Little Rock, Arkansas – As summer approaches and June draws near, Little Rock is preparing once again for one of its most meaningful community gatherings. The city is getting ready to welcome back “Juneteenth in Da Rock,” a festival that has become a steady part of its cultural calendar.
This year marks the 17th annual edition of the event, organized by the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center. The celebration will take place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in the heart of historic West 9th Street in downtown Little Rock. The day will bring together a mix of history, music, food, and community activities in a space designed for all ages.
The festival is free and built around a simple idea: bringing people together to reflect on freedom while also celebrating culture in a lively, open-air setting. Organizers say the event continues to grow each year, both in size and in the variety of programs offered.
Early in the morning, the day will begin with the Juneteenth in Da Rock 5K Walk/Run, starting promptly at 7:00 a.m. Participants will move through parts of the city tied closely to African American history. The route will pass important landmarks such as the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, Arkansas Baptist College, and Philander Smith University. The early activity sets a reflective tone before the festival shifts into its full daytime schedule.
As the morning progresses, West 9th Street will transform into a street festival filled with energy and movement. Visitors can expect live music performances, a range of food options, local vendors, and activities designed for families. A dedicated kids’ zone will also be part of the setup, giving younger visitors space to play and take part in the celebration.
The music lineup is one of the key highlights of the day. The festival will feature well-known performers including platinum-selling artist Lloyd and Grammy Award-winning songwriter Keri Hilson. Alongside them, a wide mix of artists will take the stage throughout the day, including Alma Brown and the A-1 Gospel Singers, The Big John Miller Band, Big Piph, BJoux, Crissy P, DJ Nick Hud, Genine Latrice Perez, and others.
Organizers describe Juneteenth in Da Rock as more than just a festival. It is a gathering meant to connect generations, highlight cultural roots, and bring visibility to the city’s historic spaces.
With its mix of music, history, and community participation, the event is expected to once again draw large crowds to downtown Little Rock for a full day of celebration and reflection.
