Juneteenth In Montclair: Flag Raising, Other Holiday Events For 2025

MONTCLAIR, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the Township of Montclair. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

Montclair Township is set to raise the Juneteenth flag for the first time on Thursday, June 19 at 8:15 a.m., taking place at Church St. Plaza (Church Street and Bloomfield Avenue), in honor and celebration of the African-American community.

Montclair has recognized Juneteenth with events and celebrations since the holiday's inception; however, this is the first time the township will be hosting an official flag-raising ceremony.

The ceremony will feature a speech on the history and importance of Juneteenth, remarks from elected officials and activists, and a musical performance.

The list of speakers and participants will include:

• Billy Bongo: African Drummer, musician, historian, and community activist
• Mayor Dr. Renee Baskerville: Montclair Township Mayor
• Councilor Aminah Toler ; Councilor Rahum Williams: 4th and 3rd Ward Councilors
• Adeboke "Steve" Colson: musician, historian, and activist
• David D. Troutt: Distinguished Professor of Law; Rutgers Law School

The mayor and councilors will be available for interviews at the event.

The flag raising ceremony is one of many events in Montclair for the holiday, including the Juneteeth Festival hosted by Friends of the Howe House, on June 21 (noon to 5 p.m.) at Nishuane Park, Juneteenth Screenings at the Clairidge Theater, and the Montclair Brewery's Juneteenth Weekend Celebration, taking place all weekend with art, live music, food vendors, and special beers.

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