H-F Juneteenth Festival 2024 Set To Celebrate Heritage, Community

HOMEWOOD-FLOSSMOOR, IL — The vibrant spirit of Juneteenth will once again grace Homewood-Flossmoor as the annual Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Festival returns on Saturday, June 15, 2024.

Organized by the local nonprofit You Matter 2, organizers tout this festival has quickly become the largest Juneteenth celebration in Chicago’s Southland, offering a rich tapestry of culture, music, and community engagement.

Festival Details:

The festival will take place Wednesday, June 19 from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Homewood-Flossmoor High School. It promises a day filled with dynamic performances, local art displays, diverse food selections, and a new Beer & Wine Garden. Central to the festival experience are our Black-owned business vendors, who will be showcasing their products and services, providing them with invaluable exposure to thousands of festival-goers.

Entertainment Highlights:

• Jesse White Tumblers: Exhilarating acrobatic performances
• Creation Global: Renowned Chicago Footwork Crew
• 40+ Double Dutch Club: Engaging Double Dutch performances
• Bad Kids Camp: Celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Annie Lee
• Honey Water Live: A unique blend of jazz and modern music.
• Saneit: Chicago's own R&B sensation known for her captivating shows. Activities and Cultural Highlights
• Community Art Mural: Attendees are invited to contribute to a large-scale art mural
• Cultural Corner: Featuring head wrap tutorials and an African drum circle
• Blue Cross Blue Shield IL Farmer's Market: Offering free produce to promote healthy living

Tickets and Participation:

Tickets for the festival are available online and can also be purchased at the festival entrance. Prices are set at $5 for children, which includes one activity ride, and $10 for adults.

Sponsor Recognition:

Special thanks to Wayfarer Foundation, Allstate, Blue Cross and Blue Shield IL, Velocity Clinical Research, Wiz Kids, and more whose contributions have helped ensure the success of the event.

"As we gather to celebrate Juneteenth, our festival not only honors the end of slavery in the United States but also emphasizes the ongoing journey towards equality and community solidarity," said Destiny Watson, Founder & CEO of You Matter 2 and Festival Chairperson.

"This festival is a testament to the resilience and vibrant culture of the African American community, and we invite everyone to join us in this celebration."

Additional Event:

The group will also host its 3rd Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Parade on Wednesday, June 19, kicking off at 9 a.m. from Western Avenue Elementary and proceeding down Flossmoor Road to Parker Junior High School.

"This parade is an integral part of our week-long celebration, highlighting the cultural richness of our community," Watson said in a release.

About You Matter 2:

You Matter 2 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth in the South Suburban region through leadership development, community engagement, and cultural celebration. Its initiatives include a range of programs designed to inspire young people to realize their potential and make meaningful contributions to their communities.