Levitt Arlington & Phi Beta Sigma Host Free Juneteenth Event Saturday

Published on June 15, 2023

By Levitt Pavilion Arlington Communications

The second annual Arlington Juneteenth Celebration returns to Levitt Arlington from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, June 17. The free event in Downtown Arlington is co-hosted by the Levitt in collaboration with the Arlington chapter of Phi Beta Sigma, Inc.

Also joining Phi Beta Sigma and the Levitt this year is event sponsor Service First Initiatives, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to bettering the lives of boys.

The Juneteenth event promises a full lineup of family-friendly fun, including concerts, food trucks, and shopping with vendors, many representing Black-owned businesses. Admission and parking are free.

About the Music

5:30 p.m - FRANK SUTTON FUSION PROJECT: Dallas musician Frank Sutton has been making a name for himself in the smooth jazz genre and the Dallas music scene and beyond. A gifted multi-instrumentalist, Frank creates original music that’s another step toward crafting infectious melodies, compelling grooves, sensual vibes and emotionally reflective compositions, delivered via energetic and electrifying performances.

7 p.m. - IGIMÈJÍ: Noted for an original R&B-meets-rock sound, Igimèjí has had a busy few years, performing live at venues across DFW, writing songs, recording demos, building their fan base, and spreading their message of positivity everywhere they go. Their single “Water” made its debut on KXT 91.7 last year; the band also released a music video for “Water” which is available on YouTube.

8:30 p.m. - NEW BREED BRASS BAND: New Breed Brass Band lives and breathes the culture of New Orleans, infusing funk, rock, jazz, and hip-hop into a custom-made enhancement of the city's second-line brass band tradition. Since their 2013 debut at the Nine Times Second Line, New Breed has showcased their distinctive sound at venues across North America and Europe, opening for such diverse acts as The Fray, Red Baraat, Blackalicious, Dr. John, The Waterboys, and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue.

About the Event

From the Arlington Juneteenth website: “Juneteenth, a combination of ‘June’ and ‘nineteenth,’ has been a day of celebration in Texas for more than 150 years. The day commemorates June 19, 1865, when news of the federal order ending slavery in the United States reached enslaved people in Galveston, Texas—more than two months after the end of the Civil War and more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in January 1863. The observance of Juneteenth is about the journey and achievement of African Americans – from a horrific period of sanctioned enslavement to the pinnacle of human endeavors.”

Jerry Farmer, Phi Beta Sigma spokesperson, said he hopes that Arlington residents and visitors to Arlington will plan on “making a day of it” in Downtown Arlington for the 2023 Juneteenth celebration.

“This is going to be an exciting, vibrant event the entire family can enjoy together,” said Farmer. “We especially hope that people who have never been to the Levitt or visited downtown will take advantage of all there is to do and see, especially our three amazing concerts that we have planned. It’s going to be a wonderful day to gather to honor historical struggles and celebrate contemporary achievements, and just have a good time together as a community.”

Added Letatia Teykl, the Levitt’s executive director: “We’re honored that Phi Beta Sigma continues to partner with the Levitt for this vital community celebration. Over the years, the Levitt has emerged to become the ceremonial heart of our city, and we couldn’t be more thrilled!”

Click here to view the 2023 Levitt concert calendar for other free events. 

Tips for Arlington Juneteenth Guests

• Picnic baskets and coolers are welcome. Alcoholic beverages are allowed, but glass containers prohibited.
• Well-behaved four-legged friends on leashes are also welcome. But please consider concert volume and your pet’s sensitive ears before bringing them out.
• Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. Seating is also available on the low walls around the lawn.
• Free parking is available in lots all around the pavilion and throughout Downtown Arlington, including City Hall, the Pinnacle Corp. parking lot (Abram Street just past Center Street), and UTA College Park. Click here for more parking information.
• Make plans to come early or stay late and visit one of Arlington’s nearby attractions, including the UTA Planetarium, the Arlington Museum of Art, Free Play Arlington, and bars and restaurants throughout Downtown Arlington.
• Follow the Levitt on social media to keep up with weather updates, concert news, and more.