Juneteenth Celebration at the Old Forge Library

Join the Old Forge Library for a Juneteenth celebration on Wednesday, June 18, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at 220 Crosby Blvd.

Enjoy a book giveaway, a community cookout, and live blues music by George Deveny, Brian Mulkerne, and John Handzel as we honor freedom, history, and community.

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, commemorates June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas were finally informed of their emancipation—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. The holiday celebrates the end of slavery in the United States and honors the resilience and contributions of the African American community. Though the holiday only became nationally recognized in 2021, its message is timeless: freedom must be acknowledged, valued, and protected for everyone.

“This event supports the library’s mission to encourage lifelong learning and discovery in our rural, mountain community. In the Adirondacks where the legacy of slavery may not feel as immediate, Juneteenth offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the shared history that shapes our nation,” said Library Director, Linda Weal

The featured book for this year’s celebration is Juneteenth for Mazie by Floyd Cooper. Copies will be read from and given away during the event.

Grant funding for Old Forge’s first Juneteenth celebration was generously provided by the Central New York Library Resources Council and by the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties in conjunction with UpMobility Foundation. This family-friendly event is free and open to all. Both residents and visitors are encouraged to bring friends, family, lawn chairs, and a spirit of celebration.