Juneteenth programming at Harvey B. Gantt Center 

HARVEY B. GANTT CENTER

The Gantt Center is hosting a slate of activities for Juneteenth, including arts and crafts for children.

The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture is making a day of freedom, culture, and community for Juneteenth.

The center will host a four-hour block of free activities and programs on June 19 from 12-4 p.m., including the exhibition, Beyond Boundaries: Black Abstraction in the Elliot and Kimberly Perry Collection. The exhibit, which spans the Gantt’s three galleries, charts mid-20th-century and contemporary abstracts by Black artists.

“We are thrilled to present Juneteenth at the Gantt 2026, a vibrant celebration honoring the spirit of freedom through art, music, and community connection,” public programs manager Kayla Allen said in a statement. “All are invited to join us in commemorating the heritage of strength and freedom and to enjoy the day’s cultural experiences.”

The program schedule:

Soul Bistro Food Truck, 12-4 p.m.

The food truck will be stationed outside of the Gantt's main entrance. Southern staples, including barbecue, seafood, and soul food, will be available.

Community Book Club & Vendor Pop-Up, 12-4 p.m.

Archive CLT will host a pop-up at the Gantt’s Museum Store for a holiday-themed book discussion. Café drinks, including chai and iced coffee, will on sale through the afternoon.

Vendor Marketplace, 12-4 p.m.

Vendors, including Sweet Imalda’s, In Due Time, and Kkunda, will be in the mezzanine area on the third floor.

Kids Arts & Crafts, 12-4 p.m.

Children of all ages can participate in arts and crafts on the top floor that include coloring pages and a craft stick pan-African flag activity.

Guided tours start at the second-floor visitor information desk, 12 p.m. and 1 p.m.

Learn about the history of the Gantt Center and the “Beyond Boundaries” exhibition.

“Juneteenth Faith & Freedom” screening, 12-1 p.m.

A documentary film follows the journey of a Black man as he travels Texas to learn more about the legacy of slavery in the U.S. and the Juneteenth holiday.

Painting activation with Curtis King, Harper-Roddey Grand Lobby, 12-2 p.m. 

The Charlotte artist will host a live painting activation. Perfect for guests to watch a painting come to life and ask questions throughout the process.

Juneteenth Mix with DJ Micki Blends, 1-2 p.m.

DJ Micki Blends will bring a summer soundtrack of classic cookout favorites, feel-good throwbacks, and crowd favorites.

Panel discussion: The History of Juneteenth, 2-3 p.m.

A discussion exploring the history of Juneteenth from the Emancipation Proclamation to federal holiday.

featuring local professors and historians Willie Griffin, Janaka Lewis and Earl Ijames.

A Sign of the Times, 3-4 p.m.

The Charlotte group will close the celebration in the Harper-Roddey Grand Lobby with a musical performance.

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