Celebrate Juneteenth in the Cincy Region

Juneteenth Events and Celebrations Across Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky

The annual observance of Juneteenth commemorates the 1865 ending of slavery in the United States. In Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, you'll find a variety of ways to celebrate this historical holiday.

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that the more than three million slaves living in the Confederacy were to be freed. It was not until June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, that the residents of Texas would learn that slavery had been abolished. Formerly enslaved African Americans immediately celebrated with prayer, feasts, song, and dance. The tradition of commemorating June 19 as a day of freedom has been recognized annually throughout history, known as "Juneteenth". In 2021, President Joe Biden officially made Juneteenth a federal and nationally recognized holiday.

Cincy has a long history of observing this day of celebration, and there are many ways for you to experience Juneteenth in our community.

Annual Juneteenth Festival

Eden Park
Recurring daily

The 39th Annual Cincinnati Juneteenth Festival is a free two-day event that celebrates the emancipation of American slavery. The festival begins with its traditional parade of flags representing the African diaspora — the dispersion of Africans from their original homeland during…

Juneteenth Tasting Tour

Findlay Market

Join Findlay Market in celebrating incredible Black-owned businesses at its annual Juneteenth Jubilee! You’ll be able to sample special dishes and receive discounts on artisan goods from dozens of different businesses throughout the Market District. Whether you’re revisiting…