5th Annual Juneteenth Festival
Join us as we celebrate African American Freedom on Friday, June 19. This FREE family-friendly event will bring vendors, food, drinks, live music and entertainment. Q Parker, one of the founding members of 112, is returning as our national act this year. If you missed him last year, here’s your chance to see him LIVE!
In partnership with the City of Portsmouth, the Urban League of Hampton Roads invites you to the 5th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Festival—a vibrant community celebration honoring Black freedom, culture, and resilience.
This year’s festival brings together the best of Hampton Roads and beyond with a full day of music, food, art, and local businesses. Past festivals have drawn thousands and featured unforgettable performances by artists like Sunshine Anderson, Syleena Johnson, Blackstreet, 702, Hi-Five, and Montel Jordan. Follow us on social media for announcements about this year’s entertainment lineup!
What to Expect:
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Live Music: Enjoy a lineup of local and national performers bringing energy, soul, and celebration to the stage all day long.
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Local Vendors: Shop and support minority-owned businesses offering everything from handmade goods to community resources.
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Food You Love: Come hungry—soul food staples, sweet treats, and refreshing drinks will be available from some of the area’s favorite food vendors.
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Art & Culture: Explore the work of BIPOC artists and creators showcasing their talents and sharing their stories.
Event Details:
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Date: Friday, June 19, 2025
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Time: 2:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
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Location: Portsmouth Waterfront
This is more than a festival—it’s a gathering of community, history, and pride. Bring your friends, bring your family, and celebrate Juneteenth with us. We’ll see you there.
See You ON JUNE 19th!
Getting Involved with Juneteenth
Become a Vendor and Spotlight Your Business to the Community
We’re building a marketplace this year that reflects the culture, creativity, and entrepreneurship in our community. This opportunity is open to product-based businesses only (non-food vendors) looking to showcase and sell their work in front of a highly engaged audience. Spots are limited and demand is high every year. If you have a product, a brand, and a story to share, this is your moment to be seen. Secure your spot early and be part of one of the region’s most impactful celebrations.
Let Your Voice Be Heard On The Main Stage
We’re also looking for talent to take the stage during our Juneteenth celebration. Music, spoken word, dance, and other live performance styles are all welcome. Selected performers will be part of our live Juneteenth experience centered on culture, expression, and community. This is your chance to perform in front of the community and be part of a powerful cultural moment. Bring your talent. Bring your voice. Let’s build the experience together. Audition applications are required and close April 29 at midnight.
Looking Back
Thank you to our incredible sponsors, dedicated vendors, and all the guests who came out to celebrate our 4th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Festival with us! Not even the weather could dampen our spirits. We kept the commUNITY celebration alive with joy, unity, and purpose. A special thank you to Roger Brown’s Restaurant and Sports Bar for graciously hosting the remainder of the evening and making it possible for us to enjoy unforgettable performances by Sunshine Anderson and Q Parker. Your support made this day truly memorable!
Special thanks to Creative Impressions for capturing the festival live in action last year.
What is the juneteenth freedom day festival?
It is a vibrant celebration of Black freedom, culture, and resilience hosted each June by the Urban League of Hampton Roads. This community-centered event brings together thousands for a powerful day of unity and joy.
Festival-goers enjoy an exciting mix of live music, local food favorites, artisan vendors, and cultural showcases that highlight the richness of the Black experience. Past lineups have featured legendary performances from artists like Syleena Johnson, Blackstreet, 702, Hi-Five, Montel Jordan, and more. The festival also uplifts local talent and minority-owned businesses, creating a space where culture, commerce, and community thrive together.
From soulful sounds and savory bites to inspiring art and meaningful connections, the Juneteenth Freedom Day Festival is more than an event. It is a celebration of heritage, progress, and pride.
Follow us on social media for updates on future dates, locations, performers, and featured vendors. Join us as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and shape a brighter future.