Celebrate Juneteenth in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Jun. 09, 2025

Celebrate Juneteenth in Fort Wayne, Indiana! Find events happening around the city to commemorate this important moment in American history.

What is Juneteenth? This holiday marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be freed. June 19th is now recognized as the day legal slavery ended, and on June 17, 2021, it officially became a federal holiday.

Take a look at the list of events below to see how you can join together with our community on this day.

Try These Black-Owned Restaurants in Fort Wayne

Juneteenth Events

Macknificent Freedom Fest

Celebrating on the 3rd Saturday in June since 2004, this long-standing festival invites you to join in on the ceremonies, parade, live entertainment, food, and more!

Saturday, June 21, 2025
McMillen Park
More info

The Art Leadership Center Promenade Parade

As part of Macknificent Freedom Fest, the ALC Promenade Parade kicks off the festival with a grand march down Oxford Street to McMillen Park and amplifies the spirit of unity in our community.

Saturday, June 21, 2025
Intersection at Warsaw & Oxford St, ending at McMillen Park
11:30am - 1:00pm
More info

Juneteenth Business Symposium by the Fort Wayne Black Chamber

Join this empowering business event for five transformative days of expert sessions, networking, and resources designed to elevate Black entrepreneurs. Register and learn more here.

June 17 - 21, 2025
Grand Wayne Convention Center & Fort Wayne Urban League
10:00am - 12:30pm & 5:30pm - 8:00pm
More info

Pontiac Street Mural

Juneteenth has been observed in Fort Wayne since the early 1990's, formerly recognized by the Pontiac Street Festival. This event featured black business ownership and community fellowship. Be sure to stop by the Pontiac Street Mural by local artist Lyndy Bazille to commemorate Juneteenth's history in Fort Wayne (located on the side of Sweets by Main by Coney Island).

Murals by Black Artists in Fort Wayne

Tour more murals by Black artists throughout Fort Wayne with this handy guide. Sign up for the free Fort Wayne Public Art Trail to check in at each location and earn prizes as you go.