MANCHESTER, NH – Now a federal holiday, Juneteenth, which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, is a “day of action,” according to President Biden, who signed the June 19 holiday into law yesterday. “We can’t rest until the promise of equality is fulfilled for every one of us in every corner of this nation. That to me is the meaning of Juneteenth. That’s what it’s all about.”
Here in New Hampshire, Governor Sununu recently signed a bill declaring Juneteenth the emancipation of Black Americans who had been enslaved, a state holiday. New Hampshire celebrates Juneteenth with festivals and activities throughout the state. Here is a list of local events where you can honor Juneteenth.
RELATED STORY: Understanding Juneteenth: A perspective from an African-born American
Juneteenth Block Party
When: Sat Jun 19, 2 – 4 p.m.
Where: THE HOP KNOT, Manchester
What: Juneteenth Block Party
The Hop Knot hosts a Juneteenth Block Party, with live music from PanNeubean Steel, local artists and the opportunity to participate in a local Black History Scavenger hunt. Comfort food menu provided by Soel Sistas Catering.
Juneteenth Jubilee
When: Sat, Jun 19, 10 p.m.
Where: 61 Canal St, Manchester, NH
What: Juneteenth Jubilee
Juneteenth Celebration/Dance Party. No Covid Restrictions. VIP Available Curated by: Dj Dutch, and Dj Niic
Juneteenth Nashua
When: Sat, Jun 19, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: Nashua Public Library, Nashua
What: Junteenth, Nashua
In-person, socially distanced Juneteenth celebration in Nashua.
Juneteenth Celebration Found Lineage
When: June 17,18 & 19
Where: Black Heritage Trail 2021, Portsmouth
What: Juneteenth Celebration Found Lineage
Celebrating African American Roots & Branches June 17, 18 & 19, 2021 Events include: Workshop, concert, keynote address, & ancestor Reverence Drumming & dance.
A Joyful Juneteenth Celebration with N’Kenge
When: Fri, Jun 18, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Where: The Music Hall, Portsmouth, NH
What: A Joyful Juneteenth Celebration with N’Kenge
A socially distanced live show, in collaboration with the Black Heritage Trail of NH with international award-winning singer and performer, who originated the role Mary Wells in the hit show Motown, N’Kenge.
Exeter Arts and Music Fest – Juneteenth Edition
When: Saturday, June 19, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: Swasey Parkway, Exeter
What: Exeter Arts and Music Fest – Juneteenth edition
Additional Resource:
Manchester’s Juneteenth official website