Washington – The National Independence Day, Juneteenth, is celebrated annually on June 19.
To reflect on the day when freedom for slaves was announced, there are celebrations around the United States that honor Black history and culture.
Galveston, Texas, was the hometown of the holiday, so they are celebrating big!
Some events in Texas include the Galveston Island Juneteenth Festival & Celebration at Menard Park, Emancipation Gospel Celebration at The Grand 1894 Opera House, and much more leading up to June 19.
In Washington, D.C., there is an annual waterfront event: the National Harbor Freedom Day Celebration, which has Black-owned business marketplaces, live performances, and activities to do with family.
Auburn, New York, the last home to Harriet Tubman, will have free admission to the Seward House Museum on June 19, with guided tours as well as daylong celebrations prior to this day.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has one of the largest celebrations for this holiday. The city brings out a large parade, performances, and art installations that are presented by the Pennsylvania Juneteenth Initiative.
While Philly holds one of the largest celebrations, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, hosts one of the longest-running celebrations, established in the early 1970s.
Milwaukee holds a parade, local vendors, and events within the community. The main events are the Jubilee Parade and Street Festival with 400+ vendors.
At many of these experiences, you can find resource booths that offer historical information, free books, and printable activities like coloring pages.
The energy that communities bring to commemorate Juneteenth is so powerful that it inspires progress and reflection.
There are various free events in most US states, so finding one shouldn’t be too far.
