Juneteenth in Pennsylvania: The Frederick Douglass Chronicles

Our vision for these Juneteenth efforts is to create a vibrant and inclusive celebration that honors the legacy of freedom and resilience. Following the theme for this year’s celebration which is The Frederick Douglass Chronicles. We envision a gathering where people from all different backgrounds come together. Through engaging educational activities, uplifting cultural performances like a fashion show, and meaningful discussions during dinner.

Friday, June 21st: An Evening with Ruth Naomi Floyd~The Frederick Douglass Jazzworks

On Friday, June 21st, beginning at 6:00p.m. in the Open Air Theatre, of Longwood Gardens,we will host an engaging evening with Ruth Naomi Floyd, in this work Ruth presents jazz comprised of her original compositions paired with the actual words of the speeches and writings of this powerful, timeless luminary. Illustrated through the art form of jazz improvisational music.

After the discussion and performance, we will be presenting the Freedom Illuminated Fountain Performance at 9:15 p.m.

Time: 6:00PM-8:00PM

Location: Longwood Gardens

Ticket Cost: $32

Saturday, June 22nd: Journey to Freedom Juneteenth Festival

A Juneteenth African Market Festival. Street Festival in Kennett Square. Heritage meets community at The Creamery in Kennett Square, PA. Step into the heart of celebration by joining us for a vibrant array of vendors from engaging educational galleries, drummers, double dutch, face painters, to showcasing art, crafts, clothing, delicious food, music & more! We as a community come together to celebrate freedom, unity, & the rich Black culture. Every purchase supports local artisans & entrepreneurs.

Festival Time: 12:00PM-6:00PM

Location: The Creamery of Kennett Square

Ticket Cost: FREE

Sunday, June 23rd: Freedom's Table: For this event, a ticketed Culinary feast celebrating the bounties of freedom and the hope of racial healing through storytelling

Featured Storyteller: Deb Freeman

Deb Freeman is an award-winning writer and the creative force behind Setting the Table, a critically acclaimed podcast exploring Black foodways. Recognized by Apple Podcasts and lauded by Texas Monthly, Setting the Table earned Deb the podcast of the year award from the International Association of Culinary Professionals in 2023. Her written works, featured in outlets like Eater and Conde´ Nast Traveler, showcase her expertise in culinary storytelling. As a cultural commentator for BBC Radio, Deb's insights resonate globally, cementing her as a leading voice in the exploration of culinary heritage. Through her writing and podcasting, Deb Freeman continues to illuminate the richness of Black foodways, leaving an unforgettable impact on both audiences and the culinary world.

Featured Chef: Chef Chris Scott

Chris Scott is an acclaimed Chef, Author, and Restauranteur. A Chester county native, his culinary journey spans over 30 years, marked by prestigious roles in five diamond restaurants and acclaimed stages at renowned establishments like Charlie Trotter's and Le Bec Fin. While his accolades include features in esteemed publications and appearances on Bravo TV's Top Chef and Oprah Winfrey Network's “The Great Soul Food Cookoff,” what truly distinguishes him is my unwavering dedication to honoring the craft and culture of cooking. As a beacon in the culinary world, he's had the privilege to inspire aspiring chefs nationwide, hosting events at the James Beard Foundation and teaching at the Institute of Culinary Education in NYC.

In HOMAGE, Chris Scott tells the remarkable story of his family over seven generations via comforting dishes and vivid narratives: From his enslaved ancestors to his great-grandfather, who migrated to Pennsylvania after the Emancipation Proclamation, to his own childhood in Amish country, and, ultimately, his successful restaurant career in Philadelphia and New York City(courtesy of Amazon)

Featured Chef: Leah Branch

Time: 5:00PM-9:00PM

Location: Lincoln University

Ticket Cost: Free