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Guide to Juneteenth Celebrations in Albany County
Friday, June 6, 2025 12:00 PM
by Morgan Hughes
Celebrate Juneteenth in Albany County! This historic holiday commemorating what is considered to be the effective end of slavery in the US has been observed since June 19, 1865. Throughout Albany join in events celebrating freedom, unity, diversity, and Black history and culture. Scroll on to learn more about Albany's Juneteenth celebrations taking place all month long! Please note that the majority of events take place on Saturday, June 14.
Schuyler Mansion | June 7 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Free
Once a colonial Dutch holiday, Pinkster became a vibrant African American celebration of family, community, and cultural identity. This free, family-friendly festival honors African American history and culture with music, dance, crafts, storytelling, and food available for purchase from Allie B’s Cozy Kitchen.
Historic Cherry Hill | June 12 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM | $30
Honor Juneteenth with an intimate concert at Historic Cherry Hill! This evening of music showcases selections from the personal collection of William James Knapp, a musician, piano tuner, store clerk, porter, nurse, butler for the Van Rensselaers, and a descendant of the last woman enslaved at Cherry Hill. Enjoy popular, classical, and parlor music from the Gilded Age and gain insight into Knapp’s remarkable life.
NYS Museum | June 14 | 10:00 AM | Free | Registration required
Explore stories of slavery, labor, and freedom in colonial New York through artifacts and excavations. Learn about the Powell family’s transition from enslavement to becoming one of the first African American landowners in the region and discover how archaeological research uncovers the experiences of those who navigated the challenges of building new lives in a changing world.
Ten Broeck Mansion | June 14 | 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM | Free
Celebrate the life and legacy of Rosanna Vosburgh, abolitionist, reformer, philanthropist, and paid household manager at the Ten Broeck Mansion, and her impact on Albany and beyond, including ties to the Underground Railroad in Western New York and Pennsylvania. While you’re there, experience the rich culinary traditions and archaeological heritage of Africa through interactive experiences and living history.
Washington Park | June 14 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Free
Line up in Washington Park on Saturday morning for the annual African Heritage Parade. Hosted by the Capital District YMCA (CDYMCA), this event celebrates the African Diaspora in the US and brings the community together to share cultures, contributions, and education. The parade steps off at 11 AM and leads right to the Juneteenth Celebration hosted by the Alice Moore Black Arts and Cultural Center!
Alice Moore Black Arts & Cultural Center | June 14 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Held in the historic South End of Albany, the Alice Moore Black Arts and Cultural Center continues their Juneteenth celebrations with a free, family-friendly outdoor event. Enjoy an afternoon filled with live music, art, food, and fun! This family-friendly outdoor celebration features performances, vendors, art exhibits, and a variety of kids activities.
Capital Repertory Theatre | June 14 | 11:00 AM | Free
The Neighbors for Neighbors program at theREP’s “Story Hour” is geared towards students in primary grades, story Hour is rich with content on culture and diversity by and for the BIPOC community.
Underground Railroad Education Center | June 14 | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Free
Make sure to stop by the UREC on Saturday for an afternoon honoring the historical significance of Juneteenth. Explore exhibits and displays showcasing the intersection of art and history, while enjoying performances and refreshments. Learn about Underground Railroad history with a tour of the Myers residence. The residence was home to Stephen and Harriet Myers who played an important role in the journey to freedom in the Capital Region.
Albany Public Library Delaware Branch | June 17 | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Free
Enjoy an evening of live music with local duo, The Little Zippers. This relaxed, outdoor celebration at the library’s back patio invites attendees to bring blankets and soak in the sounds of Juneteenth.
Albany Institute of History and Art | June 19 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Free
Celebrate Juneteenth with a day of art, activism, and community at the Albany Institute of History & Art. This daylong festival features hands-on activities, performances, gallery tours, and opportunities to engage with Capital Region organizations working for justice and equity.
Swinburne Park | June 19 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Free
Join the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce and Albany Community Land Trust for their annual Juneteenth Block Party at Swinburne Park. Enjoy live entertainment, vendors, food, cultural exhibits, and a youth zone during this spirited community celebration.
Anywhere | All Month Long | Free
Cap City Runners is honoring the 160th anniversary of Juneteenth with a 160-mile walk/run challenge throughout the month of June. Participation is open to all. Track your progress on Strava and move together in unity all month long!
More on Juneteenth
Read more on Juneteenth with guest blog post "New York's Relation to Juneteenth" written by Paul Stewart. Stewart is an independent researcher and co-founder of the Underground Railroad Education Center. The blog post details the history of emancipation celebrations in New York beginning in 1827.
Author: Morgan Hughes
Morgan Hughes is the Marketing Assistant for Discover Albany. She grew up in Schenectady, NY before attending SUNY New Paltz to study Digital Media Management & English. While attending school, she found a love for both marketing and storytelling. After returning to the Capitol Region, she joined Discover Albany to help showcase the stories of Albany County and exemplify to both visitors and locals the countless amazing things happening in the area.
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