Juneteenth 2025: Celebrating Freedom and Unity in Charlotte
Juneteenth 2025 marks another pivotal year of remembrance, celebration, and community gathering in Charlotte. As we honor the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, the city comes alive with vibrant festivals, educational activities, and cultural showcases. Whether you are a longtime Charlotte resident or visiting for the festivities, here's what you need to know about how the city will commemorate Juneteenth 2025.
What Is Juneteenth and Why Do We Celebrate It?
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, falls on June 19th. It commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned they were free—two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth stands as a symbol of resilience and progress. Nationwide, it encourages reflection, learning, and unity.
Juneteenth 2025 Festival Highlights in Charlotte
28th Annual Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas
The 28th Annual Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas returns to Plaza Midwood from June 12–15, 2025. As the largest and oldest Juneteenth event in the Southeast, the festival features four days of free, multicultural celebrations. Attendees can expect diverse food, art, music, and specialty items, with vendors traveling from across the country and Africa. Highlights include:
- Juneteenth Freedom & Unity March: Kicking off Saturday, June 14th, this march promotes peace and unity.
- Drum Circle & Live Entertainment: African drumming, local performers, and international artists fill the air with rhythm and energy.
- Youth Cultural Camp: On June 12th, kids ages 4–16 participate in crafts, tie-dye, and cultural workshops.
- Healthcare Village & Children’s Village: Free health screenings, wellness sessions, stories, and interactive activities designed for families.
The festival's deep-rooted ties to Charlotte's community and history make it a must-attend event for 2025.
For more details, visit the festival news page.
Juneteenth Art Fest at Shoppes at University Place
Art lovers will not want to miss the second Juneteenth Art Fest, lighting up the University area on June 19th. From 4:00 p.m., over 10,000 visitors are expected to enjoy live music, compelling spoken word performances, local visual artists, and a runway show spotlighting African fashion. Small business vendors, family-friendly workshops, and creative activities ensure there is something for everyone.
Catch Charlotte’s own “Drummer King” Kingston Price and witness local artists paint live by the water, bringing Juneteenth’s legacy to life through art. Read more about the event on K 104.7’s article.
Four Days of Culture and Connection
The spirit of freedom and unity weaves through every aspect of Charlotte’s Juneteenth 2025 celebrations. Sunday worship, fashion shows by Senegalese designers, and the awarding of the Marilyn Griffith Turner Scholarship highlight excellence, progress, and cultural pride. For a full overview of the festivities, view the detailed summary at Kiss 95.1.
Why Participate in Juneteenth 2025 Events?
Juneteenth’s significance goes beyond remembrance—it creates opportunities for joy, healing, and connection. In Charlotte, the focus is on bringing people together, celebrating heritage, and supporting youth and local entrepreneurs. Whether you attend for the music, art, history lessons, or fellowship, these events invite everyone to honor the journey toward freedom and equality.
Plan Your Visit
Most events are free and open to all. Organizers ensure accessibility, with shuttle services and family-friendly schedules. Mark your calendar for June 12–15, 2025, and Juneteenth itself on June 19th, to experience the fullness of Charlotte’s unity and vibrancy.
Additional Resources
- 28th Annual Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas
- Charlotte’s Juneteenth Art Fest 2025
- Four-Day Juneteenth Celebration Overview
Join Charlotte in honoring Juneteenth 2025 through celebration, learning, and unity. Come together for a festival that remembers the past, celebrates the present, and inspires the future!