Happy Juneteenth! This week, we’re thinking about Black joy, freedom, and the work it takes to keep moving forward. If you’re marking the day, NAAM’s Juneteenth celebration is a great place to be.

Here’s what else is happening:

 

Black Night Market

June 20, 3:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Waterfront Park Seattle
Free

DJs, local makers, food trucks, and dance performances take over Pier 62 for Juneteenth. Hosted by the Black Night Market, the evening centers Black-owned businesses and community connection — all set against the sunset on the waterfront.

 

Seattle Asian American Film Festival

June 20-29 
Wing Luke Museum, Broadway Performance Hall
$13+

Opening night is at Wing Luke Museum, with a Southeast Asian showcase and a community reception. Screenings continue at Broadway Performance Hall through the weekend, with new films from Native Hawaiian and Northwest voices. The rest of the films stream online. It’s one of those festivals that reminds you how much is out there — and how creative and layered Seattle really is. Find the schedule here.

 

Fremont Fair

June 21-22, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Fremont Neighborhood
Free

Solstice weekend in Fremont means good food, live music, and a whole lot of action in the streets. The parade rolls at 1 p.m. Saturday — with painted, naked cyclists, of course. Sunday brings the dog parade. It’s the 34th year, and if you’ve been before, you know. If you haven’t, better check the bus schedule now, or start planning your bike route.

 

Valerie June

Sunday, June 22, 7 p.m.
The Showbox
$35

Valerie June was the soundtrack to so many late nights during the pandemic. Her twangy, soulful voice carried me through my own creativity during that terrible time. I’m always a sucker for the banjo, and she makes it sound like something cosmic. As the New York Times put it, “Valerie June has built a devoted following by ignoring expectations. She is simultaneously rural and cosmopolitan, historically minded and contemporary, idiosyncratic and fashionable, mystical and down-to-earth.” If you haven’t seen her live, this is the moment. You’ll leave with her dreamy music swirling in your head.

 

After Hours: Pride

Thursday, June 26, 7 p.m.
Seattle Aquarium
$49.87+

A 21+ Pride night inside the Aquarium. There’s drag and a scavenger hunt. Food is available for purchase, and there’ dancing and a no-host bar. If you’ve never watched jellyfish while sipping something strong, here’s your chance.

 

The Unfair Advantage

Now-June 29
Poncho Forum
$61+

A close-up magic show from Harry Milas, a former casino-security expert who now deals cards in a room with just 35 people. You’ll sign an NDA and sit close as he explains the psychology behind the con. It’s all so intriguing!

 

Never Turn Back: Echoes of African American Music

Through 2026
Museum of Pop Culture
$33.50

This exhibit is about listening. You’ll see original vinyl from the Fisk Jubilee Singers and photographs of artists like Aretha Franklin and John Lee Hooker. It shows how Black musicians used sound as protest and identity. There are even sound labs where you can try mixing your own tracks. I haven’t been yet, but it’s high on my list.

Visit our events calendar for more ideas.