What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth, observed on June 19, marks the effective end of slavery in the United States. The celebration began in Texas in 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed in 1863, when Union troops arrived in Galveston to announce the freedom of enslaved people. The name "Juneteenth" blends "June" and "nineteenth," commemorating this significant date.
Juneteenth as a Federal Holiday
President Joe Biden recognized Juneteenth as a federal holiday on June 17, 2021. This day is now celebrated nationwide, honoring the emancipation from slavery and reflecting on the achievements and history of Black Americans.
Celebrations in Metro Phoenix
This year, various events across the Valley will honor Juneteenth with activities that celebrate Black history, culture, and achievements. Here are some notable events:
Phoenix: Juneteenth at Desert Botanical Garden
- Details: Enjoy a stroll through the trails with activities celebrating Black culture. The evening market will feature local artists, vendors, music, and food.
- When: 6-9 p.m., Tuesday, June 11
- Where: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix
- Admission: Free with community day reservation
Chandler: Juneteenth Freedom Week
- Details: Two days of events including Culture Music in the Park and the Miss Juneteenth Arizona Scholarship and Pageant.
- When: June 14-15
- Where: Dr. A.J. Chandler Park and Chandler Center for the Arts
- Admission: Miss Juneteenth Pageant tickets start at $20
Phoenix: George Washington Carver Museum Juneteenth Festival
- Details: Inaugural celebration at a historic landmark with live music, food trucks, arts and crafts, and storytelling.
- When: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, June 15
- Where: George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, 415 E. Grant St., Phoenix
- Admission: Free
Tempe: Juneteenth Celebration
- Details: Activities, performances, vendors, and food truck vendors hosted by the Tempe History Museum’s African-American Advisory Committee.
- When: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, June 15
- Where: Tempe History Museum, 809 E. Southern Ave.
- Admission: Free
Phoenix: Juneteenth Freedom Celebration
- Details: Includes drum lessons, over 50 Black-owned businesses, performances, and giveaways.
- When: Noon-6 p.m., Saturday, June 15
- Where: Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix
- Admission: Free
Scottsdale: Community Juneteenth Celebration
- Details: Indoor and outdoor activities, food, music, educational speakers, art displays, and wellness resources.
- When: 2-7 p.m., Saturday, June 15
- Where: Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St.
- Admission: Free
Tempe: Juneteenth Block Party
- Details: Musical performances, spoken word, DJ sets, food, and an interactive art experience.
- When: 7-11 p.m., Saturday, June 15
- Where: CenterPoint Plaza, 730 S. Mill Ave., Tempe
- Admission: Free
Phoenix: Valley of the Sun Juneteenth Celebration at Eastlake Park
- Details: Entertainment, health screenings, educational workshops, youth essay contest, and soul food.
- When: 5-10 p.m., Saturday, June 15
- Where: Eastlake Park, 1549 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix
- Admission: Free
Goodyear: Juneteenth Family Day
- Details: Speeches, live performances, activities, workshops, and performances by local artists.
- When: 6-9 p.m., Wednesday, June 19
- Where: Goodyear Recreation Campus, 420 Estrella Parkway, Goodyear
- Admission: Free
Tempe: 2024 Juneteenth Celebration at Arizona Heritage Center
- Details: Community connection with historical societies, action groups, state resources, performances, and food.
- When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, June 16
- Where: Arizona Heritage Center, 1300 N. College Ave., Tempe
- Admission: Free; $10 Supporter Admission Pass available
Celebrate Juneteenth 2024 in metro Phoenix by participating in these diverse and vibrant events that honor the rich history and cultural contributions of Black Americans.
Juneteenth Celebrations in NYC 2024
New York City has a vibrant and diverse array of Juneteenth celebrations. Here are some of the notable events you can look forward to:
1. Juneteenth NY Festival
Location: Brooklyn Date: June 19, 2024 Details: The Juneteenth NY Festival is one of the largest celebrations in New York City. It includes a parade, live performances, cultural exhibits, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. This year, the festival will feature a special tribute to Black innovators and entrepreneurs, highlighting their contributions to various industries.
2. Harlem Juneteenth Celebration
Location: Marcus Garvey Park, Harlem Date: June 19, 2024 Details: Harlem's Juneteenth Celebration is a day-long event featuring music, dance, spoken word, and theatrical performances. The event also includes educational workshops, historical exhibits, and a marketplace showcasing Black-owned businesses. Attendees can enjoy a wide variety of foods from local vendors while engaging with the rich cultural heritage of Harlem.
3. Juneteenth Jubilee at the Apollo Theater
Location: Apollo Theater, Harlem Date: June 18, 2024 Details: The Apollo Theater's Juneteenth Jubilee is a spectacular event featuring performances by renowned artists, musicians, and dancers. The event aims to celebrate Black culture and history through artistic expression. The evening will also include a special segment honoring prominent figures in the civil rights movement.
4. Juneteenth Family Day at the Brooklyn Museum
Location: Brooklyn Museum Date: June 19, 2024 Details: The Brooklyn Museum hosts a family-friendly Juneteenth celebration with interactive activities, art workshops, storytelling sessions, and live performances. This event is designed to educate and engage families in the history and significance of Juneteenth while celebrating Black culture.
5. Central Park Juneteenth Picnic
Location: Central Park, Manhattan Date: June 19, 2024 Details: The Central Park Juneteenth Picnic is a community gathering where people can enjoy live music, poetry readings, and dance performances. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own food or purchase from local Black-owned vendors. The event aims to create a relaxed and joyful atmosphere for reflecting on the importance of freedom and equality.
6. Juneteenth Community Day at the New-York Historical Society
Location: New-York Historical Society, Manhattan Date: June 19, 2024 Details: The New-York Historical Society's Juneteenth Community Day features special exhibitions, educational talks, and interactive tours focused on African American history and culture. The event also includes hands-on activities for children and families, making it a great educational outing.
Conclusion
Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans in their fight for freedom and equality. Whether through music, art, food, or education, the celebrations in New York City offer a variety of ways to honor this important day. By participating in these events, we not only celebrate the past but also look forward to a future where liberty and justice are truly for all.
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