LI Events This Week Commemorate Juneteenth, NY'S New Holiday

LONG ISLAND, NY —Juneteenth, which became an official state holiday in 2020, has traditionally been celebrated on June 19, the day enslaved people were told about the Emancipation Proclamation. Black communities have celebrated the holiday since then, and this year, with many Long Island townships declaring an official observation of the day, a slew of events are planned for this week and weekend.

Freeport

On Saturday, at 3 p.m. the 1st Annual Juneteenth Food Festival will be held in Cow Meadow Park. The food festival, sponsored by Fidelis Care, and organized by Black Legacy Partners LLC, will feature '80s and '90s music, and a showing of "Johnson Family Vacation" on the park lawn at 8 p.m. The event will kick off with a 2 p.m. "unity march" hosted by Long Island Unity March.

West Hempstead

Also this Saturday, from 3 to 5 p.m., the Town of North Hempstead will host a Juneteenth celebration at Martin “Bunky” Reid Park in Westbury. According to the town,"the theme of the event will be rejoicing and reflecting."

“This marks the first year Juneteenth is being recognized as an official holiday in New York State and in North Hempstead. We join together with the community in acknowledging the injustices from slavery, reflecting on the meaning of freedom, and continuing to work for equality for all.”

Elmont

A celebration is also planned in Elmont. From 4 to 9 p.m., at the Village Ave. parking lot, there will be live music, dancing, comedy and Black-owned vendors and food trucks.

"Join with us as we celebrate the156th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the United States. As we commemorate this historic event, we also want to highlight, share and support the rich black culture, talent and all the local black-owned businesses of our local community.
Elmont's Juneteenth celebration will be a day of peace and love...think family reunion vibes."

Brookhaven

The Town of Brookhaven is also hosting a Juneteenth event. The seventh annual Juneteenth celebration will be Saturday 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Longwood Estate, 205 Longwood Rd. There will be lunch, dessert, trivia, music, dancing and activities for kids.

Huntington

In Huntington, an adults-only mixer event on Friday night kicks off a weekend of Juneteenth celebrations. The Queen's Dream Juneteenth mixer will be held at The DoubleTree by Hilton, and is open to those over 30, with an advanced ticket.

On Saturday a free festival is geared for the whole family at the A.D. Lewis Community Center from noon to 5 p.m. There will be outdoor activities like inflatables, live performances, games and a DJ.