Juneteenth is officially observed on Thursday, June 19—but, there are some Philly spots celebrating all weekend long with events, specials and other activations. And we’ve got the scoop on them all.
African American Museum in Philadelphia
Every year, the AAMP celebrates Juneteenth in Philadelphia with a huge block party, and 2025 will be no different. Hosted by Patty Jackson, the free event features live performances from Grammy Award-winning hip-hop producer (and Philly native) DJ Drama, singer Lady Alma, the Mother Bethel A.M.E. Choir and more, plus as a beer garden and food market.
Locals can also expect free book giveaways in the Kids Zone, wellness and relaxation activities at the Well-being on Wheels activation, plus, opportunities to shop at Black-owned businesses. Museum admission will also be free during the occasion, which will be in full swing from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
701 Arch St., aampmuseum.org
‘19 Portraits: Honoring Black LGBTQ+ Philadelphians’
This new exhibit is on view at the William Way Community Center until the end of the month. The showcase from artist Prince Anthony Thomas features pencil renderings of well-known and beloved figures in the LGBTQIA+ community, paired with biographies that pay homage to their contributions. The Center will be closed on Juneteenth, but Philadelphians can head to the WWCC on open dates before June 30 to catch the exhibit before it’s gone.
1315 Spruce St., waygay.org
Juneteenth Black Maker’s Market
Taking place June 19, Art Star will host a special shopping experience at the Independence Visitor Center to commemorate the holiday. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Philadelphians can sift through a variety of local Black makers, artists, and entrepreneurs while there.
599 Market St., phlvisitorcenter.com
Rex at the Royal
This Southern-style locale is celebrating Juneteenth in Philadelphia with a Block Party and Art Market set for this Saturday, June 21. The celebration will feature local creatives, DJs and different food specials. As a release notes, art vendors will fill the block, while Rex at the Royal will serve two and four-piece platters ($20, $32) of Chef Angie’s Fried Chicken Special. They’ll also be serving Watermelon spritzers ($8, or $14 with alcohol). The event is free to the public and pay-as-you-go.
1524 South St., rexphl.com
Mural Arts Philadelphia
On Thursday, June 19, from noon to 2 p.m., Mural Arts Philadelphia will team up with DiasporaDNA Story Center and the Mt. Airy Art Garage to present “Juneteenth Art’ventures.” The occasion will feature artist Justin Keller leading a printmaking workshop to create personal political posters. While there, participants will also discuss what the Declaration of Independence might say if it were written today. The event is open to anyone 16+.
7054 Germantown Ave., mtairyartgarage.org
Eastern State Penitentiary
To commemorate Juneteenth in Philadelphia, the ESP will be opening its grounds to families from 10:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on June 19. Highlights include a performance from The Black Breath Collective and Community Choir, a conversation with Dr. Kerry Sautner (President and CEO of Eastern State) and Dr. Hasan Kwame Jeffries (Associate Professor of History at The Ohio State University) and family storytime.
2027 Fairmount Ave., easternstate.org
Glen Foerd
This picturesque estate’s monthly Third Thursday event will be centered this week on Juneteenth. From 6 to 8:30 p.m., visitors can enjoy food from Thai Jai Dee, live music from Philadelphia-based multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Moustapha Noumbissi, arts and crafts, lawn games and more. Drinks will also be available for purchase, and groups can bring a blanket and chairs to enjoy the grounds and Main House, which will be open for free self-guided tours.
5001 Grant Ave., glenfoerd.org
Square 1682
To celebrate Juneteenth in Philadelphia, locals can check a limited-time dinner from chefs Cory Smith, Kori Gilliam and Moneisha Williams. The menu is available now through Saturday, June 21 and can be enjoyed as a three-course prix-fixe experience (for $45 per person) or as la carte options. Dishes span Black Eyed Pea Tartine with chipotle and collard greens; Harissa Braised Lamb Pappardelle with mint ricotta, pomegranate seeds, and olive oil; and Peach Shortcake with braised peaches and micro mint.
To accompany the menu, Square 1682 will feature a new cocktail: the Uncle Nearest Rye Sazerac made with Uncle Nearest rye, calvados, elixir combier, saline, peychaud’s bitters, and absinthe rouge. As a release notes, a portion of proceeds from the Juneteenth menu will benefit Colours Organization, a Philadelphia-based nonprofit that uplifts LGBTQ+ communities of color, with a focus on individuals of the African diaspora.
121 S 17th St., square1682.com
