Seated below “Old Glory,” the Juneteenth flag is also a symbol of freedom. –
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Seated below “Old Glory,” the Juneteenth flag is also a symbol of freedom. – Credit: Emma Widmar

RACINE — Racine will honor African American freedom and heritage with its 50th annual Juneteenth celebration, featuring events from June 6 through June 14.

The city’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department and the Dr. John Bryant Community Center are hosting the festivities to promote community unity, education and celebration.

Kickoff event: Sneaker Ball 3.0

The celebration begins Friday, June 6, with the Sneaker Ball 3.0 at Festival Hall, 5 Fifth Street. The formal event blends black-tie attire with sneaker culture and features live entertainment, food and cocktails. Tickets cost $75 and are available at city offices and online.

Flag raising ceremony

The Juneteenth flag-raising ceremony will take place at the Dr. John Bryant Community Center on Sunday, June 8, officially launching the week’s activities.

Weekday events:

STEM and cultural celebrations

Throughout the week, Racine offers educational and community engagement opportunities, including:

  • Monday, June 9 — A Day in STEM, 4 to 7 p.m., Dr. John Bryant Community Center, with science, technology, engineering and math activities for youth.
  • Tuesday, June 10 — All Racine Day, 4 to 7 p.m., Dr. John Bryant Community Center, celebrating the city’s diverse cultures.

The week concludes Saturday, June 14, from noon to 8 p.m. at the Dr. John Bryant Community Center, 601 Caron Butler Drive. Activities include live performances, food vendors, arts and crafts booths, children’s activities and information tables from community organizations.

To safely accommodate the celebration, the city has approved street closures for parts of Caron Butler Drive, Roosevelt Park Drive and Wisconsin Avenue during the event.

Vendor information

Community members interested in vending can apply by Friday, May 30. Vendor spaces measure 12 feet by 12 feet. Food vendors must obtain permits from the city health department.

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved African Americans in Texas were informed of their freedom. The holiday marks a vital moment in American history. Racine’s celebration honors this legacy while fostering education, cultural pride and community solidarity.

For more information and a full event schedule, visit cityofracine.org/parksrec/events/juneteenth.


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