Here's What's Planned For Newton's Juneteenth Celebration

NEWTON, MA — The city's Juneteenth celebration will return this year with a day of events honoring African American culture, history, and community. The celebration will take place on Friday, June 19 at Newton North High School and the Hyde Community Center, with activities scheduled throughout the day.

The event begins with a morning kickoff at Newton North High School on 457 Walnut St. hosted by Newton Community Education. The main celebration starts at 3 p.m. at the Hyde Community Center and will feature music, food, vendors, and live entertainment.

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Scheduled activities include performances by Afro Diamond African dancers and Newton reggae artist DJ Everla$t, as well as music from DJ Firestarta. Attendees will also have an opportunity to meet two New England Patriots Cheerleaders and shop from local artisans and craft vendors.

Two food trucks, Reggae Foods and Gourmet Kreyol, will be on site serving Caribbean cuisine. As part of the Hyde Community Center's Summer Concert Series, hip-hop cover band The GRV will perform from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The day's events will conclude with an 8 p.m. outdoor screening of the Marvel film "Black Panther."

Organizers said this year's celebration will center on the theme "Joyful Resistance" and mark 161 years since the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. The event will also recognize Dr. Henry Turner, who is leaving his position as principal of Newton North High School after 10 years to become superintendent of Reading Public Schools.

Residents interested in participating can sign up to volunteer, make a donation, or register for a vendor booth. Black-owned businesses and community organizations seeking booth space can contact organizers via email.

The event is supported by Families Organizing for Justice, the Newton Coalition of Black Residents, FORJ at Newton North High School, the Massachusetts Cultural Council, Harmony Foundation, Village Bank, and Spark Newton in collaboration with the City of Newton.

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