By Richard L. Gaw
Staff Writer

From the moment the First Mushroom Festival paraded along the streets of Kennett Borough in 1986, Kennett Square has earned a reputation as the festival capital of Chester County and likely, all of southeastern Pennsylvania.

In recognition of that platitude and in honor of Juneteenth celebrations all over Chester County, Kennett Collaborative, in partnership with several area organizations, is inviting the public to be a part of its Juneteenth Jubilee, which will take place on June 19 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. along State Street in Kennett Square.

The event will coincide with Third Thursday, a monthly tradition that converts State Street into a vibrant pedestrian hub filled with dining in the streets, live music, and community spirit. 

Area organizations who will be a part of this year’s festivities include the Kennett Heritage Center, the Kennett Underground Railroad Center, The Kennett Flash, Kennett Area Community Services, the Kennett Library, the New Garden UAME Church, the Martin Luther King Community of Greater Kennett Area, the Kennett Area Park Authority and Kennett Collaborative. 

In addition to the family friendly activities always offered at Third Thursdays, attendees will be able to enjoy soul-stirring African drumming by Hakim Tendaci; a dance performance by over 40 Double Dutch dancers; music by jazz performer DJ Wayne James; a presentation by Dr. Daisy Century, a Harriet Tubman interpreter; as well as ongoing activities and food and items from one dozen food vendors and local artisans. 

“The event has transformed remarkably since its inception,” said Carol A. Black, president of the MLKCommUNITY of the Greater Kennett Area. “What started as a humble gathering in a Black church on Linden Street has burgeoned into a landmark occasion that draws participants from around the region. Over the years, we’ve seen it expand not only in scale but also in scope —introducing cultural performances, music, food, games and more inclusive activities to promote cultural awareness and community cohesiveness.

“The integration of this year’s Juneteenth celebration with ‘Third Thursdays on State Street in Kennett Square has further enhanced accessibility and allows a broader audience to partake in its offerings. Each edition of Juneteenth builds on the previous one, becoming a more dynamic and multifaceted celebration of freedom.” 

The Juneteenth Jubilee is free and open to the public. To learn more, and for a complete guide to all activities, visit www.juneteenthkennettsquare.com For information about other Juneteenth celebrations in Chester County, visit: https://www.culturechesco.org/juneteenth.

To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email [email protected].