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Moments from the Indy Juneteenth parade and festival on Saturday, June 15, 2024, in Indianapolis. The parade began on Indiana Avenue and Blackford Avenue, and the festival was held at Military Park.
The Indy Juneteenth parade is on hold for 2025, but the festival will take place at the Indiana State Fairgrounds on June 21.
James Webb, co-founder and executive director of Indy Juneteenth, said the organization was unable to secure a location for the parade with the city.
Last year’s parade, held June 15 at Indiana and Blackford avenues, drew thousands of residents from across Indiana. Over 100 groups walked in the parade including IBEW Local 481, Miss Black USA, Indiana Pride of Color and Child Advocates Inc.
“It’s heartbreaking. You know, I really wanted it for the people. I love seeing the children celebrating their culture and learning about their culture at the same time,” Webb said. “We’ve got some obstacles but we found a solution for 2026.”
In 2024, the festival was held at White River State Park. To give the event stability, Indy Juneteenth has formed a partnership with the Indiana State Fairgrounds to host the festival and parade in 2026 and 2027.
In addition to the festival, you can attend a boxing showcase at the Speedway Event Center on June 14 and a fireworks show at Sarkine Park in Avon on June 19. Indy Juneteenth will also host its college and career conference June 12 at Central Library.
“We just ask for the community’s understanding and hope they continue to support and just keep trusting us like they always did. We’re gonna come back bigger and better,” Webb said.
Mirror Indy, a nonprofit newsroom, is funded through grants and donations from individuals, foundations and organizations.
Mirror Indy reporter Mesgana Waiss covers arts and culture. Contact her at 317-667-2643 or mesgana.waiss@mirrorindy.org.
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