Juneteenth (aka Jubilee Day, Freedom Day, or Emancipation Day) is just around the corner on Wednesday, June 19.
The holiday observes the enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation — two and a half years after it was passed — and officially became a federal holiday in June 2021.
There will be plenty of ways to celebrate, but here are a few to consider.
2024 Historical Juneteenth Parade and Festival | Saturday, June 15 | 10 a.m.-9 p.m. | Multiple locations, Austin | Free | Kick off Juneteenth celebrations with a parade — check out the parade route to follow along.
Freedom Fest 2024 | Saturday, June 15 | 12 a.m.-4 p.m. | Turner Roberts Recreation Center, 7201 Colony Loop Dr., Austin | Free | There’s something for everyone at this community gathering, including a comedy show, performances from local musicians, children’s activities, free food, and panels.
Community Juneteenth | Saturday, June 15 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Austin Public Library Carver Branch, 1161 Angelina St., Austin | Free | Enjoy performances from dancers + drummers, a puppet show, vendors, and an art gallery at this annual tradition.
Black Makers Market: Juneteenth Celebration | Saturday, June 15 | 12-6 p.m. | Huston-Tillotson University, 900 Chicon St., Austin | Cost of purchase | Discover and support 50+ vendors, live music from a DJ, photo ops, and snacks for purchase.
“Juneteenth: The Galveston Story” Screening | Wednesday, June 19 | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Ave., Austin | $13 | In this film, the Galveston County community and descendants of people who attended the inaugural Juneteenth in 1865 tell their stories.
Black History Social Ride + Block Party | Wednesday, June 19 | 6 p.m. | Texas State Capitol, 1100 Congress Ave., Austin | Free | The fifth annual bike ride will begin at the Texan African-American History Memorial and conclude in a block party at Rosewood Park.
“If They Took Us Back” | Wednesday, June 19 | 7 p.m. | The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., Austin | $38 | This special Juneteenth screening also includes a mini-documentary about the making of the film, live performances from a featured soundtrack artist, and a Q+A session with the film’s cast and director.
Juneteenth Jubilee | Friday, June 21 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m | 800 Lavaca St., Austin | Free | Join this celebration of freedom with food vendors, games, live music, and informational booths.
The Neill-Cochran House Museum Juneteenth Celebration | Saturday, June 22 | 12-5 p.m. | Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel St., Austin | Free | See the opening of “A Juneteenth Rodeo,” enjoy the home’s new facilities, and eat lunch with the community.