Chicago is bustling with activities as local museums and organizations offer free admission and host events in celebration of Juneteenth. While some venues, such as the Art Institute Chicago, will be closed during the holiday, plenty of other institutions are opening their doors to commemorate the occasion—often with waived entry fees for Illinois residents.
Among the roster of establishments offering a reprieve from admission charges is the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center which, according to NBC Chicago, kicks off an event at 10:00 A.M. featuring live performances, food, and family-friendly activities. The Field Museum and the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry are also waving their entry fees for the day—the latter being formerly known as the Museum of Science and Industry.
In addition to museum outings, WGN-TV highlights a variety of community events, including the Juneteenth Freedom Ride for biking enthusiasts, the One Northside Juneteenth Celebration with a cookout and DJ, and a marketplace celebrating Black creativity and entrepreneurship called the Juneteenth Freedom Market. Skipping a museum for some community engagement on Juneteenth can be an enriching experience in its own right.
Those inclined to commemorate through learning can catch a glimpse of a copy of the Emancipation Proclamation at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which also offers free admission on the day of Juneteenth. "This is not just a celebration it’s a cultural experience," Carol Johnson, founder of Westside Cultural Alliance, told WGN-TV.
Chicago offers a panorama of opportunities to celebrate freedom and cultural heritage on Juneteenth. Check official museum and event websites for the full details to plan an informative and memorable day in the city.
