As Summerfest 2025 approaches, festival organizers are set to honor the spirit of Juneteenth through a series of vibrant events designed to celebrate culture, community, and culinary excellence. This year, on June 21, guests will experience a new addition to the festival lineup: A Taste of Juneteenth. Hosted in collaboration with Northcott Neighborhood House, this event aims to extend Milwaukee's annual Juneteenth festivities by offering attendees an opportunity to indulge in dishes from ten local vendors while enjoying live music. In addition to these culinary delights, Summerfest will also pay tribute to the holiday on June 19 with dedicated programming, including a ceremony for scholarship recipients and food donations benefiting Northcott’s food pantry.

On June 21, Summerfest introduces its latest initiative, A Taste of Juneteenth, which merges cultural celebration with gastronomic exploration. The event is divided into two sessions—11 a.m. and 12:45 p.m.—allowing visitors ample time to sample offerings from diverse Milwaukee-based vendors. These include Atwood Hwy BBQ Company, known for its smoky flavors, and Pop’s BBQ Memphis Style, famous for its authentic Southern recipes. Alongside savory plates, guests can enjoy sweet creations courtesy of Dear Florence Sweets and Peachy’s Plates. With tickets priced at $100 per person, proceeds go directly toward supporting the featured vendors. Moreover, admission includes entry to Summerfest itself, enhancing the overall festival experience.

The collaboration between Summerfest and Northcott Neighborhood House reflects a commitment to uplifting local communities. According to Sarah Pancheri, president and CEO of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc., this partnership embodies the city's tradition as "the City of Festivals" by highlighting unique cultural celebrations. On June 19, the festival further honors Juneteenth through various initiatives. As part of Bush’s Beans Stomp Out Hunger Day, food donations collected that day will support Northcott’s food pantry program, addressing critical needs within the community.

In addition to charitable efforts, Summerfest will host a special ceremony recognizing winners of Northcott Neighborhood House’s 34th annual scholarship competition. Tony Kearney, executive director of Northcott, emphasized the importance of showcasing young leaders during the opening ceremony at 6 p.m. on June 19. The event will crown Miss Juneteenth, Mister Juneteenth, Little Miss Juneteenth, and Mister Jr. Juneteenth, celebrating their achievements and dedication to community service.

Musical performances and stage programming throughout the festival grounds will complement these activities, creating a holistic celebration of Juneteenth. Beginning at 6 p.m. on June 19, multiple stages will feature artists whose work resonates with themes of freedom and resilience. Through such efforts, Summerfest not only entertains but also fosters connections among attendees, reinforcing the values of unity and cultural appreciation.

This year’s Juneteenth observance at Summerfest represents more than just entertainment; it signifies a deeper engagement with history and community. By combining culinary experiences, scholarships, and artistic expression, the festival offers something meaningful for everyone. Visitors are encouraged to embrace this opportunity to participate in and support the rich traditions of Milwaukee’s vibrant cultural landscape.