5th Annual Juneteenth in the Peak 2025

This year marks the 5th Annual Juneteenth in The Peak Festival in Downtown Apex, NC. Originally created by TJ Evans and Mayor Jacques K. Gilbert in 2021, the festival has flourished thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Apex Juneteenth Festival Committee and community supporters. The festival was envisioned to unite and heal divisions within the community. It is built on three core pillars: education, fostering understanding and empathy; youth empowerment, inspiring the next generation to embrace their identity and potential; and unity, promoting collective efforts for a more equitable future.

Juneteenth, observed on June 19, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the U.S. It marks the day in 1865 when slavery officially ended in Galveston, Texas, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This festival embraces the holiday by celebrating freedom, resilience, and African American culture while raising awareness of its significance in history. It also highlights the rich and evolving African American heritage within the Apex community. Our mission is to bring people from all backgrounds together to celebrate, learn, and connect. The festival features a Juneteenth history exhibit, interactive children’s activities, local food vendors, professional and youth performances, and opportunities for local businesses to shine. This event is a time to honor the past, celebrate progress, and reaffirm our commitment to building a brighter future together.