Exciting Changes for the 6th Annual Southern Colorado Juneteenth Festival at Norris Penrose Indoor Event Center

The 6th Annual Southern Colorado Juneteenth Festival is returning with fresh energy and exciting updates that promise to make this year’s celebration unforgettable. Set for June 20-21, 2025, the festival will take place at a new location: the Norris Penrose Indoor Event Center. This move brings a host of benefits for attendees, vendors, and performers alike.

VENDORS | VOLUNTEERS | DONATE | CAR SHOW | PERFORMING ARTS

Earlybird vending registration is now live, offering vendors a chance to secure their spots ahead of time. This blog post explores what to expect from the festival, highlights the new venue’s advantages, and shares practical details for visitors and vendors.

New Venue Brings New Opportunities

The Norris Penrose Indoor Event Center is a spacious, versatile venue located in Colorado Springs. Moving the festival indoors offers several advantages:

• Weather-proof environment: Rain or shine, the festival will go on without disruption.

• Comfortable space: The venue can accommodate large crowds and more vendors comfortably.

• Enhanced accessibility: The location is easier to reach for many attendees, with ample parking and public transit options nearby.

  
  

This change reflects the festival’s growth and commitment to providing a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.

What to Expect at the Festival

The Southern Colorado Juneteenth Festival celebrates African American history, culture, and freedom with a variety of activities and entertainment. This year’s event will feature:

• Live music and performances: Local and regional artists will perform genres ranging from jazz and blues to hip-hop and gospel.

• Cultural exhibits: Displays and presentations that educate visitors about Juneteenth’s significance and African American heritage.

• Food vendors: A diverse selection of food trucks and stalls offering soul food, barbecue, and other delicious options.

• Art and craft vendors: Handmade jewelry, clothing, artwork, and more from local artisans.

• Children’s activities: Interactive games, storytelling, and educational workshops designed for younger attendees.

• Community resources: Information booths from local organizations supporting education, health, and social justice.

  
  

The festival aims to be both a celebration and a learning experience for all ages.

Earlybird Vending Registration Is Open

Vendors interested in participating can now register early to secure their spot. Earlybird registration offers benefits such as:

• Priority booth placement

• Discounted vendor fees

• Early access to setup times

  
  

This is an excellent opportunity for small businesses, artists, and food vendors to showcase their products and connect with the community. Vendors can expect a supportive environment with high foot traffic and enthusiastic attendees.

Tips for Attendees

To make the most of your festival experience, consider these tips:

• Plan your visit: Check the festival schedule ahead of time to catch your favorite performances and activities.

• Arrive early: Beat the crowds and find good parking spots.

• Stay hydrated: The event runs all day, so bring a water bottle or purchase drinks on-site.

• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking and standing a lot.

• Explore the vendors: Support local businesses by purchasing unique crafts and tasty food.

  
  

How the Festival Supports the Community

The Southern Colorado Juneteenth Festival is more than just a celebration. It plays a vital role in:

• Promoting cultural awareness: Educating the public about the history and importance of Juneteenth.

• Supporting local artists and entrepreneurs: Providing a platform for small businesses to grow.

• Building community connections: Bringing people together to share stories, music, and food.

• Encouraging youth engagement: Offering educational programs and activities for children.

  
  

By attending or participating, you contribute to these positive impacts.

Getting to Norris Penrose Indoor Event Center

The venue is located at 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road, Colorado Springs, CO. Here are some travel tips:

• Driving: Plenty of free parking is available on-site.

• Public transit: Several bus routes serve the area; check local schedules for details.

• Ride-sharing: Designated drop-off and pick-up zones make it easy to use services like Uber or Lyft.

• Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.

  
  

Plan your route in advance to ensure a smooth arrival.

Final Thoughts on the 6th Annual Southern Colorado Juneteenth Festival

The move to the Norris Penrose Indoor Event Center and the launch of earlybird vending registration mark a new chapter for the Southern Colorado Juneteenth Festival. These changes reflect the festival’s growth and its commitment to creating a welcoming, educational, and fun environment for everyone. Whether you come to enjoy the music, explore the vendors, or learn about Juneteenth’s history, this event offers something valuable for all.