Celebrations of Juneteenth, the holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, are set to take place at Bethune Park this coming weekend, June 14 and 15. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, in collaboration with the Juneteenth Community Board, is bringing a series of events to the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center and Bethune Park, according to information released from the Minneapolis Parks website.
Attendees can kick off the festivities with the Friday night screening of "The Lost Negroes of North America," a silent film accompanied by a live music soundtrack and MC AJ Flowers. The screening is slated for 6 pm at the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center, located at 1304 10th Ave. N. In the morning on Saturday, the Juneteenth Community Planning Committee is set to host a panel discussion on "The Black Family," moderated by AJ Flowers beginning at 9 am.
The main event on Saturday, June 15, will be celebratory Juneteenth Festival, which runs from 12-6 pm at Bethune Park. The afternoon is packed with attractions including food, music, entertainment, and carnival rides. Hosting the event will be AJ Flowers and Da Black Pearll, with musical vibes provided by DJ Dime and special guest headliner Dwele. A lineup of local talent set to perform includes Ashley Dubose, Kelz Musik, Bdot Croc, Carolyne Naomi, and others—all set to create a day of vibrant performances.
Contributing to the free community event, several sponsors and partners have been acknowledged by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and Juneteenth Community Board. These include the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center, Bremer Bank, Eastside Food Co-op, IBEW Local 292, and Minneapolis NAACP. The park's celebration aims to strengthen community bonds and honor the historical significance of Juneteenth as a symbol of freedom and African American history.
