Rochester invites the community to celebrate Juneteenth

Rochester, New York – The City of Rochester is preparing to mark Juneteenth with an afternoon of music, food, reflection, and community spirit as residents gather for a special block party and ceremonial flag raising at Austin Steward Plaza.

The event is scheduled to run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, at the plaza along the Genesee Riverway Trail on State Street, between East Main and Andrews streets. City leaders and local organizations are encouraging families, friends, and neighbors to come together and celebrate the holiday while recognizing its deep historical significance.

The festivities will begin with a ceremonial Juneteenth flag raising at 11 a.m. Mayor Malik D. Evans will be joined by representatives from the City of Rochester Black Heritage Committee, Monroe County, the Juneteenth Festival, and the Juneteenth 5K to officially open the celebration.

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“As we raise the Juneteenth flag and gather as a community, we honor the resilience, strength and determination of those who fought for freedom, and reaffirm our commitment to creating opportunities for all Rochester residents to thrive,” said Mayor Evans. “I invite everyone to come out to Austin Steward Plaza to celebrate the moment with great food, music and company.”

In addition to the ceremony, organizers have planned a lively community block party featuring local entertainment and a variety of food vendors. Attendees will have the chance to enjoy offerings from Dar’s Delight Homemade Ice Cream, Island in the Sun, Rochester Kettle Corn, Mr. Squeeze Beverages, and Everything iz Good, giving visitors plenty of options to sample while spending the afternoon downtown.

The event will also showcase a Juneteenth-themed bus wrap from the Regional Transit Service (RTS), highlighting the holiday’s importance and bringing added color to the celebration. Live performances by local musician Paul Boutte and talented ROC Music students are expected to provide a festive soundtrack throughout the gathering, while community organizations will host information tables to connect residents with local resources and programs.

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Juneteenth is officially observed each year on June 19 and is recognized as both a city and federal holiday. The day commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, marking the moment in 1865 when news of emancipation finally reached enslaved people in Texas, nearly two-and-a-half years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued.

For Rochester officials and community partners, the annual celebration is more than a historical observance. It is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices and struggles that shaped the nation, while celebrating progress, culture, and the shared commitment to building a stronger and more inclusive community for future generations.