3 days ago
Peoria celebrates Juneteenth with a powerful line-up of events and gatherings
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — The City of Peoria is coming together to honor Juneteenth with a powerful lineup of events and a united voice.
On Thursday, June 5, at 1:30 p.m., a Joint Press Conference was held at Peoria Freedom & Remembrance Memorial Park to officially kick off the community-wide celebrations.
Hosted by the Peoria Park District in collaboration with key community partners—including the City of Peoria, Peoria's Miss Juneteenth Pageant, NAACP Peoria Branch, The YANI Collective, Southside Community Center, and the Heritage Ensemble—the press conference spotlighted the many events that make up Peoria's Juneteenth Week.
Running from June 7 through June 21, Peoria's Juneteenth events will include parades, pageants, festivals, concerts, and gatherings that highlight Black excellence, resilience, and culture.
These celebrations are aimed not only to entertain, but also to educate and unite the community through music, storytelling, art, and remembrance.
Local leaders, including Mayor Rita Ali and Robert L. Johnson Sr., along with representatives from each organizing group, will speak at the press conference about the significance of Juneteenth and what each event contributes to the celebration.
Event Highlights Include:
• Peoria's Miss Juneteenth Pageant
Saturday, June 7 | 3:00–6:00 PM | Carver Center
A showcase of young Black women exemplifying leadership and cultural pride.
• Ernestine Jackson Juneteenth Freedom Parade
Saturday, June 14 | 12:00 PM | NAACP Peoria Branch Building
A lively parade honoring the legacy of Black freedom fighters.
• Juneteenth Fest: Black Wall Street
Saturday, June 14 | 11:00 AM–6:00 PM | John H. Gwynn Jr. Park
A vibrant festival celebrating Black entrepreneurship and culture.
• 26th Annual Juneteenth Father's Day Choral Celebration
Sunday, June 15 | 3:00–5:00 PM | ICC Performing Arts Center
An uplifting musical tribute from the renowned Heritage Ensemble.
• Jubilee Day: A Juneteenth Celebration
Wednesday, June 19 | 1:00–9:00 PM | Glen Oak Park
A full day of family-friendly fun, performances, and community gathering.
• Freedom Fest 2025
Friday, June 21 | 12:00–4:00 PM | Trewyn Park
A joyful celebration hosted by the Southside Community Center to close out the week.
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