June 19th, or Junenteeth, is a federally observed holiday commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. Whether your interests are in music, history, arts or food, there are plenty of ways to get involved and learn more about this important observance in and around Dorchester this year.
Castle of Our Skins: Portraits of Spirituals
This one-hour children’s performance explores the world of Negro spirituals as arranged for marimba. Experience traditional songs, melodies, and the culture and communities from which they come. Saturday, June 17 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 520 Dorchester Ave. in Dorchester. Learn more.
Juneteenth Jazz Celebration
Grab a blanket or lawn chair and stop by for a free outdoor jazz concert in the garden featuring the Boston-based Fred Woodward Trio. Saturday, June 17 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at 1350 Blue Hill Ave in Mattapan. Learn more.
Juneteenth Joy Celebration
Hyde Park’s second annual community-wide event will feature performances, awards, group arts, dance activities, a local Black vendor fair, educational exhibits, activities for children and tastings from local eateries, as well as appearances from Gov. Maura Healey and Mayor Michelle Wu. Free and open to the public on Saturday, June 17 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Learn more.
The Glorious Struggle for Liberty Guided Tour
Join a National Park Ranger on a walk to historic Long Wharf and explore how Boston Harbor played a central role in the stories of enslavement and freedom seekers. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is encouraged. Saturday, June 18 and Sunday, June 19 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Learn more.
13th Annual Boston Emancipation Observance & Parade
Hosted by the Boston Juneteenth Committee and the Museum of the National Center of Afro American Artists, this annual event includes a Juneteenth flag-raising at the Dillaway-Thomas House and a community parade to the Museum of the NCAAA in Roxbury. Monday, June 19 starting at 1 p.m. Learn more.
Grove Hall Branch Library Celebration
This all-ages celebration will include music, food, guest speakers and a craft-making activity featuring African wrap dolls. Thursday, June 22 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 41 Geneva Ave. in Dorchester. Learn more.
Roxbury Freedom Cookout
This event includes tours of the historic governor’s mansion at the Shirley-Eustis House in Roxbury as well as a free cookout honoring those who were enslaved at the site almost 200 years ago. Open to all ages. Monday, June 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 33 Shirley St. in Roxbury. Learn more.
Free Museum Day
Both the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum welcome visitors for free admission and a day of programming honoring Juneteenth and the legacies of Black communities in Boston. Free tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Monday, June 19. For details visit gardnermuseum.org or mfa.org.
Do you know of other Juneteenth celebrations happening in and around DOT? Leave us a comment with the details below.
Angela Hernandez is a freelance writer and communications professional who is passionate about showcasing the fun, caring and inclusive community that is Dorchester. Imported from Detroit, she’s been getting lost in Boston since January of 2020. Sometimes a runner and always a brunch fan, you can usually find her at Carson Beach or the Harp + Bard, depending on the day. Follow her on Instagram @Ang7690
