Memphis’ annual Juneteenth celebrations will kick off early with events beginning this weekend and continuing through the next, closer to the official holiday on June 19.
The 32nd Annual Memphis Juneteenth Festival is set for Friday and Saturday, June 6 and 7, at Medical District Park (formerly Sciences Park) at Madison Avenue and South Dunlap Street. The celebration runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day and is free and open to the public.
In between the two weekends is the annual Juneteenth Freedom Luncheon at 11:30 Thursday, June 12, at the Holiday Inn University of Memphis Grand Ballroom, 3700 Central Ave. Award-winning journalist Roland Martin will be the keynote speaker. Martin is the host and managing editor of #RolandMartinUnfiltered, the first daily online show dedicated to news and analysis from an explicitly African American viewpoint, and CEO of the Black Star Network, an OTT platform featuring diverse news and cultural programming.
Telisa Franklin, who was the first to organize Juneteenth celebrations in Memphis, notes the importance of the celebration.
“For over three decades, I have personally invested in this festival because I’ve seen how vital it is to our community,” Franklin said. “It’s not just an event — it’s an investment in our future, a celebration of our history and a platform for our voices.”
With Black Music Month also taking place in June, Franklin wanted to ensure collaboration over competition for attendance, which spurred the earlier scheduling of Juneteenth events. “I want to ensure that all Juneteenth celebrations receive strong support and have the opportunity to be successful without overlapping or competing events,” she said.
Recognizing the importance of unity and shared purpose, she added, “There’s enough space for all of us to shine together.”
By coordinating with other community events and artists, the Memphis Juneteenth Festival continues to serve as a unifying platform.
This year’s festival carries the theme of empowerment, with a strong emphasis on celebrating “Men of Impact” and amplifying Memphis’ diverse cultural contributions. Other festival highlights include:
- Live performances from local and national artists including Courtney Little, J. Buck, Gerald Richardson, Eddie Valero, Changing Faces and Kut Klose, in honor of Black Music Month.
- A Greek Yard Show and Greek Stroll showcasing the spirit and tradition of Black fraternities and sororities.
- A car show featuring over 100 custom and classic vehicles.
- Theater and dance performances, along with a full musical production.
- A run-walk event promoting wellness, unity and community engagement.
Beyond entertainment, the festival aims to educate and empower. A political round table discussion, speeches from local leaders and a segment honoring elder men in the community are among the many activities designed to deepen understanding of Juneteenth’s historical and modern-day significance.
Importantly, this year’s festival takes a strong stance on public health. With Memphis ranking second nationally in rising HIV rates within the Black community, Score Health has joined as the presenting sponsor to help raise awareness and provide education and resources throughout the event.
Also, attendees can expect a diverse selection of local food trucks offering everything from traditional Southern comfort foods to international cuisine and vegetarian fare. A curated arts and crafts market will feature Black-owned businesses and local artisans.
While Juneteenth was only recently recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, Memphis Juneteenth has long been a staple in the city’s cultural calendar.
“We’ve been doing this long before it was popular,” Franklin said. “Now that the world is catching up, we’re proud to say that Memphis Juneteenth has become the official celebration for our city and county.”
Tickets for the Juneteenth Freedom Luncheon are $125 per person, with tables of 10 available for $1,000. Visit www.901tix.com or call 901-281-6337 for table reservations and sponsorship opportunities. For more information about this week’s events, visit www.MemphisJuneteenth.com.
Other Juneteenth events in Memphis
– The Major Taylor 5th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Ride, on June 14, starts at Wiseacre Brewery, 2783 Broad Ave. This community bike ride offers route options of 23, 44 or 63 miles. Riders of all levels are welcome. Registration includes support along the route and a post-ride beverage at Wiseacre.
– Juneteenth at the National Civil Rights Museum, June 19. Admission to the museum will be free from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests can explore exhibits that reflect on African American history and take part in Community Day activities that honor the historical significance of Juneteenth.
– Juneteenth Douglass Freedom & Heritage Festival, June 20-22, at Douglass Park. With more than 30 years of tradition, this neighborhood-based celebration promises free concerts, delicious food, local vendors and a welcoming, community-centered atmosphere.
