While July 4 commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we recognize that occasion doesn’t signify independence for every American. Columbus is proud of its vibrant, diverse culture, and each year on Juneteenth, our community seeks to intentionally honor the history of our Black family, friends and colleagues. Celebrate Juneteenth in Columbus with the events below!
25th Annual Juneteenth Ohio Festival
June 18 – 19 | Noon – 3 p.m.
Throughout our 24 years of celebration, Juneteenth Ohio emerged as the enjoyable family weekend of cultural discovery, filled with a variety of events promoting cultural unity, enrichment, and ethnic diversity, “key elements that improves the relationships and quality of life among all residents throughout Ohio”.
June 18 | Noon – 6 p.m.
Juneteenth on the Ave is a collaboration between community-based organizations around Columbus’ Historic Mt. Vernon Avenue to celebrate Black resilience and creativity. The event showcases performing and visual artists while promoting support to black owned businesses. The district-wide commemoration features archival community photographs, art exhibits, food trucks, games, health screenings, higher education information sessions as well as dance, music, spoken word and theatre performances. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public.
Presented in partnership with the Columbus Urban League, Maroon Arts Group, the Central Ohio African American Chamber of Commerce, Black Out and Proud, the Poindexter Village Museum, and the Ohio History Connection.
Reynoldsburg Juneteenth Celebration
June 18 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The celebration will include the 5K Unity in the Community Walk/Run, health screenings by the African American Male Wellness Agency, music, food trucks, art/craft vendors and various community groups.
Ohio Village: Juneteenth Jubilee Day Festival at the Ohio History Center & Ohio Village
June 19 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
See artists from the National Association of Black Storytellers, Ohio Black Dance and Watoto Storytellers share the historical narrative of Juneteenth through storytelling, dance and theatrical reenactments. Included with Ohio History Center & Ohio Village admission.
Kelton House Juneteenth Celebration
June 19 | Noon – 4 p.m.
The afternoon will include events celebrating the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans on June 19, 1865. The Columbus State Vocal Ensemble under the direction of Dr. Emma Easton will perform followed by our featured speaker Julialynne Walker. At 1pm, a talk will be given about the Hartway and Lawrence family history by Executive Director, Sarah Richardt to begin the program. Families can create their own family flag and relax in the gardens. Food and drinks will be provided by 5 Star Planning and Events and admission to the Kelton House will be free but donations are always welcome.
June 18 | 4 – 9 p.m.
Juneteenth Community Festival is a family friendly outdoor festival celebrating Black History. Enjoy culture, live music, lots of fun types of dance, spoken word, circus performers, food vendors and more.
Bexley Public Library Juneteenth Celebration
June 17 | 5 – 8 p.m.
Enjoy a marketplace of black-owned businesses, as well as music, poetry, food, art, dance, and other activities.
FREEDOMWORKS: A Juneteenth Fireworks Presentation from Columbus State
June 18 | 9:30 p.m.
Join Columbus State Community College to enjoy the fireworks with family and friends as they close out the educational institution’s Juneteenth Celebration.
Celebrate Juneteenth with the Upper Arlington Public Library
June 13 – 18 | Anytime during operating hours
Visit the Tremont Road branch’s youth department anytime June 13-19 to learn about Juneteenth, decorate your own Juneteenth flag, and discover what it means to be anti-racist.
