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Juneteenth, celebrated every year on June 19, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It marks the day in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and the freedom of all enslaved people, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.
Honoring Juneteenth is crucial as it recognizes a pivotal moment in American history, celebrates African American culture and heritage, and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles for racial equity and justice. Also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day and Liberation Day, it is a day to reflect on the past, acknowledge the progress made and recommit to the work still needed to achieve true equity.
We’ve collected a list of local events in our priority places – find an event online or in person near you!
Michigan
Battle Creek
- Battle Creek Juneteenth Celebration, June 14-15, 2024 at Claude Evans Park, is a free family event featuring various activities, including live music, food vendors, kids’ activities and community engagements. It aims to celebrate freedom and the rich cultural heritage of the African American community.
Lansing
- 517 Juneteenth Weekend, June 13-16, 2024, includes educational seminars, youth-centered events, live music performances, a diverse array of vendors, a Kidz Zone with various activities and a Juneteenth Dance Party. The main festival on June 15 features neo-soul, R&B, gospel, and hip-hop performances, along with a range of food and business vendors.
Detroit
- Madison Heights Juneteenth Celebration, June 15, 2024, from noon to 6 p.m. at the Civic Center Park, Madison Heights will feature live music, food trucks, vendors, educational exhibits, a 25-ft. climbing tower, petting zoo, pony rides, children’s activities, and crafts. Admission and parking are free.
- Juneteenth Freedom Fest, June 16, 2024, will include numerous activities and events designed to celebrate Juneteenth in Detroit (Visit Detroit).
- Juneteenth Jubilee Detroit will host various events June 14-16, including a block party and a three-day family-friendly weekend focused on artistic expression and supporting small businesses. The organization aims to increase awareness and participation in Juneteenth celebrations through education and community events.
Grand Rapids
- June 14-22, 2024, find a list of community events happening in Grand Rapids, including live music, trivia nights, museum exhibitions and more.
New Orleans
- The NOLA Juneteenth Festival, June 19, 2024, from noon to 6:30 p.m. at the Louis Armstrong Park, Congo Square is a free and open-to-the-public event featuring live performances, food vendors, a community marriage ceremony, and more than 70 vendors and community resource partners.
- The Juneteenth Freedom Gala, June 16, 2024, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Treme Market Branch includes live music, performances, food, and recognition of North Star Award honorees. Tickets can be purchased in advance.
Mississippi
- Attend the Juneteenth Jubilee at the Two Mississippi Museums on June 19! This free evening program will celebrate Black empowerment and community, featuring a variety of activities in collaboration with Briarwood Arts Center.
Clergy from across Mississippi will gather on June 21 to commemorate Juneteenth and promote unity and effectiveness in ministry. The event will celebrate denominational diversity and provide opportunities for fellowship, information exchange, and networking. This event will take place at New Horizon Church International. - This site will give you a rundown of all the events taking place in Jackson, Mississippi starting June 15 and running through June 22. Celebrate Juneteenth with the city of Jackson!
New Mexico
Albuquerque
- The Open Space Juneteenth Celebration in Albuquerque is a family-friendly event that honors the history and culture of Black Americans. Scheduled for June 8, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Open Space Visitor Center, the celebration includes live music, storytelling, a dance class, poetry and discussions about African American history and culture.
- Community Juneteenth celebrations in Albuquerque have options for celebrating on June 9 and June 15.
Las Cruces
- The 4th Annual Juneteenth Jazz Arts Festival will be held the week of June 19, 2024 in Las Cruces, NM. The event features live jazz performances, art exhibits, food vendors and activities celebrating African American culture and heritage. The festival aims to provide a family-friendly environment while promoting cultural awareness and community unity.
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