Celebrate Black culture year-round in Bend

Yes, Bend has a Black-culture scene that you can enjoy year-round through festivals and local businesses that will keep you happy, fed, and looking sharp after all that time spent playing outside. Whether you’re looking to celebrate Juneteenth, catch some great live music, or just need some tasty Southern food, and a haircut, Bend’s Black community has you covered. Here are some great ways to feel the joy.

Juneteenth Events
Black artists at the amphitheater
Southern-style food in Bend
Find a Black Barber in Bend

Black culture events happening in Bend this summer 

Juneteenth events in Bend

On June 19th, 1865, more than 250,000 Blacks still enslaved in Texas learned they were free, a moment celebrated with music and food that is now a federal holiday. Central Oregon Earthseeds co-founders Josie Stanfield and Kasia Moon perpetuate the joy with Bend’s 2025 Juneteenth Festival that takes place from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on June 20 at Open Space Studios. 

• Chef Jermaine Ellis will be riffing on his Jamaican family recipes at Jermaican JerkCulture, a food cart where you can sample juicy jerk chicken with smoky spices straight from Jamaica and pressure-cooked oxtail marinated for three days.
• Soulsinger Maria Jackson and  DJ Mana will perform live so you can dance throughout the evening. 
• Find the perfect gift with handmade candles, art, crafts, jewelry, and apparel from Black vendors like Freak Ink Comics.
• Learn about groups like Bola films, Milk and Marigold, Liberation Endured, and The Father’s Group.

Earth, Wind & Fire, Trevor Noah, Alabama Shakes 

Stay through the Juneteenth weekend in Bend and you can catch some awesome live music at the Hayden Homes Amphitheater in the Old Mill District throughout the summer. The spectacular outdoor venue plays host once again to an exciting lineup of Black talent, including legends Earth, Wind & Fire on June 22. The Grammy-winning group offers a unique blend of African-American styles, including R&B, soul, jazz, disco, funk, and rock. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. 

Next, plan to return to catch comedian extraordinaire Trevor Noah on July 12. On Aug. 9 and 10, TV on the Radio will open for LCD Soundsystem. A week later, on August 17, lead singer and songwriter Brittany Howard brings her Alabama Shakes to town. To save on fees, purchase your tickets in person at the Ticket Mill. Head here to see the entire summer lineup at the amphitheater. 

How to support Bend’s Black businesses

Eat Southern-style food in Bend

The Tradesmen Coffee & Taphouse sits in an unassuming location near the Old Mill but offers unforgettable southern-style food in a welcoming, family-owned bar and restaurant. The signature habanero wings, hot out of the fryer, are top-notch. Fried chicken and waffles, catfish po’ boys, Nashville chicken sandwiches, and pastries round out the menu. Watch for special events from time to time, like a Caribbean menu during Black History Month. The Tradesmen also serves cocktails, beer, and a special holiday drink menu. Start your day off here with coffee, mochas, and lattes.

Find a Black Barber

The Amphitheater isn’t the only spot with nice lineups; the Lion’s Den Men’s Barber is straight-edge, hair-cutting talent.

Let’s face it: Finding a barber during vacation turns into work when you need a razor-edge fade or tighten braids. You’re in luck with barber Ivan Johnson who has created a friendly, diverse community-connecting space. Johnson and his team offer a wide range of styles, including shape-ups, fades, hair design, and beard trims, as well as dreadlocks and braids.