The community is invited to join in a powerful celebration of freedom and unity at the Juneteenth Jubilee on Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 5:00–9:00 PM along State Street in uptown Kennett Square. This uplifting event coincides with Third Thursday, a beloved monthly tradition hosted by Kennett Collaborative, where State Street is transformed into a vibrant pedestrian hub filled with dining in the streets, live music, and community spirit.
The Juneteenth Jubilee honors the historical significance of June 19, 1865—the day when the last enslaved African Americans in the U.S. finally learned of their freedom—and celebrates Black culture, resilience, and achievement through a dynamic and inclusive program.
Local organizations joined forces to plan this year’s Juneteenth Jubilee in Kennett, including members from Kennett Heritage Center, Kennett Underground Railroad Center, Kennett Flash, Kennett Area Community Services, Kennett Library, New Garden UAME Church, Martin Luther King Community of Greater Kennett Area, Kennett Area Park Authority, and Kennett Collaborative.
In addition to the family friendly activities always offered at Third Thursdays, attendees will be able to enjoy soul-stirring African drumming, a vibrant dance performance, interactive Double Dutch performances, and a compelling historical interpreter — all reflecting the richness and diversity of Black heritage. The Juneteenth celebration will also offer engaging hands-on activities, traditional foods prepared by local black-owned food vendors, a variety of clothing and crafts to purchase, and the opportunity to make meaningful community connections with local nonprofits. Musician and DJ Wayne James, known for his jazz performances throughout Kennett Square, has prepared a special Juneteenth set for the celebration.
Carol A. Black, President of MLKCommUNITY of the Greater Kennett Area shares, “The event has transformed remarkably since its inception. What started as a humble gathering in a Black church on Linden Street has burgeoned into a landmark occasion that draws participants from around the region.
Over the years, we’ve seen it expand not only in scale but also in scope—introducing cultural performances, music, food, games and more inclusive activities to promote cultural awareness and community cohesiveness. The integration of this year’s Juneteenth celebration with “Third Thursdays on State Street” in Kennett Square has further enhanced accessibility and allows a broader audience to partake in its offerings. Each edition of Juneteenth builds on the previous one, becoming a more dynamic and multifaceted celebration of freedom” “I’m so excited for this year’s event.” says Crystal Crampton “Kennett Community Network was blessed to receive a grant from the Hadley foundation and Chester County Community Foundation to help support our efforts and collaboration with nonprofit organizations in Kennett Square. To promote diversity,
fairness, freedom and justice for all.”
This year’s celebration takes place on State Street and is free and open to the public. Whether you come for the culture, the food, the learning, or the fun, Kennett Square’s Juneteenth Jubilee offers something for everyone.
More Information:
To learn more about the Juneteenth Jubilee and how you can get involved, visit:
https://www.juneteenthkennettsquare.com
For information regarding other Juneteenth celebrations in Chester County, visit:
https://www.culturechesco.org/juneteenth
