Minnesota's connection to the "fathers of Juneteenth"
Parades, concerts and gatherings are just some of the ways families and communities celebrate Juneteenth — but it's much more than just a party.
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Parades, concerts and gatherings are just some of the ways families and communities celebrate Juneteenth — but it's much more than just a party.
Thursday is Juneteenth, and there are plenty of events in the Twin Cities providing opportunities to celebrate, learn and come together.
This weekend in the Twin Cities you can enjoy hot rods, live jazz, food trucks galore and events celebrating Filipino culture, Black LGBTQ+ artists and Juneteenth!
Juneteenth, now recognized as a federal holiday, is more than a day off; it's an important reminder of freedom delayed but never denied.
Across the state, communities came together to celebrate a day that’s not just a holiday, but the heartbeat of freedom. WCCO’s Ubah Ali shows us how people are turning history into hope.
In one of Minnesota's historically Black communities, the sounds of celebration rang out on Thursday in observation of Juneteenth.
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Photojournalist Ray Campos and Jeff Wagner take us to commemoration in the historic Rondo neighborhood of St. Paul, Minnesota — once the beating heart of the city’s Black community.
See what's open and closed during the Juneteenth holiday on Thursday, from stores to public services.
While Juneteenth is rooted in the past, it's important to recognize what's happening in the present. WCCO sat down with three local leaders to talk about Black excellence in the Twin Cities.
While this day is rooted in the past, it's important to recognize what's happening in the present. On this Juneteenth, Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield sat down with three local leaders to talk about Black excellence in the Twin Cities.
Communities around the nation are celebrating Juneteenth on Wednesday.
On Wednesday, the United States celebrates Juneteenth. It's a distinction shared by only 10 other special days. So, we wanted to know: How are federal holidays created? And how does that designation affect each state? Good Question.
There are several ways to celebrate the newest national holiday on Wednesday in the Twin Cities, including Juneteenth tours at Fort Snelling.
Looking for a way to celebrate Juneteenth? Here's a list of local events and parties happening around the Twin Cities.
A mini carnival, live entertainment and a slave history exhibit were just some of the things attendees could take part in.
As Juneteenth celebrations finished last-minute preparations Saturday, a relatively new type of movement was already underway in Golden Valley.
Celebrations commemorating the end of slavery are spreading nationwide since Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021.
Since Juneteenth gained formal recognition in 2021 as a national U.S. holiday, all non-essential federal offices close in observance.
The national holiday became federally-recognized in 2021. But communities have been celebrating Emancipation Day for more than a century.
A historic Black neighborhood in the Twin Cities celebrated Juneteenth in a big way Monday.
A historic Black neighborhood in the Twin Cities celebrated Juneteenth in a big way Monday.
Anthony Taylor with the Cultural Wellness Center talks about an important celebration.
So, what’s the history of Juneteenth? And how are these recognitions impacting the holiday? Good Question. Kirsten Mitchell explains the meaning of the day.
Segregated into 19 Black troop regiments, it was thousands of colored soldiers who traveled to Galveston, Texas, and on June 19, 1865, told enslaved people there they were free.
The national holiday Juneteenth is taking place this weekend. Our very own St. Paul Public Library has some suggestions on books to help understand the day’s importance. Eric Byrd of the Sun Ray branch joins us to share some tips on getting up to speed.
In five years, Clinton Ward allegedly made millions by importing fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine to the Twin Cities via "an expansive net of distributors" in what officials call the most prolific drug operation in Minnesota history.
On Dec. 9, 1965, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" debuted on CBS, and it became an instant classic. Lee Jenkins' home is proof that the show is still a hit six decades later.
It's an ongoing tradition started by a resident who'd light up his block, but died in 2020.
One year ago, Dan Reed could barely walk. His kidneys were shutting down and he had little hope of getting a transplant. Now, he's well on the road to recovery.
A single winning ticket was sold for Powerball's Christmas Eve jackpot of $1.817 billion, in Arkansas. It was the second-largest U.S. lottery jackpot ever won.
In five years, Clinton Ward allegedly made millions by importing fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine to the Twin Cities via "an expansive net of distributors" in what officials call the most prolific drug operation in Minnesota history.
It's an ongoing tradition started by a resident who'd light up his block, but died in 2020.
One year ago, Dan Reed could barely walk. His kidneys were shutting down and he had little hope of getting a transplant. Now, he's well on the road to recovery.
For two decades, the only Spanish-language cancer support group in the state has been quietly changing lives.
Gama, originally from Mexico, has been operating the Pastaleria Gama bakery on Lake Street in Minneapolis for 10 years now. Her store was empty for long stretches of time on Christmas Eve, which she said has never been the case in the past.
On Dec. 9, 1965, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" debuted on CBS, and it became an instant classic. Lee Jenkins' home is proof that the show is still a hit six decades later.
Sabrina Schnoor, 25, was found dead under an Interstate 35 overpass bridge in May 2023.
From a cat that accidentally made an 8,000-mile journey in a shipping container to a tunnel made just for turtles, all kinds of animals made the headlines in Minnesota this year.
There is no denying 2025 was a difficult year in Minnesota. A list of the biggest news stories is fraught with tragedy, attacks on the vulnerable and political division and dysfunction.
Several schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin are reporting delayed starts on Monday amid a messy morning commute.
A Wisconsin woman who almost killed her sixth-grade classmate to please the fictional Slender Man has been ordered back to a state psychiatric hospital after she escaped from her group home last month.
Several schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin are reporting delayed starts on Monday amid a messy morning commute.
The U.S. Justice Department has sued three states, including Illinois and Wisconsin, and D.C. for not turning over requested voter information to the Trump administration.
Defenders of a Wisconsin judge found guilty of felony obstruction for helping a Mexican immigrant evade federal officers are raising alarms about judicial independence and say they hope the conviction will be overturned on appeal.
The Minnesota Attorney General's Office says Menards, the Wisconsin-based home improvement retailer, has reached a $4.25 million settlement with several states to "resolve claims" of deceptive marketing practices in its popular "11% Rebate Program," and pandemic-era price gouging.
Many people who serve in the U.S. military find it hard to ask for assistance when they've been trained to help and serve others.
Food Bank Eatery in North Minneapolis provides free meals for children, who may have little to eat after the pause of SNAP benefits for many in the community.
Firefighters are continuing a 44-year tradition that happens every year north of the Twin Cities.
It was a scary moment in the Twin Cities over the weekend, as a trailer hauling sled dogs turned over on Interstate 494 in Minnetonka.
On Sunday, members of Minnesota's Somali community spoke out against President Trump's social media post calling for an end to temporary protected status.
Gama, originally from Mexico, has been operating the Pastaleria Gama bakery on Lake Street in Minneapolis for 10 years now. Her store was empty for long stretches of time on Christmas Eve, which she said has never been the case in the past.
President Trump said TV broadcast licenses should be revoked if newscasts and late-night shows are almost entirely negative about him and the GOP.
The nationwide ban on a toxic cancer-causing chemical, once on hold, has moved forward to protect people around the country.
The Minnesota Sheriffs' Association submitted a vote of no confidence on Dec. 8, with 72 of Minnesota's 87 sheriffs voting in favor.
Minnesota's governor says the state could see a surge in ICE raids over the holidays. The Trump administration launched an immigration crackdown in the Twin Cities earlier this month. The Homeland Security Department says it's targeting criminals with outstanding deportation orders. But as WCCO's John Lauritsen reports, top Democrats say it's nothing but political theater.
This season of giving can really do a number on our recycling systems. But we can all be part of the solution.
With the time-honored tradition of gift giving comes gift concealing.
Twin Cities shoppers were out and about on Super Saturday, the second-busiest shopping day of the year. The day lands on the final Saturday before Christmas annually.
Buy now, pay later plans are becoming more popular for shoppers this holiday season.
The Minnesota Attorney General's Office says Menards, the Wisconsin-based home improvement retailer, has reached a $4.25 million settlement with several states to "resolve claims" of deceptive marketing practices in its popular "11% Rebate Program," and pandemic-era price gouging.
In five years, Clinton Ward allegedly made millions by importing fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine to the Twin Cities via "an expansive net of distributors" in what officials call the most prolific drug operation in Minnesota history.
Court records say Eh Tha Blay, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting third-degree property damage.
Sabrina Schnoor, 25, was found dead under an Interstate 35 overpass bridge in May 2023.
Minneapolis police are investigating a shooting that left one man dead early Tuesday morning on the city's north side.
A 32-year-old man is facing multiple assault charges after he allegedly pointed a handgun at two St. Paul police officers, resulting in him being shot on Sunday.
The clock is ticking to snag a few more gifts and prepare for that holiday trip to visit family. As the pressure builds, so does the stress.
The Minnesota Athletic Trainers Association says of the middle and high schools they know of, only 49% have an athletic trainer providing some level of service.
From 2021 to 2025, Smart Therapy Center submitted claims totaling $31.8 million across all Minnesota Department of Human Services programs, according to that data. But the provider was only approved for a fraction of those payments.
The family of a Minnesota Vikings player who died at training camp from heat exhaustion in 2001 is still fighting to protect others.
A Twin Cities metro area school shifted to e-learning after a flu outbreak impacted nearly a quarter of its students. A senior epidemiologist with the Minnesota Department of Health said flu season is "definitely picking up."
Feeding America's CEO said the organization is "incredibly grateful" for Taylor Swift's large donation.
The singer said an MRI showed a cancerous spot on one of his lungs after he recovered from a lengthy bout of bronchitis.
The special features interviews with Kathy Bates, Annette Bening, Albert Brooks, Michael Douglas, Kiefer Sutherland, Jerry O'Connell and Mandy Patinkin.
The Oscars ceremony is moving to YouTube starting in 2029, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on Wednesday.
The nearly 100-year-old cinema will close briefly after New Year's Day and reopen on Jan. 9 with a showing of Jim Jarmusch's "Father Mother Sister Brother."
The junior cornerback transferred to Minnesota from Iowa this spring. He was a depth defensive back and special teamer for the Hawkeyes. But this year, with a larger role, he's had a breakout season.
The Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings have gone from 29 combined wins last season to just 15 this season entering their Week 17 matchup on Christmas Day.
Steven Stamkos scored 53 seconds into overtime to give the Nashville Predators a 3-2 victory over the Minnesota Wild.
Anthony Edwards scored 38 points to help the Minnesota Timberwolves beat former teammate Karl-Anthony Towns for the first time and hold off the New York Knicks 115-104.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy has a hairline fracture in his hand and will not play on Christmas Day against the Detroit Lions, head coach Kevin O'Connell said Tuesday.
Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar is calling for answers about the immigration crackdown in the Twin Cities. She is also denouncing the president's attacks on the Somali community and herself. In Talking Points, Esme Murphy shows us how, for Omar, this is a familiar position to be in.
Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar is calling for clarity about the immigration crackdown in the Twin Cities.
Fear and uncertainty continue in Minnesota's Somali communities as ICE continues its intensified focus on the Twin Cities.
Opposition to ICE actions is widespread among Democratic elected officials throughout the state, though nowhere more than in Minneapolis, home to the state's largest Somali population.
Minnesotans who welcomed a child this year were able to start applying this week to the state's new paid family and medical leave program to take time off in 2026.
On Dec. 9, 1965, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" debuted on CBS, and it became an instant classic. Lee Jenkins' home is proof that the show is still a hit six decades later.
Holiday lights are on full display across the state right now, and just south of the Twin Cities you'll find a Christmas light show that's been around for more than half a century.
The story begins years ago when the city acquired one of the T-38 Talon Thunderbird jets from the Air Force.
The holidays are upon us, and in the town of Kellogg, Minnesota, you'll find a toy store unlike any other.
With the holidays fast approaching, and lutefisk on the menu for many families, one Minnesota town has the distinction of being called the "Lutefisk Capital of the Country."
According to the Smithsonian Magazine and Britannica, eggnog has British roots.
With the time-honored tradition of gift giving comes gift concealing.
The story of "The Wizard of Oz " is 125 years old, yet still reinventing itself in all kinds of forms.
It's the time of year when we accumulate the most stuff. When we do, people often throw around the word "hoarding." But it turns out it's a frequently misunderstood term.
Why do we have oily or dry skin? A dermatologist explains the root cause and how it can change over time.
Minnesotans got a great view of the northern lights Tuesday night.
A look at the newest addition to the polar bear population at St. Paul, Minnesota's Como Zoo.
From food shelves to school programs, our team is proud to serve where it matters most.
The Minnesota State Fair has unveiled its new food, drinks and vendors for 2025.
A suspect was taken into custody after an attack on Pearl Street Mall in Boulder on June 1 in which there were 15 people and a dog who were victims. The suspect threw Molotov cocktails that burned some of the victims, who were part of a march for Israeli hostages.
WCCO meteorologist Lisa Meadows says it would rain in the Twin Cities on the night of Christmas.
In Minnesota, weather can be all over the place. Here at WCCO, we want to give you what you need to prepare for what's happening next.
WCCO meteorologist Lisa Meadows says fog is possible tonight into tomorrow.
WCCO meteorologist Lisa Meadows says tomorrow will be pretty similar to today, except there'll be a chance for rain later in the evening.
Our next chance for precipitation comes Christmas night into Friday. WCCO meteorologist Adam Del Rosso breaks down when the temperatures will plummet this weekend.
WCCO meteorologist Lisa Meadows says it would rain in the Twin Cities on the night of Christmas.
There's an update on one of Santa's helpers we first introduced you to last year. At the time, Dan Reed was waiting for a kidney transplant.. and his health was failing. But Susan Elizabeth has an update that will bring a smile to your face.
Sixty years ago, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” debuted on CBS, and it became an instant classic. In this week’s Finding Minnesota, John Lauritsen shows us the creative way a Staples man honors the Peanuts characters each holiday season.
'Twas the night before Christmas in Hopkins, the west metro. The neighbors would bag sand and light candles from the get go. So meaningful for mom, dad, brother and sister. Here now with the story is WCCO's Frankie McLister.
The junior cornerback transferred to Minnesota from Iowa this spring. He was a depth defensive back and special teamer for the Hawkeyes. But this year, with a larger role, he's had a breakout season.