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ST. LOUIS — From June 15th through June 20th, St. Louis will host vibrant celebrations honoring Juneteenth, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.

Juneteenth marks an independence day for enslaved African Americans in the United States. This annual holiday celebrates June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas were freed. Today, Juneteenth is recognized nationwide through events including parades, festivals, educational activities, and community gatherings, all aimed at highlighting the significant contributions of African Americans to society.

June 15 

Pre-Juneteenth Celebration 

  • Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. 
  • Location: The Delmar Loop, St. Louis, MO 
  • Details: Includes a 5K Race for Reconciliation, Vendor Fair, and Evening Celebration with performances by African Dance groups and the Red & Black Brass Band. 

NIC Juneteenth Festival 

  • Time: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. 
  • Location: Soulard Park, St. Louis, MO 
  • Details: Includes free entertainment and activities for all ages.

June 16 

Juneteenth Community Awareness Celebration 

  • Time: 6:45 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. 
  • Location: Centennial Christian Church and Fountain Park, St. Louis, MO 
  • Details: Gospel explosion at Centennial Christian Church, followed by a reception and movie in Fountain Park.  

June 17 

Juneteenth Community Awareness Celebration 

  • Time: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m. 
  • Location: Fountain Park, St. Louis. 
  • Details: Community education booths, children activities, entertainment, free food, and a bike and car show. 

June 18 

Juneteenth Community Awareness Celebration 

  • Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 
  • Location: Fountain Park, St. Louis. 
  • Details: Morning worship services at Centennial Christian Church in Fountain Park with free gifts for all fathers. 

June 19 (Juneteenth Day) 

Juneteenth Celebration at Missouri Botanical Garden 

  • Time: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Location: Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis. 
  • Details: Enriching activities and demonstrations to provide historical insights and celebrate Black contributions to horticulture and science.
  • Activities include: Ethiopian bookbinding techniques, tours of the Carver Garden storytelling, and pot-a-plant activity for children from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m..  

Dellwood Parade and Community Event 

  • Time: 12 p.m. 
  • Location: Dellwood Recreation Center at 10266 W Florissant Ave.
  • Details: The Dellwood Parade is part of the inaugural North STL County Juneteenth Celebration, organized in collaboration with St. Louis County Council Districts 1 and 4, and various North County municipalities. This event aims to celebrate Black Joy and highlight the cultural contributions of the community. 

June 20 

Juneteenth Vendor Market at Downtown Summer Nights  

  • Date: Thursday, June 20 
  • Time: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. 
  • Location: Kiener Plaza, Downtown St. Louis. 
  • Event Focus: Downtown Summer Nights presents a special Juneteenth Vendor Market, highlighting Black-owned businesses in honor of Juneteenth, celebrating African American freedom and culture. 
  • Featured Vendor: Ryan Pierce will showcase his Show Me Love clothing line, celebrating love for St. Louis with unique designs. 
  • Entertainment: Enjoy live music by Stazi throughout the evening, adding to the festive atmosphere.