Cultural event is key to Carver Center; food, music, and fun await

Warm weather is upon us again, and with it comes one of Kokomo’s most anticipated traditions, the Juneteenth Summer Celebration, hosted by the Kokomo Housing Authority and Carver Community Center.

Each year, this event feels like a grand family reunion, filled with love, laughter, and a powerful sense of unity. It’s a time when neighbors become family and the heartbeat of the city is felt in full rhythm through food, music, and shared history.

Juneteenth is more than just a festival; it’s a commemoration of freedom. It honors the day when the last enslaved African Americans were finally freed, years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. This annual celebration brings that legacy to life with joy, and remembrance, reminding us of how far we’ve come and how important it is to keep building together.

This event is especially meaningful to Carver Community Center as it marks a key moment in their annual campaign. The Juneteenth Summer Celebration serves not only as a cultural gathering, but also as a fundraiser and awareness builder for Carver’s mission to continue serving families and youth in the community through education, enrichment, and empowerment. The funds and support generated during this time help sustain Carver’s year-round programming and outreach.

Returning to the beloved downtown square, this year’s celebration brings added excitement. That familiar setting adds a unique charm and accessibility, making the event feel even more connected to the heart of Kokomo.

A major highlight will be the “Best of Kokomo” food competition. Local food vendors will present their best dishes to a select panel of judges, and attendees will have the chance to vote for the “People’s Choice” on-site during the event.

Entertainment will be front and center, with performances by talented local rap artist DeRay Boyd, soulful guitarist Winston Howard, and the legendary Kokomo band Maximum Groove. Spoken word artists will also take the stage, and the Black National Anthem will be performed in a moment of reflection and pride. The event will also feature local vendors, Quarter Bingo, and a painting session led by the creative Shai Nash.

This is more than a celebration, it’s a chance to support a cause, honor a legacy, and enjoy the richness of community. Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of something powerful and joyful in the heart of Kokomo.