The Greater Rochester Martin Luther King Jr. Commission, in partnership with the Rochester Area Community Foundation, invites you to the 2026 Juneteenth Festival on June 19-20, 2026 at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park in Rochester, NY.

This year’s theme, “Beloved Community,” honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of justice, equal opportunity and love for one another. Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and celebrates our continued journey toward equity and freedom. Each year, this festival brings thousands together to celebrate heritage, uplift Black culture and strengthen our community connections.

As a proud community partner, LáLew Public Relations is leading the Festival’s social media and digital storytelling this year. Follow along for real-time updates, event highlights and behind-the-scenes moments at Greater Rochester Martin Luther King Jr. Commission’s Facebook page.

Quick Answers

When is the Rochester Juneteenth Festival?

June 19–20, 2026.

Where is it held?

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park, 353 Court St., Rochester, NY.

Is the festival free?

Yes - both days are free and open to the public.

Who is performing this year?

Featured artist: Danielle Ponder.

How can I join the parade or become a vendor?

Register online by June 5, 2026.

Festival Highlights

Two days of cultural celebration
Live music, performances, and entertainment
Local food, artisan vendors, and community resource booths
Family-friendly activities for all ages
Featured performance by Danielle Ponder
Social media coverage powered by LáLew Public Relations

Day 1 – Honoring, Educating & Celebrating

Friday, June 19, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Location: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park

Elders Circle
Educational programming on the history and significance of Juneteenth
Honoring past and present MLK Jr. Commissioners
Live performances and cultural entertainment

Day 2 – Parade & Festival

Saturday, June 20, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Location: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park

Freedom Parade - 11:00 AM

(Lineup begins at 10:00 AM)

Festival Activities - 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Rock climbing
Face painting
Free haircuts
Local food and vendors
Community resources
Live performances featuring Danielle Ponder

Parade Route

Lineup on Main Street between Plymouth Ave and State Street
Parade begins at State Street
March up Main Street to East Ave
Turn right onto East Ave
Continue to Chestnut Street
Turn right onto Chestnut Street
Conclude at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park

Ways to Get Involved

Sponsor the Festival

Support this beloved community celebration while increasing visibility for your organization. Sponsorships range from $600–$12,000+ with valuable benefits at every level.

Become a Vendor

Food vendors, merchants and community organizations are welcome to participate.

Volunteer

Offer your time and talents to help bring this important event to life.

Join the Parade

Walking groups, dancers, floats, vehicles and community organizations are invited.

Attend and Celebrate

The festival is free, family-friendly and open to all. Bring your loved ones for a powerful and joyful weekend.

Registration Deadline

All vendor, parade and sponsorship applications are due by June 5, 2026.

Contact

Nikia Washington, Festival Coordinator Email: Grmlkcommission@gmail.com

Phone: (585) 224-6746

Stay Connected

LáLew Public Relations is honored to uplift the storytelling behind this year’s festival. For ongoing Juneteenth updates follow our social media channels throughout the celebration: Instagram & Facebook

Together, we honor our history, celebrate our freedom, and build the Beloved Community. We can’t wait to see you there!

2026 Rochester Juneteenth Festival – “Beloved Community”