The Strong National Museum of Play is pleased to offer free general admission and parking on Saturday, June 20, in celebration of Juneteenth. The day is presented by the Rochester Area Community Foundation and Greater Rochester Martin Luther King Jr. Commission. The museum’s activities are part of the larger Rochester community Juneteenth celebration on June 19 and 20.
Experience a day filled with live performances, music, poetry, and interactive activities that honor and uplift Black history and culture. With opportunities to explore, learn, and connect throughout the museum, this special event invites everyone to reflect, celebrate, and take part in a meaningful day of community. The full schedule follows:
Performances and entertainment
- Black National Anthem Performance featuring Holden James Turner
10:45 a.m., Wilson Lobby - Forever Essence Fashion Show featuring Beauty Queens of Forever Essence
11 a.m., Paychex Theater - RocMusic Performance: Jazz combo Dreamseeds
11:30 a.m., Adams Atrium - School 33 Step Team: High energy step performance
noon, Paychex Theater - Musical Moments: Holden James Turner & Zachary Peterson
1 p.m., Paychex Theater - Poets from Rochester featuring Ke-nijah Holloman, Arianna Blandino, Eaim Guity, Sofia LeBron Williams, Nicoya Jones, and Zetta Hayes
2 p.m., Adams Atrium - Borinquen Dance Theater: Cultural dance performance
2:30 p.m., Paychex Theater
Stories, Culture, and Learning
- Crowned in Heritage: Design and decorate your own crown
Reading Adventureland - Juneteenth Uno Remix: Play, share rules, and enjoy themed music
Puppy’s Game Café - Hair Braiding: Learn about the importance of hair braiding and management in the African American culture with stylists from Natural Style Beauty Salon.
Play Lab
Family, Fun, and interactive experiences
- Celebrate and Play: Outdoor games like double dutch and hula hoops (with NSBE)
Riedman Commons - Photo Ops & High Fives: Meet the Patriotic Captain & Mermaid Princess
Adams Atrium - Sugary Delights: Cotton candy available (fees apply)
