SSAAM’s Juneteenth 2025: Stories of Freedom — A Festival of Black History, Art, and Liberation Returns June 21
The Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum (SSAAM), Central New Jersey’s only museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the African American experience, proudly announces its fourth annual Juneteenth celebration, Stories of Freedom, taking place on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The event will be held rain or shine at the National Historic Register-listed Mt. Zion AME Church and the adjacent Reasoner/True House in Skillman, New Jersey.
This dynamic, family-friendly event invites the public to gather for a powerful day of cultural exploration, reflection, and celebration. Stories of Freedom will feature an array of live performances, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities designed to honor the history, resilience, and creativity of African American communities.
Event highlights include live music from the SSAAM Heritage Singers and Band, a stirring performance by celebrated baritone and storyteller Keith Spencer, a theatrical presentation by Luna Stage, and a lively community drum circle led by Mr. Boom Boom. Visitors can also enjoy SSAAM’s acclaimed special exhibition, The Head That Wears the Crown, which explores the cultural and spiritual significance of African American women’s headwear, alongside guided tours of the museum’s historic buildings and grounds.
Additional activities will include a Story Booth for recording personal reflections, spoken word and read-aloud sessions, family-friendly scavenger hunts, and access to the Little Free Library of banned books. All tickets include full access to performances, exhibits, activities, and food.
Tickets are available online in advance for $20 for adults and $10 for children (14 and under), with day-of pricing set at $25 for adults and $15 for children. SSAAM also welcomes volunteers and sponsors to support the event, with select sponsorship levels offering on-site vendor space, event signage, and other promotional benefits.
SSAAM extends special thanks to the Princeton University Art Museum, the event’s lead sponsor, for its generous support in helping bring this important celebration to the public.
For tickets, sponsorship information, and volunteer opportunities, visit ssaamuseum.org/juneteenth-2025.
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About SSAAM:
The Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum is dedicated to preserving, presenting, and sharing the rich history and culture of African Americans in Central New Jersey and the Sourland Mountain region. Through exhibits, educational programs, and community events, SSAAM works to honor the stories and contributions of African Americans, past and present.
