Celebrate Freedom Day
Juneteenth (June 19th) commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Join us in honoring this important day in American history through education, celebration, and community building.
Find Local EventsThe History of Juneteenth
Emancipation Proclamation
President Abraham Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all enslaved people in Confederate states "shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free."
Juneteenth
Union General Gordon Granger arrives in Galveston, Texas, and announces General Order No. 3, proclaiming freedom for enslaved people in Texas, the last Confederate state with institutional slavery.
First Celebrations
The first Juneteenth celebrations take place in Texas, featuring prayer services, educational events, and family gatherings. The tradition spreads as African Americans migrate to other states.
Texas State Holiday
Texas becomes the first state to make Juneteenth an official state holiday through the efforts of state legislator Al Edwards.
Federal Recognition
Juneteenth becomes a federal holiday in the United States, signed into law by President Joe Biden on June 17, 2021.
Juneteenth Traditions
Community Gatherings
Juneteenth celebrations often include parades, festivals, and cookouts that bring together communities to honor African American culture and history.
Red Foods & Drinks
Red-colored foods and drinks like strawberry soda, red velvet cake, and barbecue are traditional, symbolizing resilience and the blood shed by ancestors.
Educational Events
Lectures, readings, and exhibitions educate people about African American history and the ongoing struggle for racial equality.
Juneteenth Events
Juneteenth Freedom Festival
Annual festival featuring live music, food vendors, and educational booths celebrating African American culture.
Juneteenth Music Festival
One of the nation's largest Juneteenth celebrations featuring gospel, jazz, and R&B performances.
Juneteenth Heritage Festival
Four-day festival with historical reenactments, art exhibits, and business expos.
Juneteenth Community Day
National Museum of African American History and Culture's annual celebration with free admission.
Juneteenth Literary Festival
Celebration of African American authors and storytelling traditions.
Juneteenth Freedom Walk
Commemorative walk tracing historic civil rights landmarks.
Juneteenth Parade & Celebration
Historic parade commemorating the original Juneteenth announcement, followed by community celebrations.
Juneteenth Film Festival
Screening of films by African American filmmakers exploring themes of freedom and identity.