Juneteenth+Events+in+Austin: Commemorating the End of Slavery in Texas
Juneteenth
is a holiday that commemorates the emancipation of slaves in the United States. It is celebrated each year on June 19, the anniversary of the day that Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, in 1865, and announced the end of slavery.
Juneteenth
is a day to celebrate freedom and equality. It is also a day to reflect on the history of slavery in the United States and to recommit ourselves to fighting for justice and equality for all.
Austin
has a number of events and activities planned to celebrate Juneteenth this year. Here are a few of the highlights: *
Emancipation Proclamation Reading
(June 19, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM) at the George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center. This event will feature a reading of the Emancipation Proclamation, followed by a discussion of its significance. *
Juneteenth Parade
(June 19, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) on East Cesar Chavez Street. This parade will feature floats, music, and dance, and will celebrate the history and culture of African Americans in Austin. *
Juneteenth Festival
(June 19, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM) at Huston-Tillotson University. This festival will feature live music, food, games, and activities for all ages. *
Juneteenth Block Party
(June 19, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM) at the East Austin Recreation Center. This block party will feature live music, DJs, food, and drinks. *
Juneteenth Art Exhibit
(June 19 – July 10) at the George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center. This exhibit will feature artwork by local African American artists. These are just a few of the many events and activities that will be taking place in Austin to celebrate Juneteenth. For more information, please visit the Juneteenth Austin website.
Celebrate Juneteenth with Us!
Juneteenth is a time to come together as a community and celebrate our shared history. It is a day to reflect on the past, present, and future, and to recommit ourselves to fighting for justice and equality for all. We hope you will join us for one or more of the Juneteenth events and activities that are taking place in Austin this year. Together, we can make Juneteenth a day of celebration, remembrance, and renewal.Juneteenth Parade and Festival
Juneteenth Parade and Festival
*
Saturday, June 15, Rosewood Park
* Celebrate the federal holiday that commemorates June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved people in Galveston Bay finally received news of their freedom. Festivities begin at 10 am with a parade through the Eastside, starting on MLK Boulevard, passing Chicon, and ending in Rosewood Park. The procession includes bands, dance groups, city officials, and more. The festival starts at noon with food, music, and local vendors. Entrance is free.
Black Queer Emancipation Open Mic
*
Monday, June 17, The VORTEX
* The written word is a form of rebellion for the Black population. This event celebrates the power of writing, speaking, signing, and proclaiming the truth without fear of persecution. Three profound poets, Ebony Stewart, Akeem Olaj, and Shasparay, take the microphone to uplift, enlighten, and share their experiences as Black human beings.
Juneteenth Social Ride and Block Party
*
Wednesday, June 19, Texas Capitol
* Cyclists take a tour of various historical locations around the city. After the ride, enjoy dinner catered by Amanda Turner, chef de cuisine at Olamaie’s, in Rosewood Park.
Juneteenth Celebration with Deezie Brown and The Past Lives
*
Wednesday, June 19, Hotel Vegas
* Deezie Brown, a local rapper-producer, pairs up with the funk-soul-rock sextet The Past Lives for a Juneteenth celebration. Expect lush, melodic beats and groovy rhythms.
Juneteenth: “If They Took Us Back”
*
Wednesday, June 19, United States
* This alternative short history film explores the question of what would have happened if the U.S. government had mandated the return of enslaved people to Africa after the Emancipation Proclamation. The screening includes a making-of documentary, live music, a vendor market, and a panel discussion with the director and cast.
Juneteenth Pride
*
Wednesday, June 19, Cheer Up Charlies
* A collaboration between burlesque troupe Shea Butter Babies, drag artist Gothess Jasmine, and ballroom House of Lepore, this event features a Black queer market, DJs, performances from drag artists, pole dancers, and burlesque dancers, and the Freedom Ball presented by House of Lepore.
Juneteenth Events in Austin: Commemorate the End of Slavery in Texas
As Juneteenth approaches, Austin is gearing up for a series of events to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Texas. Here’s a look at some of the highlights: *
Juneteenth Freedom Festival:
Kick off the festivities with the annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival at the Austin FC stadium. Enjoy live music, food vendors, children’s activities, and a special ceremony honoring local heroes. *
Emancipation Day Juneteenth Parade:
Celebrate the legacy of Juneteenth with the Emancipation Day Parade along Congress Avenue. Witness floats, music, and a vibrant display of community pride. *
Juneteenth Art Exhibition at the George Washington Carver Museum:
Immerse yourself in the artistic expressions of African American history and culture at the Juneteenth Art Exhibition. Featuring works from local and regional artists, the exhibition highlights the resilience and creativity of the Juneteenth spirit. *
Juneteenth Concert and Picnic at Zilker Park:
Pack a picnic basket and head to Zilker Park for a relaxing afternoon filled with live music, performances, and food trucks. Bring the whole family for a day of celebration and remembrance. *
Juneteenth Community Celebration at Huston-Tillotson University:
Join the community at Huston-Tillotson University for a celebration of Juneteenth with food, games, informational booths, and a special guest speaker. Reflect on the significance of the day and engage in discussions about its impact on Austin today. These events offer opportunities to celebrate the end of slavery in Texas, honor the achievements of the Black community, and reflect on the ongoing fight for racial justice. Whether you’re attending for the music, the art, or the community spirit, these Juneteenth events are a must-see in Austin.
