Juneteenth Celebration Events Across The Capital Region

Right now, I’m sure we can all use a break. There’s so much going on right now with people protesting police brutality and racism, COVID-19 still taking lives, in addition to just regular daily crime. So I’ve decided to take a break and to talk about something positive. I want to take this opportunity to let you know what’s going on in the city of Albany to celebrate Juneteenth.

I gave you a little Juneteenth history yesterday, so if you missed it just go back and read it. In a nutshell, Juneteenth is a celebration to commemorate the end of slavery. I don’t want you celebrating something you don’t know anything about.

Tonight local bands will be performing to kick off Albany’s Juneteenth celebration. Keep in mind that this celebration is going to also double as a fundraising event. The proceeds will go to organizations that support communities of color.

Tonight’s concerts will be virtual concerts playing at the Lark Hall and can be heard from Lark Street through the venue's floor to the ceiling windows from 6 to 8 p.m. Local bands Jonathan Taylor and Friends, Victory Soul Orchestra, and JB, will be performing tonight. Mercedes Williams will be emceeing. The Juneteenth celebrations will continue tomorrow on Pearl Street with free food and live entertainment 12 to 3 p.m. The event will be surrounding the African-American Cultural Center outdoor reflection garden and pool.

I hope all of you will get out this weekend and celebrate Juneteenth with the concerts, free food, and live entertainment that will be going on. Whatever you do to celebrate this weekend, remember to be respectful and honor the sacrifices of our ancestors. Don’t forget to wear your mask, use social distancing, and wash your hands because COVID-19 is not taking a break!