Juneteenth, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, is coming up on June 19th. The history of resilience, creativity, achievement, and perseverance of the Black community is richly present in Juneteenth commemorations across the county. Towns and communities across Vermont are offering opportunities to celebrate and learn through food, music, and community gatherings. DigInVT.com is proud to uplift many of the celebrations happening throughout the weekend. Take a look at our events page to celebrate Black heritage in a community near you. While some events require pre-registration, many are open to the community. We’ve pulled together just a few of the events that are taking place around the state. So, make sure to take some time this weekend to celebrate and learn more about Juneteenth, and to recognize and appreciate the BIPOC members of your community.
Juneteenth BTV
City Hall Park, 149 College Street, Burlington
First in our rundown of Juneteenth events is “Juneteenth BTV” taking place in downtown Burlington, Vermont on Saturday, June 17th. The event is expected to take place over 12 hours, featuring more than 50 performances and other forms of entertainment. Attendees can expect activities involving music, poetry, community conversations, visual art, food and beverages, comedy, a gospel brunch, family fun, and wellness workshops. This year’s theme of “Embrace & Belonging,” specific to Burlington’s celebration, “speaks to the collective work we must do as a community to continue the efforts to actualize the promises of freedom and the right and privileges to full citizenship in the United States, Burlington, and Vermont.” More information about this event, participants, performers, and its history can be found on their website https://www.btvreib.com/history.
South Burlington Juneteenth Celebration
Auditorium at 180 Market Street, South Burlington
The South Burlington City Council is hosting a Juneteenth celebration on June 19th at 6:30 pm. This event will feature poetry by Major Jackson, music by Rachel Ambaye, a polyvocal reading by Frederick H. Tuttle Middle School students of Frederick Douglass’ 1852 speech “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?”, and an opportunity for the community to share perspectives on Juneteenth.
Freestyling Our Futures: Juneteenth 2023 Celebration at Clemmons Farm
Clemmons Family Farm, 2213 Greenbush Road, Charlotte
Taking place on both June 18th and June 19th, Clemmons Family Farm is hosting a small, low-key, family-friendly community Juneteenth celebration intended to celebrate authentic and intentional conversations for participants. Events such as a Black Artists’ Market, Drumming Circle, Kids Art Table, community mural painting, spoken word, storytelling, dinner, and more will take place over the course of both days. Spots for the Clemmons Family Farm celebration are filling up fast! Reserve your spot and learn more through their Eventbrite. You can learn more about the history and rich community presence of Clemmons Family Farm through their website: https://www.clemmonsfamilyfarm.org/.
Juneteenth Celebration at Cedar Circle Farm
225 Pavillion Rd, East Thetford, VT 05043
Upper Valley BIPOC Network, The Vermont Releaf Collective, and Cedar Circle Farm are co-sponsoring a Juneteenth celebration on June 16th from 5-7PM. This free event, open to all ages, will feature music by A2VT and DJ Skar and food by vendors including Munchi-Rollz and Jilib Jiblets. Along with the great music and food lineup, Cedar Circle Farm will be offering farm tours for participants to learn more about sustainable agriculture. Save the date and invite your friends, family, and loved ones to join in this special event! The event flyer and more information can be found on the DigIn event page:
Old Stone House Museum Juneteenth Celebration
Old Stone House Museum & Historic Village, 109 Old Stone House Road, Brownington
This free event presents the museum's new exhibit, “A Call to Serve: Vermont and Unexpected Voices from the Civil War.” The exhibit showcases a unique collection of artifacts and narratives highlighting the experience of Black soldiers; Black union soldier Louden Langley; fights for equal pay; and the contributions of Native American soldiers, Canadians, and women in the Civil War. This event is free and will include light refreshments and a partial museum open house. More information can be found on the Old Stone House Museum website.
Third Annual Essex Community Juneteenth Celebration
Essex Experience Green, 21 Essex Way, Essex Junction
On Sunday, June 18 at the Essex Experience Green, come together to celebrate Juneteenth by reflecting on the significance of this American holiday and enjoying music and entertainment from local artists Toussaint St. Negritude, DJ Cooper, and Harold Roudette. There will also be food from local businesses Jilib Jiblets and Suga Mama's Treats. Sponsored by the Town of Essex, the City of Essex Junction, the Rotary Club of Essex, Autumn Harp, and Salt & Bubbles Wine Bar and Market. This event is family-friendly and completely free. Find out more here!
Winooski Juneteenth Celebration
Rotary Park, Winooski
The City of Winooski and Downtown Winooski present their annual event celebrating Juneteenth with music, speakers, performances, and more to explore! Featured participants include musical artist Kerubo, A2VT, and DJ Craig Michael. Storytelling by All Heart Inspirations Ferene Paris Meyer and Opal Lee of Winooski Memorial Library. More information about this event can be found here.
Visit DigInVT.com for more events near you! There’s always something great in the Green Mountain State. The Events page can help bring local food, music, and community right to you.
Know of another Juneteenth events that we missed? Let us know at [email protected].
