OKLAHOMA –Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. Across Oklahoma, communities are honoring this significant day with festivals, runs, music, and cultural events.
From Tulsa’s historic Greenwood District to events in Oklahoma City, Norman and communities across the state, celebrations will feature festivals, music, educational programs and family-friendly activities. Here are several Juneteenth events happening across Oklahoma this year.
The Tulsa Juneteenth Festival returns for a multi-day celebration honoring freedom, culture and community in the heart of Tulsa’s historic Greenwood District. The event celebrates the legacy of Black Wall Street while bringing generations together through music, family activities and community gatherings.
When: June 18-21
Where: Greenwood District, Tulsa
Details: The festival features a variety of events including conversations, awards, a prayer walk and worship service, Souseeteenth celebration, 5K and 1-mile run, kids zone, youth activities, live entertainment, main stage performances and community gatherings. The celebration highlights Tulsa’s history, the Greenwood community and the ongoing impact of Juneteenth.
Juneteenth on the East returns to Oklahoma City for a multi-day celebration honoring African American freedom, culture and community. The festival stretches through the East End District and features music, art, food, education and family-friendly activities.
When: June 18-21
Where: East End District, NE 23rd Street between N. Kelham Avenue and N. Hood Street, Oklahoma City
Details: The celebration includes a creative panel, 5K run/walk, vendor marketplace, kids zone, youth basketball tournament, live music, food trucks, community awards and a Juneteenth concert at the Oklahoma City Zoo Amphitheatre featuring headliner Lupe Fiasco. Additional events include a Sunday dinner at Innovation Hall.
The Oklahoma Historical Society will host a free educational program commemorating Juneteenth with a panel discussion focused on the history of Freedmen in Indian Territory and the continued impact of that history in Oklahoma.
When: 6:30 p.m., Thursday, June 18 (doors open at 6 p.m.)
Where: Oklahoma History Center, Oklahoma City
Details: The event, titled “Oklahoma, Freedmen and the Promise of a New Day,” will feature a panel discussion with historians and advocates exploring Freedmen history, tribal citizenship and the legacy of Juneteenth. The free event is sponsored by the OHS Black Heritage Committee, with light refreshments available. No registration is required.
The Norman Juneteenth Festival returns for its sixth annual celebration, bringing the community together for an evening honoring African American culture, history and resilience. The free, family-friendly event will feature live entertainment, food, vendors and fireworks.
When: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday, June 19
Where: Reaves Park, 2501 Jenkins Ave., Norman
Details: Community celebration featuring live performances, food trucks, vendors, games, educational opportunities, a youth art show, domino tournament, line dancing and a fireworks show. This year’s theme is “Celebrating the Freedom & Resilience of African Americans Then, Now & Forever.”
The Bartlesville Cultural Center hosts its third annual Juneteenth Celebration, bringing the community together for an evening of cultural heritage, entertainment and connection. The citywide event celebrates Juneteenth through food, music, art and local vendors.
When: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, June 19
Where: Unity Square, 300 SE Adams Blvd., Bartlesville
Details: Community celebration featuring a BBQ cookoff, live music from Full Flava Kings, vendors, art and additional activities honoring Juneteenth and African American culture.
The Juneteenth Block Party returns to Vinita for a family-friendly celebration featuring activities for all ages. Hosted by Battle in the Saddle Pony Express Relays, the event follows the Juneteenth parade and offers a day of fun, games and community connection.
When: Friday, June 19
Where: Attucks Park, 401-499 E. Delaware Ave., Vinita
Details: Free community event featuring a kids zone, bounce houses, games, face painting and more family activities.
