Juneteenth is a holiday that is celebrated by Black Americans annually. The day commemorates a significant time in history for African Americans. Juneteenth is basically the United States’ second Independence Day, although it is mainly celebrated by the Black community. This holiday honors the memory of the end of slavery in the country. Juneteenth marks when, two years after emancipation, troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas with the news of freedom. It was the day that over 250,000 African Americans officially got to embrace their freedom, so Juneteenth is also known as Freedom Day. Certain destinations have particular Juneteenth celebrations but overall the holiday is appreciated across the country.
From a time when travel pursuits were prohibited to now when some systemic factors still hold some Black people back from exploring the world, travel is considered a form of protest. Black freedom from enslavement can be celebrated today by exercising that freedom. Celebrated in different ways, it is common for the Black community to join together to get educated about and honor the past. The now federally recognized national holiday has been celebrated for more than a century.
Juneteenth Destinations
Juneteenth is a time for reflection, celebration, and unity in the community. It is celebrated locally and nationally. Usually, there are many Juneteenth celebrations in any given city but some travelers might want to check out bigger celebrations. There are countless festivals, parades, protests, concerts, and more to check out on Juneteenth.
Texas
The history of Juneteenth can be traced back to Galveston, Texas. On June 19, 1865, union troops reached the city and announced that enslaved Black people were free by executive decree. The newly freed people of Texas came to regard this day as Juneteenth. Travelers who visit Galveston will find that there is much in store for them during their visit.
The African American Museum of Dallas, which prominently features African American art, has a popular event on Juneteenth. Opal’s Walk for Freedom (the grandmother of Juneteenth) is held there each year and travelers can register for the experience ahead of time.
The National Juneteenth Museum of Fort Worth is a site that is in the works but it will surely be a significant addition to the city. This museum will be a wonderful hub for preserving Juneteenth history and is set to be open to the public in 2026. The landmark will help bridge the gap in education and history since it will be a community learning center too.
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is a city with a significant African American population, even considered a Black Mecca by some. The city has many different sites travelers can visit to learn more about Black history. Two major staples are the Atlanta History Center and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
Seasonal events to celebrate the holiday in the city include the Juneteenth Atlanta Parade & Music Festival and Juneteenth Jubilee. The Juneteenth Atlanta Music Festival is one of the most popular events in the city since it is a three-day celebration with no admission cost. This fest features African American artists and vendors in the city’s spacious Piedmont Park.
Some additional local events include the Juneteenth Family Festival, Black Everywhere Picnic, and Juneteenth Atlanta 5K Freedom Run. The Main Street Market and the famous High Museum of Art are also having special celebrations of Juneteenth. Travelers that visit Atlanta for Juneteenth are encouraged to support Black-owned businesses which will likely be accessible at many of the events throughout the city.
Washington, D.C.
Juneteenth is a federal holiday that is heavily celebrated in Washington D.C. Since this city is the capital of the United States and a hub for much of the political and social change that occurs in the country, it is a popular destination for Juneteenth. Locals of this area may refer to Juneteenth as Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, or Liberation Day so travelers should keep an eye out for different terminology so as not to miss out on local events.
Washington D.C. has many different events that travelers can enjoy. Many Juneteenth celebrations of this destination feature live music, vendors, food, drinks, community outreach opportunities, and live artists. Some of the most popular events for Juneteenth in D.C. include festivals, marathons, community celebrations, and even bar crawls.
Travelers can also visit the National Museum of American History, National Museum of African Art, National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), and Smithsonian American Art Museum on Juneteenth for special celebrations. These sites offer great opportunities for visitors to learn more about Black history and celebrate African American ancestry.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles is one of the best destinations for Juneteenth due to its diversity and ample community activities. This city has a diverse population and has many Juneteenth events. Travelers will likely be able to enjoy many different types of Juneteenth celebrations in Los Angeles. The most popular events are hosted by community organizations and feature music, wellness activities, artist highlights, and speaking engagements.
The California African American Museum has an annual Juneteenth celebration. This event offers a full day of wellness and family-friendly activities. Yoga, a zine workshop, and Juneteenth storytelling are typically part of this educational and wellness-focused event. The official LA Juneteenth Festival is hosted by Black on the Block, which is an organization that elevates Black culture. Black businesses, a food court, drinks, giveaways, activations, and more are featured at the festival. For travelers who want to tap into the local community for a Juneteenth celebration, there are several events, concerts, and brunches available.
