HARTFORD, CT — June 2026 — The Amistad Center for Art & Culture invites the public to join its 35th annual Juneteenth Celebration Series, a three-day commemoration honoring freedom, resilience, culture, and community through family activities, live performances, wellness experiences, history, art, and fellowship. As Connecticut’s premier African American museum and cultural center, The Amistad Center continues its longstanding tradition of celebrating Juneteenth—the oldest nationally recognized commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States—through programs that educate, inspire, and unite thousands of participants from across the region. This year’s celebration includes three signature events: Juneteenth Family Day Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 12:00–4:00 PM | Free The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art | 600 Main Street, Hartford, CT 06103 Families are invited to enjoy a free afternoon of hands-on artmaking, cultural demonstrations, wellness activities, live entertainment, and interactive learning experiences for all ages. A vibrant cultural festival for families and youth centered around exhibitions, Wendel A. White | Manifest: Thirteen Colonies and Framing American Democracy: Rebel | Revolt | Resist, which highlight the essential role African American history plays in the evolution of American democracy. Artistic vendors, workshops, and activities, including a community collage and an inclusive sensory-friendly art-making station. Dance with our AfroHours silent disco and take part in whole-self wellness initiatives, including sound bath meditation, chair massages, and yoga. Participate in activities that connect the contemporary community to the meaning and history of Juneteenth, and enjoy interactive programming for all ages. With a sensory-friendly viewing of the 2014 film Annie at 11 a.m., all other festivities begin at 12 noon. 35th Juneteenth Jubilee Celebration Friday, June 19, 2026 The Amistad Center & Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art The Juneteenth Jubilee serves as The Amistad Center’s premier annual fundraising celebration and cultural gathering. Guests will enjoy an evening of music, dancing, food, fellowship, and inspiration while supporting educational programs, exhibitions, and community initiatives that serve thousands throughout Connecticut each year. The event celebrates Black excellence, cultural achievement, and the ongoing pursuit of freedom and opportunity. Go to onecau.se/AmistadJuneteenth to sponsor the program or get tickets while they last. Bridging Freedom: Juneteenth Community Celebration Saturday, June 20, 2026 Mortensen Riverfront Plaza & Great River Park In partnership with the Cities of Hartford, East Hartford, and West Hartford, The Amistad Center will help bring the community together for a free regional celebration along the Connecticut River. Featuring live entertainment, cultural performances, food vendors, community organizations, family activities, and opportunities for reflection and connection, Bridging Freedom embodies the spirit of Juneteenth by bringing diverse communities together across geographic and cultural boundaries. “Juneteenth is more than a historical commemoration—it is an opportunity to celebrate resilience, reflect on our collective journey, and imagine a more just and equitable future,” said Rodneyna M. O. Hart, MBA, Interim Executive Director of The Amistad Center for Art & Culture. “For 35 years, The Amistad Center has provided a space where community members can gather to honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom while celebrating the creativity, achievements, and cultural contributions of people of African descent. We invite everyone to join us for this important celebration.” The 2026 Juneteenth Celebration Series aligns with The Amistad Center’s mission to honor, preserve, and celebrate the art and cultural contributions of people of African descent while fostering education, dialogue, and community engagement. Proceeds from the Juneteenth Jubilee support year-round exhibitions, educational initiatives, youth programs, artist engagements, and community partnerships that advance The Amistad Center’s work throughout Connecticut and beyond. For tickets, event details, sponsorship opportunities, or volunteer information, visit www.amistadcenter.org or contact The Amistad Center at (860) 838-4089.
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