FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — A wide variety of events are planned for this year's Juneteenth, a national holiday commemorating enslaved African Americans' emancipation on June 19, 1865.
For generations, Black Americans have celebrated Juneteenth with festivals, parties, cookouts, and more. However, it was not federally recognized as a holiday until 2021.
Now, communities across the United States hold celebrations honoring Juneteenth as a federal holiday when many employees are given the day off.
Here are some events in our area celebrating what many call Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, and Independence Day.
Bentonville
- Third Annual Juneteenth Sneaker Ball
- What: Featuring hors d'ouevres, cash bars, a photo booth, a silent auction, a photographer, and a DJ, this year's Sneaker Ball promises a platform for the celebration of Black culture, catering to visitors 25 and up.
- Where: The DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel in Bentonville — 301 Southeast Walton Boulevard
- When: Saturday, June 15 from 8 p.m. to midnight
- Crystal Bridges' Juneteenth Celebration
- What: Visitors can explore the We the People (black version) exhibit by Nari Ward as well as other pieces by Black artists in Crystal Bridges' collection. The exploration will conclude with an artmaking activity inspired by Fred Eversley's Big Red Lens.
- Where: Crystal Bridges — 507 SE E St.
- When: Saturday, June 15, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Fayetteville
- Let's Talk NWA Juneteenth Celebration
- What: A free celebration providing food, music, and a children's play area, along with mental health, health, and financial coaches to help the community navigate barriers. This year's theme is "The Family Reunion."
- Where: Spring Shop Studios — 704 S. Washington Ave.
- When: Wednesday, June 19 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m
Springdale
- Freedom Festival!
- What: The Freedom Festival is a gathering and celebration of Black music, art, culture, and community. It will host a local vendor market, live fashion show, giveaways, and music, alongside a kid's section with games and activities for the youngsters.
- Where: The Shiloh Square, Downtown Springdale
- When: Saturday, June 15 starting at 2 p.m.
Siloam Springs
- Juneteenth CommUnity CookOut
- What: Siloam Springs is throwing its first Juneteenth celebration. There will be local vendors and non-profits as well as free barbecue sandwiches given out to attendees. Organizers say there will be educational and dialogue opportunities to learn more about the holiday that is called Freedom Day.
- Where: Bridge Church Siloam Springs — 511 W Tulsa St.
- When: Wednesday, June 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fort Smith
- Juneteenth Celebration by the Fort Smith Round Table
- What: The Juneteenth Celebration will host musicians like the Funk Factory, SYNRG, Nellie Tiger Travis, Fort Smith native Natasha Brown, and DJ Ronnie. There will also be local vendors, family fun, and more. Admission will only be $1 and a non-perishable food item to be donated to Antioch for Youth & Family.
- Where: Harry E. Kelly Riverfront Park — 121 Riverfront Dr.
- When: Friday, June 14 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturday, June 15, from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m.
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