Juneteenth marks the historical day when enslaved people in Galveston first learned of their freedom on June 19, 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, and celebrations across the country are underway. See what events are happening near you.
Austin
Black Makers’ Market 2nd Annual Juneteenth Celebration
What: Black Makers’ Market is hosting the 2nd Annual Juneteenth Celebration at Huston-Tillotson University, Austin’s own HBCU. The free outdoor event will feature over 50 Black-owned vendors, DJ sets, food from Black-owned bakeries and eateries and a kids corner.
When: June 15 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Huston-Tillotson University
“Juneteenth: The Galveston Story” Screenings at The Bullock Museum
What: The Bullock Museum is hosting a special Q&A screening of “Juneteenth: The Galveston Story.” The documentary features stories told by Galveston residents and descendants of people who were there on that historic day in 1865. Filmmakers Samuel Collins III and Sam Addington will host a Q&A session. Register here to reserve a seat. Regular screenings will also take place.
When: Special Q&A screening: June 29 at 11 a.m. / Regular screenings: June 19, 22, 23 and 30 at 1:30 p.m.
Where: Texas Spirit Theatre at The Bullock Museum
Historical Juneteenth Parade and Market
What: The Greater East Austin Youth Association’s Juneteenth Committee is throwing a parade and market to celebrate the holiday. The market will feature food, retail, vendors, activities for kids, live music and local talent. Click here to view the parade route.
When: Parade: June 15 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. / Market: June 15 from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Rosewood Park
San Antonio
A Night of Soul in the Village
What: The San Antonio African American Community Archive and Museum (SAAACAM) is celebrating “The Soul of San Antonio” exhibit opening and kicking off civic season with Juneteenth. The free event includes live performances, a River Parade and artisan vendors and food trucks.
When: June 10 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: La Villita Historic Arts Village
What: Local musicians and DJs including the 12 Eleven Band and Heatwave will perform at this annual festival, presented by the San Antonio Juneteenth Commission.
When: June 15 from 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Where: Comanche Park #2
What: Gardopia Gardens is hosting a Juneteenth Summer Solstice Farmers Market that features “joyous festivities, cultural performances, and soulful music” while honoring history and embracing diversity. Admission is free. Reserve a spot here.
When: June 19 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Gardopia Gardens
Dallas
What: Opal Lee, the Grandmother of Juneteenth, invites guests to help commemorate the holiday with a 2.5-mile walk for freedom. The walk symbolizes the 2 ½ years it took for enslaved people to learn of their freedom in 1865. Click here to register.
When: Doors open at 7 a.m. / Walk begins at 9 a.m.
Where: African American Museum Dallas
Juneteenth and Father’s Day Weekend at the Dallas Arboretum
What: The Dallas Arboretum invites the community to celebrate Juneteenth and Father’s Day weekend in its serene garden spaces. Events include a classic car show, a local art show, a petting zoo and live music. Click here for details on each event.
When: June 15-17
Where: The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Manifest Your Purpose Juneteenth Market
What: Stationary design company Manifest Your Purpose is giving a platform to 50-plus local businesses through shopping and networking at its Juneteenth Market. The event also features photo ops, food and drinks. Attendance is free, but you can purchase a VIP pass that includes two drink tickets for $10. Click here to register.
When: June 22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Lofty Spaces