Juneteenth, a federal holiday since 2021, commemorates the emancipation of the last enslaved people, who were freed by Union Troops in Texas in 1865.
From a Juneteenth pageant to a memorial concert, here’s how area communities will celebrate the holiday this year.
Burlington
The Capitol Theatre in Burlington will host a Juneteenth celebration featuring a tribute to the late Anthony “DJ Antbomb” Campbell.
The DJ Antbomb Juneteenth Tribute Show will be from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, June 20, and will feature performances by Royal Steppers, Riri, Isabella Schaeffer, Tommy Bones, Dave Mack, Milo & Austin, XClone, Augustina Gonzalez, and Sangromatics.
Tickets for the family-friendly show are $13 and available online.
Galesburg
Galesburg’s Juneteenth community celebration features a number of events over the next week, including a Miss Knox County Juneteenth Pageant beginning at 5 p.m. on Friday, June 13, in the Ford Center for Fine Arts at Knox College.
There will also be a free “Journey Into Jazz” concert at 6 p.m. Friday, June 13, in Kresge Recital Hall at Knox College.
The official Juneteenth celebration kickoff is from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 14 at 460 Mulberry St.
There will be remarks from local leaders, as well as music, performances, food trucks, games, and vendors.
A full schedule of events is available online.
Keokuk
Keokuk’s Juneteenth Celebration Concert this year features Unity of Fungk, a band that describes itself as the “baddest show band in the Midwest.”
The concert is at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 21 in the Rand Park Pavilion.
Bring lawn chairs and blankets and dress appropriately for the weather. There is no admission cost. This concert is sponsored by K.A.R.E.
Macomb
Macomb’s annual Juneteenth celebration is from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 14, at Mt. Calvary Church of God in Christ, 1500 E. Pierce St.
Dubbed “Juneteenth … because history matters,” the event will include food, music, giveaways, games, talent show, raffles, and more. There will even be a mega foam blaster sponsored by the McDonough County Housing Authority
Admission is free.
Monmouth
Monmouth’s Juneteenth celebration will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 19, on the grounds of St. James AME Church, 900 S. Third St.
The event will begin with a prayer session, followed by a history of Juneteenth by Wendel Hunigan, a performance by Semenya McCord, and a message delivered by the Rev. Dr. Cyrus Burns.
There will also be special music by Doc Patterson.
