South Side YMCA Juneteenth Celebration and Community BBQ

South Side YMCA Juneteenth Celebration and Community BBQ

Juneteenth is a time of reflection and rejoicing — a time of celebration!

Also called Juneteenth Independence Day, Freedom Day, and Emancipation Day, the holiday marks June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger read federal orders in Galveston, Texas, stating that all enslaved people were free.

Here at the South Side YMCA, we’re commemorating this monumental day in history by hosting our annual Juneteenth Celebration and Community BBQ on Saturday, June 17,  from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.! Join us as we celebrate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and the achievement of Black Americans, Black history, and Black joy!

This free event will feature youth STEAM activities, games, music, food, and more. All you need to bring is yourself and your family, friends, and neighbors! We encourage attendees to also bring their grills and coolers.

Extra exciting: For the third year in a row, Chicago Culture Gear, a local Black-owned business, is selling their Juneteenth “Freedom Day” and “Flag” t-shirts, with 10% of proceeds supporting South Side YMCA programs and initiatives.

See you there!

Juneteenth Celebration and Community BBQ
Saturday, June 17 | 11 a.m.
South Side YMCA
6330 S. Stony Island Ave.
Chicago, IL 60637