The Henry Ford is inviting metro Detroiters to commemorate Juneteenth in a vibrant, meaningful way during “Celebrate Juneteenth: Liberation and Legacy” — a day-long event honoring Black American history, culture, and resilience. The celebration takes place Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Greenfield Village.
Juneteenth, now a federally recognized holiday, marks the historic moment on June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. The Henry Ford’s immersive programming will honor this legacy through live music, cultural demonstrations, historical reenactments, and community-centered activities.
Event Highlights: A Journey Through Black History and Culture
🎶 Live Performances & Living History
Attendees can experience the sounds of liberation with Selected of God performing civil rights-era freedom songs, while Rev. Robert Jones revives the soulful blues of the 1930s. Other musical acts include:
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Sky Covington’s Trio performing a jazz and blues tribute to Billie Holiday
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DJ Jungle 313 & Spin Inc Detroit, offering interactive DJ lessons for youth
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Taslimah Bey Quartet presenting a 1910s-style ragtime cakewalk vignette
In addition, the 102nd United States Colored Troop Company C will perform a powerful historic reenactment honoring Black soldiers’ post-Civil War contributions.
🍴 Emancipation Party & Historic Cooking
The Mattox Family Home will host cooking demonstrations inspired by traditional African American recipes. Dishes like BBQ ribs, collard greens, and devil’s food cake will also be available at A Taste of History restaurant, offering visitors a delicious taste of Black culinary heritage.
🛍️ Black-Owned Business Day at Detroit Central Market
Support and shop from 25+ Black-owned businesses and nonprofits featuring artisan goods, books, beauty products, games, and more. Vendors include:
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Motor City Popcorn
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Sepia Coffee
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Elle Jae Essentials
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Bags to Butterflies
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Opal Grove Games
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Kids Like Mine, and many others
🎨 Family Activities & Creative Engagement
Families can explore cultural creativity by contributing to a collaborative mural with The Coloring Museum, participating in music education with Spin Inc Detroit, and watching live demos from Chef Robbie Bursey at Stand 44.
Reflect. Celebrate. Connect.
The Juneteenth celebration at The Henry Ford is a chance for the entire community to come together in remembrance, recognition, and joy. Through storytelling, music, food, and interactive experiences, the event serves as a tribute to the ongoing pursuit of freedom and equality.
Admission is free for members or included with Greenfield Village tickets. For full event details and ticket information, visit THF.org/juneteenth.
