At Least 6 Things To Do in the Kalamazoo Area to Honor Juneteenth

Juneteenth, otherwise known as Freedom Day, Liberation Day and Emancipation Day, is right around the corner.

For those that don't know, the day is a celebration and commemoration of the day when slaves were finally freed in the United States, as described on Wikipedia. Now a national holiday, there are a few things happening around Kalamazoo to honor Juneteenth that you can attend. And unlike some other lists floating around, you won't have to pay a subscription to read about them!

Get our free mobile app

1. Juneteenth Basketball Playoffs at Wings Event Center

Not only will this be a playoff game but will feature a dunk contest and 3 point contest as well. Harlem Globetrotter Dunkin' Doug Anderson will be there to be a part of the festivities. Read more below:

2. 2021 Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom Presented by Soul Artistry LLC

Once again, this event will be virtual. It will focus on amplifying youth voices with all youth participants. The event will be streamed live from 1:00pm - 3:00pm and is a family friendly event. Last year, this same event drew over 7k viewers! And, I'm sure, will receive similar support this year. For more information check out Soul Artistry's Facebook Page. 

3. The Kalamazoo Nature Center

This isn't an event on a specific day. Instead, the Kalamazoo Nature Center is offering free admission through the month June. On their website they said, "We especially invite and welcome the Black community to commemorate Juneteenth at KNC. Our grounds offer a refuge of peace and quiet, a green place where families can gather to wander our many trails." Of course, all are welcome. If you'd like to take advantage of the free admission simply tell the Welcome Staff that you're there to celebrate Juneteenth.

4. Black Arts and Culture Center Promotes Minority Owned Business

A very easy way to show support is to go shopping! The Black Arts and Culture Center will be providing a platform to showcase local minority owned businesses through video. The Kalamazoo Public Library will then celebrate those businesses by posting the video on their KPL TV Channel at 12:30pm on June 19th. Those wanting to submit their businesses should know there is a deadline of June 10th. For more information, contact Dani at Black Arts and Culture Center: programs@blackartskalamazoo.org.

5. 2021 Battle Creek Juneteenth Family Day Celebration

Instead of just one day, Battle Creek is celebrating over two days. They're also holding a Juneteenth video contest for youth grades 3-12. Deadlines are fast approaching. If you're interested make sure to follow the Battle Creek Juneteenth celebration on Facebook. 

6. Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration in Downtown Kalamazoo 

This event is from 12-6pm at the Arcadia Creek Festival Site, is free to attend and will be packed full of entertainment from local groups. Follow the official event page on Facebook for all updates and information.