Sun 6/7 @ 2-8PM

It may be a little early, but if you’re ready to celebrate Juneteenth now, head down to Akron for the 2026 Downtown Akron Juneteenth Kick-Off Celebration downtown at Lock 3.

The event’s theme is “Cultivating Our Future.” Planning committee co-chair Ebony Hill says, “Juneteenth is about acknowledging the freedom, unbreakable spirit, creativity and wisdom that have always been a part of us, even in the face of adversity, and intentionally sowing those gifts into the future. This year’s celebration is an invitation for our community to come together, honor our history, celebrate our culture and plant seeds of hope, healing and possibility for the generations to come.”

All day there will be free small-group workshops on the seven principles of Kwanzaa with opportunities to reflect and create. For example, the Umoja (Unity) station will offer the chance for people to leave audio or written messages of wisdom for others, while Nia (Purpose) will feature a container gardening class.

There’ll be lots of live entertainment ion the pavilion stage: a choral performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” led by Pastor Richard Cash; a libation drum call and dance with Embracing Ur Journey; line dancing with the JustUs Line Dance Crew; a saxophone performance by Saxy Rob; storytelling by the Cleveland Association of Black Storytellers; a group stroll performance by members of the “Divine Nine” Black sororities and fraternities; and a headlining performance by Akron-based musician Jeremy Seeden. Ace Epps will emcee the event.

There will also be vendors, food trucks and information tables from organizations onsite, along with crafts and other activities.  The event is free and open to all.

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