Philadelphia’s rich cultural heritage was on display at this year’s Juneteenth Parade and Festival created by the Pennsylvania Juneteenth Initiative. The celebration commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas who were held two and half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Centered at Malcolm X Park, the community event featured two performance stages and an extended parade route.
Held on Sunday, June 22, 2025, the festival spanned a large stretch of West Philadelphia — from Parkside Avenue down to Baltimore Avenue along 52nd Street — and brought together families, creatives, city leaders, and change-makers for a full day of culture, connection, and pride. Despite high heat and an afternoon shower, the Philly spirit remained high as residents showed up in numbers to honor the legacy of Black freedom and excellence.
This year’s festival blended tradition with forward-thinking community engagement. The beloved Smith Memorial Playground hosted an activation for kids and families, and health and wellness were front and center thanks to the presence of Dr. Ala Stanford — founder of the Black Doctors COVID-19 Consortium — who was recognized as a health and wellness champion throughout the day. The vendor area was bustling, with over 15 local businesses selling everything from handmade jewelry to original art, clothing, and food that satisfied every craving.
Music was a heartbeat of the celebration. Two stages — powered by 100.3 FM — kept energy levels sky-high all afternoon. Familiar voices from the station, including Ashmac, DJ Touchtone, Lady B, DJ Caesar, DJ Caution, and Manwell Glenn, kept the crowd moving between sets. The performance lineup was packed with rising talent and hometown heroes, including Dejhha, BrizzyOnDaBeat, Jessie Renee, DonnyC, Big Money Fe, Dono, CYB, ZayMoney215, Gwan Goodie, Ria4Reel, and Nailah Blackman. DJ Kool lit up the stage, while a powerful set from 16-year-old Nevaeh Graham reminded everyone that the future is just as bright as the past is storied.
Artistic expression extended well beyond the stage. Parade participants included the Science Park Legion of Doom Dancers, marching bands, and high-energy routines from Runway Rebels and DivaDavanna Academy dancers led by Philadelphia’s own runway coach Davanna S. Booker — known for her appearances on America’s Next Top Model and POSE. Floats carried figures who represent Philly’s legacy and future: Ms. Juneteenth, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, and Grand Marshal Russell Thompkins Jr. of The Stylistics. Other grand marshals included singer Earl Young (of “Disco Inferno” and “Love Train”), trailblazing Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, actor/director/writer Nakia Dillard, Davanna S. Booker, and world champion boxer Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr.
From the rolling museum of classic cars to the block-shaking basslines, the 2025 Juneteenth Parade and Festival wasn’t just a celebration — it was a full display of Philadelphia’s resilience, talent, and unwavering commitment to honoring Black history. Through music, dance, food, art, and collective joy, the city reminded us all that freedom is worth celebrating loudly, proudly, and together.
© 2025, Siani Leigh. All rights reserved.
