06/18/2026
This weekend is Juneteenth (June 19โ21), and Plattsburgh Blues and Jazz is proud to be partnering with the Colors of Freedom Committee ( North Star Underground Railroad Museum, John Brown Lives!, the Clinton County Historical Association, SUNY Plattsburgh, Paul Smith's College, and Plattsburgh Public Library) to help commemorate this important weekend in our community.
Because blues and gospel music are so deeply connected to the story of freedom and the roots of American music, we're presenting a special concert on Friday, June 19, featuring Harlem blues and soul artist Solomon Hicks. Solomon represents both the rich legacy and the bright future of Black American music, carrying the blues tradition into a new generation. A gifted guitarist, vocalist, and entertainer, he combines the energy of modern blues with deep roots in soul, funk, and rock and roll. He is a favorite on festival stages across the country. The exceptional Plattsburgh State Gospel Choir is opening the show. They have been performing locally, regionally, and internationally since 1991. The Gospel Choir has created its harmonic fusion of traditional gospel, urban gospel, and contemporary Christian music, blended with Caribbean and Afrocentric rhythms. Plus, poet Elijah Hendriz will be joining us as well as several special guests.
The concert runs from 7:00 to 9:30 PM at Retro Live, which will be transformed into a live music club complete with tables, seating, and a dance floor. Advance tickets are just $20 and are available online at www.plattsburghbluesamdjazz.com. and in person at Alpha Stereo and 25 dollars at the door.
The celebration also continues throughout the weekend.
On Saturday at 10:00 AM, the Colors of Freedom Committee will host a free Underground Railroad bus tour beginning at the North Star Underground Railroad Museum in Keeseville. From 1:00 to 3:00 PM, the Plattsburgh Public Library will host a Juneteenth film screening. Then from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, the SUNY Plattsburgh Museum Gallery will present "What Remains: Voices from the Margins of History," followed by a free acoustic performance by Solomon Hicks.
On Sunday, June 21, the weekend concludes with a community picnic and celebration at John Brown Farm from noon to 2:30 PM, featuring John Brown's final speech, praise dancers, live music, and more.
Join us for this weekend of history, culture, community, and music.