Written by: Dustin Khong | The Unofficial Juneteenth Flag Symbolizing Freedom and Liberation waves freely in the air alongside the American Flag
“Juneteenth marks a significant moment in U.S. history, Utah’s Juneteenth Freedom Festival is centered on community — on coming together in joy, laughter, and belonging.”
In 2022, Utah became the 9th state to formally recognize Juneteenth as an official State Holiday. For more than three decades, the Juneteenth Freedom & Heritage Festival in Ogden has brought Utahns together to celebrate freedom, heritage, and culture. Now recognized as the longest-running Juneteenth celebration in the state, this family-friendly event has grown into a staple summer tradition—one that highlights the power of gathering, storytelling, and shared experiences.
Organized by Project Success Coalition, the festival takes place in Ogden and welcomes people from all stretches of life to enjoy a weekend filled with lively music, creative arts, delicious food, and vibrant culture.
Image: Betty Sawyer (Left Standing) speaking during a ceremony honoring the signing of Juneteenth National Freedom Day as an observed holiday in Utah with Governor Spencer Cox and Lieutenant Governor Diedre Henderson (seated) in Salt Lake City, April 18, 2021.
🎉 A Festival that Uplifts Local Talent and Shared Freedom
Now celebrating over 35 years, the Juneteenth Festival is a tradition rooted in togetherness. Whether you’re dancing along to the beat of live music, shopping from local artists, or enjoying a sweet treat under the summer sun, the festival offers an open and welcoming space for everyone to celebrate culture and community!
What can you expect at the festival?
Image: Juneteenth Freedom & Heritage Festival in the Ogden Amphitheater, Ogden, Utah, June 2024, Ogden Standard-Examiner.
🎶 A Weekend of Entertainment and Expression
The festival grounds come alive with sound and energy as performers take to the stage with everything from R&B, Afrobeats, gospel, and jazz to spoken word, dance showcases, and talent competitions.
- Youth Talent Shows that spotlight rising stars
- The Golden Clipper Barber Battle and Crowns Braid Battle
- Live music from Utah’s most dynamic bands and DJs
🍗 Food, Flavor, and Local Finds
No festival is complete without great food — and the Juneteenth Freedom Festival brings the flavor you’ve been craving. Local vendors and food trucks serve up everything from barbecue and traditional comfort foods to refreshing drinks and sweet treats. From smoky barbecue to classic Southern sides, food at the Juneteenth Festival is a delicious experience of its own.
In addition to culinary delights, the festival features local marketplaces filled with handmade goods, cultural items, and creative pieces from Black-owned businesses across Utah.
🎨 Activities for All Ages
The Juneteenth Festival is designed for the whole family. Little ones can enjoy dedicated kids’ zones with games and inflatables, while you explore interactive exhibits and cultural booths. Many visitors also take part in essay contests, poetry readings, and community art displays—offering opportunities to learn, share, and reflect on what makes freedom ring.
There’s even a special spotlight on youth voices through spoken word competitions that uplift young creatives and community storytellers with a special opportunity for students in grades K-5, 6-8 and 9-12 to win cash prizes!
✨ A Celebration That Unites
The Mr. and Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Program likewise celebrates our young leaders through championing leadership, excellence, and voices of high school students in Utah through an essay contest. Participating winners are awarded a cash scholarship who have demonstrated creativity, critical thinking, and a loving commitment to their community.
While Juneteenth marks a significant moment in U.S. history, Utah’s Juneteenth Freedom Festival is centered on community — on coming together in joy, laughter, and belonging. It’s an invitation to gather, smile, and connect with those around us. It’s a space to celebrate friendships, reconnect with family, enjoy sunshine and sound, and take part in a tradition that continues to grow stronger each year.
The Juneteenth Freedom Festival welcomes you with open arms and open hearts.
📍 Plan Your Visit
🎉 Hosted by: Project Success Coalition
📍 Where: Ogden City Amphitheater, 343 25th Street, Ogden, UT
🎟️ Admission: Free and open to the public
🌐 More Info: juneteenthutah.org
Come as you are—and leave with fun memories!
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More festivals and celebrations may be added as part of Magnify Utah’s dynamic resource building.