Great Lakes Bay area Juneteenth celebrations

Juneteenth, observed each year on June 19, commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned they were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Today, the holiday is celebrated across the country with events that honor Black history, culture and freedom. Residents in Bay, Saginaw and Midland counties will have several opportunities to take part in that celebration through festivals, concerts, community gatherings and family activities.

United We Rise Bay City

The Bay City Branch NAACP is inviting the community to come together for two free Juneteenth events this June, offering a mix of celebration, reflection, entertainment, and wellness for families across the Great Lakes Bay Region.

Wednesday, June 17: Health & Wellness Fair

The Juneteenth celebration begins with a free Health & Wellness Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Great Lakes Dream Center, located at 700 Lafayette Avenue. Organizers say the event is designed to help residents prioritize their health while connecting with neighbors and local resources.

More than 16 healthcare providers are expected to offer free screenings and wellness information throughout the afternoon. Attendees can also enjoy free food and giveaways during the event. Whether residents come for a health screening or simply to spend time with the community, organizers say everyone is welcome.

Saturday, June 20: United We Rise Juneteenth Concert & Festival

The celebration continues with the United We Rise Concert and Festival at Wenonah Park from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The family-friendly outdoor festival will feature live music, performances, food vendors, and activities for all ages in downtown Bay City.

This year’s concert lineup includes Ifficial Reggae Movement performing reggae music, Grupo Vidal bringing a mix of Tejano, country, bachata, and polka, and Sound Proof Band performing Motown favorites.

In addition to the music, festivalgoers can enjoy video gaming stations for children, poetry performances, dance presentations, a fashion show, and food trucks offering a wide range of global street food.

Before the festival begins, a community church service will take place at 11 a.m. at Wenonah Park. The service will be led by Pastor Ben Smith and feature music from the Faith International Ministry Choir. Organizers say everyone is welcome to attend.

Saginaw Juneteenth Celebration to Honor “The Power of Legacy”

The Saginaw Juneteenth Celebration is returning with a week of events recognizing African American history, culture and community leadership. This year’s theme, “The Power of Legacy: Honoring Saginaw’s Legacies Past and Present,” highlights the impact of those who have helped shape the community while inspiring future generations.

Saturday, June 13: Legacy Gala

The Legacy Gala is scheduled for 5 p.m. at Horizons Conference Center. The event will recognize local leaders and residents whose contributions have left a lasting impact on Saginaw while celebrating the achievements of past and present generations.

Friday, June 19: Family Affair and Freedom Festival

Family Affair will take place from 1 to 5 p.m. at Morley Plaza and feature youth engagement activities, legacy-themed games and family-focused programming. Organizers hope the event will encourage intergenerational connections while celebrating the community’s shared history.

The Juneteenth Freedom Festival will also be held at Morley Plaza from noon to 5 p.m. The festival will include food vendors, entertainment, community resources and family activities. The free event is open to the public and serves as one of the celebration’s largest gatherings.

Saturday, June 20: Juneteenth Freedom Parade

The Juneteenth Freedom Parade will begin at 11 a.m., with participant lineup starting at 9 a.m. The parade route starts near Ezra Rust Drive and travels along Washington Avenue before ending at Morley Plaza. Organizers say the parade is intended to celebrate freedom, resilience and community pride.

Following the parade, the Freedom Festival will continue at Morley Plaza from noon to 5 p.m. Visitors can enjoy food vendors, live entertainment and activities for all ages. The festival remains free and open to the public.

Saturday, June 20: Future Ballers 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament

The COSBE Inc. and Pride 21 Future Ballers 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament will also take place during the festival, beginning at noon. The tournament is designed to engage local youth through sports while promoting teamwork, leadership and community involvement.

Sunday, June 21: Father’s Day Gala at Rita’s

The celebration begins with a Father’s Day Concert at Rita’s Soul Food Cafe 110 N Washington Ave. The event is designed to honor fathers and father figures while bringing the community together through live music and fellowship.

Honoring Legacies

This year’s celebration will recognize Joyce Seals as the 2026 Grand Marshal. A longtime educator, public servant and community advocate, Seals has spent decades working in education and public service, including serving on the Saginaw City Council and as the city’s second Black female mayor.

Organizers also continue to honor the legacy of Lula Briggs-Galloway, whose advocacy helped bring national attention to Juneteenth. Her efforts to educate communities about the holiday and push for broader recognition helped lay the foundation for celebrations that continue today.

Midland’s Juneteenth Block Party Returns for Fifth Year at Creative 360

Community members are invited to celebrate Juneteenth at Midland’s fifth annual Juneteenth Block Party, scheduled for June 19 at Creative 360.

The free event will take place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Creative 360, located at 5501 Jefferson Ave., and will feature food, music, family activities and educational exhibits honoring Black history and culture.

Attendees will be able to enjoy complimentary food from several local vendors, including Akoya Catering & Events, Tia’s Soul, Big O Burgers and Barbecue, and Delicious Sweets Bakeshop.

Live entertainment will be provided by DJ Hype, while families can participate in a variety of activities throughout the evening. The event will also showcase local small business vendors.

The celebration will include displays and community resources highlighting the history of Juneteenth, Black culture and the contributions of Black community members in Midland.