June 18-19: Soul of Brooklyn Week Begins

Welcome to the weekend, everyone. On Saturday, the 11th Annual Juneteenth Festival kicks off a week of events that celebrates the black experience in Brooklyn in all its forms, including dance, music and the visual arts. 

The week is also about community, which includes a more than a few boutiques, nonprofits and other institutions that play a vital role in keeping Fort Greene a center of the African Diasporan universe — not only in Brooklyn, but across the U.S.

And let's not forget the Saturday night. See you there!

Here are your 5 Things for this weekend:

1. Before heading out to celebrate Juneteenth, of this cultural tradition marking the end of slavery, not only in the South, but also in places much closer to home as well. 

2. Later on Saturday check out our coverage of a tree planting ceremony Friday at Fort Greene Park, courtesy of a new neighbor that . 

3. Planning a trip to the Hamptons this weekend? Here's a rundown of events, including the Indigo Girls, shark fishing (?) and more. 

4. Come hear Dr. Ian Smith today at the Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan Hotel and connect with a community dedicated to providing motivation, education, and .

5. Alternate side parking rules are in effect.