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Buffalo's Juneteenth Festival set to celebrate freedom, culture, and resilience this weekend
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — One of the largest Juneteenth celebrations in the country returns to Buffalo this weekend, promising two days of music, food, art and history at Martin Luther King Jr. Park.
The annual Juneteenth Festival, approaching its 50th anniversary, honors the end of slavery in the United States and highlights the strength and resilience of the Black community. Organizers say this year's celebration is not only about honoring the past but also about building a stronger future.
'We know who we are,' said Carrone Evon Crump, president of the Juneteenth Festival of Buffalo. 'Empowered as a people, we're just as smart and worthy as anybody else. And just to be able to experience that on a holiday, now that it's a federal holiday, it's psychologically empowering.'
The festivities begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday with the annual Juneteenth Parade. The route starts at St. Louis and Genesee streets and leads to the park. The parade, which draws large crowds every year, is a key part of the weekend's events.
Organizers say the festival is about creating lasting memories and inspiring future generations.
'It feels full circle,' said Michael Smith, parade co-chair. 'As a kid, I watched the parade, came to the park, enjoyed the culture and the food. Now I have the opportunity, the privilege and the honor to create that same experience for the next generation.'
Festivalgoers can expect live performances, local vendors, cultural programming and activities for all ages.
For a full schedule of events, click here.
Gwyn Napier is a reporter who joined the News 4 team in 2025. See more of her work by clicking here.
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