Bergen Celebrates Juneteenth

Everyone is invited to these nine events that honor freedom, history and community.
Cheryl De Leon,
3 Bergen Celebrates Juneteenth

On June 19, communities across the country celebrate Juneteenth, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Also known as Freedom Day, Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021 and serves as a time to reflect on our nation’s history while honoring the resilience, achievements and contributions of Black Americans.

Throughout Bergen County, municipalities, nonprofits and community organizations are marking the occasion with festivals, flag raisings, educational programs, live entertainment and family-friendly gatherings. Whether you’re interested in learning more about local history, enjoying a community celebration or simply coming together with neighbors, you’ll find plenty of ways to participate this weekend.

All Weekend

  • Englewood is hosting its Juneteenth Festival at Depot Square with rides, games, lots of food and community. Gates open at 5 p.m. on Friday and 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

June 19

  • The Bergen County Department of Cultural & Historic Affairs is hosting a self-guided tour through the historic Gethsemane Cemetery in Little Ferry, starting at noon. This the final resting place of over 500 Black Hackensack residents, including formerly enslaved people and two Civil War veterans, who were denied burial in the general cemetery due to segregation.
  • Attend a flag raising ceremony at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus at 11 a.m. (in case of inclement weather, the event will be moved indoors).
  • At noon, Teaneck raises its Juneteenth flag at the Votee Park Sportsplex. Afterward, take part in the township’s Jubilee at 1 p.m. with community resources and local food vendors.
  • At 1 p.m., head over to the Fort Lee Historic Park for a free screening of The Tuskegee Airmen, a movie based on the true story of the first African American combat pilots in the United States Army Air Corps during WWII.
  • At Teaneck’s BRVSH CUL7UR3, enjoy a Juneteenth experience featuring a lineup of performing artists, from dancers and poets to vocalists and jazz musicians, all honoring the spirit of freedom and resilience.

June 20

  • Hackensack’s Carver Park hosts the city’s annual Juneteenth Celebration. Starting at 9:30 a.m., enjoy a day filled with live music, food and local vendors.
  • Englewood’s Juneteenth Parade steps off at 10 a.m. It begins at the World War memorial at Tenafly Road and West Palisade Avenue.
  • Starting at noon, Bergen County’s official celebration kicks off at Overpeck County Park in Ridgefield Park with crafts, games, live music, kids’ activities and more.

Celebrating Juneteenth this weekend? Show us all your best moments on Instagram @bergenmanj.

 

Categories: Bergen Health & Life