Featured image: Experience Fayetteville / Raul Rubiera
Juneteenth, observed annually on June 19, commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It’s a day of remembrance and reflection, but also one of joy, resilience, and celebration of African American culture and contributions. Across the South, communities mark the occasion with music, food, art, and history. Here are some of the most vibrant Juneteenth events happening this June.
Montgomery, Alabama
Montgomery’s Juneteenth celebrations begin on Saturday, June 14 with the 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration hosted by the Rosa Parks Museum at Troy University. Free and open to the public, the event features live music, local food, cultural vendors, and complimentary tours of both the main museum and Children’s Wing. Then on Thursday, June 19, take the celebration to the water with the Juneteenth River Jam aboard the Sip-n-Cycle Pedal Cruise. Multiple 90-minute sailings throughout the day blend music, history, and unity into a festive floating experience on the Alabama River.
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Fayetteville kicks off its Juneteenth festivities with the 2nd Annual Liberty & Legacy Celebration at Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom on Friday, June 13, featuring an Art Crawl, food trucks, a night market, and live performances. The fun continues on Saturday, June 14 with an open-air market and cultural experiences in Hope Mills, followed by the Juneteenth Bash, a family-friendly block party from noon to 3 p.m. with games, bounce houses, food, and local talent. That evening, from 3 to 9 p.m., the 5th Annual Juneteenth Jubilee at Festival Park will showcase national headliners, artisan vendors, and a theme celebrating the legacy of Black women: Sovereign.
Lexington, Kentucky
SoulFeast Week returns to Lexington from Thursday, June 19 to Sunday, June 22, spotlighting Black culinary culture across the city. The 5th annual event features curated dining experiences, immersive exhibits, and chef-led tastings, all honoring the contributions of Black farmers, chefs, and restaurants throughout Kentucky.
Jackson, Mississippi
The city of Jackson offers two powerful Juneteenth events this year. On Thursday, June 19, the Two Mississippi Museums—home to the Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum—will host their annual Juneteenth Jubilee with free admission, themed educational tours, yard games, live performances, and activities for all ages. On Saturday, June 21, historic Farish Street comes alive for the 10th Annual Juneteenth on Farish. Known as the “granddaddy” of Juneteenth events in the city, this day-long celebration features over 100 Black-owned vendors, live music, kids’ zones, and a moving opening tradition: the “call to the ancestors,” a ritual honoring the legacy of those who paved the way.
Harrodsburg, Kentucky
The 5th Annual Heart of Kentucky Juneteenth Celebration takes place at West Lane Park on Friday, June 20 and Saturday, June 21. With a focus on community and joy, this growing event includes special guest speakers, local food vendors, exciting games with cash prizes, and fun-filled activities for kids, making it a family-friendly favorite in historic Harrodsburg.
Louisville, Kentucky
On Saturday, June 21, Louisville hosts the 6th Annual Juneteenth Festival, a day of community celebration and cultural pride. Guests can expect live performances, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. The festival location will be announced soon—check the official website for updates as the date approaches.
Somerset, Kentucky
Somerset’s Lake Cumberland Farmers Market will host the Juneteenth Jubilee on Saturday, June 21, offering a festive afternoon of live music, games, and food vendors. This welcoming event provides a lively way for families and neighbors to come together and honor the holiday in a fun and inclusive setting.
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