Where to celebrate Juneteenth in St. Louis

The Emancipation Proclamation of 1863 is known for legally freeing enslaved people residing in Confederate States, but its enactment wasn’t immediately enforced in territories still under Confederate control, such as the state of Texas. Two years later, on June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger of the Union army announced in Galveston Bay, Texas, that by executive order, all enslaved Black people in the state were to be freed. This day, now known as Juneteenth, became a federally recognized national holiday in 2021. 

There are many opportunities to celebrate Juneteenth in St. Louis with music, fitness, festivals, and more. All around the city from June 12–20, there will be unique events to honor the history of Black Americans and support local Black artists and business owners. To find a way to participate in this long-standing celebration of independence, check out the events below.

Issa Kickback at St. Louis County Library | June 12

Enjoy food, yard games, and music with the St. Louis County Library. Held at the Lewis & Clark branch, the kickback will also feature a performance by the Riverview Gardens High School’s Mighty Golden Rams drumline with dancers. Be sure to get there early to grab your free food voucher. 9909 Lewis-Clark. 

Ferguson Juneteenth | June 13

Ferguson is kicking off Juneteenth with an all-day celebration. The scheduled events include DJ sets, historical presentations, poetry, giveaways, presentations from local businesses, African dance, and a talent show hosted by comedian Willie Macc, as well as a headlining performance from DaSkwaad, known for their ’90s R&B, funk, and soul. 806 Ferguson.

Delmar Boulevard Juneteenth Celebration | June 13

Head to the Delmar Loop for a vibrant Juneteenth celebration featuring live music, dance, and cultural performances. The all-day festival will also include Reconciliation Network’s annual Race for Reconciliation 5K run.  Delmar Loop.    

Juneteenth Celebration at Soulard Market Park | June 13

For a day of food, music, and cultural unity, head over to Soulard Park and join the Juneteenth celebration. The all-day event will include a live band and DJ, soul food and treats, and kids activities for the whole family to enjoy. 730 Carroll. 

Rose Whip Presents…The Hidden Door | June 13

Experience the joy and freedom of burlesque at The Hidden Door, featuring the talents of artists Aquarius Moon, Jo’Rie Tigerlily, Rose Whip, and more. This event features some of the industry’s best Black and queer burlesque, cabaret, and drag performers celebrating an artform that Black burlesque artists have been practicing for more than a century. Thaxton Speakeasy, 1009 Olive. 

The Freedom Seekers Project & Juneteenth Journey ZMD Collaboration | June 17

Come visit the Missouri Botanical Garden and learn about Black history, culture, and community storytelling in this collaboration with The Freedom Seekers Project. The interpretive experience offers exhibits, signage, and educational programs to teach visitors about the Garden’s historical connection to slavery while honoring stories of resilience and strength. Special programs include a story time, spoken word performances, and a book giveaway from St. Louis Black Authors of Children’s Literature, as well as a film screening of Annie Malone Tumbo: The Untold Story. Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw.

Thursday Night at the Museum: Joyful Juneteenth | June 18

Spend the evening with the Missouri History Museum at this educational Juneteenth event. Delve into the history of the holiday at resource tables from local Black-centered organizations before kicking off an exciting evening of live performance highlighting the diversity of Black culture. Enjoy spoken word by Tracy “T-Spirit” Stanton, a stirring choral performance from the Shalom Church (City of Peace) Mass Choir, and a step performance by Gentlemen of Vision. The night kicks off at 5 p.m. with a happy hour full of traditional African-American games, with Black-owned food trucks providing food and drink throughout the evening. Imo Family Plaza at the Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell.

Rest Reimagined at St. Louis Art Museum | June 19

The Saint Louis Art Museum is partnering with local nonprofit Frizzy by Nature to honor Juneteenth by giving individuals an opportunity to practice mindfulness, learn and support Black creators, and above all else, rest. All are welcome to attend the all-day event, which will include yoga, meditation, and sound bowl sessions. After, attendees can also create their own recovery ritual oil, aromatherapy spray, and bath soaks with local Black-owned businesses. Grace Taylor Broughton Sculpture Garden, Education Center, Albert G. Blanke Sculpture Terrace, 1 Fine Arts Drive.

Soul of a People: Juneteenth Celebration with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra | June 19

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is celebrating the impact of Black artists throughout history. Kevin McBeth conducts the St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus in 17 iconic songs, featuring the work of Stevie Wonder, Sam Cooke, James Brown, Bill Withers, and Kool & the Gang. The program will also feature vocalists LaKisha Jones (of American Idol fame) and three-time GRAMMY nominee Ryan Shaw. Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand.

Juneteenth Celebration at The Moniker | June 19

Celebrate Juneteenth with handcrafted cocktails and live music at The Moniker, which is also celebrating its first anniversary. This event will include performances from artist/producer Miistro FreeYo and vocalist Kendall Davidson starting at 8 p.m., with additional surprises throughout the evening. The celebration begins at 4 p.m., and guests are encouraged to make a reservation in advance. 1000 Washington. 

Eric Genuis: Juneteenth Concert | June 19 & 20

Composer and classical musician Eric Genuis, known for his “Concerts for Hope” initiative, brings his signature blend of classical and contemporary expression to the Power Creative WEvent Space in Tower Grove South for three free concerts across two days. Benefitting North City, the concerts will begin at 7:30 p.m. on both nights, with an 11:00 a.m. matinee available on Saturday. RSVP strongly recommended. 3221 Oak Hill.

St. Louis County Juneteenth: The Yah Yah Apollo Night | June 20

Presented by Culture Collective STL, this night offers live performances, spoken word, music. and more. The event will feature the talents of 2KiddSlimm, ArtByRell, Slowspread, and a variety of other artists, as well as vendors. Visitors can check out the Yah Yah Apollo Night to enjoy a show, but to also build a community. Anheuser-Busch Performance Hall, 1 Touhill.