In Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, a transformative event reshaped American history. It was then that the last enslaved people in the United States finally learned they were free, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
This pivotal moment, the true end of slavery, is honored annually as Juneteenth, or Freedom Day. For over a century and a half, Juneteenth has been a powerful beacon, reminding us of the enduring fight for Black liberation and the vital work that remains on the path to racial justice.
As North Carolina honors Black history and resilience this year, we invite you to explore some of the exciting events planned across the state:
Soak up family activities, live entertainment, and community spirit at this celebration honoring culture, creativity, and connection. Explore a curated artist market, eat delicious food, and connect with local community partners.
Celebrate freedom, community, and summer fun at this family-friendly event! Enjoy activities for all ages, including children’s entertainment, a live DJ, and an American Red Cross blood drive.
Join the Town of Huntersville and Mecklenburg County Parks & Recreation for a vibrant Juneteenth celebration! Enjoy live music from Envision, inspiring guest speakers, delicious local food trucks, and fun activities for the whole family.
Rising K – 5th graders and their families are invited to a special Juneteenth celebration! This program will highlight freedom, resilience, and heritage through a variety of educational crafts and family-friendly activities. Light refreshments will be served.
The Burwell School presents a poetry reading with Crystal Simone Smith and Dr. Sheila Smith McKoy. Crystal will read from her new collection, Runagate: Songs of the Freedom Bound, a reimagining of enslaved people’s flights of escape through haiku and tanka. Dr. Smith McKoy will offer a brief history and powerful reflection on Juneteenth.
Celebrate Juneteenth at Downtown After 5 in Pack Square Park! In partnership with the MLK Jr. Association and Black Wall Street, this community event features Southern Avenue and DJ Phantom Pantone. Enjoy live music, local food and drinks, and a marketplace of handmade crafts.
Come celebrate the third annual hosting of Juneteenth festivities in Waxhaw with performances, vendors, crafts, children’s activities, and educational opportunities!
This free festival offers something for everyone: a Juneteenth history exhibit, interactive children’s activities, local food vendors, and captivating professional and youth performances. This event is a powerful way to honor the past, celebrate progress, and collectively build a brighter future.
Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Charlotte’s historic West End at the Juneteenth celebration! Come out and honor the legacy of West Fest with a festival for all ages. Enjoy free entertainment, giveaways, a kids’ corner, a special senior citizen area, and the return of the iconic West Fest dance competition!
Explore Greensboro’s civil rights history on the Juneteenth Bike Tour! This easy, guided ride visits downtown protest sites, revealing how citizens organized and fought for equality. Suitable for most riders.
