Juneteenth, now a federal holiday, is celebrated on June 19 each year—but not everyone knows why. The day marks a powerful moment in U.S. history. On June 19, 1865—two years after the Emancipation Proclamation—enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned they were free. Union troops arrived and announced the news, sparking what’s now called Juneteenth.
While the Civil War had ended months earlier and President Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, many enslaved people in Texas hadn’t been told. That painful delay—over two years—is why Juneteenth is so important today.
Families began celebrating as early as 1866 with gatherings, church events, and barbecues. In 1872, Black leaders in Houston even bought land to host Juneteenth celebrations—now known as Emancipation Park.
Fast forward to 2021, thanks in part to activist Opal Lee (who walked over 1,400 miles to advocate for it), Juneteenth became a national holiday. Today, people celebrate with music, parades, food, and reflection.
In 2025, offices, banks, and post offices will close to observe the holiday. But the heart of Juneteenth lies in understanding freedom—and the importance of sharing truth. It's a time for learning, honoring history, and building community.
Here's a list of 2025 Juneteenth Celebrations in and Around Allentown
📍 Allentown Events
1. Allentown Juneteenth Celebration – Cedar Beach Park
🗓 June 21–22, 2025
📍 Cedar Beach Park, 2600 Parkway Blvd, Allentown
🎉 Music, food trucks, art, swim lessons, kids’ activities, and more.
2. Juneteenth Classic Basketball Tournament
🗓 June 20–22, 2025
📍 Cedar Beach Park
🏀 Multi-division basketball tournament for youth, high school, and adult men.
3. Juneteenth 5v5 Youth Flag Football Tournament
🗓 Sunday, June 15, 2025
📍 J. Birney Crum Stadium
🏈 Youth teams from ages 8U to High School compete. Registration required.
4. Allentown Juneteenth Freedom Week Events
🗓 June 14–22, 2025
📍 Various locations in Allentown
🌍 Greater Lehigh Valley Events
5. United Way Juneteenth Festival – Bethlehem
🗓 Saturday, June 14, 2025
📍 ArtsQuest Center, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem
🎨 Family fun, music, vendors, food, and educational displays.
6. Juneteenth Lehigh Valley Week
🗓 June 14–22, 2025
📍 Events across Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton
🚶 Includes a health fair, IronPigs baseball celebration, Easton parade, and more.
