NWA’s Biggest Juneteenth Party Returns with Freedom Festival
When 4,300 people show up to party in downtown Springdale, you know something special is happening — which is exactly what happened during last year’s Freedom Festival.
The Freedom Festival is now back for its fifth year and has become the kind of event that puts NWA on the map for all the right reasons.
What Makes This Festival So Special?
Set for Saturday, June 21 at Luther George Park in downtown Springdale, this isn’t just another summer festival. The Freedom Festival is one of Arkansas’ largest commemorations of Juneteenth, the federal holiday marking the end of slavery in the United States. But here’s the thing — it’s grown into something much bigger than anyone expected.
“Who knew folks from Memphis, Houston, Tulsa, and Little Rock would be coming to Northwest Arkansas for our Juneteenth Celebration?” says Anthony Ball, Music Moves VP & Program Director. People are literally traveling from across the region to be here.
The Lineup That’s Got Everyone Talking
This year’s musical heavy-hitters include Grammy-nominated soul artist MAJOR, hip hop legend Mike Jones, and funk royalty ConFunkShun, with more local and regional acts to be announced. Last year’s headliner was Grammy-winning Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, so yeah — they’re not messing around.
Way More Than Just Music
Sure, the music slaps, but the real magic happens when you’re wandering through the vendor market, or watching kids light up in the family zone. There’s horse riding, food trucks, and giveaways that’ll make your day. It’s the kind of event where three generations of a family can hang out and everyone finds something they love.
A Celebration Worth Celebrating
“This is a great sign of all the great things happening here. More importantly, my partners and I are excited to build this celebration in a way that ALL people feel welcome as we celebrate something we hold dear as Americans, and that’s FREEDOM!” says Anthony Ball.
That’s the energy that makes this festival different. It’s not just about looking back — it’s about celebrating how far we’ve come and where we’re going together.
Mark Your Calendar
📅 Saturday, June 21
⏰ 2 PM – 10 PM
📍 Luther George Park, Downtown Springdale
💲 FREE
Whether you’re a longtime local or just discovering what makes this corner of Arkansas special, the Freedom Festival is one of those events that reminds you why you love living here. Plus, where else can you hear Mike Jones and ConFunkShun in the same night while your kids are getting their faces painted?
See you in Springdale. Trust us — you don’t want to miss this one.
