Juneteenth isn’t just a date; it’s a declaration. In Columbus, we don’t just commemorate freedom — we celebrate it in full color. From the historic streets of Bronzeville to the big sounds on the Scioto Mile, June is packed with events that honor our past and ignite our future. This guided itinerary leads you through the must-attend Black-led events, family-friendly festivals, powerful performances, and soul-filled spaces happening all month long, leading up to, during and after Juneteenth.
Whether you're in it for the live music, the food, the fashion, or the freedom vibes, this is your go-to cultural itinerary for Juneteenth 2025 in the 614.
A Juneteenth Itinerary in Columbus
Sole Classics in the Short North Arts District
DAY 1: Thursday, June 19 – Opening Day: Reflection & Artistry
Morning:
Start your Juneteenth weekend with a moment of renewal at Replenish Spa, a Black woman-owned wellness sanctuary offering massage, yoga, facials, and meditation.
Midday:
Head to the Juneteenth Jam & Jubilee at the Ohio History Center (12 – 4 p.m.). Enjoy family-friendly performances, storytelling, youth activities, a fashion show, and Black history exhibits.
Lunch:
Enjoy lunch at Jerky’s Jamaican Grill in the Short North — serving up authentic island flavors like jerk chicken, oxtail, and curry goat.
Afternoon Stroll — Black-Owned Shopping Tour (Short North):
Spend the afternoon exploring a collection of Black-owned boutiques and businesses, including:
- Pivot Boutique (sustainable fashion & accessories)
- Sole Classics (streetwear + sneaker culture)
- Ransom Supply (plants, home goods, and lifestyle)
- Luxewear Boutique (women’s fashion and beauty)
Afternoon Coffee Recharge:
After shopping, head downtown to Black Kahawa Coffee — a Black-owned coffee shop that honors the rich East African roots of coffee culture. Founded on the principles of economic empowerment and representation, Black Kahawa sources directly from African farmers and roasts in Columbus, delivering bold, flavorful blends that tell a global Black story in every cup.
Evening:
Experience one of the weekend’s most moving events:
Freedom Works @ Columbus State Community College (8:45 p.m.). An immersive outdoor production combining music, film, spoken word, and dance that celebrates Black freedom. Bring a blanket or chair!
Parable Coffee, Downtown Columbus
DAY 2: Friday, June 20 – Legacy & Intergenerational Celebration
Morning:
Attend the King Arts Complex Juneteenth Commemoration (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.). This powerful, intergenerational event features live music, youth tributes, the Freedom Walk, and community storytelling.
Brunch / Lunch:
After the morning celebration, enjoy lunch at Soul 2 Go, known for its loaded comfort food favorites like turkey chops, fried fish, wings, and hearty sides.
Afternoon:
Spend your afternoon visiting the Columbus Museum of Art. While not Black-owned, CMA consistently features work by Black artists, including rotating exhibits that highlight both emerging and established Black creatives.
Evening:
Unwind at Parable Coffee, a Black-owned café and wine bar known for its elevated vibe and rotating evening experiences.
Juneteenth on the Ave
DAY 3: Saturday, June 21 – Block Parties & Big Stages
Morning:
Start your morning with brunch at Drunch Eatery & Bar, a lively local brunch spot with creative twists on Southern comfort dishes and brunch cocktails.
Midday:
Head to the Juneteenth on the Ave – Bronzeville Block Party (12 – 6 p.m.). Experience live DJs, mural painting, food trucks, performances, and a vibrant vendor market in one of Columbus’ historic Black cultural corridors.
Late Afternoon:
Walk over to Genoa Park for the Juneteenth Ohio Festival (June 21–22, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.). This is one of the Midwest's largest Juneteenth events, with major performances, cultural vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly fun along the riverfront. Free before 3 p.m.
Evening:
Close out the night with something unforgettable:
Picnic with the Pops featuring Rick Ross @ Columbus Commons (8 p.m.). Experience hip hop meets symphony for a one-of-a-kind concert event.
Upper Cup Coffee
DAY 4: Sunday, June 22 – Literature, Chill Vibes & Reflection
Morning:
Ease into your Sunday with coffee and pastries at Upper Cup Coffee (Olde Towne East location), perfect for a relaxed start to your final day of Juneteenth.
Midday:
Attend the Juneteenth B.A.S.H. Book Festival at Columbus Metropolitan Library (Main Branch) (12 – 4 p.m.). This festival celebrates Black literature with author panels, storytelling, book signings, and interactive family programming.
Afternoon (Optional Closing Treat):
For one final sweet send-off, swing by Bake Me Happy — a Black woman-owned gluten-free bakery offering southern-inspired treats like oatmeal cream pies, brownies, and cupcakes.
