Stewart Heights Park is the place to be on June 19 for “Juneteenth: A Road to Economic Freedom.”
Thursday, June 19, will be a federal holiday to mark Juneteenth and its commemoration of slavery being abolished in the United States.
It was officially recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law. Juneteenth became a Washington state holiday that same year thanks to Rep. Melanie Morgan who sponsored the successful House Bill 1016 signed by Gov. Jay Inslee.
Our state’s largest celebration of the day happens on June 19 at Stewart Heights Park (5715 Reginald Gutierrez Ln.), 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Juneteenth: A Road to Economic Freedom. More than 12,000 people were in attendance last year and 15,000 or more are expected this year to enjoy national recording artists, local dignitaries, more than 100 vendors, community resources, community and culture.
Among the 150 vendors bringing food, fashion, and home decor, a Kid’s Play Zone with bouncy houses, games and crafts, music is a big part of the event. “Gospel Praise Break” features live performances from Grammy winning gospel artists Fred Hammond and Crystal Aikin and more artists including R3FRESH and Rontrell Brimmer. Platinum selling R&B group Soul for Real and local Pacific Northwest artists bring R&B and hip-hop.
Learn more at juneteenthwa.com.
At the Washington State History Museum on June 19, an evening of free programming Curated by Eva Abram of Rainwater Storytelling, will feature performances by Black artists and musicians, along with a presentation by Abram that reflects on the history and significance of Juneteenth.
Eva Abram is an award-winning actor and storyteller who brings American folktales and myths to life with her exceptional performance skills. Her engaging presence invites audiences to explore stories that highlight the bonds that unite us.
Get the full program schedule at washingtonhistory.org.