Juneteenth Fireworks, Poetry, Events Planned For Maplewood And South Orange All Weekend

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — Maplewood and South Orange have planned events from Friday through Sunday to celebrate Juneteenth and "educate the community on Juneteenth and celebrate black pride and black excellence," according to the town.

The events range from fun activities (face painting, fireworks) to historical re-enactments.

Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day, is a new federal holiday commemorating the end of Slavery in the United States. It's also a state holiday in five states, including New Jersey. Governor Murphy declared it a holiday in New Jersey in 2020.

It marks the date, June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers freed the last remaining slaves in Texas, enforcing the Emancipation Proclamation, two and half years after it was originally issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863.

“For a second consecutive year, Maplewood and South Orange will provide educate, recognize, and celebrate the rich history of Black Americans on Juneteenth," said Mayor Frank McGehee. "Several events and activities are scheduled for our community that highlight this day of liberation when Black Americans were given their freedom from slavery and our country’s second Independence Day. Please join us!”

Juneteenth 2022 kicks off in South Orange with “Community Paint and Sip” on Friday, June 17 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Spiotta Park in South Orange.

Saturday, “MAPSO Celebrates Juneteenth” at Memorial Park in Maplewood from 5-9 p.m. The outdoor celebration features spoken word poetry from local poets, readings by SOMA Justice, live music by Jane and Autumn Jones, food, fun, and fireworks.

South Orange will also host “Downtown After Sundown” on this day at Spiotta Park from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

On Sunday, June 19, The Durand-Hedden House & Garden Association and the South Orange-Maplewood Community Coalition on Race will once again co-host Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom at Durand-Hedden House & Garden and the surrounding Grasmere Park.

Activities include several well-known African-American historical reenactors, face painting, games, storytelling, and crafts for children.

Attendees will enjoy outdoor musical performances. A local chef, artisans, and booksellers will offer items for purchase. Visitors can also view the exhibit, "Slavery in New Jersey: A Troubled History," which provides historical context for Juneteenth and the history of enslaved people in New Jersey. Admission to the program as well as to the house and exhibit is free; donations are welcome. Registration is required.

The Herb & Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC in South Orange will also host “Community Art Project Unveiling” on June 19 from 2-4 p.m.

For more information on all these events, please visit Juneteenth '22 — Maplewood Arts & Culture.