The House of Soul Juneteenth Festival and Block Party returns Friday, June 19, from noon to 8 p.m. on Washington Avenue for its seventh year — and organizers expect it to be the biggest one yet. For House of Soul owner Nichol Stevenson, the free, family-friendly event is a direct reflection of the community around her.
“The festival is unmatched energy that can’t be made up, practiced or denied,” Stevenson said. “This is a passion-driven purpose for me. I feel the more I do for God’s people, the more He will do for me.”
Her business sits in a place where she sees the neighborhood up close — from homelessness to people with mental health struggles to vendors stopping by with food, beauty products and ideas. The block party, she said, is her way of bringing people together.
“I consider Juneteenth a call to action,” she said. “We need each other, and it’s my duty to create a community of togetherness.”
The festival has become a platform for local artists, small businesses and the city’s thriving creative scene. It also creates space for sharing resources — including one of the most important: knowledge. Black Men Build St. Louis will open the day at noon with a history lesson on the significance of Juneteenth.
From there, the celebration moves into live music and performances from St. Louis talent, including Rhoda G and The Smoking Lion Band. The East St. Louis Marching Band is scheduled for a 6 p.m. performance. DJ Homicide, DJ Bounce and other local DJs will keep the energy high throughout the day, with additional sets from DJ Spliff and DJ Flight. Local artists such as Tru, Dakota, Zeus Waters, Champ J, Justin Hoskin and Cherise Mason will also take the stage.
One of the festival’s biggest draws is the Runway Experience, directed by Yolanda “Yoro” Newson. Seven local high-fashion and streetwear designers will showcase their collections along Washington Avenue.
“If you look around, everybody is bringing in flocka waka and wham whammy,” Stevenson joked. “But we’re focusing on our own — our local celebrities and local artists who need an opportunity and a spotlight.”
This year, Stevenson is expanding the festival’s reach with a new Health Row, where guests can connect with local organizations and physicians offering early-detection screenings, blood pressure checks and HIV testing.
She’s also added an Education Row, giving families access to schools, camps, youth programs and nonprofits to make sure young people stay connected.
“I want to change lives with this festival and show people that we rely and depend on each other,” she said. “Our community needs us right now. We’re in a crisis.”
Youth remains a priority. Stevenson created the Max Kidz Zone — named after her son, Maximus — to give children their own dedicated space.
“They were always at the back of the festival, but this year they have their own block,” she said.
The area will include bounce houses, face painting, the signature basketball tournament and opportunities for young vendors.
The block party will also feature an awards showcase honoring “people who sometimes aren’t recognized — people the community has seen putting in the work,” Stevenson said.
This year’s Community Leadership Awards will go to LaTonya AnNoor, Angela Brown, Dr. Valencia Martin-Hawkins, Dr. BJ the DJ and publicist Donielle Elizabeth.
“She started her company from the bottom up and she has been driven to put us in front of the media,” Stevenson said of Elizabeth. “It means a lot because a lot of us don’t have a lot of money.”
Stevenson’s commitment to the festival runs deep. An eight-year cancer survivor, she has organized the event for seven years — even while undergoing treatment.
“A lot of people didn’t know I’ve been on chemo several times and immunotherapy, and I still keep pushing through,” she said.
Her work was recognized in 2023 when the festival was proclaimed the official Juneteenth celebration of St. Louis.
“Juneteenth is one specific day our community and our culture come together to celebrate who we are,” she said. “The streets are blocked off, so bring your lawn chairs.”
Stevenson reminded guests that the heart of the festival comes from the people who pour into it.
“See the vendors and get some soul food, BBQ, lemonade or slushies — because the vendors are really who make this event happen,” she added.
The block party will conclude promptly at 8 p.m., with an afterparty at House of Soul running until 1:30 a.m. For guaranteed reserved seating and access to the cigar lounge, manicure and pedicure station, hookah services and bottle service, text (314) 504-7405. For more information and event updates, visit houseofsoulstlouis.com.
Living It content is produced with funding by the ARPA for the Arts grants program in partnership with the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis and the Community Development Administration.
