Morris Museum’s Juneteenth Celebration

Celebrate Freedom and Culture at the Juneteenth Arts Celebration

The Juneteenth Arts Celebration is a free, three-day event honoring the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It brings together four nonprofit organizations and highlights the richness of Black culture. The celebration features art, food, music, dance, and other festivities at cultural venues in Morristown and Morris Township.

• Friday, June 20, 4:00-9:00 PM
• Free Museum admission starts at 4:00 PM
• Morris Museum’s Celebration begins at 6:00 PM

 

A Community Celebration, Powered by Partnership

This event is a collaboration between Art in the Atrium (ATA), Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morris Arts, and the Morris Museum. Together, they provide public access to local Black artists and performers. As a result, the event offers a powerful opportunity for learning, celebration, and connection. The festivities culminate with a free celebration hosted by the Morris Museum on Friday, June 20. Featuring art, performances and music, this special event includes a screening of a documentary short film about New Jersey artist Danielle Scott, curator-led tours of new exhibitions including Troy Jones, special access to the Spark!Lab for families, and a performance by crowd favorite Unity Steppers.

“I’m thrilled to celebrate Juneteenth alongside our esteemed arts organization partners for the third consecutive year,” said Simone Craig, CEO of Art in the Atrium. “This celebration reflects the cultural significance, resilience, and joy that Juneteenth represents. We look forward to welcoming the community to join us.”

What Juneteenth Represents

Juneteenth, observed each year on June 19, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Although the Emancipation Proclamation took effect in 1863, enslaved people in Galveston, Texas didn’t receive word until June 19, 1865. Therefore, Juneteenth recognizes both freedom and the struggle for it.

The holiday also celebrates the strength and culture of the Black community. It honors Black resilience, solidarity, and the continuing journey toward justice and equity.

Opening Night: Freedom Songs on the Lawn

The celebration begins on Thursday, June 18, with a free outdoor concert on the Vail Mansion Lawn. Award-winning vocalist Lynette Sheard will perform powerful freedom songs. Her set includes Strange Fruit by Billie Holiday, A Change Is Gonna Come by Sam Cooke, and Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud by James Brown.

For centuries, Black communities have turned to music and art to express spiritual beliefs, grief, resistance, and joy. This performance will highlight those emotional truths. It is designed to engage, educate, and inspire the audience.

Art Exhibit and Reception at the Atrium Gallery

On Friday, June 19, the celebration continues at the Atrium Gallery with a reception for Another Slice of Sweet Potato Pie. This is ATA’s 33rd Annual Signature Exhibit, curated by Onnie Strother. The show features work by Russell Murray and more than 75 Black and Afro-Latino artists.

This exhibit gives attendees a chance to explore themes of identity, heritage, and joy through a dynamic collection of visual art.

Partners in Purpose

This powerful celebration is made possible by four dedicated cultural organizations: Art in the Atrium, Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morris Arts, and the Morris Museum. Their shared mission is to promote inclusion, preserve history, and uplift the community through the arts.

 

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