient and a primary organizer of this year’s Juneteenth Celebration, had a handy map to show where all the vendors, events, food and other things of importance were located for last year’s event. (Evan Brandt — MediaNews Group)

“We’re building something that’s not just for the moment, but to impact generations,” said Denise Williams, one of the lead organizers. “This is about creating spaces where healing, history, and hope can thrive together and we welcome everyone to be part of it.”

For more information, vendor and sponsorship opportunities, scholarship details, or to get involved as a volunteer, visit www.pottstownjuneteenth.org or email pottstownjune19@gmail.com.