S. Pearl St. Juneteeth celebration coming Saturday, June 19

ALBANY — The Capital District’s premier Juneteenth celebration returns to 135 S. Pearl St. on Saturday, June 19, bringing together the community, cultural organizations and entrepreneurs to commemorate slavery’s abolition in the United States.

All are invited to this free event. The celebration aims to educate and uplift businesses through the S. Pearl corridor with entertainment, vendors and food. Businesses along the route also speak to the diversity, familial roots, and resiliency of the neighborhood. 

Performers will include: DJ MoStyles, Move 2B Moved LLC, Qualiti, Liana’kim, Kai-Yola,  EMacULit, Hip Hop and Community Praise Dance Team and Out of the Box Band. CDTA and the Underground Railroad Education Center have partnered with the  African American Cultural Center of the Capital Region to provide educational trolley rides through Albany, including tours at the Stephen and Harriet Myers residence and tours of the South End; trolley rides will depart from 114 Madison Ave. every 50 minutes. 

Important information for attendees: 

• Parking will be available in the parking lot located at 106 S. Pearl St. (South End Grocery) and 260 S. Pearl St. 

• S. Pearl Street will be closed between Madison Avenue and Morton Avenue, allowing additional space to explore and experience the event.

The African American Cultural Center of the Capital Region has partnered with Christ’s Church Albany for a movie night in the center’s outdoor reflection garden at 8 p.m. 

The African American Cultural Center of the Capital Region (AACCR) is committed to educating, enriching, and empowering resients of the Capital Region. Serving Albany, Troy, Rensselaer, Schenectady, Saratoga, Schoharie, Fulton and Montgomery counties. AACCR promotes awareness of the rich and vibrant history, contribution and culture of African Americans through educational, cultural and performing arts, unique programs, activities and exhibits. The center is a source of community renewal and investment.