Songs of Black Folk 2025 Returns to McCaw Hall for an Unforgettable Juneteenth Celebration

This Juneteenth weekend, one of Seattle’s most powerful cultural traditions returns to the stage. On Sunday, June 22, 2025, Songs of Black Folk takes over McCaw Hall at the Seattle Center — bringing with it a dynamic blend of fine arts, music, and storytelling that honors the enduring legacy of Black music.

Now in its latest evolution, Songs of Black Folk has become more than a performance — it’s a cultural experience. This year’s production continues to honor the musical traditions that were born on the African continent, carried through the pain and perseverance of slavery, and transformed into the foundational sounds of global music as we know it today. From Negro Spirituals to blues, jazz, gospel, R&B, hip-hop, and spoken word, the show weaves together genres to reflect the depth and resilience of Black life and expression.

At its core, Songs of Black Folk is a tribute to the ways Black communities have turned struggle into sound — a living reminder that resistance has always had a rhythm. Through captivating performances by nationally recognized and locally loved African American artists, this show connects the past with the present, inviting audiences into a shared experience of truth, creativity, and cultural pride.

Held during Juneteenth weekend, the timing is intentional. The holiday, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, provides the perfect backdrop for a production that reflects both historic pain and continued perseverance. It’s a celebration of freedom — not only from physical bondage, but also from silence, invisibility, and creative limitation.

The mission of Songs of Black Folk is to create a world-class fine arts experience that amplifies Black excellence and provides the Northwest with an annual opportunity to witness the transformative power of Black music and performance. Whether you’ve attended in years past or are joining for the first time, 2025 promises an even more immersive and impactful show.

🎟️ Tickets are available now at songsofblackfolk.org and you can follow them on Instagram @songsofblackfolk

Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a celebration of culture, community, and the music that moves us all.