There is much to celebrate on Juneteenth this year. Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865 when two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed, soldiers landed in Galveston with news the war was over and all slaves were free. Often called “Freedom Day,” it is a time to celebrate liberty and freedom from a dark period in American history.
It has been a cornerstone holiday in Texas and this year there is no shortage of ways you can participate in the anniversary of June 19, 1865.
Juneteenth Fest at Avenida Houston & Discovery Green
June 16, 2024 | 4-9 p.m.
This year both Avenida Houston and Discovery Green will activate with a series of events commemorating Juneteenth and the end of slavery. This family-friendly event will offer multiple genres of live music, top DJ’s, art, games, BLCK Market vendors, health and fitness activations, food trucks, fireworks and much more. Participants can enjoy some of Houston’s top entertainment, while also supporting local artists and businesses. Get more details here.
A Juneteenth Celebration at Bayou Bend
June 22, 2024 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Join Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens for a celebration of culture and history this Juneteenth! This family-centered event invites you to immerse yourself in a day of performances, workshops, and interactive experiences, all dedicated to honoring Black history.
Experience the magic of "Rhyme and Reason," a poetic celebration presented by the Express Children’s Theater of Houston at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Delve into the rich artistic traditions with a drop-in art-making workshop led by teaching artists Norola Morgan and Janice Warren.
Inside the house, knowledgeable docents will guide you through the Bayou Bend Collection, illuminating connections to the significance of Juneteenth. Learn about the contributions of African American cowboys with the Black Cowboy Museum in Rosenberg and explore the legacy of the Wilson Pottery Foundation, one of the pioneering African American-owned businesses in Texas.
Admission is free, so bring your family and friends to celebrate Juneteenth in a day filled with culture, history, and community.
Wells Fargo Presents Juneteenth: A Musical Journey Through Eras
June 14 & 15, 2024 | 8 p.m.
Embark on an unforgettable odyssey through the vibrant tapestry of Black music with "Juneteenth: A Musical Journey Through Eras." Over two immersive evenings, delve into the soulful expressions of Classic R&B, Blues, Inspirational, Hip Hop, and more, tracing the evolution of sound and spirit across generations.
On June 14th, the journey begins with a retrospective spanning 1960 to 1980. Experience the spiritual resonance of Gospel, echoing with the resilience and hope of a community yearning for liberation. Transition into the seductive allure of Classic R&B, where smooth melodies and heartfelt lyrics mirror the era's quest for equality amid social upheaval. Feel the raw emotion of Blues, a testament to struggle and resilience during the Civil Rights Movement.
On June 15th, the spotlight shines on the dynamic years from 1980 to 2000. Witness Hip Hop's emergence as a force for social change, blending gritty narratives with infectious beats to chronicle urban life and systemic injustices. Amidst Hip Hop's energy, embrace the lush harmonies and passionate rhythms of R&B, showcasing its evolution and enduring impact on popular culture. Explore diverse expressions of Black artistry across other genres, enriching the musical tapestry of this transformative period.
Throughout both evenings, "Juneteenth: A Musical Journey Through Eras" honors the indomitable spirit of Black communities, celebrating their triumphs, resilience, and cultural heritage. Each note reverberates with the timeless essence of freedom and the pursuit of justice, serving as a poignant reminder of music's power as a catalyst for social change and collective healing. Join us for a musical experience that transcends eras, resonating with the spirit of unity and the enduring quest for equality.
Tickets will be available here starting June 13. The performance is free.
Juneteenth Tea Cakes and Tours
June 1, 8, 15, 19 | 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.
Get ready for a blast from the past with "Three Black Historic House Tours with Tea Cakes and Red Punch - A UNESCO Sites of Memory Experience"! Dive into the fascinating stories behind the Reverend Jack Yates House, a plantation, and a Fourth Ward Cottage in the heart of Houston.
Tour times are as follows: 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, and 2:30 PM on Saturday, June 1st; Saturday, June 8th; Saturday, June 15th; and Wednesday, June 19th. Each tour lasts a little over an hour, so you'll have plenty of time to soak in all the history and culture.
Check-in at The Heritage Society's museum gallery at 1100 Bagby Street, and don't worry about parking – it's free at 212 Dallas Street! Plus, as proud Fourth Ward community partners of Juneteenth Houston, we're excited to celebrate with you. Get ready for a day filled with fun, laughter, and lots of learning. See you there!
Juneteenth Liberation Market
June 13, 2024
Get your Juneteenth festivities started with a bang at the Liberation Market, brought to you by SOA Co. Books in partnership with CAMH!
Join Houstonians in supporting over 30 incredible local vendors and celebrating Black literary arts, all while grooving to the beats of DJ Womon.
Find us at CAMHLAB in POST Houston, X Atrium - L1 Southwest Gallery. Don't worry about accessibility – we've got you covered! This event is free to attend, but make sure to RSVP to secure your spot. Get ready for a day of community, culture, and celebration!
Second Annual Freedom Walk/Run
June 15, 2024 | 7 a.m.
Lace up your sneakers and enjoy a day of fun, fitness, and community impact at Emancipation Park!
Your participation isn't just good for your health – it's also making a positive difference in our community. Proceeds from the event support park programming initiatives that keep our community active and engaged all year long. From our lively quarterly "Fitness Fun Day" events to our upbeat Hip-Hop aerobics and Line dancing classes every week, your steps help us keep moving forward in a positive direction.
Registration is completely free, and also open for corporate and team registrations. Gather your colleagues, friends, or family members and make this day one to remember!
