The city of Philadelphia is prepping for a substantial gathering this Sunday, as the Juneteenth Parade and Festival returns to honor the day slavery was abolished in the United States. According to the City of Philadelphia's official website, Malcolm X Park will play host to one of the nation's largest Juneteenth celebrations, attracting thousands.
Setting out from The Mann Center, the Philadelphia Juneteenth Parade is expected to animate 52nd Street to Malcolm X Park. The City's website details a parade featuring everyone from marching bands to vintage cars, which, across a 1.5-mile route, float participants will include a diverse cast of characters. The role of Grand Marshalls will be taken up this year by notable figures such as Dr. Ala Stanford, Earl Young, Jannie Blackwell, and Russell Thompkins, Jr. Viewers unable to attend in person can catch the broadcast on 6ABC from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Following the parade, the Juneteenth Festival & Marketplace takes over Malcolm X Park. Here, festival-goers will have the opportunity to browse a wide array of food and retail offerings from a variety of artisans. Everything from live music to a family-friendly atmosphere is promised. Scheduled to perform across multiple stages are artists such as DJ Kool, Nailah Blackman, Ria4Reel, Dej, and DJ Caution, providing a mix of musical entertainment.
Two main stages will anchor the musical festivities: the Muhammad Ali Way Stage, bursting with beats at the corner of 52nd Street & Larchwood, and Malcolm X Park Stage, situated proudly at 51st Street & Pine.
