Juneteenth Celebration in Austin, TX is a vibrant and significant event commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Texas. This annual celebration features a variety of cultural performances, music, food, and historical exhibits that highlight the rich heritage and contributions of the African American community.
To discover the full list of activities and events happening in Austin for Juneteenth, read on and immerse yourself in this meaningful celebration!
Juneteenth in Austin TX
H-E-B Free First Sunday: Juneteenth
Kick-off Juneteenth celebrations in Austin with an incredible day of storytelling, crafts, and hands-on activities for the entire family! Bullock Texas State History Museum hosts H-E-B Free First Sundays every first Sunday; this June, it is all about Juneteenth.
Here, you can get creative with Galleries at Black Studies and work on an art project, dive into the history of the Juneteenth flag, and design your own, while your kids can have a fun time at Girlstart for interactive STEM demos and hands-on activities. At 10:30 a.m., Oba William King will perform with drumming, songs, and Juneteenth stories. And don’t miss the 1:00 p.m. screening of the documentary “Juneteenth: Faith and Freedom” in the Spirit Theater.
Date: June 2, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
High Noon Talk: Juneteenth Rodeo
Discover the legacy of the Juneteenth non-mainstream Black Rodeos and the interesting and often untold stories of Texas with the High Noon casual lunchtime talk series at the Bullock Texas State History Museum. It’s an immersive photographic journey mostly documented by late 1970s Texan photojournalist Sarah Bird, who was passionate about this sport, tracing the history of the small-town Black rodeo experience. Best of all, the program is FREE to the public.
Date: June 5, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Admission: Free
Freedom + Juneteenth: A Night Of Jubilation
Spend an incredible evening at the Freedom + Juneteenth celebration at Pease Park! The event promises to be a night of jubilation with a fantastic lineup of activities. The event will kick off with an inspiring panel discussion on “Curating Community in Your Own Backyard,” followed by a captivating Ballet Afrique Dance Performance. You’ll also have a chance to engage in exciting workshops such as Sip and Paint and a Haiku Workshop (on a first-come, first-served basis – arrive early to secure your spot).
Wrap up the night with fantastic beats from DJ Cool Cobi and Stefon Osae. There is no need to bring snacks or drinks, as delicious food from Big Mayne BBQ and Dirty South Bowl will be available.
Date: June 8, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Admission: Free; Registration required
Central Texas Juneteenth Parade & Festival
Central Texas Juneteenth Parade & Festival is your chance to march in the biggest emancipation celebration in Historic East Austin! The festivities kick off at the corner of E Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. & Salina St., the parade makes its way down Chicon St. before ending at the corner of Chestnut Ave. and Pleasant Valley Rd. Join in the fun with friends and family at the annual Juneteenth celebration in the beautiful outdoors of Austin. After the parade, the excitement continues with a fantastic festival at Rosewood Park. Enjoy delicious food from local vendors at this vibrant event.
Date: June 15th, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Admission: Free
Black Makers Market: Juneteenth
Celebrate Juneteenth while empowering and supporting Black entrepreneurs at the African American Cultural Heritage Facility! Black Makers Market, a nonprofit organization, supports Black businesses in Central Texas by providing a platform, resources, and guidance to showcase their brands. Our aim is to eliminate barriers and promote sustainable growth. We envision an inclusive future where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive. This year’s event will feature over 40 vendors, delicious food trucks, fun activities for kids, fantastic giveaways, and top-notch DJs.
Date: June 15, 2024
Admission: Free
Stay Black And Live: Juneteenth Festival
The 5th annual “Stay Black and Live: Juneteenth Festival” at the George Washington Carver Museum, Library & Genealogy Center is a city-wide celebration of Juneteenth and will feature a diverse lineup of local Black speakers and musicians.
“With a full week of programming dedicated to commemorating the significance of Juneteenth and gaining a deeper understanding of history, this event invites the Austin community to join in honoring this pivotal occasion and bringing Black history, both past and present, to the forefront.”
From lively community kickbacks, dance parties, and cookouts to electrifying live music performances and engaging conversations with thought leaders and educators, this year’s event will be epic. Don’t miss this chance to connect with the Black community to honor and commemorate this important day in U.S. history.
Date: June 15, 2024 to June 19, 2024
Admission: Free
19th Fest
The 19th Fest at Waterloo Park is a lively celebration of the official federal holiday with a vibrant community festival. Enjoy an incredible lineup of live music headlined by the talented band THE TON3S, and browse and shop from over 50 artisan craft and retail vendors. Indulge in delicious food from local vendors and immerse yourself in a day of fun suitable for all ages.
Date: June 16, 2024
Admission: Free
Black Heritage & Black Freedom: A Juneteenth Celebration
Gather at Thinkery Children’s Museum Austin for a nightly celebration of Juneteenth, the national holiday marking the liberation of enslaved Black Americans. This lively celebration of Black heritage and freedom will feature cultural activities, engaging learning experiences, and a strong sense of community. Black leaders, community organizations, and Thinkery staff will come together to offer hands-on activities and interactive storytelling. Special programming throughout the museum will enrich this dynamic event.
Date: June 18, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Admission: Free
Juneteenth Celebration
Make your Juneteenth 2024 a memorable one at the Neill-Cochran House Museum. You can also visit the newly restored slave quarters for reflection and education. Other highlights include soul-stirring performances by gospel choir Christopher D. Spivey & Co. and A Juneteenth Rodeo Exhibition, a captivating collection of photographs by Sarah Bird capturing the spirit of small-town Black rodeos in the late 1970s. Best of all, this event is free and open to the public, and you’ll be having a free lunch and refreshments.
Date: June 22, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Other Juneteenth Festivities
Discover a kaleidoscope of events, from lively parades to soulful concerts, delicious food festivals, and inspiring historical exhibits. Please click on the link to find all the Juneteenth festivities near you . Save the date for a memorable celebration of freedom, culture, and community spirit all over Texas.
Read More: Juneteenth Celebration and Festivities in Texas
Juneteenth in Austin TX: FAQs
How is Juneteenth celebrated in Austin?
Juneteenth in Austin is celebrated with a variety of events and activities that honor the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Festivities typically include parades, live music performances, cultural exhibitions, and food vendors offering traditional cuisine. Additionally, educational programs highlight the history and significance of Juneteenth. Community gatherings, art displays, and historical reenactments also play a significant role in the celebration.
Is Juneteenth a holiday in Texas?
Yes, Juneteenth is recognized as a state holiday in Texas! Juneteenth is now a federal holiday in the United States, commemorating the end of slavery and celebrating the culture and achievements of African Americans. It became a federal holiday in 2021, and organizations in other countries also use the day to recognize the end of slavery.
What happened on Juneteenth in Texas?
On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and issued General Order Number 3. This order declared that all slaves in Texas were free, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States.
This day, known as “Juneteenth,” marked the end of slavery in Texas and was a cause for celebration among the newly freed Black people. The news of freedom reached approximately 250,000 slaves in Texas gradually, and the celebrations included prayer services and inspirational speakers. Events also featured readings of the Emancipation Proclamation and various community gatherings.
The historical legacy of Juneteenth highlights the importance of maintaining hope during uncertain times. It serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of those who celebrated their newfound freedom.
Juneteenth In Austin TX: Final Thoughts
From the soulful music to the mouthwatering barbecue, this year’s event was a true testament to the resilience and spirit of the African American culture. As we reflect on the significance of this day, let’s carry the spirit of freedom and unity with us throughout the year. Remember, Juneteenth is not just a celebration, but a powerful reminder of our journey towards equality and justice. We look forward to next year’s festivities and the opportunity to come together once again in honor of this important day. Until then, let’s keep the Juneteenth spirit alive in our hearts and actions.
Last Updated 6 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: June 12, 2024
