Denver Juneteenth Weekend Recap
Taken during the Juneteenth Parade before the festival. (Courtesy of photographer Evan Tarver)
The Juneteenth Music Festival is one of the nation's most significant celebrations of Juneteenth. This day marked the long-awaited news of freedom for the enslaved, arriving nearly two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This beloved event in Denver draws 50,000 individuals, all eager to honor pride, dignity, and, most importantly, the abolition of slavery. Although Juneteenth falls on June 19, it is often celebrated on the third Saturday in June. This year, the festival occurred in the historical Colorado neighborhood and landmark Five Points neighborhood this past weekend on June 15th and 16th, 2024. The event is known for its live music, endless food, merchandise vendors, art murals, activities for kids, and a parade that begins at Manual High School and ends right on Welton St, leading you directly to the festivities.
Family members pose for a picture while attending the Juneteenth Music Festival in Denver, Colorado. (Courtesy of photographer Evan Tarver)
“It was like a community cultural treasure chest. It was a lot more than music. It was our community putting forward their best products and services for other folks to consume. It was really just a big Northeast Denver family reunion.”
Quick History Lesson
The Five Points neighborhood, a historical gem from the 1860s to the 1950s, was a haven for many of Denver's influential figures, including mayors, governors, and prominent business leaders. As the city welcomed new residents, Five Points earned the moniker 'Harlem of the West' due to its vibrant and diverse community. This neighborhood, thriving as a predominantly African-American community, provided solace to those marginalized by discriminatory home sale laws in other areas. Its rich history and cultural significance are a source of pride for the community. Welton Street in Denver has long been a significant location for the city's Juneteenth Festival and was once home to over fifty bars and clubs. Renowned jazz musicians like Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, Nat King Cole, Count Basie, and Dizzy Gillespie graced these venues with their performances. Due to racial segregation, black performers were often barred from other hotels in Denver, leading them to stay and perform at the Rossonian Hotel, which was built in 1912 and became a renowned music venue.
From the late 1950s through the late 1990s, the Five Points community experienced changes and decline as wealthier residents moved to newer housing in the postwar suburban boom. However, the Juneteenth Music Festival, a cultural celebration beacon, has been a constant in the community, bringing us together and reminding us of our neighborhood's rich history and cultural significance. Despite the transformation and decline, the festival has continued to unite us as a powerful reminder of our community's resilience and the enduring impact of our shared history. Five Points has been the heart of the Juneteenth celebration in Denver, Colorado, since 1953, according to the Denver Public Library, a testament to the festival's enduring impact and our community's commitment to celebrating our shared history.
(Courtesy of photographer Evan Tarver)
In 2021 Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021 when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law, has been made a federal holiday, meaning that jobs and businesses are allowed to close as if it was any other holiday. Before the decision by President Biden Denver’s City Council announced that Juneteenth would officially be considered an official commentative holiday celebrating what some call the “Second Independence Day”. Fast forward three years later and here we are today.
Recap
Denver Nuggets mascot Rocky + Colorado Mammoth mascot Wooly. (Courtesy of photographer Evan Tarver)
Saturday morning started with a parade at another Colorado history landmark, Manual High School. Leading the parade were Rocky, Rapid Man, and Wooly, our beloved mascots for our Colorado sports teams: the Denver Nuggets, the Colorado Rapids, and the Colorado Mammoth. The parade was also led by hundreds of students, dance teams, community activists, foundations, football teams, community residents, and many more. Thanks to Chris Banks the head of promotions and vendors list for JMF; there were 200-plus vendors selling merchandise, including clothing, apparel, purses, food, collectible items, and more. Also, vendors were set up not selling anything but spreading the gift of knowledge; many organizations, such as 7 News, 9 News, Denver Police Department, Denver Fire Department, Park Hill Pirates Football, and more, recruited community members to expand their horizons. At the main stage, community activist and leader Jason Mcbride was the host alongside 7 News reporter Micah Smith, as they kept the crowd and the event itself running smoothly and through.
(Courtesy of photographer Evan Tarver)
Days before the event, the current executive and chief of the JMF operations, Norman Harris, who happens to own Spangalang Brewery (a well-respected establishment on Welton Street), announced that his Brewery would yet again be open during the festival, providing refreshments and food for those in attendance. It was quite the sight to see as they had a stage built in the parking lot of Spangalang allowing people to partake in karaoke, and contest for prizes in front of a huge crowd of people, all throughout the festival there was music literally played everywhere while music of various genres played throughout the festival. There were several companies that sponsored the event, and even had representatives in attendance for brands including, Coors Light, Amazon, Xcel Energy, Kaiser Permanente, and many more.
Saturdays Lineup
Main Stage
Noon | Parade Ceremony
1:00pm | Trininity Scales, Izyaah Dubose, Elijha, Goldie
2:00pm | Dream Big Award Recognition
3:00pm | Mannie Fresh Interview
5:00pm | Beasts of No Nation
6:00pm | Baux
6:30pm | DJ Fadorah
7:15pm | Danae Simone
On a bustling Saturday, the day kicked off with the celebrated Juneteenth parade, the oldest and most prominent parade of its kind in the United States. Following the parade, the crowd was treated to a captivating display of music and entertainment. Notably, the Denver School of the Arts alumni Trinity Scales and current DSA students, including Izyaah Dubose, Elijah, and Goldie, graced the stage first. Their performances included soulful renditions of songs by renowned artists such as Aaliyah, Maze, and Lauryn Hill. What truly wowed the audience was the seamless instrument-switching among Izyaah, Elijah, and Goldie as they effortlessly transitioned from drums to keyboard to bass guitar, showcasing their remarkable musical versatility. The crowd's standing ovation was a testament to their exceptional talent. Additionally, the audience was thrilled to learn that Trinity Scales would soon release her debut project. The event culminated with the Dream Big Award Recognition ceremony, highlighting the outstanding contributions of multiple winners to the community.
As Mannie Fresh took the stage for an interview, I was filled with excitement and nostalgia, reminiscing about the impact of his music on my formative years. His influence on today's music scene is unmistakable, and it's clear how his sound has shaped the current musical landscape. The interview, conducted by Cameron Trimble representing the thought-provoking platform Hip Politics presented by Cleo Parker, delved into the intricate relationship between hip-hop and politics, shedding light on the genre's influence on political spheres and its perception from an external standpoint. During the interview, Mannie Fresh passionately discussed music's pivotal role in inspiring him to become an artist. He also shared his insightful perspectives on the current state of hip-hop, offering valuable insights into its evolution and impact. Most notably, Mannie emphasized the importance of not allowing music to raise children, an essential message for anyone with an interest in the cultural influence of music.
Mannie Fresh being interviewed at the Juneteenth Music Festival. (Courtesy of photographer Evan Tarver)
The performing group known as Beasts of No Nation is comprised of a highly talented ensemble of musicians who skillfully fuse together elements of Afrobeat, Hip Hop, Reggae, Funk, R&B, and Calypso. Renowned for their electrifying stage presence and audience engagement, they took the stage next, igniting the crowd with their music. The event also featured captivating performances by Baux, as well as a vibrant DJ set by Fadorah, who recently landed the role of DJ for the Colorado Buffalos in Boulder. The day's festivities culminated with an unforgettable performance by Danae Simone, a Colorado native celebrated for her exceptional musical prowess and individuality. A few minutes away from the main stage was another stage, where there were no performances, but it was hosted by media personality DJ Graffiti. When the festivities were over, stage manager and musician Robert Thomas, also known as Rob Tz, played a significant role in ensuring the stage was well-kept. He was also behind the musical equipment for the event. Shortly after the festival, the Colorado-based media promotion company PMG founded by Yakk Black had an after-party at Mirus Art Gallery, where Mannie Fresh was the host and DJ.
Sundays Lineup
12:45 - 1:45 pm | Colorado Mass Choir
2:30 - 3:15pm | Gregory Goodloe
3:15 - 3:45pm | DJ Fadorah
3:45 - 4:30pm | Ron Ivory
4:30 - 4:45pm | Gionni
4:45 - 5:30pm | AP
5:30 - 6:00pm | Chauncey Billups
6:00 - 6:30pm | Marlo / featuring hot lunch
6:30 - 6:50pm | E.M.E
6:50 - 7:15 pm | DJ Kimani
7:00 | BOW WOW
The Sunday lineup was indeed a sight to behold, with a constellation of stars gracing the stage. The Colorado Mass Choir kicked off the festivities on the main stage, infusing the Juneteenth festival with the spirit of the church. As the day unfolded, the audience was treated to awe-inspiring performances and engaging conversations by Marlo featuring Hot Lunch Band, AP, Ron Ivory, Gionni, and Gregory Goodloe. However, the most highly anticipated moment was the special honor bestowed upon Denver native and NBA Champion Chauncey Billups. A few weeks before the festival, it was announced that Billups would receive a lifetime achievement award for his remarkable career and unwavering commitment to the Colorado community. Reflecting on his high school days, Billups' extraordinary talent shone brightly at George Washington High School, where he garnered a multitude of accolades, including being a four-time All-State first-team pick, a three-time Colorado Mr. Basketball, and a member of the 1995 McDonald's All-American Team. Another legend who has been to Colorado numerous times to cap off the night was called Bow Wow. He put on a great show, performing countless hits, and had the whole festival in attendance to see him close out the show.
