As Juneteenth approaches, people across Northwest Indiana are hosting festivals, performances, cultural events, and family activities to celebrate the holiday this year.
“I’m always excited about Juneteenth and an opportunity to celebrate Gary,” said J’s Breakfast Club owner Joslyn Kelly. “I’m excited about the opportunity to celebrate the legacy of Black people, and all that we are, all that we’re capable of being, all that we have.”
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that enslaved African Americans were free. The day became a federal holiday in 2021.
Gary
Steel House Collective Kick Off – Juneteenth Edition
Kicking off the Midtown takeover, a half-week of Juneteenth celebrations at J’s Breakfast Club, this event features local DJs spinning house music, vendors, and a beer garden.
When: June 18, 2 to 4 p.m.
Where: J’s Breakfast Club, 2601 Broadway
Juneteenth: Roll, Skate, and Celebrate
Hosted by the Gary Arts Council, this community skate event kicks off the summer season with music, food and performances. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and skates, though a limited number of skates will also be available.
When: June 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Jackson Mural, 839 Broadway
Juneteenth Celebration
This community Juneteenth celebration will have live entertainment, art and crafts, food vendors and food trucks, face painting, kid activities, line dancing, bingo, a bounce house, and fitness activities throughout the day.
When: June 19, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Roosevelt Pavilion, 2201 W. Harrison St.
Juneteenth: Past, Present, Future
The event is centered around the theme of celebrating the past, empowering future generations, and inspiring change.
When: June 19, noon to 4 p.m.
Where: Christ United Methodist Church, 201 W. Ridge Road
Roll Bounce to Royalty
Part of the Midtown Takeover, this skate party features live DJs, skating for all ages, photo opportunities and shopping with local vendors.
When: June 19, 2 to 4 p.m.
Where: J’s Breakfast Club, 2601 Broadway
Juneteenth Afro Ball
Billed as an opportunity to “step into your crown,” this event celebrates freedom and culture through music, dancing, live performances and community fellowship. General admission tickets start at $55, while VIP tickets start at $135.
When: June 19, 6 to 11 p.m. (6 p.m. for VIP, 9 p.m. for general admission)
Where: J’s Breakfast Club, 2601 Broadway
Just Joey
Gary native Just Joey returns home for a Juneteenth performance featuring a tribute to Prince and The Revolution. Tickets are $20.
When: June 19, 7 p.m.
Where: Loft Adiq, 752 Broadway
The Block Is Ours
Wrapping up the Midtown takeover, this block party aims to celebrate Juneteenth and all things Gary. There will be family fun and activities, music, vendors, and food for the community to enjoy.
When: June 20, noon until dusk
Where: J’s Breakfast Club, 2601 Broadway
Merrillville
Juneteenth Flea Market
This outdoor vendor event features music from DJ Super, opportunities to shop with black-owned vendors, and raffle opportunities.
When: June 20, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Merrillville Flea Market, 6144 Broadway
Hammond
Juneteenth: Celebrate Freedom
The city will host its annual Juneteenth celebration, featuring DJ Karri, free activities for all ages, local vendors and small businesses, cultural experiences, and vehicle showcases.
When: June 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Park, 5925 Calumet Ave.
Juneteenth Wellness Festival
This wellness-focused event features Black-owned vendors, free barbecue and soul food, a children’s area, face painting, live music, line dancing, and wellness resources.
When: June 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Butterfly Touch Spa, 3526 169th St.
East Chicago
Rhythm & Soul Fest
East Chicago kicks off its summer events with a Juneteenth celebration featuring food vendors, activities, and crafts for people of all ages. Musical performances include Evelyn “Champagne” King, Soul Street Collective, Jay Slique Adams, and DJ Dark Nite.
When: June 20, 2 to 8 p.m.
Where: Washington Park, 1615 142nd St.
Juneteenth Beach Potluck
This East Chicago event looks to honor history and bring the community together through potluck traditions. There will be food and BBQ; others are encouraged to bring food as well; games, music, and family-friendly activities.
When: June 19, 4 to 10 p.m.
Where: Calumet Beach, 9801 S. Avenue G
