Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Marking the date that the last enslaved people learned of their freedom, the month of June and the nineteenth day were combined to form the term “Juneteenth.” From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, observance of Juneteenth as African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States.
In 2019, a Juneteenth celebration was held in Wheeling as part of the city’s 250th anniversary, and it has since become an annual event. This inaugural celebration was planned by members of Wheeling YWCA, Wheeling NAACP, the Wheeling 250 committee, Wheeling Heritage, the Ohio County Public Library, the Underground Railroad Museum, and local historian Margaret Brennan.
As of June 17, 2021, Juneteenth National Independence Day is now officially recognized as a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery.
Juneteenth Weekend – 2025 Schedule
Thursday, June 19 – *UPDATED*
After ongoing conversations and careful consideration, the YWCA and Ron Scott have made the difficult decision to cancel the outdoor portion of this year’s event scheduled for Thursday, June 19 — including the vendor market, speakers, and outdoor entertainment at Heritage Port. In light of the recent flooding and the significant impact it has had on so many throughout our community, the YWCA has chosen to use this time as a service day and opportunity for volunteerism and giving back rather than holding a large public gathering at the waterfront. Additionally, with the forecast calling for potential rainfall, and knowing how that could further impact safety, attendance, and vendor operations, this decision was made with the wellbeing of all participants in mind.
However, the History of Black Music program will still take place indoors on June 19 at 6:00 PM at the Capitol Theatre Ballroom. We would love to see you there and encourage you to join us for this special program, as well as any of the other Juneteenth events scheduled throughout the week.
6:00 PM – The History of Black Music in America
at the Capitol Theatre Ballroom
Jazz, blues, R&B, gospel, funk and hip-hop music are just a handful of genres that have been shaped by black musicians throughout history. The YWCA of Wheeling, Orrick, The Wheeling Arts and Cultural Commission, & Wheeling Heritage will highlight some of these important contributions with “The History of Black Music in America”.
As part of Wheeling’s Juneteenth celebration, this unique program will journey through the history and contributions of Black music in America, from slavery to the present day. This trip through time will focus on the African American influence on the musical genres of our country.
Sponsors for this event include Ohio County Public Library & WALS Foundation. This event is free, family-friendly and open to the public.
Friday, June 20 at Towngate Theatre
6:00 PM – Free screening of Berry Gordy’s The Last Dragon
- Family-friendly and free admission, all are welcome!
Saturday, June 21 at the Wheeling Artisan Center
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM – R&B Brunch Experience
- Delicious Southern-style brunch buffet catered by River City (menu highlights: chicken & waffles, cheesy grits, pastries)
- Interactive R&B experience from DJ Kaz with games, trivia, and prizes
- Cash bar with specialty drinks
Tickets: $18 per person (plus cash bar)
Location: First floor Wheeling Artisan Center Building
Limited seating available — purchase online in advance to secure your spot!
Sunday, June 22 at Laughlin Memorial Chapel
4:00 – 7:00 PM – Ohio Valley’s 2nd Annual Juneteenth Soul Food Cook-Off
Admission: $5 per person (proceeds benefit YWCA Wheeling)
- Community members will taste + vote for their favorites (six tasting tickets per entry)
- One winner per category will receive a medal + recognition
- Celebrity judges will break any ties
Entry details:
- Compete in one of six soul food categories: chicken, mac & cheese, greens, potato salad, sweets, cornbread
- Open to individuals, organizations, churches, etc.
- Must register by June 6
- Provide an ingredient list (for allergy awareness)
- Bring dish divided into sample-size portions (sample cups provided at event)
Celebrate Black History in Wheeling
Presented by the Wheeling Area Juneteenth Committee in partnership with:
