This weekend, Colorado is gearing up to commemorate Juneteenth with a series of festive and family-friendly events. This state and federal holiday mark ...
This weekend, Colorado is gearing up to commemorate Juneteenth with a series of festive and family-friendly events. This state and federal holiday mark the historic moment when the last enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, learned about their freedom on June 19, 1865, two years post the Emancipation Proclamation. The celebrations across various Colorado communities honor this significant day with joy, resilience, and a reflection on the promise of liberty.
Denver’s Long-standing Juneteenth Celebrations
For over 70 years, Denver has been at the forefront of Juneteenth celebrations, particularly in the iconic Five Points neighborhood. Norman Harris, the driving force behind the Juneteenth Music Festival in Denver, is orchestrating a three-day event to mark the occasion. According to Harris, Juneteenth symbolizes freedom, joy, resilience, and legacy, encapsulating a blend of historical reverence and future prospects.
Exciting Lineup of Events in Denver
This year’s Juneteenth Music Festival in Denver spans three days, offering a diverse range of activities:
- June 19: Southern Soul at Spangalang from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Tickets are required for entry.
- June 20: Juneteenth Parade, Street Festival, and Performers starting at noon at Manual High School until 8:00 p.m.
- June 21: Juneteenth Hop featuring live music from 2:00 p.m. to midnight at multiple venues along Welton Street.
Denver Museum of Nature and Science Celebration
On June 19, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science will host Juneteenth: Freedom Day, offering free general admission to all visitors. The festivities include special performances, music, and family-friendly activities, extending the museum’s hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. to accommodate the celebrations.
Join the Juneteenth Festivities Across Colorado
Various cities in Colorado are embracing Juneteenth with open arms, showcasing a blend of cultural heritage and community spirit:
Aurora
On June 21, Aurora’s Juneteenth Celebration at Town Center at Aurora, in collaboration with Mayor Coffman’s office, promises a day filled with live music, R&B performances, inspiring speeches, games, activities, and local vendors. The event aims to celebrate freedom, culture, and community in a welcoming environment.
Thornton
Head to the Harley Brown Amphitheater in Thornton on June 19, 2025, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. for an evening of music, art, reflection, and community celebration. This free event is family-friendly and focuses on honoring freedom, culture, and resilience.
Northglenn
Northglenn Arts invites you to the Juneteenth: A Freedom Celebration on June 19, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event, held at Festival Lawn, features live performances, community engagement activities, and cultural celebrations, including acts by renowned artists and local talents.
Extended Juneteenth Celebrations in Colorado
Juneteenth festivities extend beyond Denver to neighboring cities, offering a rich tapestry of events and activities:
Fort Collins
Mark your calendars for June 19-20, 2026, at Foothills Mall, for two days of music, art, food, family-friendly activities, and a vibrant community gathering. The event promises a welcoming atmosphere for all attendees to come together and celebrate.
Greeley
In Greeley, join the Friday Fest on June 19, from 6 to 10 p.m., at Downtown Greeley and UNC’s Marcus Garvey Cultural Center. The event features live music, free caricatures, and cultural showcases, with additional celebrations continuing on June 20 at Everett Acres, offering a day of family-friendly festivities.
Boulder
City of Boulder presents a Juneteenth Flag Raising & Commemoration on June 17 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Penfield Tate II Municipal Building. The event is part of a series of activities and commemorations throughout the month to honor the significance of Juneteenth.
Longmont and Lafayette
On June 20, 2026, Longmont and Lafayette will host a day filled with delicious food, captivating entertainment, special guests, and a strong sense of community spirit. Join the festivities at Roosevelt Park in Longmont from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and at N. Harrison Street between E. Simpson & E. Geneseo in Lafayette from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Source of the article: www.cbsnews.com