Today marks Juneteenth, which officially became a federal holiday in 2021. Also known as “Emancipation Day,” the day is the longest-serving holiday which celebrates the ending of slavery in the state of Texas proclaimed on June 19th, 1865. The backdrop of Juneteenth coincides with the Emancipation Proclamation by Abraham Lincoln in 1862. The proclamation became official in 1863 with the promise to free the enslaved in the Confederate States. With the Civil War officially over in May of 1865 General Gordon Granger declared slaves in the state of Texas free, which is now known as Juneteenth. As we reflect and look back on this historic moment in our history, let’s take a look at some events commemorating Juneteenth in various places around the country.
1. Travis County’s 35th Annual Juneteenth Celebration
Location: 800 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701 (Under the Parking Garage)
This Friday, June 21st, Travis County will be holding its 35th Annual Juneteenth Celebration from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. The event will feature plenty of vendors in attendance including food vendors, informational booths, music, games, and live performances. The event is family-friendly, and open to the public along with Travis County employees. The event is a way to honor contributions made by the African American community to the United States and to show appreciation for their hard work and value.
Find more information here.
2. Juneteenth Black History Bus Tour
Location: Saturday, June 22nd, Carver Library, 3350 E Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78220
This Saturday on June 22nd, the Juneteenth Black History Bus Tour will take place and start at The Carver Library on E Commerce Street in San Antonio. The history tour will educate on San Antonio’s historic African-American landmarks and locations around the city. A chartered bus will be provided, and tickets are at $30 each. Two time slots are available, one at 10:00 am and the other at 1:00 pm. Those attending will meet at the library and then hop on the charter bus for the tour.
Find tickets here.
3. Northwest African American Museum
Location: Museum: 2300 South Massachusetts Street, Seattle, WA 98144
Judkins Park: Wednesday, June 19th, 2150 S Norman St., Seattle, WA 98144
The Northwest African American Museum will hold a Juneteenth Skate Party today at Judkins Park from 12 pm- 5 pm. The park will be handing out skate rentals free of charge while supplies last. In addition, the Northwest African American Museum will be open from 10-3 pm and will have free admission during this time. Two exhibits available to view are the Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley; Let the World See exhibit, and Interrupting Privilege. The museum will also be hosting arts and crafts for children and a giveaway.
Learn more here.
4. Leach Botanical Garden/Portland Juneteenth Market
Location: Wednesday, June 19th, 6704 SE 122nd Ave Portland, OR 97236
Location: Saturday, June 22nd, The Cart Blocks, 770 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209
Portland has many Juneteenth events including free admission into the Leach Botanical Garden today. Customers are encouraged to use the peaceful and beautiful space to reflect and celebrate Black freedom. Also taking place this week is the Portland Juneteenth Market this Saturday, June 22nd from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. The market will include vendors highlighting local Black businesses on site along with food available to purchase.
Learn more here about the Botanical Garden.
Learn more about The Juneteenth Market here.
5. Juneteenth Celebration: The Scene in South Park/Juneteenth Freedom Fest at Jimi Hendrix Park
Location: Wednesday, June 19th, The Scene in South Park, 1249 S Cloverdale St, Seattle, WA
Location: Wednesday, June 19th, Jimi Hendrix Park 2400 S Massachusetts St, Seattle, WA 98144
Taking place in the South Park neighborhood, The Scene is the only black-owned business in the neighborhood and will be celebrating Juneteenth with live music, art, soul food, and drinks. The community is welcome to come and the event will take place from 5-8:00 pm. Join in on the fun and come celebrate this historic holiday. Another event to check out would be The Freedom Fest by the King County Equity Now with Africatown from 12pm- 8pm today. The event will be held at the Jimi Hendrix Park in Seattle, (a native to the city and music icon) and will feature family-friendly entertainment and activities, community resources, over 100 vendors, and live performances.
Learn more about The Scene in South Park here.
Learn more about King County Equity & Africatown’s Juneteenth event here.
