Salt Lake Juneteenth’s 6th Annual Juneteenth Celebration returns with its most expansive programming to date, aligning with the five‑year anniversary of Juneteenth becoming a national holiday. What began in 2021 as a strategic effort to support Black‑owned businesses during economic recovery has grown into one of Utah’s most vibrant cultural traditions — a celebration of history, heritage, and collective progress.
This year’s celebration is led by Layla Taylor, the 2026–2027 Planning Committee Chair and cast member of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. Taylor brings a powerful blend of visibility, lived experience, and community‑centered leadership, helping elevate Juneteenth as a moment of joy, remembrance, and connection.
Friday Program Schedule
9:00 AM — Community Yoga
A grounding community yoga practice on the Utah State Capitol South Steps, open to all ages and experience levels.
10:00 AM — Community Gathering & Juneteenth Program
A morning program at the Capitol featuring speakers, reflection, and celebration. Layla Taylor will welcome the community and participate in the program.
11:15 AM — Celebration Walk
A 30‑minute walk from the Capitol to The Gateway, led by Layla and open to the entire community.
Noon – Dusk — Salt Lake Juneteenth Celebration at The Gateway
The celebration opens to the community with the Black Business Expo, hosted in partnership with BlackOwned SLC (BOSLC), along with:
- Black Art Gallery, Curated by Camille Nugent
- Entertainment Stage with music, dance, & comedy
- Food Trucks
- Kids Corner hosted by RISE Virtual Academy with Bad Dog Arts activities
- Roller Skating — a tradition since year one
- Bus Tours & more
Layla Taylor will join the community at the entertainment stage beginning at 6:00 PM, and later as a panelist in the Juneteenth Panel at 7:30 PM, immediately following the Fashion Show.
Black Business Expo — In Partnership with BOSLC
This year’s celebration features more than 60 Black‑owned business vendors, making it one of the largest Black business gatherings in the state. For many vendors, Juneteenth represents their highest‑selling day of the year, underscoring its economic and cultural impact.
Fashion Show & Community Panel
The runway will feature designs by:
- Kenneth Boggs Custom Suits
- Andrè DuBois, creator of Style the World Fashion Show
Immediately following the Fashion Show, the Juneteenth Community Panel will explore the significance of Juneteenth, what celebration looks like in Utah, and how residents can honor the holiday in meaningful ways beyond today.
Two‑Day Black Art Gallery Experience
Curated by Camille Nugent, the gallery features nine artists, with four selling their work. Attendees can meet artists, experience live painting, and support local Black creatives.
Gallery Hours:
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Why BOSLC Was Created
“BOSLC was born from a desire for connection. What began as my search for a piece of home grew into a platform where others could find community, celebrate the richness of Black and African heritage, and support Black‑owned businesses across Utah.” — Jamiah | Chief Community Connector | BOSLC.com
Registration & Attendance
The celebration is free to attend, and registration is required. Community members are encouraged to register in advance at saltlakejuneteenth.org using code: J19
While the event is free, the fiscal cost is approximately $35 per person. Guests who are able and willing to purchase a ticket are invited to do so — contributions help sustain and grow this community tradition.
