Celebrate Juneteenth 2026 in Lawrence, Kansas!
Join us each June as Lawrence comes together to honor the history, culture, and spirit of Juneteenth through music, food, community, and celebration.
Get Involved
The Lawrence Juneteenth Organization is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) powered entirely by our community. Whether you want to march in the parade, volunteer your time, bring a booth, or help fund the celebration, there’s a place for you in making Juneteenth happen in Lawrence.
Become a Vendor
Join us as a tabling, food, or retail vendor and share your business with the Lawrence community at our Juneteenth celebration.
Become a Sponsor
Partner with us to bring Juneteenth to the Lawrence community and share your support with thousands of attendees.
Make a Donation
Every gift, large or small, directly funds the parade, programming, and scholarships that bring Juneteenth to life in Lawrence.
Join the Parade
Join us as a tabling, food, or retail vendor and share your business with the Lawrence community at our Juneteenth celebration.
Give a Scholarship
Partner with us to bring Juneteenth to the Lawrence community and share your support with thousands of attendees.
Volunteer
Every gift, large or small, directly funds the parade, programming, and scholarships that bring Juneteenth to life in Lawrence.
What are you looking for?
Find our various forms and other useful information.
Past Celebrations
We’ve been fortunate to host some wonderful Juneteenth celebrations over the years, thanks to our community, volunteers, and sponsors. Explore highlights from past events below.
Juneteenth 2025
On June 14th, 2025, Lawrence came together once again to honor Juneteenth with a full day of celebration, community, and reflection. This year also featured a community blood drive, giving attendees another meaningful way to give back on the day.
Juneteenth 2024
On June 15th, 2024, we gathered at South Park to commemorate freedom, celebrate African American culture, and enjoy a standout performance from soul and R&B artist Durand Jones. In partnership with the Watkins Museum, we also offered an Underground Railroad Bus Tour that gave attendees a deeper look at the history behind the holiday.
Juneteenth 2023
Our June 17th, 2023 celebration at South Park brought the community together for a parade, vendors, and an unforgettable headlining performance by Grammy-nominated artist Macy Gray. From drumlines and cheerleaders to food stands and family activities, the day was a joyful reminder of why Juneteenth matters in Lawrence.
History of Juneteenth
On “Freedom’s Eve,” the night of January 1, 1863, enslaved and free African Americans gathered in churches and homes across the country for the first Watch Night services, and at the stroke of midnight their prayers were answered as all enslaved people in Confederate States were declared legally free.
Got questions?
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