The Community Voice

Celebrating Juneteenth
2026-06-06 10:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Kansas
This FREE family-friendly event, provides an opportunity to honor the history and celebrate Juneteenth with art, music, dance, storytelling, food, and more!

2026-06-06 10:00 - 13:00 | Kansas
Juneteenth is a time to celebrate freedom and honor the past. In observance, Johnson County Park and Recreation District will host its 5th annual Juneteenth Celebration at the Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center. Built with community partners, this FREE family-friendly Juneteenth event provides an opportunity to commemorate this history with art, music, food, dance, and more!

McAfee Pool Historical Celebration
2026-06-06 11:00 - 15:00 | Kansas
special community celebration at McAfee Pool, newly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This exciting recognition honors the pool’s architectural innovation, cultural significance, and its lasting impact within Wichita’s African American community.

Built in 1969, McAfee Pool was the first facility in Kansas specifically designed for African American children to practice lap swimming. In 2021, the pool was renamed in honor of architect and Wichita resident Charles F. McAfee, one of the first graduates of the University of Nebraska’s architecture program and a founding member of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA). In 2023, the City received a grant from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund to develop a long-term Preservation Plan, secure its National Register nomination, and support needed improvements to the facility. The team of architecture firms McAfee3 and Treanor and engineering firm Dubois Consultants were selected by the City of Wichita to help accomplish the grant’s objectives.

To mark this historic milestone, we’re inviting the community to a day of learning, celebration, and fun along with our first Free Swim Day supported by Council Member Johnson’s generous donation, which will help provide free swim opportunities throughout the summer. Beginning at 1 p.m., the Wichita Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity will help keep the celebration going with food and music for attendees to enjoy during the free swim.

Event Schedule

11:00 AM – Educational TourLed by a member of the McAfee family, offering a deeper look into the pool’s history, design, and community legacy.

12:45 PM – Celebration & RemarksHear from City leadership and Charles McAfee as we honor this important recognition and the ongoing efforts to preserve McAfee’s legacy.

1:00 PM – Pool Opens for Free SwimEnjoy a refreshing afternoon at the pool free and open to the public. Food and music, provided by the Wichita Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, will also begin at this time.

McAfee Pool is located at 1240 E.14th St. in McAdams Park.

It Cannot Always Be Night: A Celebration of Gwendolyn Brooks
2026-06-06 16:00 - 18:00 | artsconnect, 909 N. Kansas, Topeka, KS, 66608, United States
Join ArtsConnect to celebrate the one and only Ms. Gwendolyn Brooks and her birth in Topeka, Kansas, on June 7, 1917. Hosted by poet, historian and Brooks’ protege, Quraysh Ali Lansana alongside Topeka poets Annette Hope Billings, Dennis Etzel, Jr., and Huascar Medina.
Ms. Brooks devoted much of her writing to the idea of speaking truth to power – of addressing global challenges amplified by the written word and with her signature understanding of how her work, a proxy for the voices of everyday people, can empower us all to push collectively against forces much larger than ourselves individually.
This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments as well as beer, wine and soft drinks will be served. We appreciate your RSVP so that we can have an accurate estimate for planning.
Gwendolyn Brooks (1917–2000), a luminous force in American literature and the first Black author to be honored with a Pulitzer Prize, began her journey right here in Topeka, Kansas. While she moved to Chicago as an infant and became an “organic Chicagoan,” her technical mastery and vivid portrayals of the everyday lives of urban Black Americans in Bronzeville continued to resonate both at home and abroad. Her work serves as a powerful testament to the struggles and triumphs of our communities, inviting us all to witness the extraordinary in the seemingly ordinary.

Midwest R & B Fest
2026-06-06 18:00 - 22:00 | Kansas
Performing Live – Jacques, Kelly Price, Lyfe Jennings& Rome

Tickets at selectaseat

R-Rules Summer Youth Workshop
2026-06-08 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-06-15 10:00 - 12:00 | Urban League, 2418 E 9th, Wichita, KS, 67214
an 8-week interactive program designed specifically for incoming 6th–8th grade middle school students.

This activity-based program is designed to help students build confidence, communication skills, leadership abilities, goal-setting habits, financial literacy awareness, and healthy decision-making skills in a fun, engaging, and supportive environment.

Students will learn:• Communication & Vocabulary Skills• Goal Setting & Time Management• Leadership & Teamwork• Financial Literacy• Healthy Relationships & Decision-Making• Confidence, Identity & Purpose

Program Details

Cost: FREELunch: FREE Lunch Provided DailySpecial Feature: Graduation Celebration at the conclusion of the program

The workshop will also feature special guest speakers focused on communication, college readiness, and financial literacy.

This program is designed to prepare students for success both inside and outside the classroom through hands-on activities, group discussion, teamwork, and real-world application.

Space is limited, so register today by scanning the QR code on the attached flyer or contact:

Storytime in the Park
2026-06-09 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-06-16 10:00 - 11:00 | Naftzger Park, 601 East Douglas Avenue, Wichita, KS, 67202, United States
Read along with stories on the big screen at Naftzger Park and enjoy music, snacks, free books and an activity for the kids. Storytime in the Park is a partnership between Storytime Village and Wichita Park & Recreation.

Protect Your Mind
2026-06-10 18:00 - 19:30, 2026-06-15 18:00 - 19:30, 2026-06-17 18:00 - 19:30 | BUILD REBUILD, 1751 N Ash, Wichita, Kansas, 67214
Masters & Mentors, we’re continuing to teach our young men the value of patience, strategy, and critical thinking through the game of chess.

Chess is more than a game, it’s a lesson in decision-making, discipline, and thinking ahead. Every move matters, and the choices we make today can impact the opportunities we have tomorrow.

We’re challenging our young men to slow down, think through their options, and remember:

“Make your next move your best move.”

Boys Ages 13–18

We’re looking forward to another evening of growth, leadership, and brotherhood.

PHAT AZZ BIKES MC
2026-06-12 19:00 - 22:00 | Phat Azz Bike Clubhouse, 419 S Hydraulic, Wichita, Kansas, 67214
Meet & Greet with Phat Azz Bikes MC. Everyone welcome

JuneteenthOP
2026-06-13 07:30 - 13:00 | Kansas
Juneteenth Overland Park is “Moving Forward with Resilience and Perseverance”

See the parade, watch performances, visit stores and vendor booths, and participate in fun family-friendly activities. The stage will be located near the Museum at Prairie Fire. Vendor booths will be along Access Road. In case of rain, activities will be moved inside the museum.

7:30 am: June Freedom Run / Parade: Featuring local bands, entertainers, and

Emcee & Parade Grand Marshal Rae Daniel Kshb, 41 Reporter.

On stage: speakers, musicians, poets, dancers, comedians, & more!

Urban League of Kansas Juneteenth Day of Restoration
2026-06-13 08:30 - 14:00 | Urban League, 2418 E 9th, Wichita, KS, 67214
At 12:00 noon, Councilman Joseph Shepard and Rev. Titus James will share remarks on the importance and significance of Juneteenth and its lasting impact on our community.

Lunch will be provided and will feature nachos, hot dogs, and chips. We encourage you to come out, volunteer, enjoy lunch with our neighbors, and take this opportunity to meet Councilman Shepard and engage with members of the community.

Vendors and Organizations WelcomeWe are also seeking vendors interested in selling items such as jewelry, crafts, and other merchandise. Booth cost: $25 per table. We are also seeking organizations interested in promoting their businesses or services. There is no charge for organizations. If you are interested in participating as a vendor or promoting your organization, please contact Sarah Robinson at sarah.robinson@urbanleagueks.org.

Celebrate Community and Culture at the Juneteenth Celebration
2026-06-13 09:00 - 21:30 | Kansas
2026 Juneteenth in the Dotte Parade

Each year the Juneteenth in the Dotte Parade draws hundreds to enjoy marching bands, dancers and other performers. If you or your organization is interested in participating in the parade, please contact Juneteenth in the Dotte at jnthedotte.com to complete the parade application and waiver form.

2026 Parade RouteThis year’s parade route will start at 5th and Cleavland Avenue and will end at 5th and Washington Blvd., in downtown Kansas City, KS.

Line the route & cheer on the fun!

Please join us for Juneteenth in Wyandotte County on Saturday, June 13, 2026. This year’s celebration will include a Juneteenth parade starting at 9AM, with the family-friendly community celebration taking place at Kaw Point Park from 6:00PM – 9:30PM. Join us for live entertainment, games, local vendors, community resources, fireworks and so much more…

The parade will proceed south from Cleveland along 5th Street to Washington Blvd.

Nelson-Atkins and JuneteenthKC present our 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration
2026-06-13 10:00 - 16:00 | Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, 4525 Oak Street, Kansas City, Missouri, 64111
The free Juneteenth Celebration honors the enduring contributions of African Americans with a full day of festivities, including live music and dancing, storytelling performances, and educational experiences in the museum’s galleries.

Grant Chapel AME Church Car Show & Shine
2026-06-13 11:00 - 14:00 | Kansas
The Men of Grant Chapel AME Church invite you to our Second Annual “Car Show & Shine” on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. which will also include a Fish Fry with fresh fried fish, burgers and hot dogs (while supplies last). Shine up your ride and join us as we host this exciting community event. Cars, trucks, and motorcycles welcome! There is a $10 per vehicle entry fee. We are located at 2750 N. Hillside Avenue, Wichita, Kansas. Phone: (316) 685-2682. Our CashApp is $GrantWichita.

Gumbo Fest
2026-06-13 12:00 - 16:00 | Zhou B Art Center Kansas City, 1801 East 18th Street, Kansas City, MO, 64127, United States
Gumbo Contest, Live Music, Vendors, Games & More!

PHAT AZZ BIKES MC PICNIC
2026-06-13 12:00 - 17:00 | BEECH LAKE, 1120 N Webb Rd, WICHITA, KS, 67206
PICNIC. WRISTBANDS $20 FOOD & FUN

SATURDAY NIGHT PARTY

BEECH ACTIVITY CENTER

2744 GEORGE WASHINGTON BLVD

9 PM – 1:30 PM

RESERVED TABLES $200

FREE ICE CREAM SOCIALS - Celebrating Wichita Library's 150th anniversary
2026-06-13 13:00 - 14:30 | Wichita Public Library – Evergreen Branch, 2601 North Arkansas Avenue, Wichita, KS, 67204, United States
Friends of the Wichita Public Library Hosting Ice Cream Socials this Summer

The Friends of the Wichita Public Library (FWPL) volunteers are celebrating the Wichita Library’s 150th anniversary this summer with seven free events.

Members of the organization will be handing out free ice cream sandwiches at local library branches (while supplies last). Bring a friend, say hello, and enjoy a sweet treat during your next library visit.

All events will be held from 1 – 2:30 p.m., or until the ice cream runs out!

Ice cream sandwiches provided by Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. Media support provided by KMUW 89.1.

31st Annual JuneteenthJC
2026-06-13 13:00 - 20:00 | Heritage Park, 6th & Washington St, Junction City, KS, 66441
Live Concert featuring Carvin Winans

Special Guest: K-DramaEntertainment: Topeka High DrumlineKids Activities: Kid Zone Foam Party Amenities: Craft/info vendors and food vendors [1]

Juneteenth Buckets Over Bullets Allstar Basketball Game
2026-06-14 13:30 - 16:00 | Kansas
The “Buckets for Bullets” (also known as “Buckets Over Bullets”) community basketball event is hosted by Cure Violence ICT. This is a fundraiser to raise money to help hospital-stricken youth in the Wichita area

Salina Juneteenth Weekend
2026-06-17 18:00 - 21:00 | SALINA ART CENTER CINEMA,, 150 S Santa Fe, Salina, Kansas, 67401
Movie Ain’t No Back to a Merry-Go-Round – An untold Civil Rights Story

Discussion following the movie

2026 Annual Juneteenth Talent Show
2026-06-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Chester I Lewis Plaza, 15 E 1st Ave,, Hutchinson, KS, 67501, United States
Calling all young singers, dancers, poets, musicians, comedians, performers, and creative youth! We are excited to host our **Youth Talent Show** as part of this year’s Juneteenth Celebration.**Prizes awarded**, including a **$100 1st Place Prize!**There will be **3 age brackets**, giving youth of all ages a chance to shine, have fun, and showcase their gifts in front of the community.Come perform, come cheer, and come celebrate freedom, culture, and youth talent with us!

The Paul Laurence Dunbar School Reunion & Celebration
2026-06-19 10:00 - 17:00 | Kansas
12th Paul Laurence Dunbar School Reunion and Community Celebration in Salina, Kansas. Special events will be held throughout the Salina community, with the Salina Arts Center, the Smoky Hill Museum, and CKF Addiction Treatment.

Reunion registration can be made on-line at: www.dunbarschoolsalina.org

DON’T MISS A GREAT REUNION GATHERING OF ALUMNI, FAMILIES, FRIENDS AND COMMUNITY!!

EARLY REGISTRATION IS ENCOURAGED!!

TKAAM Juneteenth Community Celebration
2026-06-19 10:00 - 17:00 | The Kansas African American Museum, 601 N Water St, Wichita, KS, 67203, United States
As we reflect on the legacy, resilience, and self-sufficiency of African Americans, we invite you to celebrate with us. In recognition of this historic day, TKAAM is offering FREE admission on Friday, June 19th.
Guests of all ages are invited to join interactive family activities, explore our current exhibits, and participate in a community mural celebrating history and culture. Visit our Juneteenth page for more details.
We can’t wait to welcome you!
Community mural created by Lindsey Kernodle with support from our partner Harvester Arts and sponsor Evergy.

Juneteenth Community March
2026-06-19 10:00 - 17:00 | Municipal Auditorium, 112 S 17th St, Parsons, Kansas
The SEK Juneteenth Celebration opens with an official march. Activities include VDC dance performance, panel of guest speakers, Dr. Trinity Davis, free community meal at Forest Park (214 S 13th St, Parsons, KS 67357), talent show & tag DJ’s.

host “Food for the Journey: Kansas Stories”
2026-06-19 12:00 - 17:00 | Kansas
The event is part of “Kansas Folklife: Celebrating Kansas Traditions,” a series of folklifepresentations developed by Humanities Kansas recognizing the nation’s milestone 250th anniversary.This is a free Lunch and Learn event, with drinks and desserts provided.“Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend this presentation event to learn more about the Kansas Folklife and the journey of African Americans migration from the south” said Museum Director, Kirk Sharp.As African Americans made their way to Kansas, what foods came with them? Theressa Rice’s presentation is rooted in stories – stories from her history, her grandparents’ farm, her family’s migration from Oklahoma and Texas, and the food that graced the table for Sunday Supper once they reached their destination.

13th Annual Topeka and Friends Juneteenth Celebration
2026-06-19 12:00 - 22:00 | Hillcrest Community Center, 1800 SE 21st St, Topeka, KS, 66607
Parade & Car Show: Kicks off at 11:00 AM in Downtown Topeka. The Juneteenth Parade Route begins staging at the east parking lot of the Judicial Building, moves north on SW Kansas Avenue, heads west on SW 7th Street, and returns south via SW Harrison. Community Celebration: Runs from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Hillcrest Park (Hillcrest Community Center). This free gathering includes food truck vendors, live musical performances, and networking. For the Culture KS Gala: A social gathering scheduled for 6:00 PM
